Can you be a PHN if you are a new grad?

In short, yes a new grad can be hired for a PHN position (as was the case for me). In California, you need to have your BSN and be certified as a PHN or be eligible to apply for the PHN certificate. If applying for a PHN position at the county level, be prepared to wait months or even a year to hear back for an interview. County is notorious for this. I applied for a county position last year and didn't hear back until a year later where I was invited for not one interview, but two. By then, I already had a job working as a PHN so I respectfully declined.

How did you get your PHN license? Is it an exam?

I am a new grad and was just hired as a PHN for the county in California. I have a BSN, as well as my PHN license. I have yet to start, so not sure how much training I will be getting, but I will be working with chronically ill children coordinating resources and making sure they are getting the proper attention needed.

Your BSN program must have the required coursework in Community and Public Health nursing in order for your degree to qualify for PHN licensing in the state of CA. It is not an exam. You apply for the license and pay the fee. The BON reviews your schools curriculum and grants it to you.

I am a new grad nurse from CO. When I was looking at the job description for public health nurse I in some local health departments in CA, I really liked the job. But I already applied to be licensed in CO (Haven't taken NCLEX yet). What's the best approach to apply to a PHN position in CA? I understand in order to get the public health certificate you need to have a CA license.