R.N. to P.A.??

AnnaN5 · Jul 3, 2006

Doea anyone know of any programs to go from RN to PA? Thanks!

I do not think that there are any programs specifically designed to go from RN to PA. PA programs are a masters level program that require a bachelors degree and a certain amount of health care experience whether that be paid or volunteer. Most programs require anywhere from 2000 to 5000 hours of health care experience. So if you have your BSN and have been working as a RN you would meet the requirements and be able to apply to PA school.

CoolhandHutch, MSN, RN · Jul 3, 2006

University of North Dakota (http://www.und.edu) has a program specifically designed for experienced RNs with a bachelors (doesn't have to be a BSN) wanting to become PAs. It's a 20 month program and some of it can be done at home versus having to be on campus. In fact, I was told only a small portion of their current class is local- the rest are from out of state.

Quickbeam, BSN, RN · Jul 3, 2006

Just a word of caution...employment opportunities for PAs can vary a lot. I have two RN friends who became PAs only to end up back doing regular RN work. Make sure that there's a market for what you want to do where you want to do it.

Jolie, BSN · Jul 3, 2006

I'm curious as to why you would consider a PA program as opposed to an NP. Not trying to start a debate, just wondering :).

CoolhandHutch, MSN, RN · Jul 3, 2006

I'm considering it because of the medical model versus the nursing model in advanced practice. Not a big fan of theory, that's all. Not fully committed, just finding out what's out there.

marilynmom, LPN, NP · Jul 3, 2006

Just a word of caution...employment opportunities for PAs can vary a lot. I have two RN friends who became PAs only to end up back doing regular RN work. Make sure that there's a market for what you want to do where you want to do it.

Same can be said for NPs as well though. But that brings up a good point....

I would research and find out which is more in demand in your state because it really does vary state by state. Where I live PA's are more in demand than NP's.

Trauma Columnist · Jul 4, 2006

Great topic. I actually know two RN's that did the North Dakota program. One then left the area. The other stayed in our area but has not liked being a PA. She was an awesome RN but has not found her niche yet. I did the Clinical Nurse Specialist route because it was what was available to me. However, I did it as a post-MSN certificate.

If I had to do it over again, I would go the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner route. (However, hindsight is always 20/20).

gonzo1, ASN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

I have a friend who is a paramedic and then a PA and is now working on RN degree because he can have more work opportunities and make more money as an RN in certain situations. Something to think about.