Consider these different nursing career paths

Nursing is a rewarding profession with many opportunities for advancement. Whether you want to provide patient care or specialize in an area of medicine, you can find a career path in nursing to match your skills and interests. 

In this article, we’ll go over common nursing career paths and opportunities for those who want to enter this healthcare field.

Career paths in nursing

If you want to become a nurse, you have several options for completing your education and getting licensed. These are the different nursing career paths you can pursue:

Certified nursing assistant (CNA)

Average annual salary: $38,200

Certified nursing assistants help patients with basic living tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They often work with elderly patients in long-term care or hospice facilities. CNAs work under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses.

To become a CNA, you need to complete a state-approved training program. These can last anywhere from four weeks to several months. After completing the program, you must pass a certifying exam. This is the fastest pathway to becoming a nurse, however CNAs also have the most limited scope of practice among the various nursing professions.

Licensed practical nurse (LPN)

Average annual salary: $59,730

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs)—also known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in some states—perform basic nursing tasks. They take patients’ vital signs, change bandages, and collect medical samples. In some states, LPNs can administer medications to patients.

You can become an LPN by completing a certificate or diploma program, which typically takes one year. Some LPNs earn an associate degree in nursing, which takes about two years. You also need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to earn your license.

Registered nurse (RN)

Average annual salary: $86,070

When most people think of nurses, they’re referring to registered nurses (RNs). These nurses work in nearly all medical settings. They’re in charge of coordinating patient intake, following medical charts, distributing medications, and updating records.

RNs can either earn a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing. No matter which nursing degree you get, you also need to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Nurse practitioner (NP)

Average annual salary: $129,480

Nurse practitioners (NPs) fall somewhere between RNs and primary care physicians. These nurses can diagnose and treat patients. They usually specialize in a medical field, such as pediatric or geriatric health.

Nurse practitioners need to have a master’s degree and pass a certifying exam. Most NPs start as registered nurses before completing this additional education and training.

The best path for a nursing career

If you’re interested in a nursing career path, follow these steps to get started:

Earn a nursing degree

While you can become a nurse with a certificate or diploma, you’ll have more options if you earn an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Research programs at vocational schools, community colleges, or online to find one that works with your budget and timeline.

Depending on the program you choose, you will take classes in areas such as:

• Anatomy and physiology

• Microbiology

• Medical terminology

• Human nutrition

• Nursing fundamentals

Pass the licensure exam

Whether you want to become a CNA, LPN, RN, or NP, you will need to pass a certifying or licensure exam. Most nurses take either the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN. Both exams test your knowledge of nursing concepts and practices. After passing the exam, you will be licensed to practice nursing in your state.

Apply for nursing jobs

Once you have your nursing license, you can apply for jobs. You can find nursing jobs in various medical facilities, including hospitals, doctors’ offices, outpatient centers, and residential care facilities. Make sure that you have a solid nursing resume and cover letter that highlight your degree, license, and clinical experience.

Consider advancement opportunities

As a nurse, you will have many opportunities to advance in your career. You can choose to specialize in an area of health, such as critical care or geriatrics. Usually, this requires you to complete additional training or certifications in your area of specialty.

You can also go back to school to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). With an advanced degree, you can move into an NP role or pursue high-level nursing jobs in education, administration, or research.

5 Popular nursing career path specialties

Nursing is a diverse and complex field with many opportunities for specialization. Here are some of the most popular specialties for nurses:

1. Operating room nurse

Operating room (OR) nurses assist surgical doctors during procedures. They ensure the safety of the patient before, during, and after an operation. OR nurses typically prepare operating rooms, sterilize equipment, and hand instruments to surgeons.

2. Emergency room nurse

Emergency room nurses, or ER nurses, work in emergency departments of hospitals and clinics. These nurses assess patients and deliver life-saving care in urgent situations. It’s a fast-paced role that requires quick thinking and the ability to work well under pressure.

3. Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse

NICU nurses work with one of the most sensitive demographics: critically ill newborn babies. They monitor infants’ vital signs and observe changes in behaviors or symptoms. NICU nurses also work closely with parents and other family members to provide support and education.

4. Pediatric nurse

Pediatric nurses work with people between infancy and adulthood. They provide care for a wide range of injuries and illnesses. Pediatric nurses often administer vaccines, monitor children’s development, and educate families about adolescent health.

5. Family nurse practitioner

Family nurse practitioners provide primary care for people of all ages. They’re trained in preventive care, health promotion, and disease management. These nurses can diagnose illnesses, prepare treatment plans, and prescribe medications.

FAQs about career paths in nursing

Here are the answers to other frequently asked questions about different nursing career paths and opportunities:

What are the nursing career path requirements?

All nursing career paths require you to complete an educational program and pass an exam. For example, if you want to become an RN, you will need to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing. After getting your nursing degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed in your state.

Which nursing field is in highest demand?

Nurse practitioners (NPs) currently have the highest demand among all nursing professions. Employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow by 40% between now and 2033, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What are some alternative career paths similar to nursing?

If you want to apply your nursing skills outside of a hospital or clinical setting, consider these alternative careers:

• Travel nursing. As a travel nurse, you will move around the country to complete short-term assignments. Travel nurses often earn higher salaries because they’re willing to go wherever they’re needed most.

• Forensic nursing. A forensic nurse provides specialized care to victims of crime or violence. In this specialty, you may also collect evidence, prepare testimony, or provide expert opinions for court cases or criminal proceedings.

• Natural medicine. Some nurses choose to move into natural medicine professions, such as naturopathy or acupuncture. These routes usually require continuing education, but a nursing degree may satisfy some prerequisites.

Still undecided about your nursing career? Explore your options with our Career Pathways tool and discover the best nursing career path for you!

Key takeaways

• Nursing is a diverse profession with many career pathways and specializations.

• To become a nurse, you need to complete an educational program and pass a licensure exam.

• Once you become a licensed nurse, you can pursue a specialization, advance into higher positions, or transition into similar professions, such as natural medicine.