Nurse Practitioner Salary

Nurse Practitioner Salary

Nurse practitioners, also known as advanced practice registered nurses, work as primary or specialty care providers. They may consult with physicians about potential patient care, prescribe medicine, perform exams, and help patients figure out ways to improve their overall health.

In terms of salary, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the annual median wage for nurse practitioners in 2012 was higher than the national average wage. This may change depending on geographic location, education, and prior work experience.

Job TitleBottom 10% Annual WageAnnual Median WageTop 10% Annual Wage
Nurse Practitioners-U.S.$72,420$100,910$140,930

Is it difficult to find a job in this field?

According to bls.gov the growth potential for this field will be faster than average for all occupations from 2012 through 2022. The number of people in the country who have health care will expand due to the American Care Act, and as more people reach retirement age they might need more services as well. Some states are also expanding the duties that an APRN is able to perform, allowing them to act in the same fashion as physicians.

Job TitleProjected Job Growth Rate
Nurse Practitioners-U.S.35.2%

Is there room for advancement in this field?

Moving into an APRN position is already an advancement in terms of nursing careers, but there are still a few ways you can move up. You can work as an administrator or manager. If you have earned your doctoral degree you may be able to become an educator or a researcher.

Are there any licensing requirements for this field?

Yes. You must hold a registered nursing license in order to practice. You must also pass a certification exam before becoming a nurse practitioner. This certification is a requirement from most states in order to hold one of the nurse practitioner titles. You can inquire about certification information from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, the American Nurses Credentialing Center, or the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.

Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012,

National Council of State Boards of Nursing,

American Nurses Credentialing Center,

Pediatric Nursing Certification Board,

Nurse Practitioner Schools