Are you one of the many students planning to pursue a nursing degree? Nurses are one of the most skilled workers and highly in-demand careers worldwide. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that there are more than 3.1 million registered nurses (RNs) currently practicing in the U.S. Furthermore, the agency projects a 6% increase in the employment of registered nurses (RNs), and a 46% for nurse practitioners from 2021 to 2031.
Like any profession, nurses can advance their careers by gaining experience or completing further education. The good news is that, as you do your practice, you can take an in-person or online course in a degree trade school to further advance your education. If you don’t know where to start, SchoolMatchPro.com can give you relevant information to make an informed decision.
To learn about the six levels of a nursing career, keep reading.
A practical nursing diploma is the quickest route to becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) Basically, it’s a two-year accelerated, hands-on curriculum provided by a technical school. As LPN, you’ll perform fundamental nursing care under the supervision of a physician or registered nurse.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (2020) estimates that there will be a 9% growth in the employment of LPNs by 2030. This offers an opportunity to start your career in nursing. Once you become an LPN, you can choose to pursue further education to advance your career. For instance, you may earn an associate, bachelor, or master’s degree in nursing.
If you do not want to attend a four-year program, an associate degree in nursing is an ideal option. With an ASN, you can become a registered nurse in two years.
RNs are the backbone of most healthcare organizations, playing a critical role in patient care and assisting healthcare professionals in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of various illnesses. As a registered nurse, you’ll also have access to many specializations, such as acute care, pediatrics, and neonatal.
For anyone considering a nursing career, a BSN degree can be the ticket to earning more, having more options, and being competitive. The degree typically takes four years to complete and requires full-time immersion in the program. However, some schools offer a hybrid program for working students.
RNs who also wish to advance their careers can pursue an RN to BSN degree, which is now becoming the standard. Additionally, the salary for RNs with a BSN tends to be higherthan those with an ASN. A BSN can also lead to advanced education and better career opportunities.
Some nursing specialties or management roles require additional training and education beyond the baccalaureate level. Earning your MSN gives you the advanced clinical knowledge and skills required to become a nursing leader.
Furthermore, nurses with advanced credentials can earn higher salaries and have more opportunities for leadership and managerial roles. Types of MSN include nurse practitioners, nurse educators, and clinical nurse specialists.
The post-master study program provides nurses with an educational route to specialization in an area other than that obtained through an MSN. A change in a role may depend on the specialty chosen, such as a family nurse practitioner or an emergency nurse practitioner. The program strengthens or broadens the clinical or management capabilities of MSN nurses for more detailed responsibilities.
Doctoral degrees typically involve a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). The Ph.D. qualifies nurses for research and teaching positions, while DNP aims to fill leadership roles in healthcare organizations. Depending on your current degree, pursuing a doctorate requires two to four additional years of study.
Further Your Education Today
Nursing is a highly rewarding profession. However, choosing the right level of nursing education is crucial to ensuring a successful career. If you want additional information, reach out to the experts at SchoolMatchPro.com. Additionally, you can advance your career by enrolling in an online course. This will allow you to expand your skills and increase your earning potential on your schedule.
Sources:
https://www.usa.edu/blog/levels-of-nursing-explained/
https://www.incrediblehealth.com/blog/nursing-ranks/
https://nursejournal.org/degrees/types-of-nursing-degrees/
https://nursing.vanderbilt.edu/msn/postmasters_certificate/index.php
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