Roles you can pursue as a nurse
Patient Care Assistant / Certified Nursing Assistant (PCA/CNA)
Education RequirementsHigh school diploma and completion of a state-approved education program.
Work ExperienceNone required for entry-level positions, but experience in a healthcare setting can be beneficial.
PCA/CNAs provide basic patient care under the supervision of nursing staff. They assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding patients, as well as taking vital signs and observing patients' conditions.
Learn more →Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Education RequirementsCompletion of an accredited practical nursing program.
Work ExperienceClinical experience obtained during the nursing program.
LPNs provide basic medical care, including administering medication, monitoring patient health, and assisting with patient comfort. They must pass the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain licensure.
Learn more →Registered Nurse (RN)
Education RequirementsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited program.
Work ExperienceClinical experience obtained during the nursing program.
RNs coordinate patient care, educate patients about health conditions, and provide emotional support. They must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure.
Learn more →Registered Nurse / Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN/BSN)
Education RequirementsBachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited program.
Work ExperienceClinical experience obtained during the nursing program.
An RN with a BSN has advanced education and training, providing more career opportunities and the potential for leadership roles.
Learn more →Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Education RequirementsMaster's or doctoral degree in nursing from an accredited program.
Work ExperienceClinical experience obtained during the nursing program; often requires prior experience as an RN.
NPs provide primary and specialty healthcare services, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medication, and managing patient care.
Learn more →Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Education RequirementsDoctoral degree in nursing (DNP) from an accredited program.
Work ExperienceExtensive clinical experience; often requires prior experience as an NP or RN.
The DNP is a terminal degree that focuses on clinical practice-oriented leadership, preparing nurses for the highest levels of practice and administration.
Learn more →Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Education RequirementsMaster's or doctoral degree in nursing from an accredited program.
Work ExperienceClinical experience obtained during the nursing program; often requires prior experience as an RN.
CNSs are expert clinicians in specialized areas of nursing, providing advanced care, consultation, and education to improve patient outcomes.
Learn more →Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Education RequirementsMaster's degree in nursing with a specialization in midwifery from an accredited program.
Work ExperienceClinical experience obtained during the nursing program; often requires prior experience as an RN.
CNMs provide primary care to women, including prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, as well as gynecological and reproductive health services.
Learn more →Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Education RequirementsMaster's or doctoral degree in nurse anesthesia from an accredited program.
Work ExperienceMinimum of one year of experience in an acute care setting; often requires prior experience as an RN.
CRNAs administer anesthesia and provide anesthesia care before, during, and after surgical procedures.
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