A nursing career is one of the most fulfilling professions with an ever-growing demand. If you have a passion for becoming a nurse, you have to enroll in a nursing school and earn a nursing degree to qualify to work as a nurse.
However, you need to note that there are different nursing degrees and qualifications, specialties, and employment titles. As a result, a nursing degree isn’t precisely a one-size-fits-all. To pursue the profession you want, you must follow a specific path and complete particular nursing education qualifications.
Below are different types of nursing degrees you need to know;
1. Practical Nursing Diploma (PN)
Obtaining your practical nursing diploma is the quickest way to begin your nursing profession as a certified practical nurse (LPN). LPNs operate in a range of healthcare settings, including doctor’s offices, hospitals, hospices, nursing homes and urgent care clinics, providing primary nursing care and collaborating closely with doctors and registered nurses (RNs).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates for 2020, demand for LPNs is predicted to expand by 9% by 2030, producing over 63,000 new employments. Many nurses begin their careers as LPNs before pursuing an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree program to further their training and nursing profession. If you are passionate about becoming a nurse, join Lecturio courses on nursing to begin your career.
2. Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ASN)
With an associate degree in nursing, you can be a registered nurse (RN) in only two years (ASN). In many healthcare institutions, RNs are the first line of care, and they are in great demand as hospitals try to accommodate an ever-growing patient population.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses are expected to expand by 9% by 2030. Registered nurses can specialize in a specific nursing field, such as neonatology (NICU), pediatrics, surgical/perioperative care or acute care.
3. Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)
This undergraduate program is for students who do not have a bachelor’s degree and have no prior nursing experience. Through a 48 to 60-month curriculum, students are prepared to work in various nursing professions. Some colleges, however, offer expedited degrees that nursing students can complete in 36 months. If you have an ADN or bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, you can join the accelerated program.
To enroll in a BSN program, you must have a high school diploma or a GED certificate. Each college or institution has its unique set of requirements for BSN applicants. Some schools may need BSN applicants to attend an introductory medical terminology course, whereas others have particular subject requirements.
4. Master’s in Nursing (MSN)
Some nursing specializations and managerial positions need further education and training. You may advance your nursing career and broaden your practice area by earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Below are the three popular MSN specialties:
Nurse practitioner
A nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse with a master’s degree or higher education who has more responsibility and autonomy than registered nurses. A nurse practitioner’s duties include prescribing medications to patients, diagnosing diseases, collecting samples and information from patients, and supervising other nursing staff, among others.
Nurse educators
Nurse educators are critical in ensuring that the RN workforce can meet the healthcare demands of present and future generations. In addition, nurse educators play a vital role in the hospital system. Due to their extensive knowledge and expertise in the profession, they know how to communicate essential information to other nursing staff and may assist in improving systems to reduce harm to patients, nurses, and hospitals.
Nurse Leadership and Administration
Healthcare facilities require competent nursing leaders to guide them through technological and healthcare setting changes. An MSN in Nurse Leadership can help you rise to various management positions, such as heading a nursing unit or directing the whole nursing department. Nursing administration job titles include Director of Nursing, Chief Nursing Officer, and Healthcare Manager.
5. Post-master’s nursing certificates (PMC)
Working nurses can enhance their graduate degrees with additional specific knowledge and experience by earning master’s level credentials. For example, a Post-master’s nursing certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner trains APRNs towards becoming board-certified family nurse practitioners. Individuals having an MSN can earn a Post-Nursing Master’s Educator Certificate and become qualified to teach.
Now that you know the different types of nursing degrees, you can make a wise decision about your nursing career. Regardless of your choice, all nursing degrees can give you a chance to impact people’s lives positively. You can have a fulfilling career as a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and other nursing professions.