Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) vs. Nurse Practitioner (NP): Explaining the Difference in 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Many people struggle to understand the difference between an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Nurse Practitioner (NP), especially when considering career advancement. With over 385,000 NPs licensed in the U.S. and the demand for APRNs expected to grow 40% by 2033, knowing how these roles compare is essential for aspiring healthcare professionals.

This article explains the key differences between APRNs and NPs, including education, certification, and scope of practice. Prepared by experts in career planning, it provides clear insights to help readers make informed decisions about their nursing careers.

Key Things You Should Know About Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) vs. Nurse Practitioner (NP)

• An APRN is a broad category of advanced nurses that includes NPs, CNSs, CNMs, and CRNAs, while an NP is a type of APRN specializing in patient care.
• Becoming an APRN requires at least an MSN, with many programs shifting toward the DNP as the preferred degree, though MSN remains the standard.
• APRNs perform advanced healthcare functions, but NPs specifically focus on diagnosing, treating illnesses, and managing patient care within primary and specialized settings.
• APRNs, particularly CRNAs, earn high salaries, and job demand for APRNs and NPs is surging due to physician shortages and an aging population.
• APRNs have diverse career paths, including NPs in family, pediatric, and psychiatric care, and CNSs, CNMs, and CRNAs in specialized healthcare fields.

Table of Contents

1. What is the difference between an APRN and a Nurse Practitioner?
2. What degree do you need to become an APRN or an NP?
3. How long does it take to become an APRN or NP in 2025?
4. Do APRNs and NPs need a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)?
5. What are the continuing education requirements for APRNs and NPs?
6. What are the job responsibilities of an APRN vs. an NP?
7. What are the different types of APRNs?
8. What are the most common Nurse Practitioner specialties?
9. Who earns more, an APRN or an NP?
10. Can accelerated online DNP programs fast-track your advanced nursing career?
11. How can online RN to BSN programs expedite my career progression?
12. Is there a high demand for APRNs and NPs?
13. Do APRNs and NPs need separate licenses?
14. What are the advantages of becoming an APRN vs. an NP?
15. What challenges do APRNs and NPs face in today’s healthcare environment?
16. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an APRN vs. NP

What is the difference between an APRN and a Nurse Practitioner?

An APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) is a broad category of nursing professionals who have obtained advanced education (typically a master's or doctoral degree) and clinical training beyond that of a registered nurse (RN). APRNs can specialize in different areas, including:

• Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
• Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs)
• Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs)
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)

On the other hand, a Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a type of APRN who focuses on providing primary, acute, or specialty care to patients. NPs can diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and manage overall patient care, often with more autonomy than RNs. In short, all NPs are APRNs, but not all APRNs are NPs.

What degree do you need to become an APRN or an NP?

The path to becoming an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) or a Nurse Practitioner (NP) requires graduate-level nursing education, but the specific degree can vary depending on the role. While all NPs are APRNs, not all APRNs are NPs. Understanding this distinction is essential when planning your educational and professional goals in advanced nursing practice.

Degree Requirements for APRNs

APRNs are registered nurses who have completed advanced clinical training and education. The four recognized APRN roles include:

1. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
2. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
3. Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
4. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

All APRNs must complete the following steps:

• Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an equivalent degree. For those seeking a flexible path, an online LPN to BSN program can provide a convenient way to advance their nursing education.
• Hold an active registered nurse (RN) license.
• Complete a graduate-level degree in nursing (either a Master of Science in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice).

However, the exact degree required can differ depending on the APRN specialty.

Degree Requirements for Nurse Practitioners (NPs)

Nurse Practitioners are a type of APRN who provide primary or specialized care, often with prescriptive authority. To become an NP, the educational path typically includes:

• A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a population-specific NP track, such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric NP, or Psychiatric-Mental Health NP
• A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is not required but is increasingly preferred for leadership roles, academic positions, and in some states or health systems

In short, an MSN is the minimum requirement to become a licensed NP, but a DNP can enhance professional opportunities.  

Degree Requirements for Other APRN Roles

While NPs can still enter practice with a master's degree, some APRN roles have stricter degree requirements:

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA):

• New CRNAs must hold a doctoral degree, either a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP).
• This shift reflects the high level of responsibility and clinical complexity in anesthesia care.

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM):

• A Master of Science in Nursing with a nurse-midwifery focus is the minimum requirement.
• Some CNMs pursue a DNP for advancement or expanded scope of practice, but it is not mandatory.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS):

• A Master of Science in Nursing with a CNS specialization is required
• A DNP is optional and may be pursued for leadership, research, or system-level roles

How long does it take to become an APRN or NP?

The time required to become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) or Nurse Practitioner (NP) varies based on educational background, program choice, and whether the student is enrolled full-time or part-time.

Factors Affecting the Timeline

Starting Point

• BSN Holders: The fastest route, requiring 2-3 years for an MSN or 3-4 years for a DNP.
• ADN Holders: Typically 4-6 years if completing a BSN first or using an RN-to-MSN bridge.
• Non-Nursing Degree Holders: Direct-entry MSN or DNP programs take 3-4 years.

Degree Choice

• MSN vs. DNP: An MSN is the minimum for NPs and takes less time than a DNP, which is becoming more common. If you're looking for the easiest direct entry MSN programs to get into, these can provide a faster path to advanced nursing roles.
• DNP: DNP programs require 1-2 additional years beyond an MSN.

Program Format

• Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Full-time students complete programs faster, while part-time students balance education with work and family.
• Accelerated & Online Programs: Some schools offer fast-track or flexible online options.

State and Certification Requirements

After completing education, APRNs must pass national certification exams and meet state licensing requirements, adding a few months to the process.

Do APRNs and NPs need a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is not required to become an APRN or NP, but it is gaining traction. Currently, an MSN and national certification are the standard requirements, though organizations like the AACN advocate for the DNP as the future entry-level degree. However, most states still allow APRNs to practice with an MSN.

While optional, a DNP offers advantages in leadership, policy, and specialized roles. It can enhance job opportunities, particularly in academia and administration, and may lead to higher salaries. For CRNAs, a doctoral degree will be mandatory by 2025, but for other APRNs, an MSN remains sufficient.

Choosing between an MSN and a DNP depends on career goals. An MSN is the quickest route (2-3 years), while a DNP takes 1-2 years longer. Those seeking clinical practice may prefer an MSN, while a DNP benefits those interested in leadership or long-term career growth. Though the DNP may become the future standard, both paths remain viable for now.

You can become an APRN even if you start at the lowest rung of the hierarchical ladder, like being a medical assistant. But is medical assistant and medical administrative assistant the same? You can read a separate article to know the difference. 

What are the continuing education requirements for APRNs and NPs?

Continuing education (CE) requirements for APRNs and NPs vary by state, certification board, and specialty. Generally, APRNs and NPs must complete CE hours to maintain state licensure and national certification.

General Requirements

• Most states require 20–50 CE hours every 2–5 years for state licensure renewal.
• National certification boards (e.g., AANP, ANCC) require 100–150 CE hours every 5 years, including pharmacology-specific CE (usually 25 hours).
• Some states mandate additional training in topics like opioid prescribing, ethics, or cultural competency.

Key Certification Board Requirements

• AANP (American Association of Nurse Practitioners): 100 CE hours + 1,000 clinical hours every 5 years.
• ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center): 150 CE hours + renewal criteria (clinical practice, academic credits, presentations, etc.).
• NCC (National Certification Corporation): Specialty-specific CE and assessments.

What are the job responsibilities of an APRN vs. an NP?

The job responsibilities of an APRN and a Nurse Practitioner (NP) overlap significantly, but the terms are not entirely interchangeable. An NP is a type of APRN, so while all NPs are APRNs, not all APRNs are NPs. Here's how their roles compare:

APRN Responsibilities (General)

APRNs are advanced practice nurses who may specialize as:

• Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
• Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs)
• Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs)
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)

In general, APRNs:

• Diagnose and treat illnesses
• Prescribe medications
• Order and interpret diagnostic tests
• Provide patient education and preventive care
• Collaborate with or work independently from physicians, depending on state laws

NP Responsibilities (Specific)

Nurse Practitioners focus primarily on direct patient care in areas like family medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, acute care, or psychiatry. Their duties include:

• Conducting physical exams and health assessments
• Managing chronic and acute illnesses
• Developing treatment plans
• Prescribing medications and therapies
• Providing patient counseling and health promotion

Key Difference

The main difference is that APRN is a broad category that includes multiple advanced nursing roles, while an NP is one specific role within that category—focused on primary or specialized clinical care. So, the job responsibilities of an NP are more narrowly defined, while APRNs as a group may have diverse roles depending on their specialization.

What are the different types of APRNs?

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) are highly trained professionals who provide specialized care in various healthcare settings. There are four main types of APRNs, each with distinct roles and responsibilities. 

• Nurse Practitioners: NPs focus on primary, acute, and specialty care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing overall patient health. If you're wondering how hard is the RN to BSN program, it can vary based on workload, clinical requirements, and individual experience, but it provides a strong foundation for advancing to NP roles. NPs work in a variety of specialties, including family medicine (FNP), adult-gerontology (AGNP), pediatrics (PNP), and psychiatric-mental health (PMHNP).
• Clinical Nurse Specialists. CNSs are experts in specific populations, conditions, or healthcare systems. Their primary responsibilities include improving patient outcomes, educating nursing staff, and leading quality initiatives. CNSs often specialize in areas such as critical care, cardiology, oncology, and mental health, working to enhance evidence-based practices within healthcare organizations.
• Certified Nurse Midwives. CNMs provide women’s health services, prenatal care, childbirth assistance, and postpartum care. They also offer family planning, gynecological care, and newborn care. CNMs typically work in hospitals, birthing centers, private practices, or even home birth settings, ensuring safe and personalized care for expectant mothers.
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. CRNAs specialize in anesthesia care, administering anesthesia for surgeries, labor, and emergency procedures. They monitor patients before, during, and after anesthesia to ensure safety and pain management. CRNAs work in hospitals, surgical centers, and pain management clinics and play a crucial role in surgical teams.

What are the most common Nurse Practitioner specialties?

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) specialize in various areas of healthcare, depending on patient needs and medical conditions. The most common NP specialties include:

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

AGNPs specialize in adult and elderly patient care, focusing on age-related health issues such as chronic disease management, mobility concerns, and preventive care. They work in primary care, long-term care facilities, and specialty clinics.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

PNPs care for infants, children, and adolescents, diagnosing and treating common childhood illnesses, performing wellness exams, and providing vaccinations. They practice in pediatric clinics, hospitals, and school-based health centers.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

FNPs provide comprehensive primary care to patients of all ages, from infants to seniors. They diagnose and treat illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and promote preventive care. FNPs work in family practices, urgent care clinics, and community health settings.

If you're interested to know how much an FNP earns compared to an AGNP, look into the difference between AGNP vs FNP salary. Knowing this could help you decide which to specialize in.

Who earns more, an APRN or an NP?

Since Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are a type of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), their salaries fall within the broader APRN category. However, earnings vary depending on specialty, location, experience, and work setting.

Generally, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)—another type of APRN—earn the highest salaries, often exceeding $200,000 per year, due to their specialized training in anesthesia. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) typically earn between $100,000 and $140,000 annually, with variations based on specialty. Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) also fall within this range, depending on their role and setting.

Among NPs, those in acute care, psychiatric-mental health, and specialty fields tend to earn more than those in primary care. Additionally, experience, geographic location, and independent practice authority influence earnings. For those looking for affordable education options, exploring the cheapest online AGNP programs can be a great way to enter the field without a heavy financial burden. While NPs generally earn less than CRNAs, they often make similar salaries to other APRN roles like CNSs and CNMs.

Can accelerated online DNP programs fast-track your advanced nursing career?

Accelerated online DNP programs offer a concentrated curriculum that integrates advanced clinical practice, leadership, and evidence-based research into a shortened timeframe. These programs are designed for working professionals aiming to expand their influence in healthcare settings with minimal disruption to their current roles. Learners benefit from flexible delivery, enhanced networking opportunities, and a rigorous academic framework that prepares them for high-level responsibilities in administration and policy-making. For those considering a swift progression in their career, explore the 1 year DNP program online option to understand how an accelerated pathway can meet advanced practice demands.

How can online RN to BSN programs expedite my career progression?

For registered nurses aiming to advance into APRN or NP roles, completing a streamlined online BSN program can be a pivotal step. These accelerated programs are structured to provide essential theoretical and clinical knowledge while accommodating work schedules. Leveraging the easiest RN to BSN online options can reduce the time and financial commitments typically associated with academic transitions, thereby meeting prerequisites for graduate-level education. This targeted approach supports professional competency development, ensuring nurses are well-prepared for the complex demands of advanced practice healthcare roles.

Is there a high demand for APRNs and NPs?

APRNs and NPs are in high demand, with job growth expected to continue rising due to several key factors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) will grow by 45% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) is also strong, particularly in underserved and rural areas.

Several factors contribute to this demand, including an aging population, physician shortages, and the growing need for preventive and primary care services. Many states are expanding full practice authority for NPs, allowing them to work independently without physician oversight, further increasing job opportunities. Additionally, APRNs are essential in hospitals, specialty clinics, urgent care centers, and telehealth, all of which are experiencing growth.

Several factors contribute to this demand, including an aging population, physician shortages, and the growing need for preventive and primary care services. Many states are expanding full practice authority for NPs, allowing them to work independently without physician oversight, further increasing job opportunities. Additionally, APRNs are essential in hospitals, specialty clinics, urgent care centers, and telehealth, all of which are experiencing growth.

With competitive salaries, job security, and career flexibility, APRNs and NPs have excellent opportunities in both urban and rural settings. Enrolling in a 6 month RN to BSN program can be a fast-track option for nurses looking to advance their careers and increase their earning potential. As healthcare continues evolving, the demand for advanced practice nurses is expected to remain strong, making it a promising career path.

Do APRNs and NPs need separate licenses?

APRNs (Advanced Practice Registered Nurses) include several roles like Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Anesthetists. NPs are a type of APRN, so they don’t need a separate license—just an APRN license that specifies their NP role. Most states issue one APRN license with a population focus, such as family or pediatric care.

To become licensed, NPs must complete an approved graduate program and pass a national certification exam in their specialty. The APRN license grants advanced practice privileges, including diagnosing, treating, and prescribing, especially in states with full practice authority.

Some states may require extra steps, like applying separately for prescriptive authority. However, the NP role is usually covered under the APRN license, not a separate license. It's important to check with each state’s board of nursing for specific requirements.

What are the advantages of becoming an APRN vs. an NP?

Becoming an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) offers broader career opportunities, while becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) provides a more direct path to patient-centered care. Since NPs are a type of APRN, the choice depends on career goals, specialization, and desired work settings.

Advantages of Becoming an APRN

• More Career Paths – APRNs can specialize as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), offering more options beyond primary care.
• Higher Earning Potential – Some APRN roles, like CRNAs, earn significantly more than most NPs, often exceeding $200,000 per year.
• Diverse Work Environments – APRNs can work in direct patient care, education, research, healthcare leadership, and policy-making, expanding career flexibility.

Advantages of Becoming an NP 

• Multiple Specialties – NPs can focus on family practice, acute care, pediatrics, psychiatry, women’s health, and more, offering career variety while staying in clinical practice. You can even learn how to become a cardiac nurse practitioner.
• Autonomy in Practice – In many states, NPs have full practice authority, allowing them to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications without physician oversight.
• Strong Job Demand – NPs have one of the fastest-growing job markets in healthcare, with demand expected to increase 40% by 2033.

If you think being in the frontlines is not for you but would still want to work in healthcare, there are several non clinical medical jobs worth considering.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Becoming an APRN or NP

Becoming an NP gave me the ability to manage patient care independently. In my state, I have full practice authority, meaning I can diagnose, prescribe, and treat without physician oversight. – Sarah

As a CRNA, my salary more than doubled compared to my RN earnings. The training was intense, but the demand for anesthesia providers is so high that I had multiple job offers before graduation. – James

I chose to become a Psychiatric-Mental Health NP because I saw the growing need for mental health services. Now, I can provide therapy and prescribe medications to patients needing them. – Lisa

What challenges do APRNs and NPs face in today’s healthcare environment?

APRNs and NPs encounter evolving regulatory requirements, varying state practice laws, and shifting reimbursement models that can impact scope of practice and clinical autonomy. These challenges demand continuous professional development, active engagement with policy updates, and strategic career planning to maintain competitive advantages. Practitioners are encouraged to expand their skill sets through targeted training and specialized certifications while staying informed on legislative changes and institutional protocols. For streamlined career progression, consider exploring 6 month LPN-RN online programs, which offer accelerated pathways to bolster clinical competencies.

Key Findings

• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 45% growth in employment for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) from 2022 to 2032, significantly outpacing the average for all occupations.
• There are over 385,000 licensed Nurse Practitioners in the United States.
• Median annual wages as of May 2023 are reported as follows: Nurse Anesthetists at $212,650, Nurse Midwives at $129,650, and Nurse Practitioners at $126,260.
• Continuing education requirements for APRNs and NPs typically range from 20 to 50 hours every 2 to 5 years for state licensure renewal, with national certification boards requiring 100 to 150 hours every 5 years, including pharmacology-specific education.
• The cost of nursing education varies by degree, with approximate expenses of $3,000 for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), $28,000 for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), $35,000 for an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), $120,000 for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and $200,000 for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an APRN vs. NP

Is an APN higher than an NP?

No, an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) and a Nurse Practitioner (NP) are closely related but not hierarchical. APN is a broad category that includes different advanced nursing roles, including Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). So, an NP is a type of APN, but an APN is not necessarily an NP.

Which is higher, APRN or FNP?

An APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) is a broader category that includes many specialized roles, including Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs). An FNP is a type of APRN who specializes in family care across all ages. So, an FNP falls under the APRN umbrella but is not "higher" or "lower"—just a specific specialty.

What is the difference between APRN and NP salary?

Since an NP is a type of APRN, the salary differences depend on the specific specialty:

• Nurse Practitioners (NPs) had a median annual salary of $126,260 as of May 2023 .
• APRNs as a whole include other roles like CRNAs ($212,650) and Nurse Midwives ($129,650), which can have different pay scales.
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) tend to be the highest-paid APRNs, while Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) and NPs generally earn less but still have competitive salaries.

Do NPs have good work-life balance?

Yes, nurse practitioners (NPs) generally have a good work-life balance, especially compared to some other healthcare roles. However, the balance varies based on factors like specialty, work setting, and location.

References:

• American Association of Nurse Practitioners. (2023). Nurse practitioner profession grows to 385,000 strong. AANP.
• American Medical Association. (2024). What’s the difference between physicians and nurse practitioners? AMA.
• SMARTN. (2024). How much is nursing school? SMARTN.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners. Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. BLS.