VA NP programs that require no RN experience

Nursing Students NP Students

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Hi all!

I am praying that some of you have heard of or have taken NP programs (specially in VA) that do not require RN experience to be accepted?

If you know of any online programs as well, that will be appreciated too. I know most online programs whoever do require travel to their main campus and for that reason, I would prefer a VA program.

Thank you all for your time!

Also, I have looked at other feeds about this topic, however none specific to VA or none within the last 2 years.

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Specializes in ICU / Urgent Care.

Just look around google, it's a pretty powerful tool. Also, I highly suggest at least 1 year of RN experience, it'll be priceless trust me ;)

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Please get some RN experience before going to NP school. There's a reason most programs require RN experience. How are you suppose to diagnose and prescribe when you don't have the critical thinking or assessment skills ?

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I appreciate both responses and I see where you both are coming from. Is it silly to go through both programs (RN, and MSN in FNP). and after finishing both, to start working as an RN first, then working as an FNP?

My thing is that I know I will not go back to school if I leave, due to starting a family and all. My goal has always been to finish all schooling at once, then work while starting a family.

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Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

Welcome to allnurses.com

Thread moved to Student NP forum.

Look through this forum. You will find several threads on this topic.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

It makes no sense to me to attempt to practice as an ADVANCED practice nurse without any experience as a novice nurse?

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My goal would be to work every other week or every weekend while in NP school

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My goal would be to work every other week or every weekend while in NP school

I know everyone is different, but "they" (whoever that grand "they" are) say that it takes at least one year to become acclimated to being a nurse, and that's working full time. For me, it took me almost two years full time.

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Specializes in M/S, LTC, Corrections, PDN & drug rehab.
I appreciate both responses and I see where you both are coming from. Is it silly to go through both programs (RN, and MSN in FNP). and after finishing both, to start working as an RN first, then working as an FNP?

My thing is that I know I will not go back to school if I leave, due to starting a family and all. My goal has always been to finish all schooling at once, then work while starting a family.

If you don't have the determination to

go to school after some time away, then maybe you should reconsider things. I have 2 children & nothing can keep me away from going back to school. I will be getting my ADN & then BSN. Anything in life worth having doesn't come easy.

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Not an NP or an NP student. The first part of the title nurse practitioner is NURSE. NP schools build on knowledge you've gained while working as a nurse. You'll set yourself up for failure. Sadly, programs like this do exist. But you're also looking for an online only program. Terrible idea for someone with zero experience. Don't look for a shortcut. You need experience.

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Specializes in FNP: Urgent Care & Primary Care; RN: Med-Surg.

Go for it! I have not heard of the program that you are talking about but I am sure they exist. I replied because I read some discouraging remarks. You can become and practice as an NP without being an RN! It is NOT unheard of and we do a great job. In fact, some employers will say that sometimes it is better to find us as we are not yet jaded. That is not to take away from anyone's experience! However, don't be discouraged. Just understand that you can do it!

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Specializes in FNP: Urgent Care & Primary Care; RN: Med-Surg.

It can be done. My cohort and I are proof. We love our jobs and are good at what we do. I can understand where you are coming from. But please understand that they only way to know for sure, it to be an NP without RN experience. It's not that we don't appreciate nursing, we do! But I feel that we should meet in the middle and respect each other.

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