Nurse Practitioner Schools
Nurse Practitioner Master’s Programs in Jacksonville, Florida
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Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Jacksonville, Florida
Pursuing a career as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Jacksonville, Florida, offers a rewarding opportunity to impact patient care positively. Nurse Practitioners are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who provide primary and specialty healthcare services. They specialize in areas such as Family Practice, Pediatrics, Adult-Gerontology, and more. This guide will navigate the educational paths, certification, and licensure requirements needed to become an NP in Jacksonville.
About Jacksonville
Jacksonville, located in Northeast Florida, is the state’s largest city by area and boasts a dynamic healthcare community. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and thriving business environment, Jacksonville is an attractive location for healthcare professionals. For more information about the city, visit Jacksonville’s official website.
Nurse Practitioner Programs in Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville offers several reputable Nurse Practitioner programs, providing aspiring NPs with various educational options:
- University of North Florida (UNF)
- Located in the Southside area, UNF offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Learn more about the program here.
- Jacksonville University (JU)
- Situated in the Arlington neighborhood, JU provides both a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a DNP program with multiple NP tracks, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For more information, visit Jacksonville University’s nursing page.
- Keiser University
- Located in the Town Center area, Keiser University offers an MSN program with an FNP track. The program is designed for working professionals, offering flexible scheduling options. Explore the program here.
Nurse Practitioner Employment Opportunities in Jacksonville
Jacksonville hosts numerous healthcare facilities where NPs can find employment:
- Baptist Health
- As one of the largest healthcare systems in Northeast Florida, Baptist Health offers diverse career opportunities across its hospitals and clinics. Visit their careers page for more information.
- Mayo Clinic Florida
- Renowned for its research and patient care, Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville provides various employment opportunities for NPs. Check their careers page for current openings.
- UF Health Jacksonville
- Affiliated with the University of Florida, UF Health Jacksonville offers advanced medical care and numerous job opportunities for NPs. Visit their employment opportunities page for more details.
Prerequisites for Nurse Practitioner Programs
Enrolling in an NP program in Jacksonville typically requires:
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
- An active RN license.
- A minimum GPA, often around 3.0 or higher.
- Relevant work experience as an RN.
- Completion of entrance exams or interviews, as required by specific programs.
Nurse Practitioner Certification Requirements in Florida
To practice as an NP in Florida, you must meet the following requirements:
- Education: Complete a master’s degree or post-master’s certificate in nursing from an accredited program.
- RN License: Hold a current, unencumbered RN license in Florida.
- National Certification: Obtain certification in a chosen specialty area through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
- State Licensure: Apply for ARNP licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing, including proof of national certification and a background check.
Licensure Requirements
To obtain NP licensure in Florida:
- Submit an application to the Florida Board of Nursing.
- Provide proof of national certification.
- Complete a background check.
- Submit proof of malpractice insurance or exemption.
Licensure Reciprocity
Florida allows licensure by endorsement for NPs licensed in other states. Out-of-state NPs must:
- Hold a current RN license.
- Meet Florida’s educational and certification requirements.
- Apply for ARNP licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a journey to become a Nurse Practitioner in Jacksonville, Florida, is both challenging and rewarding. With numerous educational opportunities and a robust healthcare environment, now is the perfect time to pursue this fulfilling career. Contact a local school today to begin your path toward becoming an NP.
For the latest job outlook for Nurse Practitioners, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.