Help deciding between WHNP program or dual WH/ANP program

Specialties NP

Published

So I would like some advice on my situation. I have been accepted into a WHNP program for next fall and have to decide (within the next week) if I am going to stay with the original specialty that I applied for or change to a different specialty. I have been thinking about changing to the dual WH/ANP track for a while now because I think it can possibly give me more career options and it's only one additional semester. I am totally aware that FNP has the broadest scope, but the Women's Health aspect is really important to me (and I want absolutely NOTHING to do with peds!). So what would you advise?

Also if it helps, I am currently in Atlanta, but could possibly move home (to Louisiana) or somewhere in Texas after graduation. (Obviously, I'm a Southern girl!) Thanks in advance for your help! :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I think the additional semester would absolutely be worth it. In my location (S.Mississippi) there are almost NO WHNP jobs that I'm aware of. I work (as an RN) in women's health, and initially, WHNP was my goal. Until I realized that I'd be almost certainly having to relocate, wouldn't be nearly as desirable, and would probably get paid less (due to low demand). I think ANP would be perfect for you. That way you could probably easily find a primary care job, while seeking out that perfect WH job.

Of course, this is just my very humble opinion!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm thinking this is the way I will go. I'm also gonna try to schedule an appointment with the program coordinator this week to help me decide. Thanks for your response!!

Any other opinions??

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Adult primary care, college health.

I'm a dual WHNP/ANP and I wouldn't have it any other way. I would have felt practically unhireable as a WHNP alone, particularly as a new grad. Totally worth it for one more semester.

Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment