transition from PA to NP

[kkkrrr]

I graduated from OSU College of Nursing w/ BSN in 1986, decided to go to PA school in 1991, have worked as a family practice PA for 23 years but have always maintained my RN licensure. I did get a MPA-S later on. Things are getting so much tougher for PA's in my area in terms of finding jobs, shrinking benefit packages, increased expectations without compensation. On top of that, we must recertify every 6 years {$375 for the test} in addition to the usual licensure fees and continuing education requirements. I am interested in learning about an online NP program, to transition from PA to NP, so I can continue to work. Does anyone know how I can go about this?

[Rocknurse, MSN, APRN, NP]

I would think the only way to do that would be to attend an NP program (MSN or DNP). I don't think there is a direct path from PA to NP or that those credits would transfer. Do you want to work inpatient or outpatient? There is no completely online NP program. You'd have to do clinical rotations at some point which might impact your ability to work. I work full time also but I am able so far to attend clinicals in the evening and weekends.

[kkkrrr]

Thanks. Kaplan advisor said the same but I could apply and send my resume for the Dean's review to see if prior course work and experience could factor in. I'm not going to do a full 23 months worth, but I bet sometime in the future there will be such a transitional program. I may be 6 ft under by then but oh well

[AJJKRN]

Thanks. Kaplan advisor said the same but I could apply and send my resume for the Dean's review to see if prior course work and experience could factor in. I'm not going to do a full 23 months worth, but I bet sometime in the future there will be such a transitional program. I may be 6 ft under by then but oh well

I would stay away from Kaplan, I fully support the use of Kaplan studying materials but would not get any degree from them, surf around allnurses for more reputable NP schools.

[KatieMI, BSN, MSN, RN]

Accelerated MSN programs can take less than 2 years if your prerecs are accounted for. The latter thing maybe a little tough sell because of so much time passed (high ranking schools usually want courses less than 5 years old, but it is still possible to talk with them). Just make a nice legend why you want NP over PA.

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

... in terms of finding jobs, shrinking benefit packages, increased expectations without compensation.

I think you will find that this applies to NP jobs in many places as well. Have you spoken to some NPs where you plan on working? How do they feel about their job opportunities?