What Nurse Practitioners DoDiagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a healthcare team. May focus on health promotion and disease prevention. May order, perform, or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x rays. May prescribe medication. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
- Maintain complete and detailed records of patients' health care plans and prognoses.
- Develop treatment plans, based on scientific rationale, standards of care, and professional practice guidelines.
- Provide patients with information needed to promote health, reduce risk factors, or prevent disease or disability.
- Analyze and interpret patients' histories, symptoms, physical findings, or diagnostic information to develop appropriate diagnoses.
- Diagnose or treat complex, unstable, comorbid, episodic, or emergency conditions in collaboration with other health care providers as necessary.
Nurse Practitioners Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationMaster Degree
Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)
Training TimeOver 4 years
Job Openings29,500 Annually
Median Earnings
$166,610 in California
$129,210 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Relating with or serving others
- Thinking and problem solving
- Working with my hands
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Learning
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Science
- Writing
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Nurse Practitioners Explained
Nurse PractitionerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
Hybrid CollegeA hybrid college combines online learning with the student support typically offered on college campuses, giving students flexibility and accessibility while still providing a comprehensive educational experience.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years
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What Is the Healthcare Industry?
HealthcareThe primary activities of this group involve delivering medical care and support to patients, including diagnosing illness, treating injuries, administering medication, assisting with daily living activities, and completing corresponding administrative tasks.