Research.com is an editorially independent organization with a carefully engineered commission system that’s both transparent and fair. Our primary source of income stems from collaborating with affiliates who compensate us for advertising their services on our site, and we earn a referral fee when prospective clients decided to use those services. We ensure that no affiliates can influence our content or school rankings with their compensations. We also work together with Google AdSense which provides us with a base of revenue that runs independently from our affiliate partnerships. It’s important to us that you understand which content is sponsored and which isn’t, so we’ve implemented clear advertising disclosures throughout our site. Our intention is to make sure you never feel misled, and always know exactly what you’re viewing on our platform. We also maintain a steadfast editorial independence despite operating as a for-profit website. Our core objective is to provide accurate, unbiased, and comprehensive guides and resources to assist our readers in making informed decisions.

What is a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Salary & Career Paths for 2025?

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Access to healthcare is a necessity for every household, which is why the demand for family nurse practitioners (FNPs) is constantly high. A report from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) states that an astounding 70.3% of nurse practitioners specialize in family practice. Many nurses enter the profession intending to later become FNPs.

This guide explores the role of a family nurse practitioner along with the profession's main responsibilities. It also navigates details that aspirants would like to know, which include possible career paths, salary projections, licensure requirements, and ideal degrees to take.

Key Things You Should Know About Family Nurse Practitioners for 2025

  • An FNP is an APRN trained to deliver primary and specialized care to individuals across the lifespan—from infants to older adults.
  • The number of FNPs in the United States has grown from 290,000 in 2020 to 431,000 in 2024.
  • The employment of nurse practitioners in the United States, including FNPs, is set to climb by a staggering 46% from 2023 to 2033.
  • The average annual salary of NPs, including FNPs, is $132,000, while the median annual salary is $129,210.
  • The number of NPs in the US is projected to increase from 292,500 in 2023 to 427,900 by 2033.
  • 68.7% of NPs specialize in family practice.

Table of Contents

  1. What is a family nurse practitioner?
  2. What are the degrees needed to become a family nurse practitioner?
  3. What are the licensure requirements to become a family nurse practitioner?
  4. What are the important certifications for family nurse practitioners?
  5. Where do family nurse practitioners work?
  6. What are the skills needed to become a successful family nurse practitioner?
  7. What are common career paths for family nurse practitioners?
  8. What are the career advancement opportunities for family nurse practitioners?
  9. Is there a demand for family nurse practitioners?
  10. What is the average salary of family nurse practitioners?
  11. What are the limitations to the responsibilities of family nurse practitioners?
  12. Are There Affordable Options for Accredited Online FNP Programs?
  13. How Can Additional Online Education Support Family Nurse Practitioners?
  14. What Are the Benefits of a Direct Entry NP Program for Family Nurse Practitioners?
  15. Other Things You Should Know About Family Nurse Practitioners

What is a family nurse practitioner?

An FNP is trained to deliver primary and specialized care to individuals across the lifespan—from infants to older adults. These professionals are licensed to assess and diagnose health conditions, perform physical exams, prescribe medications, and manage both chronic and acute illnesses. FNPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).

Combining advanced clinical skills with a strong emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention, FNPs are often a patient’s first point of contact in the healthcare system. They provide accessible, long-term care in a variety of settings, including family medicine clinics, urgent care centers, schools, and community health organizations.

The major responsibilities of FNPs include the following:

  • Diagnosing and Treating Illnesses: FNPs assess patients through physical exams, health histories, and diagnostic tests to identify and manage both acute and chronic conditions (e.g., infections, hypertension, diabetes).
  • Prescribing Medications and Therapies: FNPs are licensed to prescribe medications, order treatments, and recommend lifestyle interventions, often acting as a patient's primary care provider.
  • Ordering and Interpreting Diagnostic Tests: They order lab work, imaging (like X-rays or MRIs), and other tests, then interpret the results to inform diagnoses and treatment plans.
  • Providing Preventive and Wellness Care: FNPs promote long-term health through vaccinations, screenings, nutrition guidance, smoking cessation support, and counseling on healthy lifestyle habits.
  • Managing Ongoing Patient Relationships: They offer continuous care to individuals and families, building lasting patient relationships and monitoring health over time, often treating multiple generations within one family.
  • Educating Patients and Families: Family nurse practitioners ensure patients and their families understand their health by explaining diagnoses, treatment plans, and medications using easily understandable language, fostering their engagement in their own care.
  • Coordinating Care and Referrals: When specialized care is needed, FNPs refer patients to specialists and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure integrated, high-quality care.

What are the degrees needed to become a family nurse practitioner?

To become an FNP, individuals must complete a series of essential educational steps, each building upon the last. These degrees and certifications equip nurses with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality, patient-centered care across all stages of life. From foundational nursing education to specialized graduate programs, here’s an overview of the key degrees required on the path to becoming a successful FNP:

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Earning a BSN marks the first key stage in the journey to becoming an FNP. This comprehensive four-year undergraduate program delivers the necessary foundational knowledge in areas such as nursing theory, practical clinical skills, and health sciences, setting the stage for advanced nursing studies.
  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)—FNP Track: This is a graduate-level degree program, typically lasting 2-3 years, that builds upon the BSN foundation. The FNP specialization focuses on advanced health assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of illnesses across the lifespan, preparing nurses for advanced practice roles in primary care.
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)—FNP Track: This is a terminal degree in nursing practice, generally taking 3-4 years to complete. The DNP program provides advanced clinical knowledge and skills, along with training in leadership, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice. While an MSN has been the standard, the DNP is increasingly becoming a preferred or required degree for advanced practice registered nurses, including FNPs, emphasizing a higher level of clinical scholarship and leadership. Aspiring distance learners can take up DNP programs online.

Prospective family nurse practitioners often explore the best online msn to fnp programs to balance education with work and life responsibilities. These programs are designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles and provide the flexibility to specialize in family-focused care from accredited online platforms.

The number of nurse practitioners (NPs), including FNPs, in the United States has grown from 290,000 in 2020 to 431,000 in 2024, as shown in the chart below. 

What are the licensure requirements to become a family nurse practitioner?

To become a family nurse practitioner, there are several licensure requirements that must be met at various stages of education and professional development. These requirements ensure that FNPs are qualified to provide high-quality care. Here’s an outline of the key steps:

  1. Obtain Registered Nurse Licensure: The initial requirement is to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Following graduation, individuals must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse. This license is the foundation for advanced nursing practice.
  2. Complete Graduate Education (MSN or DNP) in Family Nurse Practice: With an RN license, the next step is to earn an MSN or a DNP degree with a specialization in Family Nurse Practice. These graduate programs provide advanced knowledge and clinical skills in primary care across the lifespan. Aspirants with limited resources can pursue the cheapest online MSN programs around.
  3. Obtain National FNP Certification: Following the completion of an accredited graduate program, aspiring FNPs must pass a national certification exam, which evaluates the candidate's clinical knowledge base and specialized expertise in family practice. The credential is furnished by leading professional bodies such as the AANP or the ANCC.
  4. Apply for State Licensure as an FNP: Once nationally certified, individuals must apply for APRN licensure as an FNP in the state where they intend to practice. This typically involves submitting proof of certification and educational transcripts.
  5. Maintain Certification and Licensure: Maintaining the ability to practice as an FNP requires ongoing professional development, including continuing education, and the periodic renewal of both the national certification and the state APRN license.
NP Salary.png

What are the important certifications for family nurse practitioners?

From national FNP certifications to life support training, each certification plays a critical role in preparing nurse practitioners to deliver high-quality care across diverse healthcare settings. These credentials not only demonstrate clinical expertise but are also often required by employers, state boards, and national certifying bodies.

Here are essential certifications for FNPs:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner Certification—AANPCB (FNP-C): The FNP-C credential is awarded by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB). This certification is designed for nurse practitioners specializing in family practice and focuses on clinical knowledge in primary care. Candidates earn the FNP-C by passing a competency-based, multiple-choice exam after completing an accredited graduate-level FNP program.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Certification—ANCC (FNP-BC): The FNP-BC certification, issued by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), evaluates a nurse practitioner’s clinical expertise alongside foundational theoretical knowledge. To be eligible, candidates must hold an active RN license and have completed a graduate-level FNP program that includes at least 500 faculty-supervised clinical hours. The program must also include advanced coursework in health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology, followed by successful completion of a comprehensive certification exam.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS): BLS certification is a standard requirement for nearly all practicing FNPs. It provides essential training in CPR and emergency response and is typically offered by organizations like the American Heart Association. BLS certification must be renewed every two years.
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS): For family nurse practitioners working in emergency, acute, or inpatient hospital settings, ACLS certification is often a necessary credential. This certification encompasses advanced life-saving protocols for adult patients experiencing cardiac or respiratory distress and is typically valid for a period of two years before renewal is mandated.
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS): FNPs who provide care to infants and children, especially in emergency or primary care contexts, will have professional advantages with a PALS certification. The credential focuses on the specific skills needed to recognize and manage pediatric emergencies and generally requires renewal every two years.

Where do family nurse practitioners work?

FNPs work in a wide variety of healthcare settings, often serving as primary care providers for individuals and families across the lifespan. Their versatility and advanced training allow them to deliver comprehensive care in both outpatient and inpatient environments. Common workplaces for FNPs include:

  • Primary Care Clinics: FNPs frequently work in private or group primary care practices, where they provide routine checkups, manage chronic conditions, and promote preventive health for patients of all ages.
  • Community Health Centers: In underserved or rural areas, FNPs play a vital role in community health centers by offering accessible care, health education, and treatment for vulnerable populations.
  • Urgent Care Clinics: Family nurse practitioners are frequently employed in urgent care facilities, where they manage patients presenting with a range of non-critical injuries and illnesses that demand immediate medical attention without the need for emergency services.
  • Hospitals: In hospitals, FNPs may work in outpatient departments, specialty clinics, or inpatient units, often collaborating with physicians to manage patient care during hospitalization or recovery.
  • Retail Health Clinics: Located in pharmacies or large retail stores, these clinics employ FNPs to diagnose and treat common conditions, provide immunizations, and conduct wellness screenings in a convenient setting.
  • Telehealth Services: With the increasing prevalence of virtual care, many FNPs now provide healthcare remotely. Utilizing telemedicine platforms, they conduct virtual examinations, manage patient medications, and offer essential follow-up care, expanding access to healthcare.
  • Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities: FNPs often serve older adults in residential care settings by managing chronic illnesses, coordinating care plans, and helping reduce hospital readmissions.
  • Schools and Universities: Some FNPs work in educational institutions, providing care to students and staff, managing immunizations, and promoting wellness programs on campus.
  • Occupational Health Clinics: In corporate or industrial environments, FNPs support employee health by conducting physical exams, managing work-related injuries, and supporting wellness initiatives.
  • Government and Military Settings: FNPs may also work in public health departments, Veterans Affairs facilities, or military bases, delivering care to service members, veterans, and their families.

What are the skills needed to become a successful family nurse practitioner?

To become a successful FNP, a combination of clinical expertise, communication ability, and personal qualities is essential. FNPs must not only diagnose and treat medical conditions but also build long-term relationships with patients across the lifespan. Below are the core skills needed to excel in this role:

  • Clinical Decision-Making: FNPs must be able to assess patient symptoms, interpret diagnostic results, and develop appropriate treatment plans. Strong clinical judgment is critical in both routine care and urgent situations.
  • Advanced Communication Skills: Effective communication—with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams—is central to an FNP’s role. This includes active listening, patient education, and the ability to explain complex health information clearly.
  • Empathy and Compassion: Successful FNPs build trust through empathy and emotional intelligence, showing genuine care and understanding for their patients' experiences and concerns.
  • Attention to Detail: Precision is crucial when prescribing medications, reviewing patient histories, or analyzing lab results. FNPs must be meticulous to avoid errors and ensure safe, effective care.
  • Adaptability: FNPs work with diverse patient populations in fast-changing healthcare environments. Being flexible and able to adjust quickly to new technologies, protocols, or patient needs is key.
  • Leadership and Collaboration: FNPs often lead care teams or coordinate with physicians, nurses, and specialists. Strong leadership and teamwork skills help ensure seamless patient care across settings.
  • Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting cultural, socioeconomic, and linguistic differences is vital for providing equitable, patient-centered care.
  • Time Management and Organization: The role of a family nurse practitioner involves juggling multiple patient needs, detailed record-keeping, and various administrative duties. Therefore, well-developed organizational skills and the capacity to prioritize tasks effectively are crucial for efficient practice.
  • Technological Proficiency: FNPs must be comfortable using electronic health records (EHRs), telehealth platforms, and other digital tools to support patient care and data management.
  • Commitment to Lifelong Learning: Because healthcare is constantly evolving, successful FNPs stay current with medical advancements, best practices, and licensure or certification requirements.

Understanding what does a nurse educator do can shed light on essential FNP skills. Both roles emphasize patient communication, evidence-based practice, and lifelong learning. Many FNPs also serve as preceptors or educators, guiding new nurses through clinical training and promoting best practices in healthcare.

The visual below shows that family practice is the top NP specialization in the United States.

What are common career paths for family nurse practitioners?

FNPs have a wide range of career paths available to them thanks to their broad scope of practice and versatile training. Many start in direct patient care and later branch into leadership, education, or specialized roles. Here are some of the most common career paths for FNPs:

  • Primary Care Provider: Many FNPs serve as the main healthcare provider for individuals and families in clinics or private practices. They diagnose illnesses, manage chronic conditions, provide preventive care, and build long-term patient relationships. This APRN career path is a popular one among FNPs.
  • Urgent Care or Retail Clinic Practitioner: FNPs often work in fast-paced environments like urgent care centers or retail clinics, where they treat acute illnesses, perform minor procedures, and provide convenient care to walk-in patients.
  • Hospital-Based Nurse Practitioner: In hospitals, FNPs may work in outpatient departments, inpatient units, or specialty clinics. They collaborate with physicians and care teams to manage patient recovery, discharge planning, and follow-up care.
  • Telehealth Provider: With the rise of virtual care, many FNPs now work remotely, providing health consultations, managing medications, and offering follow-ups via video or phone through telemedicine platforms.
  • Public Health or Community Health Nurse Practitioner: FNPs in this role work with underserved populations, often focusing on preventive care, health education, and chronic disease management in community clinics or government programs.
  • Academic or Clinical Educator: Experienced FNPs may teach in nursing schools or mentor students in clinical settings, helping train the next generation of nurses and nurse practitioners.
  • Nurse Administrator or Healthcare Leader: Some FNPs move into leadership roles such as clinic managers, department heads, or directors of nursing, where they oversee staff, budgets, and healthcare delivery.
  • Specialty Practice FNP: FNPs can choose to work in specialty areas such as cardiology, endocrinology, dermatology, or women’s health, often developing deep expertise in managing specific patient populations or conditions. FNPs who wish to become nurse midwives can pursue a CNM career path.
  • Correctional or Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner: These roles involve caring for individuals in unique settings like correctional facilities or workplaces, where FNPs address job-related injuries, health screenings, and chronic care management.
  • Independent Practice Owner (in Full-Practice States): In states that allow full practice authority, FNPs may open and operate their own clinics, offering primary care services independently of physician oversight.

A wide range of FNP careers is available across outpatient clinics, hospitals, private practices, and community health centers. With their broad scope of training, family nurse practitioners are well-positioned to pursue leadership roles in patient education, chronic disease management, and preventative care services.

What are the career advancement opportunities for family nurse practitioners?

FNPs have a variety of career advancement opportunities that allow them to expand their clinical expertise, leadership roles, and earning potential. As they gain experience, FNPs can pursue higher education, certifications, and specialized positions to broaden their impact in healthcare. Here are some of the key advancement paths available:

  • Specialization in a Clinical Area: FNPs can deepen their expertise by focusing on specialties such as cardiology, oncology, dermatology, endocrinology, or women’s health. Additional certifications or clinical experience in a specialty area can open doors to more focused roles and higher earning potential.
  • Earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Pursuing a DNP degree prepares FNPs for leadership, advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy roles, and academic positions. This terminal degree equips practitioners with advanced skills in evidence-based practice, healthcare systems management, and quality improvement. Aspirants who want a clear path to this degree can take online BSN to DNP programs.
  • Becoming a Clinical Educator or Faculty Member: With experience and possibly a doctoral degree, FNPs can teach in nursing programs, mentor students, and shape future generations of nurses and nurse practitioners. Academic roles often combine teaching, clinical practice, and research.
  • Moving into Healthcare Administration: FNPs with strong leadership and management skills can advance to roles such as clinic manager, nurse administrator, director of nursing, or chief nursing officer. These positions focus on managing healthcare delivery, staff oversight, and organizational strategy.
  • Opening an Independent Practice (in Full-Practice States): In states that grant full practice authority, experienced FNPs can open and manage their own healthcare clinics. This path offers professional autonomy, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the ability to shape their own practice environment.
  • Engaging in Research and Policy Development: FNPs interested in influencing healthcare at a systems level can pursue roles in research, policy advocacy, or healthcare consulting. These positions focus on improving care delivery, influencing healthcare legislation, and advancing nursing practice standards.
  • Obtaining Additional Certifications: Earning certifications such as Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE), Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP), or other subspecialty credentials allows FNPs to offer more specialized services and increase their scope of practice.
  • Transitioning into Leadership in Professional Organizations: FNPs can take leadership roles in professional associations like the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or state-level NP organizations, influencing practice standards, policy, and professional development on a larger scale.

Is there a demand for family nurse practitioners?

There is high demand for FNPs in the country. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of nurse practitioners in the United States, including FNPs, is set to climb by a staggering 46% from 2023 to 2033, more than 10 times higher than the national average (4%). As such, the number of NPs is projected to increase from 292,500 in 2023 to 427,900 by 2033.

In the given period, aspirants and job seekers can expect about 31,900 openings regarding nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, and nurse anesthetist roles each year. Job portal Indeed shows that there are currently more than 8,000 job openings for FNPs in the country.  

The industry that employs the most NPs is physicians' offices (137,030), followed by general medical and surgical hospitals (61,740) and outpatient care centers (25,440). Meanwhile, the US states with the highest employment levels are Florida (22,270), California (21,740), and Texas (20,170). 

NP Job Outlook.png

What is the average salary of family nurse practitioners?

The latest datasets from the BLS show that the average annual salary of NPs, including FNPs, is $132,000, while the median annual salary is $129,210, reminiscent of the wages of graduates of the cheapest online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs. The median annual FNP salary is more than twice as high as the collective median annual salary of all professions in the United States ($49,500). This makes FNPs well-paid professionals in the United States. Interestingly, FNPs can get even higher salaries if they practice in high-demand states and industries. 

The industries that offer the highest average annual salaries to nurse practitioners are business support services ($180,570); residential intellectual and developmental disability and mental health facilities ($158,140); and business, professional, political, and similar organizations ($153,580). 

As for the US states with the highest average annual salaries for NPs, as shown in the visual below, they are California ($161,540), Nevada ($148,670), Washington ($145,400), New Jersey ($145,030), and Oregon ($144,950). 

When evaluating compensation, it helps to compare roles across healthcare. For instance, the clinical informatics specialist salary reflects the rising demand for data-driven decision-making in clinical settings—mirroring how FNPs are increasingly recognized and well-compensated for their broad clinical expertise.

What are the limitations to the responsibilities of family nurse practitioners?

FNPs have broad responsibilities in primary care and preventive health, but their ability to independently perform complex procedures, manage intricate medical cases, and exercise full prescriptive authority can be limited depending on state laws, clinical settings, and institutional policies. Here are some of the limitations to take note of:

  • Limited Authority in Certain States: In states with restricted or reduced practice environments, FNPs may not be permitted to perform all tasks independently. For example, diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, or ordering diagnostic tests might require physician oversight or a collaborative agreement, limiting their autonomy in clinical decision-making.
  • Inability to Perform Major Surgical Procedures: FNPs are not trained or licensed to carry out major surgeries. Their procedural responsibilities are typically limited to minor, non-invasive procedures like suturing wounds, draining abscesses, or performing simple dermatologic procedures. Surgical interventions and complex procedures remain outside their scope of responsibility.
  • Limitations in Managing Highly Complex or Rare Conditions: While FNPs are well-prepared to manage common acute and chronic conditions, they are generally not responsible for diagnosing or treating highly complex, rare, or multi-system diseases. These cases often require referral to physician specialists who have more advanced, specialized training.
  • Prescriptive Authority Restrictions: Although FNPs can prescribe medications in all states, some states impose restrictions on prescribing controlled substances (Schedule II–V drugs). In certain jurisdictions, prescribing these medications may require physician collaboration, additional certification, or limitations on dosage and duration.
  • Limitations on Hospital Admitting and Privileges: In some healthcare systems, FNPs may have limited or no authority to admit patients to hospitals independently. Their responsibilities in hospital settings might be restricted to outpatient care, follow-ups, or assisting in patient management under a physician's supervision.

Are There Affordable Options for Accredited Online FNP Programs?

Selecting a program that combines robust accreditation with cost efficiency is crucial for career advancement. Candidates should evaluate factors such as program curriculum, clinical placement support, and financial aid opportunities to ensure that their choice aligns with both budget constraints and professional goals. Detailed comparisons available through resources like cheapest accredited online nursing programs offer valuable insights into cost-effective educational pathways. This strategic approach enables FNPs to enhance their expertise while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

How Can Additional Online Education Support Family Nurse Practitioners?

Additional online education offers FNPs the opportunity to refine and diversify their expertise while managing professional responsibilities. Flexible programs can introduce emerging healthcare innovations, regulatory updates, and administrative skills necessary for leadership roles. For example, enrolling in online RN to BSN no clinicals equips FNPs with contemporary knowledge without the constraints of traditional clinical rotations, thereby facilitating seamless career growth and adaptability in a dynamic healthcare environment.

What Are the Benefits of a Direct Entry NP Program for Family Nurse Practitioners?

Direct entry NP programs can streamline the transition from general nursing roles to advanced family practice responsibilities by offering an accelerated curriculum focused on critical clinical competencies. These programs are designed for candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to bypass the traditional RN-to-MSN pathway, thereby reducing overall educational time and resource investment. This approach allows professionals to quickly assume higher-level patient care responsibilities, optimize workforce integration, and meet increasing healthcare demands while maintaining clinical proficiency. For detailed information on program options and to evaluate if this pathway aligns with your career objectives, consider exploring the direct NP program.

Here's What Family Nurse Practitioners Have to Say About Their Jobs

"Being a family nurse practitioner allows me to build meaningful relationships with my patients and see the direct impact of my care on their well-being. The autonomy to diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions, from newborns to seniors, is incredibly rewarding and makes every day feel significant." - Hayley

"The flexibility within the FNP role has allowed me to explore different healthcare settings and truly find my passion in community health. Knowing that I'm bridging gaps in access to essential care and making a tangible difference in people's lives brings a deep sense of fulfillment to my professional life." - Charlotte

"What I love most about being an FNP is the continuous learning and the ability to empower individuals and families to take control of their health journeys. It's a privilege to provide holistic care, blending medical knowledge with compassionate support, and witnessing positive changes in their lives." - Becky

Other Things You Should Know About Family Nurse Practitioners

What is the difference between an FNP and a DNP?

An FNP provides direct patient care, focusing on diagnosing, treating, and managing health conditions across all ages. A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a degree that equips nurses with advanced clinical, leadership, and policy-making skills. Simply put, FNP is what a nurse does; DNP is the level of education they’ve achieved.

How does an FNP compare to a doctor of medicine?

Family nurse practitioners complete a focused graduate nursing education (MSN or DNP) after becoming registered nurses, equipping them to provide primary care across the lifespan with a holistic, patient-centered approach. In contrast, Doctors of Medicine (MDs) undergo a longer, more extensive medical school and residency training, granting them a broader scope of practice that often includes specialized and surgical care, with a more disease-centered focus. While both are essential healthcare providers, their educational pathways, scope, and philosophical approaches differ. 

Can you become an FNP with only a bachelor's degree or less?

No, a learner cannot become a family nurse practitioner with only a bachelor's degree or less. To become an FNP, one must first earn a BSN, become a licensed RN, and then complete a graduate-level program such as an MSN or DNP with an FNP concentration. Graduate education is required to gain the advanced clinical skills and certification needed for FNP practice.

How long does it take to become a family nurse practitioner?

Becoming an FNP typically takes about 6 to 8 years, which includes earning a BSN degree, gaining RN licensure, and completing a graduate nursing program such as an MSN or DNP. The graduate program alone usually requires 2 to 4 years, depending on whether a learner pursues an MSN or DNP and whether they study full-time or part-time. Some accelerated programs can shorten this timeline to around 27 months, but the total time depends on prior education and clinical experience.

References:

  • AANP (2025, February). NURSE PRACTITIONERS are the PROVIDERS OF CHOICE for MILLIONS OF AMERICANS. AANP
  • BLS (2024, April 3). 29-1171 Nurse Practitioners. BLS
  • BLS (2025, April 29). Industry: Cross-industry, Private, Federal, State, and Local Government. BLS
  • BLS (2025, April 18). Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners. BLS
  • Connors, M. (2023, November 22). A Guide to the Top Nurse Practitioner Specialties and NP Types. Barton Associates


Related Articles

Teaching Careers: 2025 Guide to Career Paths, Options & Salary thumbnail
Careers SEP 16, 2025

Teaching Careers: 2025 Guide to Career Paths, Options & Salary

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
Business Management Careers: 2025 Guide to Career Paths, Options & Salary thumbnail
How Much Does Nursing School Cost for 2025? thumbnail
Careers SEP 16, 2025

How Much Does Nursing School Cost for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
Ohio Psychology Licensure Requirements – How to Become a Psychologist in Ohio for 2025 thumbnail
How to Become an Accountant: 2025 Salary and Career Paths thumbnail
Careers SEP 16, 2025

How to Become an Accountant: 2025 Salary and Career Paths

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
How to Become a Licensed Counselor (LPC) in Texas for 2025 thumbnail
Careers OCT 1, 2025

How to Become a Licensed Counselor (LPC) in Texas for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Newsletter & Conference Alerts

Research.com uses the information to contact you about our relevant content.
For more information, check out our privacy policy.

Newsletter confirmation

Thank you for subscribing!

Confirmation email sent. Please click the link in the email to confirm your subscription.