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What is Nursing?

The field of nursing is complex and varied with many career paths and specialties available to qualified individuals.  Nursing is one aspect of the healthcare industry, with responsibilities mostly involving the care and treatment of individuals on a daily basis. Nurses will provided treatment and assistance to patients for a variety of ailments and conditions.  Additionally, nurses will provide education and encouragement in proper healthcare practices to help assist in recovery and care.

Nurses tend to form relationships with patients more easily than physicians due to their proximity and attenuation with patients.  A nurse is often sought out by family members and patients for advice and counsel.  Nursing utilizes a variety of hard and soft sciences to properly attend to patient's mental and physical needs.  Training in psychology helps nursing professionals understand patients and effectively communicate short-term and long-term care options.

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Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$104,610

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

64.57%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

150,230

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Nursing Schools

Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) is a private research university recognized as one of the Ivy League members. Columbia offers a wide range of comprehensive academic programs designed to award undergraduate and graduate degrees, including professional degrees.  The university’s nursing school is one of the oldest nursing schools in the United States. Nursing is a graduate program in Columbia. The university offers both master’s and doctoral degrees. Students learn inside the classroom and are trained in different clinical settings. Students are also given clinical placements for better and real-life training in some of New York City’s most challenging and rewarding health care settings.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Yale University (New Haven, CT) is one of the oldest universities in the United States and it is recognized as one of the best. It is a member of the prestigious Ivy League. Yale has a long list of comprehensive undergraduate programs as well as highly ranked graduate programs including doctoral degrees. Nursing is one of the popular programs in the university. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Students who opt to further their studies through graduate programs can enhance their skills as a nurse professional and develop their skills as a leader in the field. The school aims to educate future nurse leaders, scholars and practitioners while transforming the landscape of healthcare practice.  

Acceptance Rate

6.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) is recognized as a great institution of higher learning and research. Penn houses the first medical school and one of the pioneer centers of technological invention. Aside from notable academic programs, Penn also offers continuing education, distance learning, summer programs, and international programs. Penn boasts an Ivy League quality of education for their Nursing programs. The university has a list of renowned  faculty that provides assistance and support to students who plan to be nursing professionals. Penn Nursing’s program curriculum is designed to produce competent healthcare professionals in the United States and around the world. 

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Platt College-Aurora (Aurora, CO) is a for-profit college that offers an exclusive degree program. It offers a 36-month Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse. Students who pass the examination can immediately assume a role in the industry as a Registered Nurse or continue to pursue advanced degrees in the healthcare industry. 

Acceptance Rate

12.5

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Duke University (Durnham, NC) is a private university that offers a wide range of academic programs for students to choose from. The university houses one of the top nursing schools across the United States. Duke University offers an accelerated bachelor’s as well as master’s programs on nursing. It also has a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and a Ph.D. Program. School of Nursing’s graduate programs have been recognized as the best across the country. 

Acceptance Rate

7.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

St Luke’s College (Woodbury, IA) is a private institution that prepares students in pursuing medical careers. The college focuses on providing bachelor’s degrees on nursing and allied health programs.  Bachelor of Science in Nursing is delivered online. The program allows graduates to assume advanced roles and management opportunities in the industry. Full time and part time schedules are available for interested applicants. 

Acceptance Rate

29.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

GU is a nonprofit private university that has a large selection of degrees available for students to choose from. The school is located in Washington, District Of Columbia, in a predominantly urban area. The school maintains a Roman Catholic affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Enrollment at GU is nearly seventeen thousand yearly.

Students can select from several areas of study, including but not limited to:

  • Legal Professions And Studies
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Social Sciences
  • Public Administration And Social Services
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences

The admissions process starts with the submission of an application, school records, and test scores, which are then reviewed by admissions officials. The majority of students admitted to Georgetown University achieve an SAT score within the range of 1290 - 1500, or an ACT composite score in a range of 30 - 33. Only 20% of applicants are accepted to the school due to the huge number of applicants and the intense competition for the limited enrollment spots. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

Tuition is approximately $46,000 for the year, though it may vary based on any number of circumstances. Students should check the school's net price calculator to determine cost. Housing may be available for those that want to live on-campus for a cost of $9,800 for the year. GU may provide financial aid for students who are eligible in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans.

The mascot for Georgetown University is the "Hoyas", and they participate in intercollegiate sports through oversight by the NCAA. Athletic programs offered may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division I-AA)

Contact information, financial aid information, areas of study offered, and more may be viewed on school's website at http://www.georgetown.edu.

Acceptance Rate

14.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) is a private university with a very high research activity. Undergraduate students can choose from a wide variety of majors across four schools and colleges. The university also houses six graduate schools including School of Nursing which is recognized as a top nursing school in the United States. Nursing in VU is given through several graduate programs. Students can also enroll as a special non-degree student. Special students who are not enrolled under non-clinical courses but interested in the discipline. These students are those who have not been admitted as a degree- or certificate-seeking student. 

Acceptance Rate

9.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) is a public university notable for its quality education, active research and world-class medical healthcare programs. Students can enroll as part-time or full-time students. The university is affiliated with the Johns Hopkins Health System. JHU is also one of the top schools of nursing that gets high nursing research funding from the National Institutes of Health. Nursing programs are offered under graduate studies and it has a long list of doctoral programs for those who are interested to be industry leaders. 

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

 University of Virginia-Charlottesville (Charlottesville, VA) is a public research university, highly regarded as one of the best in the country. It is also one of the original “Public Ivy Universities”. U.Va. is affiliated with the University of Virginia Health System which is recognized as one of the top medical centers in the country. The institution also allows students to get proper and advanced training for medical care professions. The School of Nursing is consistently in the top 4% of the best nursing schools. Curriculum is composed of humanistic approaches that foster critical thinking and awareness of social and cultural diversity. Programs are offered in both undergraduate and graduate schools.  

Acceptance Rate

23.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Emory University (Atlanta, GA) is a private university that provides a long list of academic programs for students of both undergraduate and graduate studies. It is organized into nine schools and colleges including the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing. The school offers comprehensive undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral nursing programs. Students can also study a variety of academic disciplines. The school offers a dual undergraduate degree with several colleges, and a dual master’s degree with public health and with some programs under Emory's Laney Graduate School. The university is affiliated with Emory Healthcare which is the largest healthcare system in GA assisting Emory to provide top notch medical and allied health programs.

Acceptance Rate

15.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Carolinas College of Health Sciences (Charlotte, NC) is a public college focused on providing health sciences programs. The program is affiliated with the Carolinas Healthcare System. CCHS offers a nursing program with 5-6 semesters packed with coursework and real-world nursing immersion. Students are allowed to experience many different areas of study. Graduates of CCHS are prepared for a high-demand career in the industry. 

Acceptance Rate

35.29

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Arnot Ogden Medical Center - Medical Education (Elmira, NY) is a non-profit organization that provides services and education throughout the state. The center offers a two-year program on nursing leading to an associate’s degree. Successful graduates are eligible to take exams for the RN boards. Interested students can also pursue higher academic degrees in nursing. Students are expected to learn the theoretical and practical sides of the nursing discipline. 

Acceptance Rate

33.33

Tuition

$28,972 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, GA) is the oldest public university in the state. It provides students access to quality education in a variety of academic disciplines. The university is also recognized around the world for its research activities. The university is affiliated with the University of Michigan Health System. The School of Nursing is one of the 13 schools and colleges in the U of M. The school offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees in nursing. Student-nurses enhance their skills through the Clinical Learning Center and clinical placements administered across more than 600 partner facilities. 

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Asheville, NC) is a public university highly regarded for its academic quality, diversity, and international presence. Carolina also ranks among the top research universities in the United States. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can get a Bachelor in Science in Nursing degree in Carolina. Interested students can choose between two tracks, the traditional BSN program or an accelerated program for students that already finished an undergraduate program. Students will be provided with both courseworks and clinical training. Graduate programs including doctoral, post-graduate certificates, and fellowships are also offered to interested nursing professionals. Carolina nurses are recognized across different medical and non-medical industries.

Acceptance Rate

22.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Boston College (Chestnut Hill, MA) is a private Jesuit university providing high ranking undergraduate programs. The college also fosters an active research culture. BC manages the William F. Connell School of Nursing, recognized as one of the top nursing schools in the United States. Aside from academic programs, the school also offers continuing education programs for nursing professionals who aim to further their skills and knowledge. Students are exposed to a wide variety of clinical settings. The school is affiliated with more than 80 health care facilities that can help them train and practice their skills. 

Acceptance Rate

27.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Northeastern University (Boston, MA) is a private university that fosters interdisciplinary and experiential learning. The university allows students to engage in cooperative education programs and student research, and experience global learning and service learning. Most of NEU’s research activities focus on health, security and sustainability. The university offers a long list of undergraduate and graduate programs including doctoral. The School of Nursing aims to produce professionals, leaders, and innovators in the industry. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs including doctoral programs in nursing. Students who graduate from an accredited program are eligible for licensure examinations. 

Acceptance Rate

18.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

New York University (New York, NY) is a private research university recognized across the country and around the globe. Programs are organized across 16 colleges, institutions, and schools. The university is also known for its top notch healthcare professional programs. NYU has a wide range of baccalaureate nursing programs for interested students. The university offers a 15-month accelerated nursing program up to the traditional four-year curriculum. NYU’s graduate and advanced programs are great options to further education and enhance skills. Students can also take a BS/MS program in nursing. This will lead to a bachelor’s degree in nursing advancing to a master’s degree. DNP and Ph.D. programs as well as advanced certifications are also offered in NYU. 

Acceptance Rate

16.2

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Villanova University (Villanova, PA) is a private Catholic higher education institution that offers a wide range of academic disciplines. It is considered the oldest Catholic university in the state. The College of Nursing fosters the Augustinian values in approaching the nursing practice. The university offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs including doctoral programs in nursing. There are also opportunities for nursing education for professionals. Students and nursing professionals will be exposed to advanced clinical practice and research. 

Acceptance Rate

28.24

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

University of Rochester (Rochester, NY) is a private university offering a wide range of academic programs across undergraduate and graduate programs including doctoral and professional programs. The university also has active research programs. It is home to several relevant discoveries and innovations. University of Rochester manages a School of Nursing. It offers several bachelor’s programs and a wide range of areas of study for its graduate programs. UR Nursing provides hands-on experiences using innovative simulation technology. Students learn from industry leaders and educators. The School of Nursing has dual-degree programs for high school students, accelerated bachelor’s degrees, or an online program for the RN to BSN track. 

Acceptance Rate

29.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Dallas Nursing Institute (Dallas, TX) also known as College of Nursing and Advanced Health Professions is a reputable nursing school that trains students necessary skills for nursing practice. The programs and curriculum are constantly updated based on the demands of the medical industry. DNI allows students to learn from classroom set-up as well as rigorous clinical practice. The school provides a vocational program for nursing which is designed to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination - Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN). It grants bachelor’s and associate’s degrees. 

Acceptance Rate

5.99

Tuition

$28,762 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland, OH) is a private research university that houses a wide range of academic programs for students to choose from. The university has programs taught in conjunction with University Circle institutions which includes several medical and art centers. The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing offers bachelor’s and master's degrees in nursing. The school is recognized around the world for its top-notch nursing education and active research programs. Its Bachelor of Science in Nursing provides a strong theoretical and practical nursing foundation for students. It also has clinical placements to prepare students for the real-world experience. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX examination for RN. Students who aim to pursue graduate studies are also welcome in the university. Post-master’s and continuing education are also available. 

Acceptance Rate

27.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

University of Texas in Austin (Austin, TX) is a public research university and the flagship campus under the University of Texas System. The university offers a wide range of programs for both undergraduate and graduate levels. Bachelor of Science in Nursing at UT is a four-year, full time program providing both theoretical and practical courses for students. The program includes courses that prepare students for graduate studies. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. Admission to the program is highly competitive. Graduate programs in nursing trains professionals with advanced skills and knowledge on specific disciplines and nursing research. 

Acceptance Rate

31.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

University of Miami (Coral Gables, FL) offers a wide range of academic disciplines that aim to help students for their growth and development. It grants undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees. One popular undergraduate degree in UM is Nursing. The School of Nursing and Health Studies offers three tracks for the BSN program. The traditional BSN track is offered to both freshmen and transfer students. Graduate programs and post-graduate certificates are also offered to nursing professionals who aim to expand their nursing skills and knowledge. The school has several public and private medical affiliations allowing students to have first hand experience on the field. Students will also be learning theoretical coursework and be exposed to research. Students can also have the opportunity to study abroad. 

Acceptance Rate

27.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

University of Florida (Gainesville, FL) is a public university and one of the flagship research institutions under the State University System of Florida. The university offers its comprehensive programs across 16 academic colleges and more than 150 research centers and institutes. One of the missions of the university is to provide its students with quality education and encourage them to conduct nationally recognized research studies. It has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree that prepares students to be competent professional nurses. The program has three tracks -- Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, and RN to BSN track which is offered online. Every track includes coursework and clinical practice. Students are also eligible for graduate studies. Graduate programs are also offered to nursing professionals. DNP programs are for those who aim to enhance their skills in a particular nursing discipline. Ph.D. programs are more focused on research. 

Acceptance Rate

36.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

College Requirements for Nurses

An undergraduate degree in nursing can be obtained through three popular routes: a bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN), an associate's degree in nursing (ADN), or a diploma in nursing. A nursing program will educate an individual in the various skills and knowledge necessary to administer patient care. Nurses often have tasks similar to physicians, and depending on the type of nurse and certification, may be able to draw blood, administer medication, or determine a course of care for a patient. Nurses are also capable of treating small injuries and dressing wounds.

The programs vary in length and all of them will allow an individual to become an RN, but the benefits of each must be weighed against the other. BSN programs will typically take 4 years, ADN 2-3 years, and a diploma program administered by a hospital will take 3 years. Those who pursue a BSN program will find more opportunities in the future due to the higher level of education and degree, ADNs may have a difficult time gaining advancement but can often find work sponsors to obtain BSN while working.

Diploma programs typically are administered by hospitals and will have the student working while he or she pursues the diploma. All programs are a mixture of class work and supervised clinical experience. Some accelerated programs are available allowing students to obtain a BSN and a master's of science in nursing (MSN) within four years.

Top Nursing Degrees & Certificates

Nursing is a broad degree program with a variety of tracks from certificate programs through doctorate degrees.  As such, there are dozens upon dozens of career options for graduates after earning a nursing degree from an accredited college or university along with meeting your state’s requirements for that specific vocation.  Below you will find the array of different types of nursing certificate programs, associate degrees, bachelor degrees, masters degrees, and doctorate degrees.

Online Nursing Certificate & Diploma in Nursing

There are three distinct types of nursing certifications for students to choose from that should be researched in-depth prior to making a final decision.  These options include the following three paths for online nursing students and onsite learning opportunities:

  1. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
  2. Certified Nurse Consultant (CNA)
  3. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

CNA certification courses can range in length from 6-18 months and blend classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training.  The onsite & online CNA certificate programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, 4-year colleges, and a variety of accredited training institutes.  A Certified Nursing Assistant track will provide you with direct interaction with patients under the supervision of an RN, LVN, and/or LPN.

The LVN and LPN programs provide basic nursing care for patients under the direct supervision of Registered Nurses (RN) and/or doctors.  Licensed practical nurses (LPN) and licensed vocational nurses (LVN) can work in nursing homes, private homes, extended care facilities, physician’s offices, and hospitals.  In most cases around the country, the LVN and LPN acronyms can be used interchangeably with exception of qualification for professionals in California and Texas.

Online Associate Degree in Nursing

There are 4 common types of associate degrees we will discuss in this career guide to help provide you with a set of tools to continue your research in nursing.  The four programs for onsite and online associated degrees in nursing include:

  1. Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) - Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree program is a 2-3 year onsite or online degree program depending on the college and state of residence. An ASN degree can be earned from a 4-year college or university, community college, vocational school, or some qualifying hospitals.  The ASN degree is geared to provide direct patient treatment along with an array of responsibilities within the health care field.
  2. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is an entry-point into nursing for a student looking to enter the field in the United States. To become an ADN you will need to successfully pass an accredited, board approved degree program followed by successfully pass the NCLEX-RN  It is important to note that all nurses are individually credentialed through their state nursing boards upon completion of a board-approved college program and passing the NCLEX-RN examination.  Although each state determines the length of the classroom or online AND degree programs, most Associate Degree in Nursing programs can be completed in two years.
  3. Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) - The AAS or Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS) track was created for students as a defined pathway to become a registered nurse (RN).  The AAS program is typically a 2-year program combining academic lectures with practical clinical exposure and lab practicum.  Students enrolled in the AAS online or onsite degree program will typically have exposure to rigorous coursework including: healthcare administration, biology, pharmacology, anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, and physiology to name a few.
  4. Associate of Nursing (AN) - The Associate of Nursing (AN) program is designed to be a 2-year program of core curriculum with general education classes such as philosophy, English composition, and math extending the program by an additional year or two depending on the school and your educational experience. Professionals and healthcare practitioners view the AN program is another viable educational track to become an RN which serves a critical role between doctors and patients.
Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Classroom and online nursing degrees for bachelor’s degrees are often associated with the acronym BSN.  The BSN stands for Bachelor of Science in Nursing which may also be called a Bachelor of Nursing (BN), BScN degree, or a Bachelor of Science (BS) with a major in Nursing depending on the college and region of the country.  For simplicity sake, we will use the most common acronym of BSN for ease of use.

The BSN degree is designed to be a 4-year degree program, online or on-campus, with a keen eye towards career development and graduate studies.  A typical BSN degree program will include general education and core classes in leadership, philosophy, biology, creative writing, healthcare administration, research, community health, history, environmental health and statistics.

The goal of any accredited college or university offering a BSN degree program is to adequately prepare students to sit for the NCLEX examination.  The NCLEX is administered by an independent, not-for-profit known as NCSBN or the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.  The NCLEX is a standardized test utilized to assess a student’s knowledge and competence within a particular field of study of nursing.

Bachelor of Nursing Degrees

Accredited colleges and universities offering BSN programs have pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing programs for students with no prior nursing experience along with programs for students with no prior college experience.  In fact, several accredited schools have created accelerated BSN degree programs for students who have already obtained a bachelor’s degree in another field of study.   Accelerated degree programs in of this type are often known as Second Degree Nursing programs.  The BSN second degree program can span 12-18 months in duration and approximately 3-years for a student to earn a master’s degree.

Another type of valuable degree program for students, working professionals, and employers is the bridge program.  A bridge program is a type of nursing degree created by accredited schools for the benefit of working professionals who already have an undergraduate degree in nursing and seek additional education or nursing credentials.  Continuous learning and upskilling are often driven by the satisfaction associated with career advancement, earning additional income, greater job stability, and opening doors for other professional opportunities.  A few examples of classroom-based or online nursing bridge programs includes the following:

  • BSN to DNP, Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • BSN to MSN, Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing
  • LPN to BSN or LVN to BSN, Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Licensed Vocational Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • LPN to MSN, Licensed Practical Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing
  • LPN to RN, Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse
  • RN to BSN, Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • RN to DNP, Registered Nurse to Doctor of Nursing Practice
  • RN to MSN, Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing
Online Masters in Nursing

The primary difference between a bachelor of science in nursing and master of science in nursing is the course duration and area of concentration.  The BSN program is a 4-year program created to provide a base level of knowledge for entry-level positions in nursing.  On the other hand, MSN programs are a 2-3 year program with the requirement of a BSN or equivalent degree and for students to select an area of concentration.

Areas of specialty for an onsite or online BSN student include nursing administration, clinical nursing, clinical nurse educator, nurse practitioner, certified midwife, clinical specialist, or certified anesthetist.  By selecting an area of concentration, MSN students may be inclined to launch a career in any number of nursing specialties such as:

  • Geriatric
  • Family
  • Adult Health
  • Pediatric
  • Emergency
  • Cardiology
  • Nephrology
  • Neonatology
  • Oncology
  • Primary Care
  • Women’s Health
  • School Health
Online Doctorate in Nursing

The DNP or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program is the highest degree that can be earned in nursing as is often called a terminal degree.  By definition, a terminal degree is the highest degree awarded to students in a given field of study.  The typical DNP curriculum extends the master-level curricula by expanding student learning in quality healthcare practices, systems leadership, and empirical data analysis.  It is important to know many accredited universities have constructed the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program to run parallel with a variety of related healthcare doctorate programs such as dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, and psychology.

The other doctoral degree track within nursing is the PhD or Doctor of Philosophy program.  The goal of the PhD track is to adequately prepare nurse scientists with skills and knowledge in non-clinical careers.  Examples of non-clinical careers for nursing professionals holding a PhD include research, teaching, nursing education, and healthcare administration.  In other words, the PhD degree track is rooted in research-intensive environments while the DNP program is an immersion experience in practice.

Different Types of Nursing Schools

The most common types of onsite or online nursing schools are 4-year colleges and universities, trade or vocational schools, and community colleges.  Schools of all types provide important value to students and may be worthy of further consideration given your priorities and career goals.  Below you will find a brief overview of each to help you determine which program may be a good fit for you and your future nursing career.

4-Year Universities & Colleges

A four-year college or university will typically offer the most in-depth, comprehensive educational option for prospective nursing students.  Classroom-based programs or online nursing degree programs will provide students with a set of rigorous core curricula along with the opportunity to study adjacent subjects in an effort to help you think about the world differently and become curious, well-rounded lifelong learners.  A 4-year college will offer an array of programs from a BSN, bridge programs, accelerated programs, second degree programs, and terminal doctoral degrees in clinical and non-clinical areas.

Vocational Schools & Trade Schools

A trade school and vocational school is geared to provide students with specific job-readiness training for career-minded individuals.  Trade schools invest substantive resources to create curriculum to ensure students receive a set of skills applicable in the workforce and desirable to future employers.  Typically, a vocational school will provide students with individual courses in practical nursing plus a wide assortment of adjacent learning opportunities for nursing students that include degree and certificate programs options

Community Colleges

Community colleges have constructed a number of two-year nursing programs with a variety of pathways to a continue to a bachelor degree upon course completion.  The community college model allows students to rapidly move towards a degree while gaining a valuable education within an accredited institution thus resulting in faster access to the workforce.  The most common nursing programs within the community college system is the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) and a vocational program for those seeking a certificate as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).  Invest time researching community colleges near you to find the perfect match for your future nursing career.

Career Outlook and Nurse Licensure

Pursuing a career in nursing requires individuals to dedicate time to their patients, review physicians notes, a certain amount of office work, as well as help during emergency situations. Specialized nurses are more highly sought after because the higher level of skill and specialization further decreases the immediate attention of a physician, allowing for more overall patient care.

Individuals looking for a long term career in nursing should consider obtaining a BSN in order to work in supervisory positions, as well as earn and maintain any certifications received. By taking continuing education courses, a nurse will be able to refresh and update any skills and knowledge he or she may have. Every state requires nurses to obtain a license, and though requirements may vary, all states require a passing score on the National Council Licensure Examination Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).

The four advanced practice specialties are:

  1. Clinical Nurse Specialists
  2. Licensed Nurse Practitioners (LPN)
  3. Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM)
  4. Certified Nurse Anesthetists (CNA)

Best Nursing Careers

Registered Nurse

  • Job Description: At its most basic level, an RN is a general care nurse that works to prevent illness and to promote good health. An RN must be astute at asking questions to properly assess problems and knowledgeable as they work to develop care plans for patients.
  • Career Options: Charge Nurse, Staff RN, Operating Room RN, Travel RN, Manager, Intensive Care Unit RN

Clinical Nurse Specialist

  • Job Description: A CNS works in a hospital, medical office, health care facility, & clinic providing consultation and direct patient care. A CNS is often involved in facility administration, research, and education.
  • Career Options: Pediatric Clinical Specialist, Critical Care Clinical Specialist, Cardiothoracic Clinical Specialist, Clinical Wound Specialist, Clinical Liaison, Post-Acute Clinical Navigator, Clinical Administrator.

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

  • Job Description: NPs carefully diagnose, assess, and treat patients for a variety of ailments. They can prescribe medication in most states, perform health screenings, and treat various illnesses and injuries.
  • Career Options: Pediatric NP, Midwifery, Neonatal NP, Family NP, Oncology NP, Geriatric NP, Psychiatric NP, Clinical NP, Chronic Pain NP

Oncology Nurse (ON)

  • Job Description: ONs work with patients suffering from cancer. They care and educate patients in remission as well as those undergoing treatment for cancer. ONs carefully monitor patients, prescribe medication, manage symptoms, and assist in radiation therapy & chemotherapy treatment.
  • Career Options: Oncology Certified Nurse, Certified Pediatric ON, Advanced Oncology Certified NP, Instructor, Palliative Care Consultant, Patient Care Team Manager, RN Oncology, RN Medicine

Pediatric Nurse

  • Job Description: Pediatric Nurses work with patients from birth to adolescence. They guide patients and families on best practices to avert disease, illness, and infection as well as promoting proper nutrition.
  • Career Options: Maternity, RN in Pediatric Medicine, Pediatric Diabetes Nurse, Manager, Critical Care Pediatrics

Gerontology Nursing

  • Job Description: Gerontologists blend health care with social science, psychology, and behavioral science. Professionals focus their energy to care for older patients with needs ranging from physiological changes to chronic diseases.
  • Career Options: Adult-Gerontology Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse

Primary Care Nurses

  • Job Description: Primary Care Nurses work with a specific patient for an extended period. A PC may work in a hospital, clinic, or in-home care environment for private patients.
  • Career Options: Primary Care, Practitioner, Primary Care Clinic, Primary Health Care, Restorative Health Coordinator

Dialysis Nurse (DN)

  • Job Description: A DN help treat patients suffering from kidney failure to help the kidneys function again. The DN specialization is part of a broad area of study known as nephrology which involves the care and study of kidneys.
  • Career Options: Travel DN, Dialysis Charge Nurse, Hemodialysis, Inpatient DN, Office RN

Public Health Nurse (PHN)

  • Job Description: A PHN is a highly specialized field of study that helps communities learn about disease prevention and treatment. Armed with a broad array of knowledge about aging, development, and parenting a PHN coaches and counsels patients in a variety of settings.
  • Career Options: PHN, Patient Care Manager, Occupational Health, Public Health Instructor, Community Health

Geriatric Nurse

  • Job Description: Specialists that work with patients over 50 years of age. Geriatric nurses care for patients by easing pain, hygiene assistance, routine assessments, and general treatment plans.
  • Career Options: Clinical Specialist, Adult Outreach, Geriatric Community Mental Health, Geriatric Emergency Care Management

Travel Nurse

  • Job Description: A Travel Nurse works in various settings for short intervals performing a wide variety of tasks. Duties can vary depending on the needs of the facility and patients thereby ensuring a diversity of duties from day to day. Daily tasks are highly important to keep a facility running efficiently yet rarely critical, life-saving activities.
  • Career Options: Endless options in various sub-disciplines including ER, ICU, Oncology, Dialysis, Neonatal, Perioperative.

Informatics

  • Job Description: Informatics is a field of study related to the efficient and effective use of health care information and the communication of that information. Nursing informatics blends health care with computer science and information science to better manage information for the benefit of patients and the health care facility.
  • Career Options: Nursing Informatics Specialist, Informatics Consultant, Clinical Analyst, Clinical Informatics Coordinator, Informatics Manager, Director of Clinical Information, Informatics Researcher, Informatics Faculty

Cardiac Nurse (CN)

  • Job Description: CNs are a specialized group that works with patients who suffer from heart problems. A CN works under the direct supervision of a cardiologist and assist with a range of heart conditions from coronary artery disease to congestive heart failure.
  • Career Options: RN Cardiac Critical Care Unit, Geriatric Emergency Management, Associate Director of Care, Intensive Care Unit RN, Surgical Ambulatory Care

Emergency Room

  • Job Description: Working in the ER is a fast-paced, high stress environment for any professional. For an ER Nurse, they are required to quickly assess and treat patients ranging from the benign to life threatening variety.
  • Career Options: Emergency Care, Geriatric Emergency Management, Emergency Room RN, Pediatric Emergency, Clinical Supervisor in Emergency, Emergency Mental Health Crisis Unit

Adult Health Nurse

  • Job Description: Adult Health Nurses work with patients of all ages with acute and chronic illness or diseases. Some AHN professionals create long-term care plans for patients while others support treatment plans through a variety of methods.
  • Career Options: Adult Primary Care Practitioner, Translational Care, Clinical Leader, Director for Clinical Services, Clinical Research RN

Endoscopy Nursing

  • Job Description: Endoscopy Nurses work with an endoscope team within a hospital to understand and assess problems within the genitourinary or digestive system.
  • Career Options: RN in Endoscopy Unit, Perioperative Specialist, Ambulatory Specialist, Endoscopy Lab Technician, Endoscopy and Radiographic RN, Ambulatory Surgical Unit

Practical Nurse (PN)

  • Job Description: A PN or LPN is trained to in similar practices to an RN and can manage health assessments, injections, and medication administration. A PN works under the direct supervision of an RN and is not certified to manage the same suite of activities as an RN.
  • Career Options: PN, LPN, Home Care, Rehabilitation Unit, Continuing Care Assistant

Forensic Nursing

  • Job Description: Forensic Nursing is a newer field of study fusing health care with law. The range of responsibilities can range from inmates in prison to victims of violent crimes to legal testimony evidence.
  • Career Options: Youth Forensic Services, Forensic Community Liaison, RN Forensic Psychiatry, Forensic Nurse Supervisor, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner, Forensic Nurse Examiner, Sexual Assault Clinician, Medicolegal Death Investigator, Emergency Room, Law Enforcement Specialist

OB GYN

  • Job Description: An OB GYN Nurse is a specialist working to treat and understand the female reproductive system. The acronym OB GYN stands for Obstetrics and Gynecology as it blends the two disciplines.
  • Career Options: RN, Maternal Home Visit Specialist, Perinatal Unit, Manager, Lactation Consultant RN, Project Director, Midwife, Doula, Ultrasound Technician

Nurse Salary & Nursing Profession

Jobs for registered nurses (RN) are expected to grow rapidly. The reason for the expected growth is due to the aging and growing population of the United States, requiring more healthcare professionals to assist ailing individuals. Demographic and geographic factors may apply in regards to where the growth will appear fastest and demand will be highest. RNs that enter one of the four specialties and BSNs will be in higher demand than others. The average salary for a nurse is $62,500 per year with the lowest 10% earning less than $43,400.

States with Highest Employment of Registered Nurses

  • California 274,650
  • Texas 207,810
  • New York 180,730
  • Florida 174,710
  • Pennsylvania 139,480

Highest Paying States for Registered Nurses

  1. California $101,750
  2. Massachusetts $89,060
  3. Hawaii $88,910
  4. Oregon $87,000
  5. Alaska $86,450

Highest Paying Cities for Registered Nurses

  1. San Francisco, CA $136,610
  2. Santa Cruz, CA $124,920
  3. Vallejo, CA $124,380
  4. San Jose, CA $120,680
  5. Salinas, CA $120,120
  6. Oakland, CA $117,880
  7. San Rafael, CA $117,550
  8. Sacramento, CA $113,440
  9. Napa, CA $109,460
  10. Modesto, CA $108,780

Top Employers of Registered Nurses

  • Medical and Surgical Hospitals 1,649,480
  • Physicians Offices 196,540
  • Home Health Care Providers 179,280
  • Nursing Care Facilities 157,530
  • Outpatient Care Centers 128,180

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