How do I become a PHN?

Upon earning a nursing degree, a person will need to become licensed to practice as a Resident Nurse (RN). NCLEX-RN stands for National Council Licensure Examination- Registered Nurse and is a nationwide exam for nurses to become licensed in the United States. The exam assesses the clinical knowledge, critical thinking skills, and abilities needed to become an entry-level nurse.

The last step is to obtain certification. Certification typically happens after a nurse has a few years of experience working in their field. Public health certification is the only certification for individuals in the public health nursing field and can be used for anyone interested in public health.

Requirements for becoming a PHN:

• At least a bachelor's degree, in any concentration, and at least five subsequent years of public health work experience

• A relevant graduate-level degree and at least three subsequent years' public health work experience

• A certificate from a school or program of public health that is accredited by or in applicant status with CEPH and at least three subsequent years' public health work experience