8 Steps to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Florida

Embarking on the journey to become a Nurse Practitioner in Florida is both rewarding and challenging, requiring dedication, perseverance, and a clear understanding of the steps involved. Nurse Practitioners play a vital role in the healthcare landscape, providing comprehensive care to patients across various settings. In Florida, aspiring NPs must navigate through a series of steps to obtain the necessary qualifications and licensure to practice independently. This guide outlines eight essential steps to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Florida, offering invaluable insights and practical advice to individuals aspiring to pursue this esteemed profession.

Obtain an RN Degree

Aspiring Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Florida must first become Registered Nurses (RNs). This involves completing either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. It’s crucial to ensure that your RN or BSN degree is from a university accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation enhances the likelihood of acceptance of your course credits by Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida.

Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

Preparation is key for success in the NCLEX-RN exam, which is a requirement for RN licensure in Florida. Utilize practice tests and study guides tailored for the NCLEX-RN exam to enhance your readiness for test day.

Earn Your MSN or DNP

Nurse Practitioners can pursue either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in Florida. MSN programs typically span around two years, while DNP programs typically require four years of study. During your program, you’ll have the opportunity to choose a population focus area such as gerontology, family, or neonatal care.

Complete Supervised Clinical Hours

Depending on whether you pursue an MSN or a DNP, you’ll need to complete a specified number of supervised clinical hours. MSN programs typically require between 500-600 clinical hours, while DNP programs mandate around 1000 hours. The exact number may vary based on your chosen population focus.

Become Board Certified

Board certification is essential for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Florida, and the certifying body you choose depends on your chosen population focus. Here are some options:

National Certification Corporation: specializes in certifications for Women’s Health and Neonatal NPs.

The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners: Offers certifications for Family and Adult-Gerontology NPs.

The American Association of Critical Care Nurses: Certifies Adult-Gerontology NPs.

The American Nurses Credentialing Center: Provides certifications for adult gerontology, Family, Psychiatric Mental Health, and Pediatric NPs.

Pediatric Nursing Certification Board: Offers certifications specifically for Pediatric NPs.

Obtain Licensure

Licensure for Nurse Practitioners is administered on a state-by-state basis. To practice in Florida, aspiring NPs must contact the Florida State Board of Nursing for detailed information on the licensure process.

Obtain a DEA Number

Nurse Practitioners in Florida must obtain a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration to prescribe medications. Once licensed, applicants can acquire a National Provider Identifier (NPI) number, which is free of charge. This NPI number is then used to apply for State Controlled Substances Authority in Florida and subsequently for DEA registration, enabling NPs to prescribe medications legally.

Maintain Active Certification and Licensure

Nurse Practitioners in Florida must maintain active certification and licensure. The specific requirements for maintaining certification and licensure are typically outlined by the certifying body and the Florida Board of Nursing. This often involves earning a designated number of continuing education (CE) credits, engaging in clinical practice, and periodically submitting applications and fees, typically every 2-3 years.

How Long Does It Take You to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Florida?

How much time it takes to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Florida varies depending on individual backgrounds and educational paths. Typically, it ranges from 2 to 4 years of education before achieving certification as a Nurse Practitioner. For Registered Nurses (RNs), pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can take as little as 2 years. Direct entry programs, available for those not holding an RN license, can also be completed in about 2 years. Alternatively, individuals who already possess an MSN but seek NP certification can opt for a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, which typically takes 2-3 years, allowing them to attain NP status while earning a doctoral degree.

Here are various scenarios illustrating the duration it takes to become a Nurse Practitioner in Florida based on the starting degree:

First degree	The time it will take to become an NP
Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)	2 Years
Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)	2 Years
Bachelor’s in a non-nursing field	2-3 Years
Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)	1-2 years

Types of NP Programs Available in Florida

Embarking on the journey from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Florida involves careful planning and dedication. Whether you’re starting with a BSN or transitioning from an RN licensure, the available programs offer diverse pathways to achieve your goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP). As you explore these options, consider factors such as program duration, GPA requirements, and clinical experience expectations. With the right preparation and commitment, you can chart a course that aligns with your career aspirations and sets you on the path towards success in the field of advanced nursing practice.

BSN to MSN Pathway

For individuals in Florida who already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to become a Nurse Practitioner typically entails a two-year commitment. Alternatively, if you possess an RN license but lack a BSN, there are programs available that offer a similar duration leading to an MSN degree. General prerequisites and requirements for entry into and completion of a BSN to MSN program in Florida include:

Maintaining a 3.0 GPA or equivalent, reflecting a B average.
Possession of an active RN license in the state of Florida.
Completion of approximately 50 credits of classroom coursework.
Fulfillment of supervised clinical experience totaling between 500 to 800 hours, contingent upon the specific university’s requirements.

Accelerated MSN Programs for Non-Nurses

Direct entry MSN programs, also known as accelerated MSN programs, offer individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field the opportunity to transition into the nursing profession. These programs are designed to streamline the educational process by focusing on nursing-specific coursework, allowing students to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs) without repeating previously completed non-nursing courses. In Florida, there are several institutions offering such programs, typically spanning 2 to 3 years in duration. Upon completion, graduates emerge as both Registered Nurses (RNs) and NPs, ready to embark on their professional journey in advanced nursing practice.

General prerequisites and requirements for admission and completion of an accelerated MSN program in Florida include:

Maintaining a 3.0 GPA or equivalent, demonstrating a B average.
Fulfilling prerequisite courses such as anatomy and physiology, developmental psychology, microbiology, organic and inorganic chemistry, among others.
Completing a specified number of credits of classroom coursework.
Engaging in supervised clinical experience totaling between 500 to 1,000 hours, varying depending on the university’s guidelines and curriculum structure.

MSN to NP Certificate Programs

For those who already hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) but aspire to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs), completing a certificate program may be the ideal pathway. This option is particularly suitable for individuals with an MSN in areas such as nursing education, nursing administration, or clinical nurse specialist. Generally, MSN to NP certificate programs span approximately one year and equip students with the specialized training necessary for NP roles.

To enter and complete an NP certificate program, candidates typically need to meet the following criteria:

Hold an active Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of Florida.
Often, no additional Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are required for admission.
Submit a comprehensive application including a resume, references, and transcripts from previous academic institutions.
Fulfill clinical requirements, typically totaling between 500 to 700 hours, which may vary depending on the specific program and chosen population focus.
By meeting these requirements, individuals can transition from an MSN to NP certification, advancing their career prospects and expanding their scope of practice in nursing.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs

DNP programs represent the pinnacle of education in nursing, equipping nurses with the advanced expertise needed to excel as Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and educators. These programs have gained increasing popularity as the primary pathway for aspiring NPs. Program durations typically range from 3 to 5 years, contingent upon prior educational attainment.

BSN to DNP Pathway:

Designed for nurses holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, BSN to DNP programs require candidates to meet specific eligibility criteria:

Hold a valid nursing license in Florida and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Program duration is typically around 5 years, varying depending on the institution.

Application materials may include GRE scores, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other documentation.

Completion of 1000 hours of supervised clinical experiences is mandatory, with some programs also requiring prior nursing experience.

MSN to DNP Pathway:

Tailored for nurses already holding a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, MSN to DNP programs streamline the educational process, recognizing prior nursing expertise:

Possessing a Florida RN license is mandatory.

Program duration typically ranges from 2 to 3 years.

Application requirements may include letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other documentation, with no GRE requirement assumed due to previous MSN completion.

Depending on the program, candidates may be required to already hold NP certification in Florida.

Upon completion of a DNP program, graduates emerge not only as NPs but also as leaders in clinical nursing education, having attained the highest level of expertise in the field.

Potential Employers for Nurse Practitioners in Florida

Florida boasts a multitude of employment avenues for nurse practitioners across a diverse range of healthcare settings. Here are various types of employers, accompanied by examples of specific organizations where nurse practitioners can pursue fulfilling careers:

Hospitals and Medical Centers

Jackson Memorial Hospital
Mayo Clinic
Baptist Health
Orlando Health
Tampa General Hospital
Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care Centers:
Care Spot Urgent Care
MD Now Urgent Care
Minute Clinic
Baptist Health Urgent Care
Broward Health Urgent Care

Private Practices and Specialty Clinics

Florida Medical Clinic
Florida Digestive Health Specialists
Florida Orthopaedic Institute
Gastro Health
Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute
Community Health Centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs):
Community Health Centers of Pinellas
Borinquen Health Care Center
Jessie Trice Community Health Center
Florida Community Health Centers, Inc.
Camillus Health Concern

Long-Term Care Facilities and Nursing Homes

Consulate Health Care
HCR ManorCare
Brookdale Senior Living
Avante Group
Vi Living

Academic Institutions and Universities

University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies
University of Florida College of Nursing
University of South Florida College of Nursing
Florida International University Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Florida State University College of Nursing

Government and Military Facilities

Veterans Affairs Florida Healthcare System
MacDill Air Force Base
Naval Hospital Jacksonville
Miami VA Healthcare System
Florida Department of Health

Home Health Care Agencies

Interim HealthCare
Kindred at Home
Amedisys Home Health
Brookdale Home Health
VITAS Healthcare

These diverse employment options offer nurse practitioners in Florida opportunities to contribute to healthcare delivery, enhance patient outcomes, and advance their careers in various specialized fields.

Cost of Attending Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida

Florida’s vibrant healthcare system offers numerous opportunities for individuals aspiring to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs). However, pursuing this career path entails significant investment in advanced education, typically leading to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Below are the common pathways to NP certification in Florida, along with estimated costs:

RN to MSN Nurse Practitioner Program: Tailored for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma in nursing, this bridge program transitions them to an MSN. Duration: 2-3 years. Cost: $30,000 – $100,000.

BSN to MSN Nurse Practitioner Program: Designed for nurses holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), this program advances them to an MSN. Duration: Approximately 2 years. Cost: $20,000 – $80,000.

Direct Entry MSN Nurse Practitioner Program: Intended for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, this program facilitates entry into the nursing profession. Duration: 2-3 years. Cost: $50,000 – $100,000.

BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner Program: Offering a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree for BSN holders, this program may also include an MSN. Duration: 3-4 years. Cost: $40,000 – $120,000.

MSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner Program: Geared towards nurses with an existing MSN seeking a DNP. Duration: 1-2 years. Cost: $20,000 – $60,000.

Post-master’s certification Nurse Practitioner Program: For MSN or DNP holders aiming to specialize in a specific NP area. Duration: 1-2 years (varies by specialty). Cost: $10,000 – $30,000.

Please note that the provided costs are approximate estimates and may vary significantly based on factors such as institution, state and residency status, and other variables. Additionally, they typically exclude expenses like textbooks, supplies, personal costs, and accommodation.

University of Florida

The BSN to DNP Program at the University of Florida provides BSN-prepared students the opportunity to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. This comprehensive curriculum encompasses advanced coursework in health assessment, health policy, and specialized clinical practice, equipping nurses for the highest level of clinical nursing practice. As of my last update in 2021, the estimated cost for in-state students falls within the range of $30,000 to $60,000, though this figure is subject to change. [Link to program]

University of Miami

The Direct Entry MSN Program for Non-Nurses at the University of Miami is tailored for individuals holding a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field seeking entry into the nursing profession. This program prepares students for RN licensure and culminates in a Master of Science in Nursing degree. As of 2021, the estimated cost for this program ranges from $70,000 to $90,000, subject to change. [Link to program]

To alleviate the financial burden of pursuing an NP career, various scholarship and loan forgiveness programs are available. Examples include:

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Individual Hospital Repayment Programs
Perkins Loan Cancellation
Military Programs
Nurse Corps Loan Forgiveness

10 Nurse Practitioner Scholarships in Florida

Embarking on a career as a nurse practitioner in Florida demands substantial dedication to education and training. To ease the financial burden for aspiring professionals, various scholarships are available to support their journey towards achieving their career aspirations. Here are ten potential scholarships specifically tailored for nurses in Florida:

Florida Nurses Foundation Scholarships: A selection of scholarships aimed at nursing students at different educational levels in Florida. Deadlines and award amounts vary. [Florida Nurses Foundation]

District 5 Florida Nurses Scholarship/Research Grant: Available for registered nurses in District 5 counties pursuing advanced nursing degrees. Deadlines and awards vary. [Florida Nurses Association]

Estelle Massey Osborne Scholarship: Promotes racial equality by offering financial aid to black registered nurses pursuing further education. Typically due in January, with awards of up to $2,500. [National Black Nurses Association]

Nurse Practitioner Healthcare Foundation Scholarship: For nurse practitioner students specializing in pediatric, family, or adult care. Deadlines and awards vary. [Nurse Practitioner Healthcare Foundation]

Promise of Nursing Scholarships: Available for undergraduate and graduate nursing students. Deadlines and awards vary. [Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association]

American Association of Nurse Practitioners Scholarship: Offers scholarships to AANP members enrolled in accredited graduate nursing programs. Deadlines typically in March, awards vary. [American Association of Nurse Practitioners]

March of Dimes Dr. Margaret C. Freda Graduate Nursing Scholarship Award: For graduate nursing students who are members of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses. Deadline typically in January, award is $5,000. [March of Dimes]

AfterCollege/AACN Scholarship Fund: Supports students pursuing baccalaureate, master’s, or doctoral degrees in nursing. Deadlines quarterly, awards $2,500. [AfterCollege]

Florida Association of Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (FANNP) Scholarships: Available for Neonatal Nurse Practitioner students in Florida. Deadlines and awards vary. [Florida Association of Neonatal Nurse Practitioners]

Tylenol Future Care Scholarship: Offers scholarships to students pursuing healthcare careers. Deadline typically in July, awards range from $5,000 to $10,000. [Tylenol Future Care Scholarship]

While scholarships specifically for NP programs may be less common than those for BSN programs, additional resources such as nursing school guides and scholarship databases can assist in identifying further opportunities to offset costs.

The journey to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Florida demands dedication and perseverance. This guide outlines eight crucial steps, including obtaining an RN degree, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, earning an MSN or DNP, completing supervised clinical hours, becoming board certified, obtaining licensure, acquiring a DEA number, and maintaining active certification. It also explores various educational pathways, potential employers, program costs, and scholarships. By following these steps and leveraging available resources, aspiring NPs can embark on a rewarding career path dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare and making a positive impact in Florida’s healthcare landscape.