If I’m Not a Nurse, Can I Still Go to NP School?
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Key Takeaways
- Most NP programs require RN licensure and clinical experience, but you can become an NP without a nursing degree by enrolling in a direct-entry MSN program.
- Admission to direct-entry MSN programs can be competitive, and some programs require prerequisite courses for nurses.
- Bridge programs can help LPNs, CNAs, and second-career students earn an RN license so that they can apply to NP schools.
Becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) is one of many pathways to making a difference, and you can achieve this goal in just a few years, no matter your academic background.
Explore this guide to discover how you can become an NP, even if you aren’t already a nurse.
Can You Become a Nurse Practitioner Without a BSN?
Though not as common, it is possible to become an NP without a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Most NPs enter the profession by earning a BSN, gaining clinical experience, and applying to a graduate program. Next, they earn either a master of science in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). But the right track for you depends on your prior education and timeline.
If you have strong grades and a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, direct-entry MSN programs offer the fastest path to becoming an NP. If you already have an associate degree in nursing (ADN), you can become an NP in 2-3 years through RN-to-MSN programs. Finally, if you have some nursing or paramedicine experience, but you’re not an RN, nursing bridge programs can prepare you for an NP program.
Nurse Practitioner Programs with No Nursing Experience
If you have no prior nursing experience, you can still become an NP in about 2-4 years through a direct-entry MSN program. Also called entry-level MSN programs, these programs admit applicants with a bachelor’s degree who do not hold an RN license. In addition to in-person programs, you can consider direct-entry online NP programs.
The first portion of a direct-entry program covers pre-licensure coursework and RN clinical training. These courses prepare you for the RN role by introducing topics such as fundamental nursing, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric care, and mental health nursing.
After completing prelicensure courses, you are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become an RN. Then, you can progress to the MSN portion of the program, which includes advanced nursing coursework and NP clinical rotations. After earning an MSN, you can apply for NP licensure through your state board of nursing.
Admission for direct-entry MSN programs can be competitive. You’ll likely need a minimum 3.0 GPA, and some programs require prerequisite courses for nurses.
Bridge Programs to NP School
Nursing bridge programs offer an accelerated pathway for nursing professionals without an RN license, such as licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and paramedics. Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) typically begin by bridging to an LPN or RN program. These professionals can complete the nursing and clinical requirements for an RN license through the bridge program and then apply to NP school.
An LPN can complete an LPN-to-BSN bridge program in around two years. With an RN license, they can apply to NP graduate programs. Some nursing schools may offer direct admission to NP programs for graduates of BSN bridge programs.
Other Paths to Becoming a Nurse Practitioner
The right NP program depends on your personal needs and career goals. When exploring these alternate NP pathways, consider your preferred program pace and current education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can become an NP without a nursing degree. Direct-entry MSN programs admit applicants with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees. In these programs, you’ll complete foundational nursing courses to earn your RN license before moving on to graduate-level nursing courses. NP programs incorporate clinical requirements so you can work as an NP.
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