Is becoming an NP worth it?

[jmelton0405]

I will graduate as an RN this spring, I am considering going straight into an NP program. My questions are... 1. Is it worth the cost (NP programs are expensive). 2. Is it worth the time (2.5 to 3 years) 3. Most importantly will I be able to find a job (I live in rural ohio). Any advice is appreciated, thanks!

[llg, PhD, RN]

If you get a job for an employer that offers tuition assistance before starting grad school, you will gain ...

1. valuable experience working with patients that will help you be a better NP

2. time working as a nurse to help you solidify not only your skills, but your professional identity. You'll have more opportunity to figure out "who you are as a nurse" ... and what type of nurse you might want to become

3. opportunity to see far more variety in the types of advanced roles and nursing career paths that are possible than you probably became familiar with in school. (Be sure you are choosing the right career path for you before investing.)

4. someone to pay the school bill -- and your personal bills (e.g. health insurance, rent, etc.) -- while you go to school. Having an employer will save you tens of thousands of dollars!