2 answers
Katherine
Student
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Questions
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Can a pediatric nurse practitioner become a Pediatrician?If so how much longer is it going to take to become one?
I'm just curious
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2 answers
Samara Peters
Pediatrics
9
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Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Samara’s Answer
A pediatric nurse practitioner has a very different education and training process than a pediatric physician, with very little overlap. If a nurse practitioner wanted to become a physician, they would be able to skip the undergrad education (since they have already done that). However, they need to apply to medical school which does have some prerequisites that may not be completed in NP education. For example, organic chemistry. They would also need to complete a residency program.
It is not impossible! One of my classmates in medical school was a nurse.
It is not impossible! One of my classmates in medical school was a nurse.
Bhavna Sheth
107
Answers
Collinsville, Virginia
Updated
Bhavna’s Answer
Yes, a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) can become a pediatrician, but it would require additional education and training.
To become a pediatrician, you will need to complete a Bachelor's degree, followed by four years of medical school. After medical school, you will need to complete a pediatric residency program that typically lasts three years. Following your residency, you will need to pass the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) exam to become a certified pediatrician.
A PNP who wishes to become a pediatrician can apply to medical school and may be able to transfer some credits from their nursing degree, but they will still need to complete the full four years of medical school and three years of a pediatric residency program. This can take approximately seven years after completing a nursing degree.
Overall, becoming a pediatrician requires a significant amount of time, dedication, and hard work. However, if you are passionate about caring for children and are willing to put in the effort, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling career.
To become a pediatrician, you will need to complete a Bachelor's degree, followed by four years of medical school. After medical school, you will need to complete a pediatric residency program that typically lasts three years. Following your residency, you will need to pass the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) exam to become a certified pediatrician.
A PNP who wishes to become a pediatrician can apply to medical school and may be able to transfer some credits from their nursing degree, but they will still need to complete the full four years of medical school and three years of a pediatric residency program. This can take approximately seven years after completing a nursing degree.
Overall, becoming a pediatrician requires a significant amount of time, dedication, and hard work. However, if you are passionate about caring for children and are willing to put in the effort, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling career.