BSN vs FNP

Specialties NP

Published

I am almost done with my BSN program and am looking to start an FNP program soon after. To my knowledge, my grades are above average and I believe that I am grasping the information extremely well. Putting in the time and effort is the easy part for me, as I am really interested in the nursing field. Because I feel as if I am handling the BSN program with ease (I am able to put in the allotted time and effort), I am wondering how it will be comparable to the FNP program, if at all? Is the course work a lot more difficult to grasp? Are the tests more difficult to prepare for? If I do well in the BSN program, should I also be able to do well in the FNP program? Thank you!

To me there is a difference because its one thing to make good grades in class, but another to truly understand and be able to retain/apply information. In a BSN program it may be enough to just get good grades because there will always be someone there to back you up. As an NP you may be the only person that patient sees and are responsible for catching everything. Your patients life is very literally in your hands. It is absolutely critical that you know the info.... Who cares about grades.

I'm sorry that didn't really answer my question. I guess I wasn't specific enough! Is the fnp level of difficulty at all comparable to a Ben program?

Specializes in Family Practice, Urgent Care.

Its completely different. Yes you will take another pharmacology, but it will be advanced. You will take another pathophysiology, but it will be advanced. You take another health assessment, but this is a lot different, and again, more advanced. Those are usually core courses taken before the actual NP courses. It's hard to say if tests will be difficult for you. It's going to be a fairly new way of thinking RN vs NP, if you're a good student, which it sounds like you are, you should be just find adjusting. Of course, its all more difficult than the BSN, thats why a Master's or a Doctorate program is in place to become a NP.

Academically, I found that compared to BSN studies, the material for FNP was more difficult in that it is more in-depth, but on the other hand NP was easier in that it was far more applicable to my goals, and thus more interesting. I hope I am being clear. Lots to comprehend, but more enjoyable, thus easier.

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