any new psych arnps?

[Debi Fischer]

Are there any new psych arnps who just started their MSN?

What was the application and admission process like?

[PG2018]

My program required the GRE or MAT. The MAT was more doable for me without reviewing anything as there are assorted mathematical things on the GRE. I did well on the MAT. Beyond that it, submit transcripts, fill out the application, cut the mustard with your GPA, send them some application money, and I was in. I think only our doctoral program requires an interview, and letters of recommendation. I attend NP classes at a state medical school that houses an NP training unit. I applied after graduating (BSN) and received condition admission pending the NCLEX which I passed so I started the MSN PMHNP the August immediately following my May BSN graduation. It's three years in duration, and I've finished including several psych-focus and practica courses. I was told about a year before I applied that "if you've got the numbers you're in" as the demand is still surprisingly small. In fact, the gyneo focus was shut down due to lack of interest, and most of the adult foci grads go back and pick up FNP after they graduate. Some of the peds folks do too. I bet 1/3 of the FNP class are already NPs. The FNP program is the largest and thereby most difficult to get into merely because there are limited seats. Their program has been on hiatus a few times to ease the overcrowding. The PMHNP grads are widely sought after and recruited before graduation with six figure salaries - more than double the RN take home "in these parts."

Regarding your survey, no this isn't the best thing I've ever done in life, but I enjoy it enough. Sure, home work and tedium can be a bit much at times when you're trying to live life as a nontraditional student, but all in all it's a fine investment and worthwhile pursuit. I've learned a lot and will continue to do so.

Some recent thoughts I've had about the program (I'm rambling becaue I'm at work with nothing else to do) is later pursue that old, FNP cert because I like the idea of being able to provide basic, primary care services to psych patients who might otherwise not see another provider as well as prescribe the Levaquin, for example, to my family without later questions on the matter that my wife was prescribed today by her PCP. Simple things like that. What stops me is that I don't want to take the class or do clinicals in reproductive health which is not anywhere near my interests in life.

Also, I've considered picking up the DNP and join the ranks of professorship somewhere. The salary would be about 25k+ less, but there are some really good perks to that as well as my own interests.

[Debi Fischer]

Very interesting, how bad is advanced Pharmacology, where we are that is required after the first pharm course that all arnps take-this one is just for psych. What kind of topics were covered in your pharm courses for psych?

Also are we talking low 6 figures which is what this state also has for psych and other arnps.