Is Becoming an FNP Worth it – (Pros VS. Cons)

Written By: Chris MeyerChris Meyer, FNP-BC, MSN, RN

Chris Meyer is a Family Nurse Practitioner based in East Tennessee currently working at a small rural primary care clinic. Chris began his journey in healthcare as a Certified Nursing Assistant while pursuing his nursing degree. He spent two years working in a step-down unit before graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and transitioning to the Intensive Care Unit as a Registered Nurse. Read Full Bio »» , FNP-BC, MSN, RN

Are you a registered nurse considering earning an advanced degree? Do you enjoy caring for patients of all ages? Does working with patients with various illnesses or diseases make you feel fulfilled? If so, have you considered a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner? Perhaps you have thought of becoming a family nurse practitioner but wonder, “Is becoming an FNP worth it?"

As a graduate student in an FNP program myself, I understand the dilemma. In this article, I want to share some information with you about becoming an FNP, including 25 reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it and also 7 reasons why it may not be the right career for you. The information in this article will give you key things to consider to help you decide if this career path is something you wish to pursue.

What is an FNP?

A Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is an advanced practice nurse specializing in family health care, which includes diagnosis and management of common and chronic illnesses, as well as health promotion. FNPs may provide primary care or acute services, or a combination of both, to patients of all ages. Family nurse practitioners care for patients, from newborns to geriatrics, in a variety of settings, from rural health clinics to major level 1 trauma centers.

What Types of Degree Options are Available to Become an FNP?

There are two graduate-level degree options available to become an FNP, a Master of Science in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice. If you are interested in providing primary care and working directly with patients, getting your MSN is probably the route for you. Alternatively, you can pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice, which is the highest clinical nursing degree. Finally, if you have a master’s or doctorate in nursing but want to specialize as a family nurse practitioner, you could consider earning a Post-Graduate Certificate specializing in family practice nursing.

How Long Does an FNP Degree Take?

How long it takes for you to get an FNP degree depends on a couple of different factors. Obviously, if you attend a program full-time, you will achieve your goals faster than with a part-time program. Most MSN degrees take about 18 to 24 months to complete when taking classes full-time. On the other hand, a Doctor of Nursing Practice can take anywhere from 2 to 4 years or more, depending on your schedule and course load.

For example, the MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner program at Duke University takes two and a half years to complete if you enroll full-time. At the University of Washington, you can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree specializing as an FNP in three years if you enroll full-time or four years as a part-time student.

How Much Does an FNP Degree Cost?

The cost of attending family nurse practitioner school is a key factor to consider when determining whether or not it is worth it to you. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20,000 to $75,00 for an MSN degree and around $20,000 to $100,000 or greater for a DNP degree.

For reference, the MSN program I am currently in at King University has a total FNP degree cost of around $21,175-$27,225. At Rush University, you can pursue a DNP as a Family Nurse Practitioner, paying $1,286 per credit. Rush's FNP program requires 30 hours for post-master's students and 62 credit hours for post-baccalaureate students, making the program cost between $38,580 and $79,732.

What are the Admission Requirements for an FNP Degree?

When you are considering pursuing an FNP degree, verifying admission criteria to ensure you meet requirements is important. The following are general admission criteria for some of the nation’s best FNP programs.

• Current license as Registered Nurse (RN) in the state you reside
• College transcripts
• Personal Statement
• Resume with professional & volunteer experiences
• 1-3 Letters of Recommendation
• One year or more RN Work Experience (in some cases)

*While this guide outlines the general requirements for Family Nurse Practitioner programs, it is important to note that each school may have its own individual set of criteria. Therefore, make sure you research and understand all the necessary qualifications before submitting your application!

Why Becoming an FNP is Worth It? – the Pros

(The following are the 25 reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it in 2024.)

REASON #1: You will be able to provide care across the lifespan.

One of the top reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it is, as an FNP, you will have the exciting and challenging opportunity to care for patients of all ages - from infants in need of immunizations to elderly citizens managing chronic health conditions! Whether it is spotting a rare disorder or developing close relationships with your constantly changing patient population, each day brings something new and unexpected. So, get ready for days full of rewarding discoveries and life-changing transformations!

REASON #2: You will be able to advocate for your patients

As a Family Nurse Practitioner, you will be given the rewarding task of finding the best possible solutions for your patients and their families - from prescribing treatments to offering emotional support. With this role comes great responsibility but even greater rewards. Each time you help someone succeed in getting back on track with proper care, it is an indescribable feeling of satisfaction like no other!

REASON #3: You call the shots now!

If you are looking for a career that splices the clever detective work of Sherlock Holmes with real-world medical care, becoming an FNP might be just what the doctor ordered! Becoming an FNP is worth it because you get to be the hero in your patient's story! You will have the opportunity to use your clinical judgment to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. Nothing can compare to piecing together clues of a medical mystery and nailing a diagnosis. With each successful diagnosis solved comes the satisfaction that your hard work brought healing - now THAT is truly rewarding!

REASON #4: You will have prescriptive authority.

As an FNP, you hold the unique power to alter lives. Selecting which treatment will be best for each case and, ultimately, most cost-effective can make all the difference in whether your patient stays on track with their health plan. And then there is nothing better than feeling empowered knowing that it was your prescription choice helping them feel better!

REASON #5: You'll become an educator, helping your patients understand their condition.

One of the top reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it is you get the opportunity to educate your patients. There is no better feeling than helping your patients navigate the complexities of their medical journeys and equipping them with knowledge about their conditions to help them make informed decisions that will bring improved health.

REASON #6: You can contribute to positive patient outcomes.

As a family nurse practitioner, you will provide care to patients of all ages, from birth to old age. Your in-depth knowledge and nursing skills mean you can provide high-quality, evidence-based care aimed at improving patient outcomes.

REASON #7: You will get to be part of a team

Becoming an FNP is worth it because it really is more than just a job - you will become part of a team. Working together with physicians, registered nurses, and other staff allows for an invaluable exchange of ideas and an increased understanding of how best to meet your patient’s needs. The close-knit bond between FNPs and their peers provides emotional and professional benefits that are often not found in other medical fields. With this unique combination of camaraderie and professional development, FNPs can successfully pursue excellence in patient care with confidence.

REASON #8: The financial factor

One of the most attractive aspects of becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is the potential to make significantly more money than you would as a Registered Nurse (RN). A registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree makes an average of $77,070. Family nurse practitioners, on the other hand, make an average of $99,897, more than $20,000 higher than baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses.

REASON #9: You will likely find it easy to get a job.

Not only are FNPs paid well, but there is also a good outlook for jobs. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects FNPs should see a 40% increase in jobs between 2021 and 2031. This estimated job growth is a strong indicator that finding a job will be easy when you finish the program.

REASON #10: You get to go home feeling fulfilled.

One of the biggest reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it is at the end of the day, you will have a feeling of satisfaction and go home feeling fulfilled. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, you will make a real difference in your patients’ lives. When you look back on your day and see the impact your care has made, it will leave you with a feeling of pride.

REASON #11: You get to perform procedures, too!

Another perk of becoming a family nurse practitioner, and one reason you may feel an FNP degree is worth it, is that you can use your knowledge and skills to perform procedures. You will have opportunities to suture wounds, give joint injections, and remove lesions, to name a few. With time and experience, your skills will become more refined, and you will feel self-assured in your abilities. The more experience you gain, the more opportunities you could have to perform or participate in procedures promoting patient care.

REASON #12: You can become instrumental in shaping healthcare policy.

Due to your patient care experience and academic background, as a family nurse practitioner, you will have a unique opportunity to influence healthcare policy change. You can use your in-depth knowledge to explain the potential effects proposed legislation could have on providers, patients, and the entire health system at large.

Having a better understanding of how policy changes may impact patient care allows FNPs to advocate effectively for health-related topics, from healthcare reform initiatives to quality improvement and patient safety projects. By working closely with policymakers and legislators, you can help shape the future of healthcare by providing evidence-based arguments for positive change.

REASON #13: You will develop strong leadership skills.

Becoming an FNP is worth it because, as a Family Nurse Practitioner, you will learn and hone essential skills that prepare you for nursing leadership. Your knowledge and leadership skills will allow you to drive change and be an inspiration for others – propelling healthcare forward. From following and understanding the latest emerging trends in research and discovering innovative solutions to leading by example in your practice, you will be instrumental in the future of nursing!

REASON #14: You can live and work internationally.

If you ever want to live or work internationally, becoming an FNP may be the right career move for you. Currently, the following countries use Nurse Practitioners in some capacity: Australia, Canada, Finland, Ireland, the Netherlands, England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, New Zealand, and the USA. Plus, with the emergence of telehealth, there are some online family nurse practitioner positions where you can work from your laptop anywhere in the world with an internet connection!

REASON #15: You will have a more flexible schedule.

One of the top reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it is having a flexible schedule. As a family nurse practitioner, you will have more control over your work hours, and you can easily adjust your workload based on what works best for you.

Unlike other healthcare professionals who may have limited scheduling options, family nurse practitioners have more independence to create work schedules that fit their needs and lifestyles. This means you can enjoy more free time outside of work or take on extra shifts during peak times to increase your earnings if desired. You also will not need to worry about sacrificing important family commitments to make it into the office. As an FNP, you will have the flexibility to balance both!

REASON #16: You can use your FNP degree to conduct research.

With an FNP degree, you can do more than just treat patients. You can also help discover new ways to improve their health! Doing nursing research is a terrific way to use your knowledge and expertise in medicine and healthcare. By researching emerging trends, you can help identify opportunities that have positive impacts on the lives of many people. Nursing research is thrilling work for those who love uncovering innovative solutions. So do not limit yourself – become an FNP and consider jumping into this fascinating field with both feet!

REASON #17: FNPs have access to excellent continuing education opportunities.

Continuing education allowances are a huge benefit for family nurse practitioners, enabling you to take part in conferences that will keep you up to date with the latest advancements and clinical practices in your field. Many employers provide continuing education allowances of around $2,000 annually, allowing you to take continuing education classes or attend nursing conferences. Additionally, employers may cover continuing educated-related costs such as registration fees, lodging expenses, travel arrangements, and meals if you must travel out of town. Continuing education opportunities allow you to better your skills as a practitioner, travel, and develop beneficial relationships within your field that you may not have had access to otherwise.

REASON #18: Better Opportunities for Developing Closer Relationships with Patients

Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner is not just about advancing your career. It is an opportunity to build lasting relationships with patients and really make a difference in their lives. Investing in an FNP degree is worth it for nurses who want to get more out of their work and create life-long bonds with those they care for! Imagine being able to watch patients grow, improve, and even heal over the course of time – how incredible would that be? When you become a family nurse practitioner, you can see this happen!

REASON #19: You can leverage your degree and experience to find better jobs.

Another excellent benefit of becoming a family nurse practitioner is you have unlimited possibilities for employment. As you develop Family Nurse Practitioner skills and gain critical experience in the clinical setting, you will be better positioned to make strategic career moves. Family Nurse Practitioners are in demand, and you can leverage your degree and experience to negotiate higher wages or better positions with both current and potential employers. It takes effort to earn this degree. So, do not be afraid to flex your bargaining power!

REASON #20: Career Stability

Despite the ever-changing landscape of the healthcare industry, one thing remains, and that is the need for qualified healthcare providers. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, you not only have the potential to earn an excellent income, but the profession also has an excellent outlook. A positive job outlook means good career stability. The potential for long-term career stability is one of the biggest reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it.

REASON #21: You will have more autonomy.

One of the great things about becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner is you will have a higher level of independence in your practice. Depending on where you live, you may practice completely independently of a collaborating physician. Currently, there are 26 states and the District of Columbia where nurse practitioners have full practice authority. With full practice authority, you can open your own clinic and practice medicine without physician oversight.

REASON #22: Unique job opportunities

FNPs have the potential to break free from traditional roles and take on more exciting responsibilities. From going abroad with a traveling nurse practitioner position to government jobs like working for the State Department, there is no limit to what you can do! So do not be afraid of taking off down an unknown path; let your ambitions lead the way in forging a unique career trajectory.

REASON #23: You can provide care in underserved rural areas.

For far too long, rural America has struggled with a shortage of primary care providers. Becoming an FNP is worth it because you will be able to step up to the plate and help reduce that gap in healthcare access, especially for those living in areas where physician shortages have been or are expected to be most severe. With your excellent qualifications and high-performance standards, you will do more than just provide relief - you will take genuine strides toward bridging disparities between urban and rural healthcare service availability.

REASON #24: You can open your own business.

If you dream of opening a business where you can provide patient care, becoming an FNP is worth it! With the increased knowledge, skills, and autonomy of being a family nurse practitioner, you could open your own practice. Having a private practice means you can choose the people who work with you and build a team of trusted nurses, nursing assistants, and staff with the same passion for patient care that you have.

REASON #25: Your Patients will appreciate the work you do.

One of the biggest reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it is because your patients are grateful for the care they receive. According to a survey of healthcare patients conducted by researchers from the University of Michigan, nurse practitioners get glowing reviews with an average global score of 9.8/10 - that is two points higher than traditional doctors receive at 7.2/10! Patients highlighted how family nurse practitioners are far more attentive and respectful. Patients say they felt heard when discussing important matters due in part to the increased time spent during consultations compared with the typical doctor visit experience. Having a job where you feel appreciated is a great incentive to continue providing quality care and impacting patient lives!

Why Becoming an FNP May Not Be Worth It for You? – the Cons

(Now that we have discussed the 25 reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it, I want to share a few reasons why you could feel becoming an FNP may not be worth it.)

REASON #1: FNP school can be expensive.

While you can make more money as a family nurse practitioner, the old saying, "it takes money to make money," holds true. FNP programs can be expensive, and if you struggle with how to pay for a program, you may feel becoming an FNP is not worth it. If you want to make more money but do not want to pay for graduate school, you may consider other options for your career.

REASON #2: You cannot “fix” everyone.

As a family nurse practitioner, it is easy to become attached to patients and their loved ones. After all, you will care for patients from birth throughout life. One of the difficult things about this role is facing the fact that you cannot fix every problem for every patient.

Although you must demonstrate empathy and compassion, as an FNP, you must also know where to draw the line between personal and professional feelings so you do not get caught up in disappointment when you cannot fix your patients’ problems. If you are the type of person who feels you must fix everything for everyone, you may find the disappointment that sometimes comes with becoming an FNP is not worth it.

REASON #3: You prefer a job with less face-to-face contact.

Family nurse practitioners spend a lot of time providing individualized, face-to-face care to patients. If you prefer a role with less patient interaction, an FNP degree is not worth it. If you want to work in healthcare but do not want a personal, clinical role, consider a job in healthcare administration or nursing research.

REASON #4: You are not committed to going back to school

If you are considering pursuing a Family Nurse Practitioner career, bear in mind that the journey to a new career requires dedication and commitment. If you are at a place in your life where you cannot imagine going back to school or committing to hours of study and clinical, it may not be the best time for you to begin your FNP journey. Consider your options carefully, and if the commitment is too much to handle, it is okay to decide that becoming an FNP is not worth it at this time.

REASON #5: Working as an FNP can be stressful.

If you are looking to escape the stress of being an RN, becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner is not the best option. Being an FNP comes with its own set of rigors and demands that could lead to feeling just as much burnout as your current job. You may have to work long hours to meet the demands of your employer and your patients, taking time away from your family and other obligations. While becoming an FNP can certainly offer rewarding experiences, long days and stressful scenarios are part of the job. If you do not handle stress well, you may find becoming an FNP is not worth it.

REASON #6: You do not want a role that requires you to have more responsibility

One of the advantages of being a family nurse practitioner is the increased independence that comes with the role. With autonomy comes a higher level of responsibility. If you prefer a job or career where you can earn a paycheck without the headache that comes with greater responsibility, you may feel becoming an FNP is not worth it.

REASON #7: Greater legal responsibilities

When you become a family nurse practitioner, you have a broader scope of practice. You will diagnose and treat patients across the lifespan with varying degrees of health and wellness. With your broader scope of practice comes increased legal responsibilities. If you make an error in patient care, you could face a malpractice suit or other disciplinary issues from your licensing and certification board. For some people, the possible legal ramifications that come with becoming an FNP lead them to feel this career path is not worth it.

What are the 3 Main Reasons Behind the Demand for FNP Degree Holders?

In your search for the perfect career, one factor to consider is whether there is a need for the services you wish to provide. There is a demand for FNP graduates nationwide. The following are three of the main reasons for the high demand for family nurse practitioners.

1. An aging U.S. population:

As the population of the United States continues to age, there is an ever-increasing demand for Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs). The Baby Boomer generation is aging and has increased life expectancy, leaving healthcare providers struggling to keep up with the rapidly growing need for healthcare services. FNPs are uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive care that emphasizes patient education and understanding, making them invaluable when caring for older people and those suffering from chronic and acute illnesses associated with aging.

2. Primary Care Physician shortage:

Family nurse practitioners are in high demand across the United States due to the growing shortage of primary care physicians. FNPs provide similar services as family doctors and can build strong, long-term relationships with their patients. Additionally, family nurse practitioners diagnose, treat and manage acute illnesses and chronic diseases, order diagnostic studies, and prescribe medications. The ability of FNPs to provide independent care in many states makes them perfect candidates for meeting the demand for primary care physicians.

3. FNPs are more cost-effective:

As employers look to maximize efficiency and satisfaction without breaking the bank, they are turning increasingly towards FNPs. Patients also recognize the cost-effectiveness of seeking FNP care versus a primary care physician. Some studies indicate patients pay as much as half the price for care provided by a family nurse practitioner compared to care provided by a family physician.

What is the Starting Salary for New FNP Degree Holders?

The average starting salary for new family nurse practitioners is $67,260 per year. The annual salary is equal to $32.34 weekly, $1,293 weekly, or $5,610 monthly.

Hourly	$32.34
Weekly	$1,293
Monthly	$5,610
Annual	$67,260
(Source: Payscale.com)

What is the Average Salary for Experienced FNP Degree Holders?

Family nurse practitioners have excellent income-earning potential. The average salary for FNP degree holders is $99,897 annually. This pay equals $48.03 per hour, $1,931 per week, or $8,320 per month.

Hourly	$48.03
Weekly	$1,921
Monthly	$8,320
Annual	$99,897
(Source: Payscale.com)

Is the Cost of an FNP Degree Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?

Becoming an FNP can cost as little as $20,000 to more than $100,000, depending on your current degree level and whether you choose a master's or doctorate program. While the cost of some programs may seem a bit steep when you compare the cost to your earning potential, you may feel becoming an FNP is worth it. The average annual income for family nurse practitioners is $99,897, which means within a few years, you could see a profit. These numbers indicate the cost of an FNP degree is worth the return on investment.

What are the 3 Best Jobs You Can Get With an FNP Degree?

Having an FNP degree will open many doors for you and give you so many opportunities to practice your trade. Here are the best 3 jobs you can get with an FNP degree.

1. Primary Care Nurse Practitioner:

Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioners are in high demand and provide primary health care to patients across the lifespan. They diagnose and treat common illnesses and injuries, order and interpret tests, provide patient education and counseling, and refer patients to specialists when necessary.

2. Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner:

Palliative care family nurse practitioners provide relief from pain and other symptoms associated with chronic and terminal illnesses. They work closely with patients and families to manage the physical, emotional, and spiritual effects of illness. Additionally, palliative care FNPs may conduct research, direct palliative care programs, or teach in colleges or universities.

3. Hospitalist:

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) have become an essential part of hospital-based care and are playing an increasingly important role as hospitalists. Hospitalists are responsible for addressing the needs of hospitalized patients and providing specialty services, such as wound care, intravenous therapy, and other acute care services.

Bonus! 3 Tips to Make More Money With an FNP Degree

Family nurse practitioners have many options to increase earning potential or create secondary streams of income. You could consider trying these three money-making tips to make the most of your new profession.

1. Establish your own practice:

When you become a family nurse practitioner and gain a few years of clinical experience, you could choose to set up a private practice in an independent practice state. You will have the autonomy to treat your patients while being your own boss, keeping more money in your pocket.

2. Pick up extra shifts:

Want to make a few extra bucks without taking on too much? If so, you could take on an additional shift once or twice a month at your local urgent care clinic. PRN shifts are the perfect way to top up that income without having to overwork yourself.

3. Blogging and Health Care writing:

As an FNP, you have a unique and powerful voice. So why not use that voice to make some extra money? From your journey to becoming an FNP to the stories of caring for patients, you can share insights about the profession with others. Blogging or guest posting could be just the ticket for cashing in on all your hard work and invaluable experience- plus, it is fun!

So, is Becoming an FNP Worth Your Time and Money – My Final Thoughts

Choosing to pursue an advanced nursing degree is a big career move. It is only natural to ask, “Is becoming an FNP worth your time and money?” As you research the cost of programs, earning potential, job opportunities, and other factors, I encourage you to consider the 25 reasons why becoming an FNP is worth it and also 7 reasons why it may not be the right career for you I shared in this article. After doing your research and considering your options, if becoming a family nurse practitioner is still your dream, go for it! Only you can make your dreams become a reality!

Frequently Asked Questions Answered

1. What Is The Best Age To Pursue An FNP Degree?

Although there is no “perfect” age to pursue an FNP degree, most schools require prospective students to have at least one year of work experience as a registered nurse before beginning the programs. After a few years of bedside nursing as an RN, you should be ready to pursue your FNP degree no matter what age you are!

2. How Hard Is It To Get Into An FNP Degree Program?

Admission to some FNP programs is more competitive than others. The most important thing is to verify all the admission criteria for programs that interest you to make sure you meet the requirements. Take the time to fill out your application completely and follow up.

3. Do I Need Work Experience To Get Into An FNP Degree Program?

Although all FNP programs do not require work experience, you will find that most prefer a candidate to have at least one year of clinical work experience as a registered nurse.

4. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into An FNP Degree Program?

Most FNP degree programs look for potential students to have a minimum 3.0 GPA. You may still be able to get into some programs without a 3.0 if you meet other criteria.

5. Are Online FNP Degree Programs Worth It?

Online FNP degree programs have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering students the flexibility to work and continue their education simultaneously. If you want to become a family nurse practitioner but feel campus-based learning is not an option, an online FNP degree is definitely worth it!

6. Are Scholarships And Grants Available For FNP Degree Programs?

There are many scholarships and grants available for FNP degree programs. Many options cover most, if not all, tuition costs and other expenses. You may be able to find one that will cover most of your tuition costs. Also, there are programs specifically for FNPs that can help with loan forgiveness after graduation.

7. Is It Hard To Complete An FNP Degree?

Completing an FNP degree is not as hard as you might think. Still, by choosing a schedule that aligns with your goals and personal and professional responsibilities and a firm dedication to your studies, you can succeed in an FNP program!

8. Can FNP Students Have A Life?

Definitely! As I mentioned before, there are many FNP degree programs out there. If devoting your time to a full-time or campus-based program is not an option, consider a part-time or online program that allows you more time to dedicate to your personal life.

9. Can I Work Part-Time And Successfully Complete The FNP Degree Program?

You can! Most FNP students I know work at least part-time while completing their FNP degree program.

10. Can I Work Full-Time And Successfully Complete The FNP Degree Program?

It is a little more difficult to work full-time while completing an FNP program, but it is totally reasonable. Working full-time while getting your FNP may be possible if you do not have a lot of other commitments, like children or family. If you are single and ready to knock out your degree without sacrificing decreased pay- you can do it!

11. Do Students Fail In FNP Degree Programs?

Just like any other program, it is possible for you to fail out of an FNP degree program. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication to succeed in such a challenging field, and you must be prepared to put in the effort necessary to stay on top of your studies. By carefully planning your schedule and dedicating enough time to school, you can succeed!

12. Will I Ever Regret Getting An FNP Degree?

Although I cannot guarantee that you will never regret getting an FNP degree, I can tell you that most FNP graduates are happy with their career choice.

13. How Much Does An FNP Graduate Make Per Hour?

FNP graduates typically make an average of $48.03 an hour. This amount can vary based on your years of experience and the setting where you work.

$48.03

14. How Much Does An FNP Graduate Make Per Year?

The average annual income for FNP graduates is $99,897.

$99,897

15. Will FNP Graduates Be Paid Less In The Future?

The projected job growth and a nationwide shortage of primary care providers are indicators that FNPs will likely be paid more in the future instead of less.

16. Are All FNPs Successful In Their Careers?

Not all family nurse practitioners are successful in their careers. Lack of success may be attributed to several factors, and you should not assume to determine your likelihood of success based on someone else’s performance.

17. Are FNPs Happy With Their Jobs?

Most research indicates family nurse practitioners are happy with their jobs.

18. Can An FNP Become Rich?

Absolutely! An FNP can become rich, but probably not just on their salary alone. With the right investment and saving strategies or by opening your own family practice- you can make a substantial amount of money and become wealthy over time.

19. What Are Some Of The Best FNP Degree Alternatives?

If you want to earn an advanced practice nursing degree but are unsure about becoming a family nurse practitioner, there are several degree alternatives. Some of the most common include CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, or Clinical Nurse Specialist.