NP vs pa

[Happiness779]

Hello! I’m in a tricky situation and would appreciate any input. I’m currently 25 and enrolled in an accelerated BSN program. I graduate in 6 months. My plan was to become a PA or NP and I was recently accepted into PA school. I’m equally open to both professions and have no preference.

I’m having second thoughts about PA because the PA program would be having me ~150k in debt and I won’t be able to make money while in PA school for 2-2.5 years. I’m trying to make the optimal financial decision with school and limit debt. Would it be better to take a year and work and try to get into NP school or take the PA school offer? If this even means anything, I attend a public RN program which has several NP programs and my grades are about a 3.3-3.4. Thank you very much, I truly appreciate all input. 

[Stacy Winters, MSN, APRN, NP]

Both are great professions.  I think you must decide if you want to work under a medical model or nurse model. As an NP, I can work autonomously. I can do everything an PA can and I have more years of experience working with patients then beginning PA because I worked as a nurse while in NP school.  I have worked along side PAs as well.  They are great.  We can both learn from each other.  There no bad decisions.  It is cheaper to go to NP school and you can work while attending.

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

An NP is toward the top of the career ladder in their chosen profession. A PA is at the bottom of the career ladder in their chosen profession.

For me, the level of debt would make the choice a no-brainer. Good luck whatever you decide.

[JBMmom, MSN, NP]

I agree that you won't be making a bad decision in either case. The ability to work while completing a NP Program is attractive from a financial standpoint and will decrease your overall debt. I believe that the pay for many positions is similar, I see many postings open to both NP and PA candidates. They fulfill many similar roles in my organization. Both work with an associated physician, but both are good positions in my organization. I think that the education structure is very different and PAs come out with a better skill base in many instances, especially by comparison with online NP programs. Good luck with your decision!