Mental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, yet access to quality mental healthcare remains a challenge for many individuals. The (HRSA) reports a growing shortage of mental health professionals, making the role of a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) more critical than ever.

WCU Online offers several path options to help students become a PMHNP. A traditional MSN program like our PMHNP MSN track requires a BSN. In contrast, an RN to MSN program, such as our RN to MSN PMHNP track, is tailored for RNs with unencumbered licensure, allowing them to earn their MSN degree more quickly than if they had to complete a BSN program beforehand. These RN to MSN programs also strategically integrate undergraduate coursework 鈥� sometimes called 鈥渂ridge courses鈥� 鈥� to help RNs transition smoothly into graduate coursework. For advanced practice nurses looking to expand their expertise, another option is our PMHNP Post-Master鈥檚 Certificate program.

The Rewarding Nature of a PMHNP Career

A career as a PMHNP offers the opportunity to transform lives by providing compassionate and evidence-based mental healthcare. Many patients experience ongoing mental health challenges, and as a PMHNP, you can be a trusted provider throughout their recovery journey.

Why PMHNPs Find Their Work Fulfilling:

• Helping patients through vulnerable moments 鈥� Many individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood disorders rely on PMHNPs for support and treatment.
• Building long-term patient relationships 鈥� Unlike many healthcare roles focused on short-term care, mental health treatment often involves ongoing interactions, allowing you to witness significant progress.
• Contributing to mental health advocacy 鈥� The (SAMHSA) emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, and as a PMHNP, you play a direct role in reducing stigma and improving access to care.

奥颁鲍鈥檚 PMHNP programs and tracks prepare nurses to take on these rewarding responsibilities through a combination of online coursework, hands-on intensives, and clinical experience.

Accreditation and Certification Readiness

Accreditation is a measure that a PMHNP program meets rigorous academic and professional standards. All of 奥颁鲍鈥檚 PMHNP programs are accredited by the (CCNE), an accrediting body that promotes quality nursing education in the United States.

PMHNP Certification and Licensure

Upon completing 奥颁鲍鈥檚 PMHNP Post-Master鈥檚 Certificate or PMHNP MSN, graduates are eligible to sit for the (ANCC) PMHNP certification exam. Passing this exam is a key step toward licensure, as required by state boards governed by the (NCSBN).

The (ACEN) also plays a role in maintaining quality standards for nursing education, ensuring that programs like 奥颁鲍鈥檚 PMHNP certificate adequately prepare students for advanced practice roles.

PMHNP Career Benefits and WCU Program Highlights

Steps to Become a PMHNP

If you鈥檙e ready to take the next step toward becoming a PMHNP, here鈥檚 what the process looks like:

1. Select one of the PMHNP programs available at WCU 鈥� Options include our PMHNP MSN track, RN to MSN PMHNP track, and PMHNP Post-Master鈥檚 Certificate program.
2. Gain clinical experience 鈥� 奥颁鲍鈥檚 dedicated Clinical Placement Team helps students find preceptors and sites for their practicum experience.
3. Obtain degree or certification and gain licensure 鈥� Graduates are eligible to sit for the ANCC PMHNP certification exam, a key step toward licensure and practice.

With 奥颁鲍鈥檚 flexible online format and personalized student support, you can advance your career while maintaining your current professional responsibilities.

If you鈥檙e passionate about mental health, patient advocacy, and making a lasting impact, 奥颁鲍鈥檚 PMHNP programs and track can help you take your nursing career to the next level.

The post Why Pursue a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Education at WCU? appeared first on 国产主播.

国产主播鈥檚 Master of Science in Nursing-Advanced Practice Registered Nurse program recently held another successful On-Site Intensive weekend, welcoming nursing students to its Orange County and Texas campuses for a hands-on educational experience designed to prepare them for real-world clinical practice. 

What Is the OSI Weekend? 

The On-Site Intensive is a signature component of the MSN-APRN programs, offering students an opportunity to practice and refine advanced clinical skills under the guidance of expert faculty. Over the course of the weekend, participants engage in immersive workshops that bridge theory with practice, reinforcing the program鈥檚 commitment to career-ready education in advanced nursing.聽

A Weekend of Clinical Skill-Building 

During the OSI, students tackled essential competencies including: 

• Electronic documentation systems for accurate patient recordkeeping 

• Collaborative case studies to develop critical thinking and diagnostic reasoning 

• National board exam review sessions to support certification readiness 

• Hands-on procedural training in wound management, suturing, and interpreting X-rays and EKGs 

This structured, interactive format allows students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-time, gaining the confidence and clinical expertise needed to excel as nurse practitioners. 

Empowering the Next Generation of Nurse Practitioners 

Whether they are pursuing a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (AGACNP), or other advanced pathways, 奥颁鲍鈥檚 MSN-APRN students benefit from an education that goes beyond the textbook. The OSI weekend fosters peer collaboration, mentorship, and clinical excellence 鈥� core pillars of 奥颁鲍鈥檚 mission to develop practice-ready graduates. 

The event captured students proudly engaging in skill stations, collaborating on diagnostic challenges, and celebrating milestones in their journey toward becoming compassionate, competent nurse leaders. 

The post Elevating Advanced Practice: Inside 国产主播鈥檚 MSN-APRN On-Site Intensive Weekend聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

When Jimmy N. decided to become a nurse, he wasn’t just choosing a profession 鈥� he was following a calling that began with his service as a military medic. From the battlefield to the bedside, Jimmy鈥檚 journey reflects the grit, growth, and purpose that drives many healthcare professionals. As a proud alumnus of both the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs at 国产主播, Jimmy shared his personal experiences, advice for aspiring nurses, and how 奥颁鲍鈥檚 support systems made all the difference. 

Why Nursing? A Calling Rooted in Service 

For Jimmy, healthcare wasn鈥檛 a career option 鈥� it was the only path that made sense. 

鈥淗ealthcare is the only thing I know… After high school I went to the military, was a medic, then an EMT, and then I decided to become a nurse,鈥� he said. 

That same sense of service and desire to help others made nursing the natural next step. Jimmy found fulfillment in making a difference in people鈥檚 lives, something he calls 鈥渢he best decision I鈥檝e made.鈥� 

鈥淭he best thing about being a nurse is just being able to help people,鈥� he said. 

Advice to the Next Generation of Nurses 

Jimmy knows firsthand how challenging nursing school can be. His message to future nurses? Start early and trust yourself. 

鈥淚 would recommend doing it sooner rather than later… that way you expand yourself more,鈥� he said. 鈥淚鈥檒l tell myself I鈥檒l be okay. Just take it easier.鈥� 

He also encouraged students to care for their mental health and take the long view when things get tough. Like many nursing students, Jimmy had moments of doubt, especially during his OB-GYN coursework. 

鈥淕oing through OB… My girlfriend at the time 鈥� my wife now 鈥� sat down, helped me out and we talked through it,鈥� Jimmy said.  

A Flexible, Supportive Online Learning Experience 

One of the key advantages Jimmy highlights is the flexibility of 奥颁鲍鈥檚 online MSN program, which allowed him to advance his education without sacrificing his work-life balance. 

鈥淭hey make the program so easy to get in and get things done,鈥� he said. 

Online courses enabled him to work as a critical care nurse and instructor while progressing toward his advanced degree. Combined with responsive faculty and structured virtual support, the online experience gave him confidence and continuity. 

Whether studying between shifts or attending class from home, Jimmy made the most of 奥颁鲍鈥檚 online environment and encourages other nurses to do the same. 

Nursing with Purpose 鈥� and Perspective 

Today, Jimmy works as a critical care transport nurse and teaches EMT courses, applying lessons from his time at 国产主播 daily.聽聽

Are You Ready to Begin Your Nursing Journey 鈥� Online or On Campus? 

Whether you鈥檙e an EMT looking to advance your career like Jimmy, or just starting your nursing journey, 国产主播 offers the flexibility, resources, and support to help you succeed 鈥� at any stage of life. 

Learn more about our online RN-to-BSN and MSN programs, and join a network of passionate, purpose-driven nurses shaping the future of healthcare. 

The post 国产主播 Journey Takes Alum From Military Medic to Master鈥檚 Nurse聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

If you’re a registered nurse (RN) looking to advance your career with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), you should know that waive the requirement of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for entry into an MSN program. As such, the RN to MSN pathway is a popular route to earning your MSN as an RN.

RN to MSN programs are designed to meet the needs of working adults looking to advance their education and career opportunities. These programs may offer flexible scheduling options, such as fully online coursework or an accelerated plan to degree completion.

RN to MSN programs typically provide nursing specializations that allow RNs to tailor their studies to areas that interest them. At WCU, specializations include:

鈼� Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
鈼� Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
鈼� Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
鈼� Nurse Educator
鈼� Nurse Leader
鈼� Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Why Should You Earn an MSN Degree?

Beyond leadership opportunities, registered nurses who hold an MSN may gain benefits that set them apart in the job market. Recent research from the shows a correlation between higher nurse education and improved patient outcomes.

An MSN helps equip nurses with advanced skills that allow them to expand their scope of practice. MSN programs also further emphasize patient advocacy, policy involvement, and networking 鈥� all of which work holistically to enhance professional influence and career growth.

MSN vs. RN to MSN Programs: What’s the Difference?

Traditional MSN programs require a BSN for entry before pursuing graduate studies. In contrast,
RN to MSN programs are tailored for RNs with unencumbered licensure, allowing them to earn their MSN degree more quickly than if they were to complete a BSN program beforehand. RN to MSN programs also strategically integrate undergraduate coursework 鈥� sometimes called 鈥渂ridge courses鈥� 鈥� to help RNs transition smoothly into graduate coursework.

MSN programs also strategically integrate undergraduate coursework 鈥� sometimes called 鈥渂ridge courses鈥� 鈥� to help RNs transition smoothly into graduate coursework.

How Do I Decide if an RN to MSN Program Is Right for Me?

Deciding whether to pursue an RN to MSN program requires you to consider several factors.
Before making this important decision, consider the following:

• Career Goals: Determine if your career aspirations necessitate an MSN degree. If you see yourself leading a healthcare team, a graduate nursing program can put you on this path.
• Educational Requirements: Ensure the program meets your state鈥檚 criteria for advanced nursing roles, even if you currently hold an unencumbered RN license.
• Time Commitment: Assess whether you can balance being enrolled in a nursing program with your existing responsibilities. An online RN to MSN program is designed to accommodate busy lifestyles so you can work while earning your degree.
• Program Fit: Research the accreditation status of prospective RN to MSN programs, program formats, curriculum relevance, and available support services to ensure an MSN program properly aligns with your learning style and career goals.
• Financial Considerations: Explore financial aid options or employer support to fund your education.

Because RN to MSN programs can take at least two years to complete, you must consider how an intensive program will impact your personal and professional life. Balancing work, study, and personal obligations can be challenging, so having a solid support system is crucial.

What You Should Expect in an RN to MSN Program

Earning your MSN can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities and leadership roles in nursing. RN to MSN programs offering nursing specialties give you an advantage as they directly prepare you for certifications through a focused curriculum and real-life scenarios.

Nurses with an MSN are in demand across various healthcare settings nationwide due to advanced patient care, management, and extensive healthcare administration training. Below are potential career paths for RNs with an MSN, categorized into clinical (meaning you directly provide patient care) and nonclinical roles:

Clinical Roles:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
• Certified RN Anesthetist
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Emergency Room Nurse
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Nurse Manager
• Nurse Midwife
• Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Nonclinical Roles:

• Certified Nurse Educator
• Chief Nursing Officer
• Director of Nursing
• Executive Nurse Leader
• Healthcare Consultant
• Informatics Nurse Specialist
• Nurse Administrator
• Nurse Policy Advisor
• Nurse Researcher
• Public Health Nurse

Common Nursing Specializations for RN to MSN Programs

Most RN to MSN programs offer a variety of nursing specializations to cater to diverse career aspirations. Take a look at a few of the nursing specialties offered at WCU:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP): AGACNPs focus on the health needs of adolescents aged 13+, adults, and seniors. They specialize in primary care or acute care settings (such as intensive care units or trauma centers).
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP): AGPCNPs provide primary health care services to adolescents and adults across their lifespan. These professionals work to prevent illness and assist with long-term care across clinical settings.
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Specializing in providing comprehensive, family-centered healthcare across all ages 鈥� from infants to seniors 鈥� FNPs perform physical exams, order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and educate on health promotion.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs specialize in mental health and substance abuse care, offering therapy, medication management, and emergency psychiatric services.
• Nurse Educators: Nurse educators are commonly found in academic or nonclinical healthcare settings. They play a vital role in educating and training future nurses, preparing them to meet the challenges of modern healthcare delivery.
• Nurse Leaders: Nurse leaders drive organizational excellence and patient care innovation by assuming managerial roles, overseeing care teams, improving nursing practices, and influencing healthcare policy.

Are you an RN looking to find your nursing niche? Explore a more in-depth explanation of each unique MSN specialty through our comprehensive MSN specialties guide.

Advance Your Nursing Career by Earning Your RN to MSN at WCU

国产主播 offers an online RN to MSN program with six specializations for students
to focus their studies in alignment with their interests and career goals. 奥颁鲍鈥檚 flexible programs
and supportive learning environment help empower you to balance your professional and
personal commitments.

Get in touch today to learn more about the RN to MSN program and start working toward a
specialization in AGACNP, AGPCNP, FNP, Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, or PMHNP.
Discover why 国产主播 is the right choice for your healthcare journey!

The post Can You Get an MSN Without a BSN? appeared first on 国产主播.

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioners (AGPCNPs) are both advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). This means that they possess at least a master鈥檚 degree in nursing (MSN) and have undergone advanced clinical training.

While both are well-equipped to deliver primary care, FNPs and AGPCNPs are uniquely qualified to serve specific patient populations.

Read on to learn more about the difference between FNPs and AGPCNPs as well as which career path may be the right fit for you.

What Does a Family Nurse Practitioner Do?

FNPs are advanced practice registered nurses who are qualified to provide comprehensive care to patients across their entire lifespan, from infancy to end-of-life. FNPs generally serve as the first point of contact for patients who are seeking healthcare services, treating individuals and families throughout their lives.

Dedicated to enhancing the wellness of their patients, FNPs focus on preventative care and holistic health approaches. As such, they do not work in acute care鈥攎edical treatment provided for short-term illnesses, injuries, or medical conditions that require immediate attention.

FNP’s work across , a few of the most common are listed below.

• Family practice clinics
• Specialty clinics
• Urgent Care
• Emergency departments (ED)
• Hospital clinics and chronic care units
• Retail clinics
• Palliative care settings
• Long-term care facilities
• House calls and home care companies

What Does an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Do?

AGPCNPs are advanced practice registered nurses who are qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat patients ranging from adolescents (starting at the age of 13) through older adulthood to end of life. Dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of their patients, AGPCNPs focus on preventative care and holistic health approaches.

They may also support patients transitioning between care settings, which often involves
educating patients and caregivers on how to best maintain and/or monitor the patient鈥檚 health.

AGPCNP鈥檚 work in various environments, including:

• Clinics
• Hospitals/Urgent care
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Long-term care including homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, etc.
• Outpatient care centers
• Medical and physician offices

What is the Process of Becoming an FNP vs. AGPCNP?

The process of becoming an FNP or AGPCNP is similar although the content of the national certification examination will vary. To become certified, both prospective FNPs and AGPCNPs typically follow these three steps:

Step 1: Become a Registered Nurse

To become a registered nurse (RN), you must complete an accredited nursing program (Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)) and successfully pass the to obtain your license.

It鈥檚 important to note that all states require prospective RNs to hold a minimum of an ADN to qualify for their license. However, a growing number of states now require a BSN.

In states where a BSN is not required, registered nurses with an ADN are recommended to
enhance their qualifications to meet specific employer requirements by enrolling in an RN to
BSN program.

Step 2: Earn National Certification

In addition to holding an active RN license, you must become nationally certified as a FNP or
AGPCNP through an examination process via the or the .

To qualify for either examination, you must submit an application. Both the ANCC and AANP require you to submit the following to determine your eligibility:

• Proof of a current RN license
• Proof of completion of an accredited FNP or AGPCNP education program, including all supervised clinical practice hours
• Relevant transcripts
• An application fee

After successfully passing the exam, your national nurse practitioner certification will be valid for five years; however, to maintain certification, you must follow the renewal process detailed on the ANCC or AANP site.

Step 3: Apply for State Licensure

Following your RN licensure and your national certification as an FNP or AGPCNP, you must become licensed in the specific state where you plan to practice. As licensure requirements differ by state, it鈥檚 important to understand the requirements outlined by your state鈥檚 .

The application process for most state licensure requires a minimum of:

• Proof of a current RN license
• Proof of national FNP or AGPCNP certification
• Proof of the completion of an accredited FNP or AGPCNP program, including all supervised clinical practice hours
• An application fee

Deciding Which Educational Path Fits Your Needs

Although the general process of becoming a FNP or AGPCNP is similar, the specific coursework varies.

FNP programs typically offer a comprehensive range of pediatric courses, preparing practitioners to care for patients from infancy through the end-of-life. In contrast, AGPCNP programs focus on adolescent to adult care, generally excluding pediatric courses from their curriculum. Visit 奥颁鲍鈥檚 catalog to learn more about and .

Once you鈥檝e decided on the right fit for you, consider applying to an accredited nursing program that not only meets your state鈥檚 criteria to become an FNP or AGPCNP, but also aligns with your professional goals.

WCU Helps Support Students Through Their Educational Journey

No matter which path you choose, becoming an FNP or AGPCNP can empower you to lead a successful career. Both roles are fulfilling in their own way, offering opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

奥颁鲍鈥檚 online FNP specialization is available through the following programs:

• RN to MSN – FNP
• MSN – FNP
• Post-Master’s Certificate – FNP

The online AGPCNP specialization is available through the following programs:

• RN to MSN – AGPCNP
• MSN – AGPCNP
• Post-Master’s Certificate – AGPCNP

Visit one of the program pages above and submit a request for additional information to begin planning for a rewarding career

The post FNP vs. AGPCNP: Similarities and Differences appeared first on 国产主播.

In nursing, we hear the word 鈥渃are鈥� a lot.

It鈥檚 the language we use to describe the profession. But what does it mean?

For nurses, care isn鈥檛 just that soft, fuzzy feeling of a hand on your shoulder or a kind word. It鈥檚 more than that. It鈥檚 the courage and grit to care when things get hard. It’s the stamina to keep caring when the odds are long. It鈥檚 the fortitude to make decisions and act when life hangs in the balance.

It takes a certain kind of person to do this work 鈥� and that’s because caring is a calling.

It鈥檚 caring when your shift feels endless鈥� when the ward is over capacity鈥� when your patient takes their fear out on you鈥� when the prognosis is bad. Nurses are leaders, teachers, and caregivers who act in the moment for the benefit of others. They show up and they keep up.

Let鈥檚 dispel the myth of nursing as a profession of the nurturer and embrace the nurse warrior, who cares deeply in the fight for life. Let鈥檚 take a moment to appreciate what the profession of nursing entails and why nurses are essential to the health and well-being of our society at large.

Healthcare Isn鈥檛 a System 鈥� It鈥檚 a Collective

Those of us inside the healthcare 鈥渟ystem鈥� know that it鈥檚 a misnomer. 鈥淪ystem鈥� is a reductive term for something that is much more than that. Care comes from the people, not the system, and the people of healthcare are stronger, wiser, and more dedicated than their organizational infrastructure.

Healthcare is a team sport 鈥� a collaborative effort dedicated to the relentless pursuit of health and life. It鈥檚 check-you-chart, check-your-morale, check-on-your-teammates work where the sum is greater than its parts. Nurses work in lockstep with each other and with the entirety of a healthcare facility鈥檚 personnel to save lives.

Each patient participates in their own health, too, and the connective tissue between a patient and their treatment is often their nurse. After all, nurses make up the , and they鈥檙e the primary providers of patient care in hospitals, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Nurses are synapses of communication between patients and their doctors, keeping both sides informed, empowered, and on the right path to health.

Nursing Roles: Touching All Aspects of Life

There鈥檚 no overestimating the impact of nurses throughout our lives, including during many milestones. Nurses work with every age population, from neonatal to hospice. They help bring us into the world, and they help ease us out of it. They take our vitals and ask us about our medical histories without judgment. They participate in some of our most critical medical moments. Even when we don鈥檛 know them by name, we .

The settings in which nurses work are as varied as their skill set. Nurses work in hospitals, in homes, in schools, and in prisons.^1,2 They can specialize in family medicine, geriatric care, pediatrics, women鈥檚 health, and more. They can conduct research, teach in universities, and affect healthcare policy. And all of that is by no means a comprehensive inventory of the nursing purview.

When it comes to care, nurses strike just the right balance between science-based decisions with human compassion. Becoming a nurse means relating to a patient in more ways, perhaps, than any other profession.

An Education That Lays the Foundation for Quality Care

To say a nursing education is a well-rounded education is a gross understatement. Nurses at the undergraduate level study general education topics as well as a series of demanding subjects that require a high level of versatility. (To get a sense of their diversity in education, check out 奥颁鲍鈥檚 )

Nurses who pursue advanced degrees face additional rigor, and those who pursue the highest levels of education and specialties must develop fluency in complex disciplines.

Nursing school at all levels is for students with an appetite for challenge. It鈥檚 an education that is equal parts academic and hands-on learning, and it trains both your intellectual and muscle memories for work that requires all-in commitment. This is not a desk job, and even when you are doing paperwork, the stakes remain high.

As a nursing student, you鈥檒l study the sciences and fundamentals specific to nursing, but you will also learn about communication, public health, research, mental health, family and community dynamics, and more.

You鈥檒l do homework and lab work. You鈥檒l participate in simulations and clinical experiences. You鈥檒l graduate with knowledge and skills you鈥檒l need to make a difference for those who will need you.

国产主播鈥檚 Devotion to Future Nurses

At WCU, we are continuously inspired by the nurses of tomorrow that we see in our classrooms today. We鈥檙e invested in each and every student鈥檚 success, from the first day of their program until well beyond graduation.

We鈥檙e focused on our students getting to where they need to go to create the impact they want to in the world. At WCU, that means giving you a quality education and helping you achieve your goals to embark on the exciting, intense, challenging, and deeply rewarding work of a nurse.

Getting Started on Your Nursing Education Journey

Whether you鈥檙e ready to start working toward your goal of becoming a nurse or you want to build on your skill set as an existing nurse, we have the curriculum and learning resources you need. Explore our online and campus nursing programs, or fill out the form on this page to request more information.

We want to help you achieve your goals so you can make a bigger impact!

Citations:

¹ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Registered Nurses, 鈥�,鈥� Updated Sept. 8, 2022

² International Association of Forensic Nurses, 鈥�,鈥� Accessed April 27, 2023

The post Recognizing How Nurses Fight for Life appeared first on 国产主播.

Even with a lifelong passion to work in healthcare and a supportive family to back him, the journey for Nikolas to become a nurse was not easy 鈥� but he never stopped believing in himself or his dreams.

鈥淣ursing is in my blood,鈥� he said at the 国产主播 2022 Commencement ceremony, before receiving his master鈥檚 degree in nursing, with a family-nurse practitioner emphasis. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been a calling since birth I think.”

Raised in the Diamond Bar area by a nurse mom and her sisters 鈥� also nurses 鈥� Nikolas knew his whole life that he would be a nurse too. But, unable to find the right bachelor of nursing program after high school, he ended up 鈥渕aking a lot of pizzas鈥� for a few years while completing his college prerequisites and earning an associate degree. Eventually, Nikolas enrolled first in the vocational nursing program at American Career College to 鈥済et his feet wet and get some experience鈥� before starting his BSN.

鈥淭hat was one of the best decisions I鈥檝e ever made,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 would recommend for almost everyone to go through the VN first because that gives you the discipline you need to excel in the very demanding program that is 国产主播鈥檚 BSN program.鈥�

After graduating from American Career College-Orange County, Nikolas worked for a year as a licensed vocational nurse before starting the BSN program at WCU-Orange County in 2016. He graduated magna cum laude three years later, while working full-time as a nurse, and attributed much of his success at WCU to the early lessons learned at American Career College.

鈥淎CC set the foundation for my nursing skills, for my love of nursing,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 said to myself 鈥業鈥檓 just gonna go for it and keep going.鈥� And I never stopped.鈥�

Even during the pandemic 鈥� when everything shut down 鈥� Nikolas said he kept moving toward his goals with the help and inspiration of loved ones and family, especially his grandfather.

鈥淢y grandfather was basically my father, the patriarch of the family. He helped my aunts and mom all become nurses, and he was the driving force that carried me along the way,鈥� Nikolas said. 鈥淪hortly after I got my RN 鈥� that was his lifelong goal for me 鈥� he passed during COVID, and that was another drive for me to really do it 鈥� for him, and my family.鈥�

With his fianc茅鈥檚 blessing and active encouragement, less than a year after graduating with his BSN and while working as a COVID nurse, Nikolas decided to enroll in 奥颁鲍鈥檚 MSN-FNP online program.

鈥淢y fianc茅 pushed me to become a nurse practitioner. She鈥檚 a pharmacist, so after I became an RN, she said, 鈥極K, now it鈥檚 time 鈥� let鈥檚 keep moving forward,鈥欌�� he said. 鈥淲hen the pandemic started, and I became an RN, it was a challenging decision to go right back into school 鈥� but I did it.鈥�

And just as going to ACC and being an LVN had benefited his BSN studies, Nikolas said his time at WCU and the skills he learned as an RN helped him excel during his master鈥檚 program.

鈥淚t鈥檚 not an easy program but working with all these amazing nurses from all these different backgrounds is what really set the course for me,鈥� he said.

Now having graduated summa cum laude with his master鈥檚, Nikolas wants to instill hope into the next generation of nurses and is quick to encourage them to follow their dreams and never give up.

鈥淭his is the best decision you could make. And if you start, don鈥檛 stop,鈥� he said. 鈥淔ind friends, work together 鈥� you guys can do it together. We can do this together.鈥�

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Sally V. has never worked in a hospital setting. Instead, for the past seven years, she worked at a community clinic, calling public health her 鈥渢rue calling.鈥�

鈥淢y passion is community health,鈥� Sally said. 鈥淚 love establishing relationships with patients and their families.鈥�

Sally might be the first medical professional in her family, but she said she wanted to be a nurse from the time she was young. She was drawn to the expansive nature of nursing, which was also a major draw for her to come to 国产主播. She chose WCU after discovering its cohort-styled learning.

“I chose 国产主播 because everyone was geared towards the same goal. I loved that it was a family. It鈥檚 the same group of people you stick with the whole journey. You develop bonds and help each other go through it.”

Sally V.

Sally graduated from WCU-Ontario with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2014. Now, she encourages others, telling them that they can pursue a nursing degree no matter what obstacles stand in their way.

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 know anyone in healthcare. I was a single mom also working almost full-time, over 30 hours a week,鈥� Sally said. 鈥淚f you want it and you鈥檙e motivated and believe in yourself鈥� you鈥檒l make it happen.鈥�

Sally leaned on her mother, who she said supported and cheered her on. At the same time, she balanced life as a single mom to her son, Anthony. She recalled that the flexible class schedules meant she was not on campus every day of the week. She also found her professors were experiencing similar responsibilities.

鈥淵ou did get to develop a relationship with your professor, who was also a nurse and most of the time also a parent,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hey were always available to provide more assistance.鈥�

After completing an online Master of Public Health program in 2018, Sally began her Master of Science in Nursing program at 国产主播.

鈥淚 submitted my final project on Sunday, and I started the Master of Science in Nursing program on Monday,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t just happened the terms lined up like that. Everyone was like, 鈥榊ou鈥檙e crazy,鈥� but once I get my mind set on something, I go for it.鈥�

Sally was inspired to continue in her education after working alongside a practicing physician at the community care clinic. She said the experience made her realize that she wanted to provide that level of care to her own patients.

鈥淚 wanted to be the provider where the patients say, 鈥楽ally takes care of me and wants me to be healthy and is always there when I have questions,鈥欌�� she said. 鈥淚n community health, there are so many barriers: homelessness, poverty, drug use, lack of transportation. I decided I wanted to be a provider, so I enrolled and just finished the Family Nurse Practitioner program in May of 2021.鈥�

Sally said her cohort was there for each other, whether through Zoom study sessions, quizzing one another, or sharing flashcards. After finishing the program and passing their boards, Sally remembered how everyone celebrated getting through that challenging final year together.

鈥淚 felt so proud of these people I have only seen once,鈥� she said. 鈥淓ven though we鈥檙e hundreds, if not thousands, of miles apart, it was important to make it through together, to get to this point as a cohort, not just as individuals.鈥�

The close, family-oriented cohort is a major reason why Sally advocates for others to consider attending 国产主播.

鈥淚鈥檝e heard from other people that their nursing experience wasn鈥檛 as good. They didn鈥檛 develop those relationships like I did,鈥� Sally said. 鈥淣ot every school is the perfect fit for everyone, but this is why I chose West Coast and why I support and advocate for it.鈥�

Now, Sally helps to foster that same bond with her own students. She became a nursing instructor at American Career College in January 2022.

As the president of the Ontario Alumni Chapter, Sally remains highly involved in her alma mater. Her best advice to anyone interested in nursing is to start today.

鈥淟ife never stops. It is always full of surprises,鈥� she said. 鈥淵ou can鈥檛 wait. When people finally do the program they say, 鈥業 should have done this earlier and shouldn鈥檛 have made so many excuses for myself.鈥欌��

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Achieving a master鈥檚-level degree in nursing requires focus and drive. It also comes with a range of specializations for a more focused course of study and practice. If you鈥檙e considering an advanced degree in nursing, consider also your personal strengths and affinities. Are you a natural leader? Do you love the act of learning and sharing knowledge? Maybe you鈥檙e a data wonk, or are most passionate about clinical practice.

Each of the above talents has an MSN degree to match, and each concentration fills a unique imperative in advanced nursing. The types of MSN nurses fall into four main buckets, and within each, the opportunity to concentrate with even more specificity.

Nurse Educator

Being a good educator is already a big part of the nursing profession: As a nurse, it is your responsibility to educate your patients about their conditions, treatment options, and ways to stay healthy. But who educates the nurse? An advanced practice nurse who specializes in nursing education.

Once you study to become a nurse educator, you pay it forward, passing your learnings, from lectures to labs. The MSN nurse educator degree prepares you to educate the next generation of nurses in the classroom, or to working nurses through clinical sessions. This MSN degree prepares you not just to command a classroom, but to help develop curricula and standards. Nurse educators are passionate teachers who take on the critical role of supporting aspiring nurses through their schooling, and provide continuing education for nurses already on the job.

As a nurse educator, you aren鈥檛 just the vessel for knowledge, you act as a role model. Many, if not most, nurse educators maintain some clinical-practice presence in addition to a faculty position in a school or teaching hospital.

Nurse Leader

Natural leadership is an uncommon talent, so there鈥檚 ample demand for nurses who love to take charge. This supervisory role is for independent thinkers with the aptitude and confidence to guide groupthink. A master鈥檚 in nursing leadership will help you develop acute organizational skills, so you can take on everything from organizing employee training and professional development to maintaining team morale. It requires a keen eye for recognizing talent to make hiring decisions, and the ability to make tough decisions when employee performance requires termination.

You鈥檒l typically need an RN license and BSN degree in order to move forward to advancing your degree to an MSN. With this degree, you鈥檒l graduate with the superior communication and collaborative skills you鈥檒l need to lead.

Nurse Practitioner

NPs and APRNs (advanced practice nurses) tend to be the most patient-facing MSN nurses, engaged directly with patients and often acting as the primary point of contact and care. Many states allow nurse practitioners to practice with and even own and operate their own medical offices.

Within the NP umbrella is a range of specialties, including family care (FNP), adult-gerontology (AGPCNP and AGACNP), pediatric, neonatal, and psychiatric (PMHNP). These areas of specialization require a concentration during study, with aspiring NPs choosing a track that prepares them for a very targeted career for a specific population.

Nurse practitioners are increasingly many patients鈥� choice for a PCP, in part because of accessibility, and in part because of the nurse-patient relationship鈥檚 reputation for empathy and compassionate care.

There are MSN nursing degrees that can be completed through an online program, which make it possible for a working registered nurse to advance their degree to a Master of Science in Nursing. Furthermore, an RN to MSN bridge program allows students to use their professional experience as registered nurses to complete bachelor鈥檚 courses and jump straight into specialized master鈥檚-level coursework so they can complete their MSN degrees faster.

For more helpful information about nursing education and the profession, continue reading our blog!

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Just like there are many types of doctors, there are a multitude of kinds of nurses. Many patients 鈥� and even aspiring healthcare professionals 鈥� don鈥檛 immediately know the difference between, say, a Registered Nurse and a Nurse Practitioner. It gets even more confusing when you refer to a nurse by their degree initials: RN, MSN, NP, LVN, AGCNP鈥� the alphabet soup goes on.

Here are some need-to-knows: Levels of of education in nursing can range from a licensed nurse, like an Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), to a Registered Nurse (RN), to a nurse with an advanced degree like a master鈥檚 or doctoral (e.g. Nurse Practitioner), each with a wide range of options to pursue specialties, types of care, and working environments.

To help you decide which type of nursing you鈥檇 like to pursue or know more about, start here. Or if you鈥檙e a working nurse considering further education, or just a way to explain to friends, family and patients outside of the healthcare industry what your profession entails, we at 国产主播 compiled a cheat sheet breaking down what different nurses are, and what they do:

What鈥檚 a Licensed Vocational Nurse?

A Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), sometimes known as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a nurse with a certificate or an associate鈥檚 degree in nursing. An LVN usually works under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) and/or in a facility that provides care to patients with disabilities, illness or injury.

What鈥檚 a Registered Nurse?

A Registered Nurse is educated either at a college or nursing school, and required to pass the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) before practice. RNs work hands-on in a range of settings, including hospitals, private practices, in-home care and more, with a focus on patient interaction, preparation and education. RNs are licensed to administer medications, operate and monitor some healthcare equipment, among many other responsibilities.

What鈥檚 a Nurse Practitioner?

The difference between an RN and an NP starts with level of education. To become a Registered Nurse Practitioner, you need an advanced degree, at the master鈥檚 or doctoral level, and study within a specialization. With some exceptions like surgery, and some state-by-state requirements requiring physician oversight for prescribing medication, an NP may operate with autonomy, much like a doctor, and many patients choose to see an NP as their primary care provider (PCP).

What鈥檚 a Master of Science Nurse?

This is a nurse with a Masters of Science in Nursing, who may choose to specialize in education, administration, policy or leadership. MSN nurses are often less involved in clinical work directly with patients, and more in leading and supporting other nurses to ensure exceptional performance and up-to-date learning.

What鈥檚 a Doctor of Nursing Practice?

This is the most advanced degree available in nursing. Nurses who attain this rigorous advanced degree are prepared to go on to leadership positions, overseeing nurses at all levels, or teaching positions, training aspiring and working nurses.

Obviously within each type of degree there鈥檚 extensive nuance. For a deeper dive into where nurses work, lengths of study, certification expectations and more, see some of 奥颁鲍鈥檚 program pages below:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
• Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing (RN to MSN)
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

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