The Herzing University website details the five pathways of nursing degrees. But the real story lies in the top 20 nursing specialties listed on Gwynedd Mercy University. You could argue that nursing can be a stable career with over 71 nursing specialties and fewer barriers to entry than other occupations. For instance, online classes are developing rapidly allowing nurses to advance their careers while working.
The five levels of nursing education begin with a diploma in practical nursing (PN) (LPN). Then there are associates degrees, bachelor’s and master’s and the highest level is a postmaster’s nursing certification.
Let’s take a look at the top three nursing specialties. Keep in mind that each state, district and territory in the United States employs a Board of Nursing. The BON provides standards for nursing care and issues nursing licenses for each region in accordance with the Nursing Practice Act. It is possible to obtain licenses in different areas if you move.
The most popular nurse specialties are listed below, however, there are more than 71 specialties to choose from. Each one has different requirements so you will have to choose as you advance your career. Due to the high demand for nurses and the pandemic, we are seeing more and more online programs to help nurses further their careers at the same time they are working. Make sure you are fully versed on the programs before signing up.
#1 Registered Nurse
This is the top pick for nursing in order to become an RN you will need to earn an associate degree or a bachelor of science degree. An RN can earn $60,000 to $75,900.
#2 Cardiac Nurse
The second most popular nurse specialty is a cardiac nurse this requires and associates degree or bachelor of science degree, Registered Nursing License (RN)
#3 Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
To become a CRNA you will need a master’s degree (MSN), a Registered Nurse License (RN), and one year of experience in an acute care setting.
All of these degrees are available online. To get started, it will take a year to become an LPN. To become an RN from an LPN it takes about 2 years.
A recent article in U.S. News & World Report rated the top four online nursing programs, with 1 and 2 a tie and 3 and 4 a tie as well. According to their survey, the top two schools that tied in first place are Rush University and University of South Carolina. The schools that ranked third and fourth are Duke University and Ohio State University.
Whether you are still in school or ready to get a job through a staffing agency, you can always upgrade your nursing career. These are exciting times in the field of nursing with no end in sight.