What is an APRN? How to go from Registered Nurse to APRN

What Is an APRN? An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse is more than just a new title after your name. It’s a career shift that gives you greater autonomy, deeper clinical authority, and the ability to impact patient care on a whole new level.

If you’re an ICU nurse who thrives in high-acuity settings and wants more say in diagnoses, prescriptions, and long-term care plans, APRN practice might be your next move. And if you’re a nursing student already thinking ahead? You’re in the right place.

In this post, you’ll learn:

• The different types of APRNs (CRNA, NP, PMHNP, CNM, ACNP, and more)

• Why ICU nurses are uniquely equipped to succeed in APRN roles

• How to choose the path that aligns with your goals, strengths, and lifestyle

• What it takes—education-wise, time-wise, and financially—to get there

Whether you’re ready to apply or just exploring options, this guide will help you understand the possibilities and plan your next step with confidence. Let’s dive in!

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You ever have that moment on shift—you’re titrating three drips, running a code, and managing family updates—and think, “I love this, but I want more”? Not just more income (although let’s be honest—that matters too), but more autonomy, more clinical responsibility, and more say in how patient care unfolds?

That’s the moment a lot of ICU nurses begin thinking about becoming an APRN. And if you’re a nursing student who already feels that pull? Even better. Let’s walk through what it takes, how long it’ll take, and whether it’s worth it (spoiler: it probably is).

What Is an APRN, Really?

An APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) is a licensed nurse who holds a graduate-level nursing degree—either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)—and is certified to practice at a more advanced level of care. APRNs can assess, diagnose, prescribe, and manage patient treatment independently in many states.

APRNs typically practice in one of the following roles:

• CRNA – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
• NP – Nurse Practitioner (specialties include family, acute care, psych, women’s health)
• PMHNP – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• CNM – Certified Nurse Midwife
• CNS – Clinical Nurse Specialist

Each role has its own clinical focus, but what connects them is the advanced training, responsibility, and impact on patient outcomes.

What is an APRN: ICU nurses already work with a high level of autonomy. Becoming an APRN simply gives you the title, training, and license to match.

Why ICU Nurses Make Strong APRN Candidates

ICU nurses are uniquely positioned to pursue advanced practice. You already work in high-stakes environments. You manage complex hemodynamics, collaborate across interdisciplinary teams, and anticipate patient deterioration in real time. That type of clinical judgment isn’t taught overnight—it’s earned at the bedside.

This is exactly why CRNA and ACNP programs often require or strongly prefer critical care experience. It’s not just about checking a box—it’s about building the clinical readiness to transition into provider-level responsibility.

You’re already functioning with a high level of autonomy. Becoming an APRN simply gives you the title, training, and license to match.

Choosing the Best APRN Role

There is no one-size-fits-all route. The right APRN path for you depends on your clinical interests, long-term goals, and work-life preferences.

If you’re not 100% sure where you want to land yet, that’s normal. Many APRNs pursue additional certifications later in their career to broaden their scope or pivot into a new specialty.

We also strongly recommend shadowing– not only required for most CRNA programs, shadowing can give you insights into each role and drive your passion- and decision! 

What Degree Do You Need? How Long Does It Take?

To become an APRN, you’ll need:

• A graduate-level nursing degree (MSN or DNP)
• National certification in your specialty (e.g., NBCRNA for CRNAs, AANP or ANCC for NPs)
• State licensure as an APRN

If you already have a BSN:

• MSN (for NP, CNM, or CNS roles): approximately 2 years full-time
• DNP (for NP or CRNA): approximately 3 years
• CRNA (DNP is required): most programs are 36 months, full-time only

If you’re entering with an ADN:

• Add 12–18 months for an RN-to-BSN bridge before applying to graduate school

Keep in mind: state laws can impact your APRN scope of practice. In some states, APRNs can prescribe independently and open their own practices. Others require physician oversight. You can check your state’s rules via the AANP Practice Authority Map.

Highest-Paying APRN Roles

Here’s a look at current average salaries across APRN specialties:

Role	Average Salary
CRNA	$190,000–$250,000+
PMHNP	$125,000–$170,000
Neonatal NP	$120,000–$150,000
ACNP	$110,000–$145,000
FNP	$105,000–$125,000

CRNAs consistently rank among the highest-paid nursing roles in the country, often exceeding $200,000 annually. NPs—especially in high-demand specialties like psych—can also earn six figures, with additional income potential through 1099 work, weekend shifts, or telehealth.

If you want a data-driven look at salaries, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics or check specialty-specific certifying boards like the NBCRNA.

Licensure, Clinical Hours, and Certification Requirements

APRNs must complete a combination of clinical training hours, didactic coursework, and a national certification exam before applying for licensure.

• NPs and CNMs: typically 500–700+ clinical hours
• DNP programs: approximately 1,000 clinical hours
• CRNAs: over 2,000 hours of clinical anesthesia experience before graduation

Post-graduation, you’ll sit for your certifying board exam and apply for state licensure. If your role includes prescribing authority, you’ll also register with the DEA.

Many APRNs go on to practice independently or open private practices, especially in full-practice authority states.

What Nurses Wish They Knew Before Becoming an APRN

A few things I wish more nurses were told upfront:

• CRNA school is rigorous—full-time, immersive, and not compatible with outside work. It’s also very competitive to get into.
• Not all NP programs are created equal—prioritize accredited programs with strong preceptor support
• Documentation is part of the job—as an APRN, you’ll be expected to provide clinical rationale for every order and prescription
• ICU nurses already think critically—but APRN training will require you to think like a provider, not a task-oriented clinician

And remember: you can evolve. Many APRNs later pursue post-master’s certifications in other specialties, or even pivot into leadership, education, or business ownership.

Final Thoughts for Nurses Who Are Considering Becoming an APRN

Becoming an APRN isn’t just a career move—it’s a mindset shift. It takes commitment, resilience, and a deep belief in your ability to grow.

But if you’ve ever felt pulled toward leadership, craved more autonomy, or wanted to play a more central role in your patients’ care, this path might be exactly what you’re meant for. 

You already have the clinical foundation. You already lead under pressure. Now it’s just about taking the next step.

Want more CRNA insights? Sign up for my FREE LIVE Webinar “Stand Out & Get In” to learn everything you need to know about getting into CRNA school. 

You got this, future CRNA! We’re cheering you on. 

-Jenny Finnell, MSN, CRNA
Founder of CRNA School Prep Academy

Related Topics: 

• What Does a CRNA Do? How Do You Become a CRNA? 
• What’s the Difference Between CRNA & NP?
• What’s the Difference Between CRNA, Anesthesiologist and AA?
• What’s the Fastest Way to Become a CRNA?
• Is Becoming a CRNA Worth It?
• CRNA Salary Information

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1. What does APRN stand for?
APRN stands for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. It refers to licensed nurses who have completed graduate-level education (MSN or DNP) and are certified to provide advanced clinical care, including diagnosing, prescribing, and managing treatment plans.

2. What are the different types of APRNs?
The main APRN roles include:

• CRNA – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

• NP – Nurse Practitioner (e.g., FNP, ACNP, PMHNP)

• PMHNP – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

• CNM – Certified Nurse Midwife

• CNS – Clinical Nurse Specialist
  Each has a unique clinical focus, but all require advanced training and licensure.

3. What’s the best APRN path for ICU nurses?
It depends on your interests:

• CRNA: For those who love procedures, pharmacology, and independence

• ACNP: Great for ICU nurses who enjoy inpatient care and complex cases

• PMHNP: Ideal if you’re drawn to mental health and trauma-informed care

• FNP: Best for outpatient flexibility and community-based roles

• CNS: Great if you’re passionate about education, systems improvement, and EBP leadership

4. How long does it take to become an APRN?
With a BSN:

• MSN (NP, CNM, CNS): ~2 years full-time

• DNP (NP or CRNA): ~3 years

• CRNA (required DNP): ~36 months full-time only
  With an ADN: Add 12–18 months for an RN-to-BSN bridge program before grad school.

5. Do APRNs make more money than RNs?
Yes. APRNs typically earn six figures, with salaries depending on the role and location. For example:

• CRNAs: $190,000–$250,000+

• PMHNPs: $125,000–$170,000

• FNPs/ACNPs: $105,000–$145,000
  These numbers may vary based on experience, setting, and specialty.

6. Can APRNs practice independently?
It depends on your state. Some states offer full practice authority, allowing APRNs to diagnose, prescribe, and manage care without physician oversight. Others require some level of collaboration. Check the AANP State Practice Map for your state’s rules.

7. Is CRNA school harder than NP school?
CRNA programs are typically more intensive and immersive, requiring full-time commitment and thousands of clinical hours. NP programs vary but often allow more flexibility. Both are rigorous and rewarding in different ways.

8. What kind of clinical hours are required for APRNs?

• NPs/CNMs: ~500–700+ clinical hours

• DNP programs: ~1,000 hours

• CRNAs: ~2,000+ hours in anesthesia before graduation

9. Do I need ICU experience to become an APRN?
Not for all APRN roles—but for CRNA and ACNP, ICU experience is either required or strongly preferred. It provides the critical thinking and clinical readiness needed to step into high-acuity provider roles.

10. Can I switch specialties later as an APRN?
Yes. Many APRNs pursue post-master’s certifications in new specialties later in their careers. For example, some start as FNPs and later become PMHNPs or ACNPs, depending on their evolving interests.

Important Links

Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com