ACNP VS FNP

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I am looking into getting my DNP. I wanted to do some research before I decided which route to take. My two contenders are Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner...or their is a dual route Adult Care Nurse Practioner/Family Nurse Practitioner route. I love the hospital setting, but I also like the clinic setting. I live in a rural area right now and their seems like more of a need for FNP vs ACNP. I also like the idea of being autononmous in my decisions. Here is what I am looking for comments about:

1) Role of ACNP/FNP, where they work, how independent are each, etc.

2) Although money not everything, it IS important to me. Which makes more generally?

3) Just any insight to being either one of these APNs

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Specializes in Surgical and Medical ICU.

I have been researching the same subject HEAVILY. I feel I am in the same boat as you in all aspects. It appears an ACNP encompasses a very general aspect in providing health care to patients over 18 years old acting more as an internist. FNP care for patients from conception to death. Their scope is very broad and encompasses a medical management foundation. I have been looking in to the various ACNP/FNP dual programs, but they are few that offer an online components or very expensive. What I am beginning to understand is that you will learn the most on the job. So, FNP gives a broad range of specialties the license will cover and you will learn a specialty when you graduate.

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Does anyone know the requirements to get into an FNP program? I am graduating in May with my BSN and plan on going back to school in a couple years so I want to make sure I apply for the right jobs that will give me the best experience.

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And I've been looking at the average salaries of an FNP...it of course depends where you're living and working, but the average for the US is $70,144 -- $89,224

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Specializes in Surgical and Medical ICU.

Most require a 3 credit stats course at the minimum. Others may require inorganic/organic chem and GRE. As far as RN experience, it seems one year is sufficient for most programs if not two. Hope this helps :)

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