How is an NP different from a Physician Assistant (PA)?

PAs are healthcare professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. A PA typically has a bachelor’s degree and four years of healthcare experience then completes a 26-month intensive, accredited education program. A PA’s education is solely competency-based (mastery of certain clinical skills taught in their PA program). Upon graduation, PAs take a national certification examination. Graduation from an accredited PA program and passage of the national certifying exam are required for state licensure. On the other hand, almost all NPs are master’s degree prepared nurses who have completed advanced education and training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions, including chronic illnesses. Nurse Practitioners are distinctly different from Physician's Assistants in clinical experience, educational preparation, and autonomy. Nurse Practitioners have years of clinical experience in addition to advanced education at the Master's level or above. ...  more