Your guide to nursing degrees and certifications (2023)

Your guide to nursing degrees and certifications

Nursing is one of the largest healthcare professions in the US According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of nursing positions is expected to grow much faster than average compared to other occupations.1]. But there is more than one path to becoming a nurse.

Getting started in this in-demand field can involve earning a certification or earning a master's degree, depending on your career goals. We'll take a closer look at the types of nursing degrees and certifications you can choose from, and why each could be best for you.

Types of Nursing Degrees and Certifications.

If you're interested in starting or advancing your nursing career, you have a number of different degrees to choose from. It is possible to become a nurse even without a diploma. Let's go through your options.

CNA certification

are earningcertified nursing assistant(CNA) allows you to jump-start a career without having to earn a degree. CNAs help people with mental or physical disabilities with daily needs. Many CNAs work in assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes, or provide home care services.

The day-to-day duties of a CNA may include:

• Assist patients with bathing and dressing

• IntakeVital functions

• drug administration

• provide companionship

Certification Requirements:To become a CNA, you must complete a state-approved training program. This generally includes four to 12 weeks of study and a set number of supervised clinical hours. Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent.

CNA-salaris:The median annual salary for CNAs and male nurses (as of 2021) was $30,290 per year or $14.56 per hour according to the BLS [2].

For who is it?Opt for a CNA certification if you want to work in patient care right out of high school. It's also a great way to see if a nursing career is right for you without a huge financial commitment.

Deposit:If you decide that a career in nursing is a good fit for you, you can use your CNA certification as a springboard to earn a nursing degree.

LPN/LVN certification

Licensed Practical Nurses (known as Registered Vocational Nurses in Texas and California) work on the front lines of patient care, assisting physicians andregistered nurses.

LPNs and LVNs often work in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. Day-to-day duties are similar to those of CNAs, but more extensive, and may include supervision of CNAs.

Certification Requirements:To become an LPN, you must complete a state-approved training program. These programs provide classroom learning in nursing, biology, and pharmacology, as well as supervised clinical experience. Once you complete the program, you can take the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-PN) to obtain your license.

Salary LVN and LPN:LVNs and LPNs earn an average salary of $48,070 per year or $23.11 per hour (as of 2021) according to the BLS [3].

For who is it?Getting your LPN/LVN credential is a good option if you know you are interested in a career in nursing and want to get started within a year.

Deposit:Once you are an LPN, you can improve your job prospects with specialized certifications (such as IV therapy or CPR). Complete an LPN to RN degree program to become a registered nurse.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

One of the fastest ways to get oneregistered nurse(RN) is through an associate degree program. An associate's degree in nursing typically takes two years of full-time study at a community college or university. The degree qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam in your state.

These programs combine nursing education with more general education in the sciences and liberal arts.

RNs work in a variety of healthcare facilities and organizations, including hospitals, doctor's offices, schools, and clinics. In this role, you will typically work with physicians and other healthcare professionals to:

• assess patients

• Design treatment plans

• administer treatment

• Operate medical equipment

DNA Requirements:While admission requirements vary by school, most include a high school diploma or its equivalent, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), and a passing score on the Health Education Systems Incorporated Admissions Assessment (HESI) exam.

RN Salary:The median salary for registered nurses in 2021 was $77,600 per year or $37.31 per hour according to the BLS [4]. This also applies to RNs at the undergraduate level. In general, the more advanced your degree, the more you can expect to earn as an RN.

For who is it?Consider an ADN if you want to start your nursing career or progress from an LPN/LVN position. With this degree, you can start earning money and experience without the cost and time commitment of a four-year degree. ADN programs generally offer more flexibility with evening and weekend classes.

Deposit:Once you are a licensed RN, you can earn your nursing degree through an accelerated RN to BSN program. Your DNA credits can be transferred, so that you can fill in a BSN in just one extra academic year.

With this higher degree, you can qualify for higher paying and more supervisory positions. Some hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for bridging programs for employees.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Most entry-level RNs have a bachelor's degree in nursing. Earning a BSN typically requires four years of full-time study. This is usually split between general education courses and nursing courses and clinical rotation. Like DNA, it qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN exam.

In addition to improving your chances of getting better paying jobs, BSN courses help you improve your clinical skills so you can provide better, more effective care to your patients. Nurses with a BSN degree can often move on to administrative and leadership positions or get a job at the Magnet hospitals (referred to as the best in the country).

Social Security Requirements:Requirements vary by school, but generally include a high school diploma or equivalent, ACT and SAT scores, and interviews. Some programs require you to take two years of general courses with a minimum GPA before being accepted into the nursing program.

For who is it?Choosing a BSN degree opens up a wider range of opportunities in the nursing field. If you are considering pursuing a master's degree in the future, you will need a bachelor's degree as a requirement.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Earning a master's degree in nursing opens up numerous career opportunities in nursing as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Serve as a primary or specialty care provider as a nurse practitioner (NP), or pursue a career in anesthesiology, obstetrics, or clinical nursing.

Most MSN programs require approximately two years of full-time study to complete. This can be longer for part-time courses or shorter for accelerated courses. The degree qualifies you to sit for an advanced licensing exam, such as:

• nurse(NOTARY)

• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

• Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

MSN Requirements:Most MSN programs favor applicants with a BSN, although some schools offer bridging programs for RNs with an associate's degree. Typically, you need at least one year of clinical experience as an RN, as well as standardized graduate-level test scores (GRE, MAT, GMAT, or MCAT).

APRN Salary:APRNs earn an average salary of $123,780 per year ($59.51 per hour) according to the BLS [5]. Nurse anesthetists typically earn the highest salaries, followed by NPs and nurse midwives.

For who is it?If you are a practicing registered nurse ready to advance your career, an MSN degree may be for you.

Deposit:While many APRNs drop out at the master's level, others earn a doctorate or doctorate in nursing.

Joint Masters in Nursing (MPH, MHA, MBA)

If your career goals relate to senior healthcare positions, consider dual training. In this model, you complete two graduate programs at the same time. Popular options include an MSN linked to:

• Master of Public Health (MPH):Learn how clinical practice and community well-being go hand-in-hand as you work toward leadership positions in government andPublic healthorganizations

• Master in Business Administration:Prepare for leadership roles in hospitals and large healthcare organizations with advanced courses in nursing and business strategy. This is best for experienced nurses with a Social Security number who want to move into leadership positions.

• Master of Health Administration (MHA):This dual degree program provides nurses with a path to advance into management roles in education and healthcare settings. You will enjoy greater work flexibility by choosing between clinical or administrative roles.

Expect to study full-time for two to three years to complete a joint master's degree (longer for part-time students). In general, you must apply for each program separately.

Read more: ¿Is it worth an MPH?

doctorates in nursing

At the doctoral level, nursing students have two main options: a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Doctor of Nursing. Both typically take three to five years to complete.

The DNP is the highest degree you can earn in clinical nursing. This terminal degree qualifies you for the most sought-after positions in nursing management and leadership. RNs with a DNP degree can also have their own private practice in 23 states. As training requirements for nursing shift to higher level learning, registered nurses in practice will likely need a DNP in the future.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in nursing prepare you for scholarly careers in nursing education, health care policy, and scientific research.

DNP and PhD Requirements:Depending on the school, doctoral nursing programs often require a master's degree from an accredited nursing program and nursing experience. DNP programs generally require an APRN license, while PhD programs may only require a valid RN license.

For who is it?Earning a terminal nursing degree will make you a respected leader in the nursing field with advanced skills that can keep you in demand for years to come.

Online Nursing Degrees Vs. on campus

No matter what level of nursing you're seeking, you likely have the option of getting your degree online or in person. Both options have their own pros and cons.

Accredited online programs are growing in popularity for their value and flexibility. Many programs allow you to study at your own pace so you can continue to gain valuable nursing experience, earn a salary, and meet other commitments. You can choose from programs across the country instead of being limited to programs in your area. Online classes are sometimes less expensive than their on-site counterparts, although they generally cover the same materials.

On-campus programs offer a structured schedule and personal interaction that can keep nursing students on track. Earning your degree in a campus environment also gives you access to university services and facilities that may not be available online.

Read more: How hard is nursing school? tips for success

Since nursing is a hands-on profession, most certificate and diploma programs require some supervised clinical experience. If you are enrolled in an online nursing program, you can often complete your clinical hours at an approved location near you.

Is a Nursing Career Worth It?

Working toward a nursing degree takes time and money. You should consider your personal career goals and lifestyle when deciding which degree or certificate is right for you. While you can start a career in nursing without a degree, earning a degree unlocks more advanced skills, new career opportunities, and greater earning potential.

Median Annual Salaries by Nursing Level in 2021 (BLS)

Remember that many nursing careers offer bridging programs. Start with a more basic degree or certification and work your way up to a higher level once you're ready.

Other healthcare jobs

Nursing may be the most popular field in healthcare, but it's not the only one. If you're interested in helping others live healthier lives, here are some alternative career paths to consider.

• medical technicianscollect samples and perform tests on body fluids and tissues to help evaluate health problems.

• Public healthexpertsworking to make communities as healthy as possible.

• health administratorsAssist in coordinating the business practices of healthcare providers and facilities.

• Paramedici en Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT's)perform emergency medical services and transport patients to hospitals.

• pharmacistsdispensing medicines and advising on the safe use of prescriptions.

• medical assistants(Nee)serve as caregivers alongside doctors and nurses.

• Specialized therapists provide targeted care to patients with specific needs, such as shortness of breath (respiratory therapist), disabilities or injuries (recreational,professional, ophysiotherapists), of cancer (radiotherapist).

Next steps

You don't have to enroll in a nursing program to get a feel for whether nursing is a good fit for your career goals. Experience what it's like to earn a nursing degree online by taking a course atVital functions,clinical terminology,infection prevention, omedical emergencies. If you're ready to take the next step towards a healthcare career, explore thehealthcare training coursesavailable through Coursera.