Dual Cert FNP/PMHNP

[Malenurse1235954]

I am starting DNP school to become a FNP next month. While browsing the school's website I found a form that would request dual certification FNP/PMHNP. It is an additional 8 credits and 200 clinical hours. Initially, I was excited that it wasn't very much extra work; however, now I'm considering would this really prepare me adequately for both? It would be 540 clinical hours in each specialty, rather than the 800ish if I stayed an FNP only student.

Currently, I am a stay at home parent and having both options seems desirable. I am concerned once I start working again (about 4 years untill my youngest goes to achool), I wont find the motivation, time, or money to go back to school. Currently, my wife works at the university so tuition is next to nothing. Once I start working we plan on moving and putting down roots, which points back to not affording school later (tuition and lost income).

I would like any input or thoughts, thanks.

[BostonFNP, APRN]

Dual certification has both significant benefits and drawbacks.

That's not much clinical hours in each and 540 would barely make the minimum requirement for board certification.

[Malenurse1235954]

Dual certification has both significant benefits and drawbacks.

That's not much clinical hours in each and 540 would barely make the minimum requirement for board certification.

That is a good point about minimun hours. I plan in applying to a NP residency. Although, I understand amission is not guaranteed. Assuming I was accepted, I'd be looking at an additional year of experence so 2500hrs vs 2800hrs.