8 Steps to Become an NP in Nevada
- Earn an RN Degree: Start by obtaining your RN degree through an ADN or BSN program from an accredited university. Accreditation by the ACEN or CCNE ensures that your course credits will be accepted by Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: Prepare for and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required to obtain your RN licensure.
- Earn Your MSN or DNP: Pursue either a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree to become an NP. MSN programs typically take around 2 years, while DNP programs require about 4 years. Choose a population focus area, such as gerontology, family, or neonatal, when enrolling in your program.
- Complete Supervised Clinical Hours: Depending on your chosen population focus, you will need to complete between 500-600 clinical hours for an MSN program or 1000 hours for a DNP program.
- Become Board Certified: Obtain board certification from the appropriate certifying body based on your population focus area:
- National Certification Corporation: For Women’s health and neonatal NPs.
- The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners: For family and adult-gerontology NPs.
- The American Association of Critical Care Nurses: For adult-gerontology NPs.
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center: For adult-gerontology, family, psychiatric mental health, and pediatric NPs.
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board: For pediatric NPs.
- Obtain Licensure: Contact the Nevada State Board of Nursing to obtain your NP licensure in the state.
- Obtain a DEA Number: To prescribe medication in Nevada, you will need to obtain a DEA registration. The process involves several steps: Apply for your NPI number, which is free, through the NPPES website. Use your NPI number to apply for your State Controlled Substances Authority for Nevada through the Nevada Board of Pharmacy. Apply for your DEA registration through the DEA Diversion Control Division.
- Maintain Active Certification and Licensure: Your certifying body and the Nevada Board of Nursing will provide you with information on the requirements to maintain certification and licensure. This typically involves:
Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada
#1 in Nevada
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
- 4505 S Maryland Pky, Las Vegas, NV - 89154
- (702) 895-3011
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
University Information
- Total Faculty: 1235
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $8,737
- Book and Supplies: $1,240
- Percent Received Aid: 96%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $5,518
- Percent Admitted: 81%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 42%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
About University of Nevada, Las Vegas' Nursing School
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas - School of Nursing is dedicated to advancing the science of health and healthcare by preparing nurse clinicians, educators, leaders, and researchers. Born in 1965, the school has since been molding nurse leaders with a mission to optimize health equity and wellness of individuals, families, communities, and populations. The school offers accredited nursing programs that include baccalaureate, master’s, post-graduate APRN, and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs.
Located in Las Vegas, the school's Clinical Simulation Center provides a real hospital setting for students to hone their clinical competency skills using low and high fidelity manikins, standardized patient interactions, simulations, and surgical labs. The school is committed to increasing the educational arm to educate more nurses and practitioners, enhancing research productivity, expanding presence in the local, regional, and national community, and developing and maintaining an inclusive and dynamic environment for student development.
About University of Nevada, Las Vegas' MSN-FNP and MSN-PMHNP Programs
The Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program and the Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN-PMHNP) program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, provide students with requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for safe, effective, and efficient advanced practice of nursing. Both programs, which offer full-time and part-time study options, are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
The MSN-FNP and MSN-PMHNP programs prepare graduates to work in a variety of settings, offering direct care, conducting physical examinations, diagnosing and managing acute and chronic diseases, prescribing medications and treatments, and providing patient and family counseling and education. Graduates are equipped to contribute to research projects, integrate research findings, and take credentialing examinations designed by specialty area, which are required to practice in most states.
Key Student Takeaways
- High-Quality Education: Both the MSN-FNP and MSN-PMHNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a high standard of education.
- Hands-On Experience: The school's Clinical Simulation Center of Las Vegas provides students with real-world experience in a simulated hospital setting.
- Research Opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in research projects and to integrate research findings into their practice.
- Inclusive Environment: The school fosters an inclusive and dynamic environment, promoting professional development of its students.
- Flexible Study Options: Both the FNP and PMHNP tracks offer full-time and part-time study options, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments.
#2 in Nevada
University of Nevada-Reno
- North Virginia Street, Reno, NV - 89557
- (775) 784-1110
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 1173
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $8,588
- Book and Supplies: $1,200
- Percent Received Aid: 92%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,872
- Percent Admitted: 87%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 40%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
About Orvis School of Nursing
Established in 1956, the Orvis School of Nursing (OSN) at the University of Nevada, Reno, is the oldest nursing school in Nevada. OSN is dedicated to meeting the healthcare needs of Nevada's people through excellence in teaching, research and service. All OSN programs, including baccalaureate, master's, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs, are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high-quality education. Rooted in values of caring, compassion, and inclusion, OSN aims to prepare nurse leaders to optimally promote health and wellbeing for diverse populations in Nevada and beyond.
About Orvis School of Nursing's MSN and Post-Master's Programs
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at OSN prepares registered nurses for advanced healthcare practice, educator and leadership positions. The program enhances clinical competence and facilitates application of a theoretical framework for nursing practice.
The MSN program offers multiple tracks, each preparing students for specialty roles:
- The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) programs focus on advanced practice in acute and primary care settings, respectively.
- The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track prepares students to provide primary care to individuals, families, and communities.
- The Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track educates nurses to provide holistic care for pediatric patients with acute, complex, and chronic illnesses.
- The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program prepares nurses for comprehensive mental health care provision.
Orvis also offers post-master's certificates OSN also offers Advanced Post-master's Certificates in the following tracks, intended for nurses already possessing a master's degree seeking additional certification.
- Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
These certificate programs are intended for nurses who already hold a master's degree but seek additional specialization and certification.
Key Student Takeaways
- Diverse Learning Opportunities: OSN's MSN program offers a range of specialty tracks, allowing nurses to focus on their areas of interest.
- Advanced Training: The post-master's certificate programs provide advanced training for nurses seeking additional certification.
- Accredited Programs: OSN's programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high-quality education.
- Long-standing Reputation: As the oldest nursing school in Nevada, OSN has a proven track record in nursing education.
- Leadership Preparation: The MSN program is designed to prepare nurses for leadership positions in healthcare.
See our Ranking Methodology
If you are currently an RN, the following schools are currently accepting Nevada students into their online Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs, providing flexible learning options to accommodate your busy schedule.
Time It Takes to Become an NP in Nevada
How much time it takes to become a Nurse Practitioner in Nevada really depends on your background. Depending on the path you take it will be 2 to 4 years of education before you can become a Certified Nurse Practitioner. If you’re already an RN it can take as little as 2 years by earning your MSN. If you are not an RN some direct entry programs are as short as 2 years as well. If you already have your MSN but are not an NP you can do a DNP program in 2-3 years and become and NP while also earning your doctorate.
Here are examples of how long it will take you to become an NP depending on what degree you are starting with:
Starting Degree | How Many Years to Become an NP |
Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) | 2 – 3 years |
Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) | 2 years |
Bachelor’s in a non-nursing field | 2 – 3 years |
Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) | 1 – 2 years |
NP Bridge Programs for Nevada Students
Registered Nurse (RN) to Nurse Practitioner
Registered Nurses can transition to become a Nurse Practitioner in Nevada by completing a graduate-level education program, which typically takes two to three years.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Classroom Hours: Varies by program
- Pre-requisites: Active RN license in Nevada, Bachelor’s degree in nursing or related field
- Supervised Hours: 500 hours minimum
- Duration: 2-3 years
BSN to Nurse Practitioner
Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can progress to a Nurse Practitioner role by enrolling in a Master’s program.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Classroom Hours: Varies by program
- Pre-requisites: Active RN license in Nevada, BSN degree
- Supervised Hours: 500 hours minimum
- Duration: 2 years
MSN to Nurse Practitioner
Those who already have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can pursue post-master’s certificate programs.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Classroom Hours: Varies by program
- Pre-requisites: Active RN license in Nevada, MSN degree
- Supervised Hours: 500 hours minimum
- Duration: 1 year
Direct Entry MSN Nurse Practitioner
Direct entry MSN programs are for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline aiming to become a Nurse Practitioner.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Classroom Hours: Varies by program
- Pre-requisites: Bachelor’s degree in non-nursing discipline
- Supervised Hours: 500 hours minimum
- Duration: 3 years
BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner Program
These programs allow nurses with a BSN to earn their Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Classroom Hours: Varies by program
- Pre-requisites: Active RN license in Nevada, BSN degree
- Supervised Hours: 1,000 hours minimum
- Duration: 3 to 4 years
MSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner
For nurses who already hold an MSN, DNP programs offer further specialization opportunities.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Classroom Hours: Varies by program
- Pre-requisites: Active RN license in Nevada, MSN degree
- Supervised Hours: 1,000 hours minimum
- Duration: 1 to 2 years
Post-Master’s Certification Nurse Practitioner
Post-master’s certification programs offer specialization for nurse practitioners looking for new opportunities.
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Classroom Hours: Varies by program
- Pre-requisites: Active RN license in Nevada, MSN degree
- Supervised Hours: Depends on the chosen specialty
- Duration: Less than a year
Requirements for Online NP Programs
Online Nurse Practitioner Programs offer flexibility for working nurses. The requirements and duration vary based on the type of program (BSN to NP, MSN to NP, etc.), but all require an active RN license in Nevada and relevant education credentials.
All these paths are designed to prepare you for advanced practice roles through Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada. The chosen path will depend on your current educational background and career goals.
Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada
The admission process for Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada requires a thorough preparation, but it’s a straightforward path.
- Firstly, nurses must submit their application to the chosen program.
- Following this, the review process takes place, which may last up to several weeks.
Most online Nurse Practitioner programs in Nevada take about two to three years to complete on a full-time basis.
- Part-time students may need more time, usually about three to four years.
It’s important to note that these timelines are typical and can vary based on individual progress and course load.
16 Top Employers for Nevada NPs
Nevada’s healthcare sector provides ample opportunities for nurse practitioners. They can work in a variety of settings, providing care to diverse patient populations.
Hospitals and Medical Centers
Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care Centers
Private Practices and Specialty Clinics
Community Health Centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
Long-Term Care Facilities and Nursing Homes
Academic Institutions and Universities
Government and Military Facilities
Home Health Care Agencies
Most Popular NP Certifications
As an NP the world is at your fingertips. You can work in a variety of settings and will have the flexibility throughout your career to change it up. Here are some examples of where you may work.
- Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP: Cardiology, neurology, emergency departments, intensive care units, medical surgical units, military settings, and more.
- Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP: primary care clinics, nursing homes, correctional facilities, college health, occupational health, military settings, and more.
- Family NP: Primary care clinics, community health, urgent care, college health, occupational health, military settings, dermatology, shelters, and more.
- Neonatal NP: neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), emergency departments, labor and delivery units, and more.
- Pediatric Acute Care NP: Emergency departments, specialty units in children’s hospitals, urgent care.
- Pediatric Primary Care NP: community health centers, schools, children’s hospitals, private practices.
- Psychiatric Mental Health NP: outpatient therapy, inpatient psychiatric units, partial hospitalization units, nursing homes, and more.
- Women’s Health NP:Â Community health centers, women’s prisons, private practices, urogynecology practices, adolescent health, and more.
Certification | Percent of NPs |
Family Nurse Practitioner | 69.7 |
Adult Care | 10.8 |
Adult–Gerontology Primary Care | 7.0 |
Psychiatric/Mental Health | 4.7 |
Acute Care | 4.1 |
Pediatrics–Primary Care | 3.2 |
Adult–Gerontology Acute Care | 2.9 |
Women’s Health | 2.9 |
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care | 1.8 |
Neonatal | 1.0 |
Pediatrics–Acute Care | 0.7 |
Classes NP Students Take in Nevada
Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada offer a comprehensive curriculum that prepares nurses for advanced practice. Here’s a look at 10 typical courses and what nurses can expect to learn:
- Advanced Pathophysiology: Nurses study the complexity of diseases and their impact on the body.
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice: This course focuses on the effects and uses of drugs in the treatment of illness.
- Health Assessment: Nurses learn to conduct thorough physical and mental health assessments.
- Research Methods: Students learn to interpret and apply nursing research findings to improve patient outcomes.
- Primary Care of Adults: This course teaches how to manage common acute and chronic illnesses in adult patients.
- Primary Care of Children: Nurses learn to provide care for pediatric patients, including preventative care and managing common illnesses.
- Women’s Health: Focuses on health issues specific to women, including reproductive health and preventative care.
- Pediatric Care: This course teaches how to meet the unique health needs of aging populations.
- Health Policy: Nurses learn about healthcare policy, advocacy, and the role of nurse practitioners in shaping health policy.
- Clinical Practicum: Hands-on clinical experience under the supervision of experienced nurse practitioners.
One school that offers these courses as part of their Nurse Practitioner Programs is the University of Nevada, Reno.
Costs of Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada
To help offset the cost of becoming an NP you can apply for scholarships and/or loan forgiveness programs. Here are a few examples.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness
- Individual Hospital Repayment Programs
- Perkins Loan Cancellation
- Military Programs
- Nurse Corps Loan Forgiveness
Scholarships outside of the school you are applying to are not as common for NP programs as they are for BSN programs, but our Nursing School and Scholarship guide can help you figure out additional ways to offset costs.
10 Scholarships for Nurse Practitioner Students
Nurse Practitioner in Nevada students have several scholarship opportunities available to them, many with substantial award amounts. Here are 10 scholarships offering $2,500 or more:
- American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Scholarships: Offers several scholarships of up to $5,000 for AANP members enrolled in an accredited NP program.
- AfterCollege/AACN Scholarship Fund: Awards $2,500 every quarter to students pursuing a baccalaureate, master’s or doctoral degree in nursing.
- NURSE Corps Scholarship Program: This program pays tuition and fees for nursing students in exchange for a commitment to work at an eligible Critical Shortage Facility upon graduation.
- Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association (FNSNA) Scholarships: Offers scholarships between $1,000 and $7,500 to undergraduate nursing students.
- Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. Scholarships: Provides scholarships for registered nurses seeking advanced degrees.
- March of Dimes Dr. Margaret C. Freda Graduate Nursing Scholarship Award: Awards a $5,000 scholarship to graduate nursing students.
- Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: Awards ten $10,000 scholarships and thirty $5,000 scholarships annually to students pursuing careers in healthcare.
- Hurst Review Services/AACN Nursing Scholarship: Offers quarterly scholarships of $2,500 to pre-licensure and graduate nursing students.
- American Cancer Society’s Doctoral Degree Scholarships in Cancer Nursing: Provides $15,000 per year for up to two years to support doctoral nursing students.
- ExceptionalNurse.com Scholarships: Awards one or more scholarships of at least $500 annually to a nursing student with a disability.
All these financial aid opportunities require completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Filling out the FAFSA is crucial as it opens the door to federal, state and institutional financial aid options including both public and private scholarships.
Salaries for NP Graduates in Nevada
The role of a Nurse Practitioner in Nevada comes with a competitive salary and numerous benefits. According to the 2023 Nurse Practitioner Salary Report, Nurse Practitioners in Nevada earn an average of $123,680 per year or $59.46 per hour.
The report, which combines data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Department of Labor, US Department of Education, and other sources, indicates that there are currently 1,760 Nurse Practitioners employed in Nevada, making up 1% of U.S. Nurse Practitioners.
Nevada is projected to need 2,140 new Nurse Practitioners by 2030, which equates to 170 new nurses per year.
In addition to the competitive salaries, Nurse Practitioners in Nevada also enjoy several non-salary benefits:
- Healthcare Benefits: Many employers offer comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage.
- Retirement Plans: Contributions to retirement savings plans are often matched by employers.
- Professional Development Opportunities: Employers may provide funding for continuing education and certification programs.
- Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave and holiday pay policies are common.
- Flexible Schedules: Many NPs have the opportunity to work flexible hours or part-time.
These figures represent averages; actual earnings can vary depending on factors such as specialization area, level of experience, and type of employer.
Nurse Practitioner Salary and Employment Report for Nevada
This 2024 report can be an essential tool for professionals, job seekers, employers, and policymakers, providing insights into the labor market’s trends and dynamics.
List of Online and Campus NP Programs
Nevada offers two nurse practitioner programs, each designed to enhance nursing skills and broaden career prospects. Nurses gain invaluable hands-on experience, benefit from a flexible learning environment, and increase their earning potential.
University | Offered as | City/State |
---|---|---|
University of Nevada-Las Vegas | Campus, Online | Las Vegas, NV |
University of Nevada-Reno | Campus, Hybrid | Reno, NV |
Nevada Organizations for Nurse Practitioner
The journey to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Nevada requires access to useful resources. Below is a list of organizations and programs that provide valuable information and assistance for Nurse Practitioner students in Nevada:
- Nevada Advanced Practice Nurses Association (NAPNA): NAPNA offers networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy for Nurse Practitioners in Nevada.
- Nevada State Board of Nursing: The Nevada State Board of Nursing provides licensure and regulatory information for Nurse Practitioners in Nevada.
- Nurse Practitioner Programs in Your State: This resource provides comprehensive details on how to become a Nurse Practitioner. It includes a list of accredited programs available in Nevada.
- American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP): AANP offers certification, continuing education, advocacy, and resources for Nurse Practitioners nationwide.
- Nevada Nurses Association (NNA): NNA advocates for the profession, provides continuing education opportunities, and serves as a network for nurses across the state.
These resources provide the tools needed to succeed as a Nurse Practitioner student in Nevada.
Best Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Me
We identified the top nurse practitioner programs for you through rigorous research. These premier schools have a record of graduating career-ready nurses who positively impact lives. Starting with the program best fit for you puts purposeful, meaningful work within reach. Let us guide your first steps towards a future of healing hope.
Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Methodology
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After graduating with a degree in English Literature from UCLA, Jeff published four editions of the World Wide Web Yellow Pages by Barnes and Noble, and several editions of the Best of the Web. He’s worked as an executive at both startup and mature companies including CareerPath.com and Microsoft. With nearly three decades of publishing and business development expertise, he now puts that experience to use operating RNCareers.org to help future nursing students get reliable information on registered nursing careers.