Am I too old to become an NP?

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I just graduated two years ago, at the age of 44. I'm 46 now, and probably would not be done w/ my NP program until I was 48 or almost 50 even if I take my time.

That MIGHT give me 10-15 years in the profession, but i also assume it will take a few years to ramp up to being "experienced."

How long do some NP's work? Do any go into their 60's?

I know, I know . . . I'll turn 50 anyway if I don't go to grad school, so I might as well go -- but I guess I'm afraid of starting older and also without a TON of years behind me as a nurse.

Always these fears . . . but one has to be realistic also.

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I'll be 59 when I finish next year and there were two people in my class who are 62. I plan to work at least part time till I'm 95 so I have a few years left to practice.

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Specializes in PNP, CDE, Integrative Pain Management.

Finished my NP at 49. And I was not the "oldest kid in the class" by a longshot!!! Do it!

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I'm 50 and in school right now for my NP. Go for it!!

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Specializes in allergy and asthma, urgent care.

Finished my NP at 48. And let's face it, we'll all be working until well into our 70s, so you'll have plenty of time to practice!!

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Specializes in allergy and asthma, urgent care.

Oh yeah, and I'm a direct entry grad.....have never worked as an RN and I'm doing fine as an NP.

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Wow! I'm amazed at these responses. What is a direct entry grad? I guess that means you've never worked as an RN? That's amazing, BCgradnurse! How encouraging! Tell me more!

I wonder how long some NP's continue to work -- guess it's as long as your'e able.

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BCgradnurse, tell me your story? How is it going in direct entry like that? What has been your experience?

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Specializes in allergy and asthma, urgent care.

Nursing is my second career. I worked for 20+ years in another area of healthcare, got my MBA and did a lot of management work, but every year I seemed to get further and further away from the reason I got into health care-the patients. I wanted to do direct patient care and nursing fit best with my mindset. I investigated several different types of programs and decided that being an NP would best fulfill me. I did an accelerated RN-MSN program. I tried to get a part time or per-diem job as an RN when I passed NCLEX, but no one was hiring, so I did my entire program full time. I had 3 job offers as an FNP before I even graduated! For the most part, my degree has been well received with some exceptions ( and to be honest, the biggest naysayers have been other nurses, I'm sorry to say-but everyone is entitled to their opinion). I work in the urgent care department of an urban community health center and I love it! Every day is a tremendous learning experience and I'm so glad I made the career switch.

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Yikes! don't say that!!! I am 52 and just finished school and start my new position on the 10th, I figure I have another 20 yrs of of life left in me!

ap

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Many APNs become APNs as they age - I know I did. I graduated with an adult health CNS in 2006 when I was 48. I'm back in school for the peds CNS now and I'm 51.

I too plan (will have to probably) work at least until I'm 70!

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I am 54. and this a new career for me I've been a nurse for 2 years and now I am in an ACNP program. Don't sweat the age thing.

Mac

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