A nurse practitioner typically requires what degree?

• A. Associate Degree
• B. Master's Degree
• C. Bachelor's of Science
• D. Doctoral Degree

Answer: (B)

Becoming a nurse practitioner requires graduate-level education because NPs perform advanced clinical duties, require eligibility for national certification, and often have prescriptive authority in many settings. The degree most commonly required is a Master of Science in Nursing. This program provides the in-depth coursework in advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and extensive clinical practice needed to prepare for certification and independent practice. While some programs and states are moving toward the Doctor of Nursing Practice as the entry-level degree for NPs, the traditional and most frequently encountered credential has been the master’s degree. An associate or bachelor’s degree alone does not provide the level of advanced training required for NP practice, and pursuing a doctoral degree, though increasingly common, is not the typical initial requirement.