Does the ba-msn program make u a np???

UVA Grad Nursing · Jul 24, 2011

Mzzz:

First off, nursing certifications (RN, NP, CNS, etc) depend on you passing a national certification examination. You are qualified to sit for such a national examination based on completing a nursing program that prepares you for that particular certification. So to become a RN, you need to complete a program that prepares you to be a RN, and then pass the National Certification Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (known as the NCLEX-RN).

There are several different types of academic programs for people who have an undergraduate degree in something else (like psych). Some of these programs are generalist (and may prepare you for a Clinical Nurse Leader certifying exam as well as the RN exam). These programs are generally 1.5 - 2 years in length. Some schools also offer a direct entry to Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist (in a particular specialty area) as well as becoming a RN. These progams are generally around 3 years in length.

As you evaluate these different types of MSN program, look to see if they are generalist (CNL) or specialty (adult health, oncology, women's health, etc).

mzzz · Jul 24, 2011

thanks =)