Can I Become an NP with a Biology Degree? Yes — Here’s How

Are you interested in becoming a nurse practitioner but don’t have an undergraduate nursing degree? You’re not alone, and the good news is that you don't need a second bachelor’s degree to make it happen.

Whether you’re a recent graduate with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or a professional looking to switch careers, nursing (specifically advanced practice nursing) offers a rewarding and in-demand path forward.

This guide will walk you through how to become a nurse practitioner without an undergraduate nursing degree. We’ll cover programs such as the University of San Diego’s Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN), which provide an accelerated, graduate-level route to becoming a registered nurse and pave the way to becoming a nurse practitioner — even if you’ve never worked in healthcare.

Can You Become an NP If You Didn't Study Nursing as an Undergrad?

The short answer is yes. But it’s important to understand that becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) starts with first becoming a registered nurse (RN).

While many NP pathways begin with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), there are alternative routes for those who hold a non-nursing undergraduate degree.

For example, the University of San Diego’s Master’s Entry Program in Nursing offers a graduate-level path that leads to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and prepares students to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Passing the NCLEX is required to become a licensed RN.

Programs like MEPN are designed specifically for students with non-nursing backgrounds. They provide a streamlined path to RN licensure, without the need to earn a second bachelor’s degree. After becoming licensed, MEPN graduates can pursue additional education and certification to become a nurse practitioner.

What Do You Need to Become a Nurse Practitioner?

To become a nurse practitioner, you’ll need a combination of advanced education, clinical experience, and certification. This typically includes: 

• An undergraduate degree, most often a Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing. While a BSN isn’t strictly required, it’s the most common pathway since it provides the foundation needed to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing, which is necessary for NP licensure.
• Passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to obtain your registered nurse (RN) license. 
• Completing a nurse practitioner-focused graduate degree program, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). 
• Passing a national nurse practitioner board certification exam in your chosen population focus (e.g. family, adult-gerontology, pediatrics).

The Traditional Route That Most Schools Offer to Become an NP

The traditional route to becoming a nurse practitioner typically includes the following steps:

• Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain your RN license
• Gain clinical experience (typically 1–2 years)
• Pursue a graduate degree, such as an MSN or DNP
• Pass a national NP certification exam in your specialty area
• Obtain state NP licensure and any additional required certifications

An Alternate Route to Becoming an NP: The USD MEPN Pathway

Some people decide to become nurses after majoring in a different field or transitioning from another career. For these individuals, the University of San Diego offers the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing, which is a graduate-level program designed specifically for students without a nursing background.

Also referred to as a direct-entry nursing program, MEPN is tailored to aspiring nurses with an undergraduate degree (or higher) in a non-nursing field. 

MEPN students come from all walks of life and a variety of fields and backgrounds, including biology, psychology, education, the military, the arts, finance, and technology.  

The program is completed in four terms and awards a Master of Science in Nursing degree. It provides both a strong foundation in nursing and master’s-level courses focused on leadership skills essential for today’s healthcare environment.

MEPN vs. Traditional Paths — What Are the Differences?

The main difference between a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing and a traditional nursing path lies in where students start their journey.

MEPN students enter at the graduate level and earn an MSN, whereas traditional students typically begin at the undergraduate level, working toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Because MEPN students already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, they often bring valuable transferable skills from prior careers, such as leadership, communication, or scientific research, which can enhance their nursing practice. 

Here’s a brief side-by-side comparison:

13 Steps to Becoming an NP Through the MEPN Pathway

Ready to start your nursing journey? Here’s a step-by-step guide. 

The Application Process 

1. Check key application dates. Be sure to review all opening and closing deadlines for the MEPN program. 
2. Complete the required prerequisite courses before applying. All prerequisite courses must be completed prior to application, with a minimum grade of B in science courses and C- in the others. All coursework must be graded (no pass/no pass), and Study.com coursework completed after Nov. 1, 2023, will not be accepted. Courses taken with Study.com prior to this date will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Required courses include: 

• Human anatomy 
• Human physiology 
• Microbiology 
• Psychology (intro, general, or developmental)
• Cultural anthropology or sociology (intro)
• English composition
• Communication (intro to communication, speech, public speaking, or oral communication)
• Statistics
• Nutrition

Anatomy, physiology, and microbiology must be four semester units with a lab. All other courses must be at least three semester units.

We recommend reviewing the MEPN Prerequisite Course Descriptions to ensure your coursework meets USD's requirements.

1. Submit an online application NursingCAS. This includes your personal statement, resume or CV, two letters of recommendation, and your official transcripts (or international transcripts). International students must submit an official score from an English proficiency exam.
2. Complete an in-person interview (if invited). Some MEPN applicants will be invited to participate in an in-person interview as part of the selection process. This interview is the final step for candidates being considered for admission.

Once Accepted 

1. Submit deposit and confirm enrollment. Secure your spot in the program by submitting your enrollment deposit. 
2. Complete onboarding health requirements. This includes immunizations, a physical exam, background check, drug screening, CPR certification, and more. These must be completed before the program begins. 
3. Purchase required supplies. You’ll need scrubs, a stethoscope, textbooks, and any additional materials specified by your instructors.
4. Prepare for a full-time commitment. The MEPN program is accelerated and intensive, totaling 58 units. Students must attend full-time and complete clinical rotations primarily in hospital settings within a 100-mile radius of USD’s campus. Some clinical rotations may also be held in community-based settings that care for underserved and vulnerable populations. These may include community health clinics, school-based health programs for unhoused youth, residential recovery and substance use treatment centers, neighborhood-based wellness and social service hubs, nutrition support programs for medically vulnerable individuals, and women’s shelters for survivors of domestic violence.

After Graduation

1. Pass the NCLEX exam: After completing the MEPN program and earning a Master of Science in Nursing, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX. Passing this exam is required to obtain RN licensure through your state’s Board of Nursing, which is a critical step before practicing as a nurse or pursuing advanced clinical education.
2. Plan your nurse practitioner path: While the MEPN program culminates in an MSN degree and eligibility to obtain RN licensure, it does not include nurse practitioner training. Graduates who wish to become NPs can apply to a post-master’s certificate program or a Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Most NP programs require at least one to two years of RN experience before admission, as this clinical background is essential for NP specialization and certification.
3. Enroll in a NP-focused graduate or certificate program: Once you’ve gained the required clinical experience, you can apply to a nurse practitioner program in your chosen speciality area (e.g. family, adult-gerontology, psychiatric-mental health). These programs provide the advanced coursework and supervised clinical hours needed for NP certification. 
4. Sit for the NP certification exam. After completing your NP program, you’ll be eligible to take the national board certification in your NP speciality. Passing this exam is required to become a certified nurse practitioner. 
5. Apply for NP licensure. Once certified, you’ll apply for licensure as an NP through your state’s Board of Nursing. At this point, you’re officially authorized to work as a nurse practitioner.

*Requirements may vary by state, so be sure to check with your specific Board of Nursing.

Why Biology Majors Are Strong Candidates for Nursing Practice

Biology majors enter nursing programs with a solid foundation in the sciences, which is an essential part of a comprehensive nursing education. This scientific background gives students a head start, and the MEPN program builds on it by deepening their understanding of human health and disease.

In addition, biology majors are often trained in critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific reasoning. They’re typically familiar with lab work, research methods, medical terminology, and scientific literature, all of which can help them grasp nursing concepts more quickly.

Their prior exposure to anatomy and physiology supports a strong foundation in clinical nursing practice, while their academic experience in pharmacology and pathophysiology prepares them for the demand of graduate-level coursework. 

Finally, experience in collaborative lab settings translates well to team-based care in healthcare environments.

9 Things to Consider When Deciding to Become an NP as a Non-Nurse

Changing direction to become a nurse is a meaningful and rewarding step, but it’s also a significant one. Here are some key factors to consider.

1. Time commitment: The MEPN program is full-time and highly rigorous, with course schedules that vary each semester. To succeed, students must prioritize the program above all other commitments. We strongly discourage working more than 16 hours per week, and night shifts are not recommended.
2. Financial investment: A graduate degree is an investment in your future, but it’s a financial investment, too. The University of San Diego offers financial aid to help make higher education more accessible. Students may be eligible for loans, grants, and nursing-specific scholarships.
3. Intensity of a graduate-level nursing program: Graduate-level programs such as MEPN are fast-paced and academically challenging. Students are expected to master complex concepts quickly and balance coursework with clinical hours. It’s an intense but rewarding experience that requires complete dedication. 
4. Your long-term career goals: Before committing to the MEPN program, it’s important to reflect on your long-term career goals. Do you want to become an advanced practice nurse, pursue leadership roles, or eventually earn a doctorate? While the MEPN program prepares you to become a licensed RN, additional education is required if your goal is to become a nurse practitioner. Most NP pathways require one to two years of RN experience before you can enroll in a post-master’s certificate or DNP program. Clarifying your goals now can help ensure this path aligns with your future plans and timelines.
5. Licensing requirements: Graduates of the MEPN program are eligible to become licensed registered nurses after passing the NCLEX-RN exam. If you plan to pursue advanced practice as a nurse practitioner, you’ll typically need to gain one to two years of RN experience before enrolling in a post-master’s certificate program or a Doctor of Nursing Practice program. These advanced opportunities provide the specialized clinical training and education required to sit for a national certification exam in your chosen NP specialty.
6. Support: While the MEPN program is intensive and structured, students are not expected to navigate it alone. You’ll have access to a wide range of USD’s support services, including academic advising, wellness resources, and faculty mentorship. Just as important is having a strong support system at home. Surround yourself with people who understand the demands of the program and can help you manage responsibilities outside of school.
7. Prerequisite coursework: Make sure you have completed all required science prerequisites, such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics, before applying.
8. Geographic flexibility for clinical rotations: Clinical placements may occur at various healthcare sites within a wide radius of the school, which may require travel, reliable transportation, and schedule flexibility.
9. Work-life balance: Because of the accelerated pace and clinical demands, most students are unable to maintain outside employment while enrolled in the program.

Start Your Nurse Practitioner Journey With USD’s MEPN Program 

The Master’s Entry Program in Nursing at the University of San Diego is your gateway to a rewarding nursing career, designed specifically for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. With students from a wide range of professional and academic backgrounds, the program fosters a collaborative and inclusive learning environment where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged.

Students gain hands-on experience in the state-of-the-art Dickinson Nursing Simulation Center, where they practice real-world clinical scenarios using high-fidelity manikins and professional actors as standardized patients.

Looking for more information or want to connect with our admissions team? Just fill out this form, and we’ll be in touch soon!

FAQs

Can I become an NP with a bachelor’s degree in biology?

Yes. In fact, a biology degree provides a strong scientific foundation and valuable skills like critical thinking and familiarity with medical terminology, giving you a meaningful head start in the MEPN program and nursing career.

How long does it take to become an NP if I don’t have a nursing degree?

First, you’ll need to become a registered nurse. At USD, the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing takes approximately 18 months and leads to a Master of Science in Nursing degree. After completing the program and passing the NCLEX-RN, most students spend one to two years gaining clinical experience as a licensed RN before applying to a nurse practitioner program.

The length of NP programs can vary based on the pathway you choose. Options include post-master’s certificate programs and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. Some DNP tracks follow a stepwise model, allowing students to become licensed as nurse practitioners partway through the program before completing the remaining doctoral coursework. Depending on the structure, NP programs typically take an additional two to three years to complete.

Do I need healthcare experience before applying to USD’s MEPN program?

No. The MEPN program is designed for students from non-nursing backgrounds, including fields such as finance, arts, technology, science, and more. 

Can I specialize as an NP if I didn’t have prior experience as a nurse?

Absolutely! Programs like USD’s MEPN are specifically designed for students coming from non-nursing backgrounds. They provide a solid foundation in clinical skills, leadership, and nursing practice. After completing the MEPN and becoming a licensed RN, you’ll be ready to gain the hands-on experience needed — typically one to two years — as a registered nurse. This experience is important before applying to a nurse practitioner program, where you’ll receive specialized training and clinical hours to earn your NP certification. Many MEPN graduates have successfully followed this pathway to become nurse practitioners.