A certified Nurse Practitioner (NP) is one type of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Other APRN’s include certified nurse mid-wife (CNM), certified nurse-anesthetist (CRNA), and a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS).
They are registered nurses educated at Masters or post Masters level and in a specific role and patient population. APRNs are prepared by education and certification to assess, diagnose, and manage patient problems, order tests, and prescribe medications. Regulatory requirements for APRN practice vary from state to state.
If you are, or were not, a nursing major you can still pursue a career as a nurse practitioner. View the admission requirements link below to learn about the two routes for entering the profession.