What's the difference between an FNP and an NP?

Advanced practice nursing allows you to choose from a broad range of specialties. Discover the similarities and differences between an FNP vs. NP, including the required education, certification, and practice environment.

Similarities between an FNP and an NP

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are one of the specialties that nurse practitioners (NPs) can choose to become board certified in. FNPs and NPs share several key similarities in salary, responsibilities, curriculum, and job outlook.

In both roles, you practice as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), which requires a master's or doctorate in nursing.

FNPs and NPs generally earn comparable salaries because of their advanced qualifications and similar roles within the healthcare setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary of nurse practitioners is $126,260 as of May 2023.

Both FNPs and NPs share common responsibilities. They can diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and manage patient care. For those studying to become either an FNP or NP, the curriculum includes advanced courses in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment.

The job outlook is very positive with a projected growth rate of 46% from 2023 to 2033 — this is not only much faster than the average for all occupations, but it also ranks third in the fastest-growing occupations during the same period. An increasing emphasis on prevention and demand from an aging population may contribute to the growth.

Education and certification differences: FNP vs. NP

The required education and certifications that qualify you for advanced practice roles are among the key differences between an FNP and an NP.

Family nurse practitioner (FNP)

FNP programs can prepare nurses to deliver comprehensive, family-focused healthcare. The program curriculum covers a broad spectrum of patient care spanning infancy to older adults.

Programs emphasize prevention, disease management, and education. Your coursework includes specialty classes, including pediatrics, adolescent, adult, gerontological, and women's health. You complete courses that help to manage various health conditions across the lifespan.

Certification requires that you complete an accredited FNP program and pass the national certification examination that focuses on family practice. Your FNP certification requires renewal, and you usually must submit continuing education credits specific to your field.

Nurse practitioner (NP)

Nurse practitioner programs can prepare registered nurses for advanced clinical roles. You can choose from specialized areas such as pediatrics, gerontology, psychiatry, and women's health. Specialty coursework can help equip you with the skills necessary to manage specific patient populations.

Licensure as a nurse practitioner requires at least a master's degree in nursing, which emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced health assessment, and pharmacology.

Some nursing organizations believe the doctoral degree best prepares nurses for clinical practice and are pushing for a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) to be the minimum degree required for NPs.

You must complete an accredited NP program to qualify for a national certification exam. Certification ensures that you meet rigorous professional standards in your chosen practice area.

Practice differences: FNP vs. NP

Significant differences in practice between an FNP and an NP include areas of responsibility and patient populations that may be the deciding factor in your chosen field.

Family nurse practitioner (FNP)

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) differ from other nurse practitioner specialties in the scope of practice and patient populations. FNPs deliver comprehensive care across the lifespan, which is a significant factor that sets them apart from other NPs, who specialize in a specific demographic group or diagnosis.

FNPs work in varied settings, including family practice clinics, schools, and community health centers. Their broad responsibilities usually include preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses.

To obtain FNP certification needed to practice, you must pass one of two family practitioner examinations.

According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, 70.3% of all NPs are FNPs.

Nurse practitioner (NP)

Nurse practitioner specialties focus on primary care in adult gerontology, pediatrics, and women's health. Other specialties include mental health, acute care, and neonatal care.

These specialized focuses distinguish FNPs from NPs, including patient populations, work settings, and certifications. Specialized NPs tailor care to specific patient groups and work in settings that align with their patient focus, such as pediatric clinics, psychiatric facilities, or nursing homes.

They specialize in specific types of care or treatment that pertain to their chosen specialty. These NPs concentrate on conditions and treatments that can include a range of complex chronic diseases or provide specialized counseling.

Certification for specialized NPs is specific to the area of practice. You must pass national certification examinations distinctly different from an FNP exam.

Which nurse practitioner specialty is right for me?

Choosing the right nurse practitioner specialty for you hinges on several factors, including your personal interests, career goals, and desired work-life balance.

For example, FNPs provide family-centered care across all age groups, which may make them the best choice for those who enjoy varied patient interactions and comprehensive care.

By comparison, specialized NPs focus on specific patient demographics, allowing for deeper expertise in pediatrics, geriatrics, or psychiatry. Nurses with a passion and appreciation for roles in specialized settings such as psychiatric units, elder care facilities, or pediatric offices generally find the NP career path satisfying.

Curriculum and certification differences can prepare you for your chosen specialty. Ultimately, the decision should align with your passion for specific health issues and patient groups, balancing personal interests with professional opportunities.