How to Go From MSN to NP

Becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) is relatively straightforward, especially if that is your chosen path when starting a program. However, that’s not always the case. If you’ve already earned a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in another field, you can still become an NP. 

This article explores the possibilities for nurses transitioning from MSN to NP. Continue reading to learn what it takes to become an NP with an MSN, how to choose a program, and the differences between MSN and NP.

Is an MSN the Same as an NP?

No, an MSN and NP certification are not the same. However, an MSN is the minimum degree required to work as an NP. Sometimes, people use these terms interchangeably. However, there are vital differences that will impact your career and education options.

Education Requirements

It’s possible to earn an MSN degree and not be a nurse practitioner. For example, you can earn an MSN in nursing education or administration. These programs have some crossover with NP classes. However, they don’t include several didactic and clinical courses universities require for NP degrees.

Certification Requirements

Before earning the title of NP, graduates from accredited NP programs must also pass the NP national certification exam. Nurses with an MSN in a non-NP specialty are not eligible for this exam.

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Can You Practice as a Nurse Practitioner With an MSN?

Yes, an MSN is the minimum degree required to be a nurse practitioner. To work as an NP with an MSN, you must determine your desired nurse practitioner specialty and complete an accredited program in that field.

How to Go From MSN to NP

You can still become an NP if you already have an MSN in another field. The primary routes to achieve this goal are transferring to a traditional MSN-NP program or attending a post-master’s certificate program. Your initial MSN degree may impact the most viable option for your situation.

1. Transfer Credits to an MSN Program

Some non-NP MSN degrees don’t include the necessary credits for transfer into an NP or post-master’s certificate program. Your initial MSN may require generic NP courses but excludes didactic and clinical courses necessary for NP education. Ideally, the generic courses such as ethics and research will transfer from your original MSN degree.

2. Earn a Post-Master’s Certificate

If a post-master’s NP certificate program is possible, you will only take NP-specific courses and clinicals. These programs are shorter in length. 

3. Choosing Your Best Option

The best way to determine your ideal path is to contact an admissions counselor for your desired program. They can help you discover whether your credits qualify for transfer.

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MSN to NP: How Long Does it Take?

MSN to NP programs typically last two to three years. Students with a non-NP MSN should already have generic MSN, health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacy credits. So, MSN to NP programs will specifically focuson courses and clinicals on your chosen NP specialty. 

Your exact timeline will depend on the program’s curriculum, available transfer credits, and whether you attend full or part-time. Consulting with a program coordinator can help determine how long it will take to complete the program.

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Requirements to Work as an NP

To work as a nurse practitioner, you must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and an RN license. Despite not working as an RN, you must maintain your state licensure. 

Additionally, working as an NP requires an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in an NP specialty. You also have to pass a national certification exam in the same specialty. After passing the exam, you can apply for state licensure and begin working as a nurse practitioner.

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MSN to Nurse Practitioner Programs

Various options are available for transitioning from an MSN to an NP. You can select from in-person and hybrid online MSN to NP programs. However, because of an in-person clinical requirement, NP programs can never be entirely online. Students must attend clinicals at a pre-approved site with a preceptor.

MSN to NP programs will require you to pick a specialization. Specialties may include:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

How to Choose an MSN to NP Program

First, you should ensure that any MSN or NP specialty programs are nationally accredited. The two primary nursing school accreditation bodies in the United States are:

• The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
• The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Accreditation ensures that the program meets national curriculum standards. By recognizing the program's legitimacy, accreditation also allows graduates to sit for national certification exams. Graduates of non-accredited programs are not eligible to sit for these exams and, therefore, cannot legally practice as NPs.

Other factors to consider include:

• Tuition and financial aid
• Desired NP specializations
• Overall satisfaction
• Overall cost
• Travel time to clinicals
• Attrition rate
• Certification pass rate
• Faculty experience
• Job placement support
• Program format and accommodations
• Clinical placement
• Program length
• Program Reputation
• Student-faculty ratio

NP MSN