Nurse Practitioner was recently named the No. 1 Best Job for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report, and one key factor in the ranking was “future prospects,” scoring a 9.9/10.
This outlook is backed up by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, which show that employment of NPs will grow by about 37% nationally through 2033 (against overall workforce growth of about 3%).
What’s behind this surge in demand for NPs? Here are three big factors:
1. Population Shifts
When the first nurse practitioner program was established in 1965, individuals over age 65 represented less than a tenth of the population. Soon, that figure will more than double.
With seniors requiring two to three times as much medical care as working-age adults, there’s an urgent need to expand and strengthen the healthcare workforce.
Advanced practice clinicians like Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioners (AGPCNPs) will play a critical role in enhancing preventive services and continuity of care with a patient-centered approach.
2. Provider Shortages
Patients aren’t the only ones who are aging – doctors are, too. Nearly a quarter of physicians are pre-retirees (55–64).
Meanwhile, limited funding for residencies has meant that people are already struggling to find primary care providers, especially in rural regions (Chenango, Hamilton, Seneca, and Yates counties in upstate New York are designated Health Professional Shortage Areas).
With a shorter, less expensive pathway to practice, nurse practitioners are going to be a major part of the solution.
3. Patient Satisfaction
This study of discharge data for over one million hospital patients proves that nurse practitioners are making a real difference in people’s lives.
From pain management to readmission rates, more NPs means higher patient satisfaction. Likewise, in primary care, NPs are increasingly earning recognition and trust.
In the 28 states (including New York) where NPs have full practice authority, patients appreciate seeing providers who can expertly diagnose and prescribe as part of a holistic model of care.
Nursing at Keuka College: Prepared for What’s Next
“I’m in a completely different role from nursing – I’m a provider in a primary care office with a great collaborating physician. Instead of following orders, you’re giving them.”
“The strong job outlook for advanced practice providers is just one motivator for nurses looking to become nurse practitioners,” said Dr. Beth Russo, who directs the AGCNP master’s and post-master’s programs at Keuka College. “It’s also a professional move that offers greater autonomy and earning potential.”
Having served as an NP in the Veterans Administration system prior to her academic career, Dr. Russo understands the vital role that nonphysician practitioners play in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.
“Keuka College has stayed at the forefront of nursing education for over 80 years, and we’re ready to meet increased demand for skilled and compassionate clinicians.”
Start Calling the Shots
Ready to take your nursing career to the next level? Our flexible hybrid NP programs are designed to give you the skills and confidence to secure your future and transform lives. Find out more today.
