How long it will take, depends on where you go and how many classes you have under your belt already.
"You have 2 options in PA school depending on where you apply."
Many 4 year BS PA schools exist, however, the competition in those applicant classes is great and most applicants already have a prior BS in some science setting and an average of 5 years in the health field.
"A PA is usually a four year degree while a Nurse Practitioner is usually a 2-3 year Masters in Nursing program."
Actually, PA schools are usually Master's degree programs that last 2-3 years, with the minority of programs left being BS 4 year programs as mentioned above"
"One focuses on Nursing Practice, skills the other is for Medical School wannabees. It will focus more on diseases than the patient same as a doctor does."
PA schools are not for "medical school wanna-bees" as Mr. Lopez suggests. Perhaps he should apply and actually get admitted to an actual program before stereotyping on who actual PA students are. Many PA students, again the average age is 30 years old, and 5 years healthare experience, seek to enter patient care and gain knowledge and skills to care for and educate patients just as an NP or MD would and want to be an important member of the healthcare team. Most PA students would rather not invest 4 yrs in medical school and 3 years in residency and limit themselves in 1 practice setting. As a PA, you can practice in any medical setting your supervising physician is practicing.
"I'd suggest getting at least two years of floor experience in an acute care setting to solidfy your nursing skills and gain experience."
This is about the only worthwhile advice he's given.
"Once you have that behind you, you'll always be able to find work and you can go anywhere in Nursing or Advance Practice."
More good advice
Wish you luck.
Andrew Lopez, RN
Nursefriendly.com, A National Nursing & Consumer Health Directory