Education for Careers in Caring.

Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner Degrees

A nursing career can be one of the most personally and professionally rewarding careers you can choose. If you've thought about taking your nursing career to advanced levels, then you'll want to consider one of many available nursing and family nurse practitioner degrees.

As a nurse practitioner, you can diagnose and treat acute illnesses and injuries and prescribe medications. Many insurance companies encourage their members to seek out nurse practitioners as their primary care givers.

There are three ways to become a registered nurse. The most common method is to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN), which takes four years. In 2002, there were 678 BSN programs offered by colleges and universities, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov).

You can also obtain an associate degree in nursing (ADN), which takes three years. There were about 700 ADN programs offered by community and junior colleges in 2002. Diplomas are also available in hospitals, although these programs are disappearing.

Your nursing education will consist of classroom instruction and clinical experience. You will receive training in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology, and nursing.

As a graduate of any of the main three types of programs, you will qualify for entry-level positions as a staff nurse. With a degree in hand, your chances of finding a job in nursing are very good. Employment of registered nurses is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov).

To become an advanced practice nurse, such as a family nurse practitioner, you'll need an advanced degree. You will have the chance to bring your advanced practice nursing skills to a wide range of clinical settings. These include private practices, clinics, hospitals, businesses, managed care organizations and governmental agencies.