PNP Salary and Outlook

[New2bMSNPNP]

So I am looking at attending school to obtain my MSN and become a PNP. I was lucky as a nurse to get a job at a hospital that has a higher than average pay, with the option to take overtime shifts weekly. As of right now I am pacing to make 70-75k this year as a BSN nurse. My goal has always been to become a NP, and lately I have been looking at PNP schools. My concern is that to take on the debt it will take to obtain this degree may not be worth the time/money, if my ending salary isn't high enough.

With that being said, what are Pediatric Nurse Practitioners making? The highs, lows, and average? What can I expect job market wise? And is taking on the additional debt worth the investment, or should I consider other NP specialties over this one? Most of the information I keep finding is either vague or out of date.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Moved to student NP forum for more current answers

[kadphilly]

I'd say, one average a full time PNP is making. $90,000 to 115,000. NP's have one of the fastest growing professions in general, with a 30% growth in the next 5-10 years. Not as many MD's are going into primary care, so if you wanted to be a primary care PNP, you definitely should get a job.

Taking out debt all depends on how much and what you ur goals are. If you can get your current employer to pay for part, that is an option. You will make more money than an RN, but maybe not by much. However the difference will add up depending on how many years you have left in your career.

Also, I will say after being a RN for 21 years, and an PNP now for about 18, I don't regret any of my student loans. For me my position as an NP is more than about salary. It's also about job satisfaction, and as I get older, I realize how very important that is. I have no regrets, and feel fulfilled and passionate about my career. That to me is more important than the monetary gains.