How do you become a specialized NP? Does it require a post-masters?

[nightrn5]

I want to go to NP school, but trying to decide if I should go FNP or AGNP. I think what I'd eventually like to do is get certified in endocrinology, cardiology, or gerontology, but I don't know if it matters what NP program I go through? Do you have to get a post-masters to go into a specialty? I've tried doing some reading, but it's confusing because I'm reading that some certifications were discontinued a few years ago?

I'm leaning more towards FNP because I'm still so open to ideas of what I want to do. Appreciate your help!

Also I live in Maine, don't know if this makes a difference. Thanks!

[DizzyJ DHSc PA-C]

First basic distinction if FNP is outpatient peds/adult training and AGNP is outpatient adult/gero. With either you could go into any of those outpatient specialties. If you are able to decide on a specialty before school, then I would choose a program with some flexibility on rotations so you can do the most hours in the specialty you are interested in. I would think FNP would allow for less elective type rotations and AGNP could be the better option to get the most hours in those specialities. You don't need to have post-masters in endo/cardio (if such a program event exists) to go into endo/cardio. You need to show your future employer that you have an interest in endo/cardio/gero and to improve you learning you did additional didactic/clinical education to further your knowledge in the specialty beyond your basic requirements (this would look good to employers, but certainly not always needed). Many will say FNP keeps more options open because you can see all ages, but if you know you never want to see peds, then it may not be a problem. It is always possible to be hired by a practice willing to train a new grad.

[Nacki, MSN, NP]

Check out Duke University's post-masters cerfications.

They have cardiology, endocrinology, HIV/AIDS, Ortho, Oncology and VA care.

I'm applying to the ortho program that starts this fall.

Good luck!

[shibaowner, MSN, RN, NP]

Do you want to do outpatient work or inpatient work? And do you want to work with children and also do some women's health? If not, go for AGNP. Most NP programs have an acute track for FNP and a primary care track for FNP. To specialize further, you can get a post-master's certificate.

[DizzyJ DHSc PA-C]

Oh cool. I hadn't seen these post-masters certifications. That's a good option to get additional courses for specialization.