Types of Career Degrees in Nursing
The health care industry is having a growing requirement for nurses. Nursing, with two million jobs is amongst top 10 occupations that have largest number of new jobs. As there is already a shortage of qualified nurses world wide the opportunities seem extremely good. The salary of a nurse is above average. This is especially true in the case of advanced nurses having additional training and education.
Many degrees are available in the field of nursing which can be pursued with the help of a nursing school or nursing program. This can be done on campus and can also be done online. Here are some of the degrees you can consider if you want a career in nursing.
CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)
A CNA training class is easy and quick to complete and the requirements are lesser. It is an entry level position and is considered a stepping stone towards becoming a LPN. It gives you an exposure to every facility and environment you might find after becoming a nurse. You will work under and perform tasks under the directions of a nurse.
ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing)
This involves -3 years of study and is available at a lot of community colleges. On its completion you will be able to give RN care in different settings. After completion you can become a LPN or an RN depending on the license examination type.
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
This is a four years course and is also sometimes known as a Baccalaureate degree. It is offered at the California State University and also in some private colleges. You will be able to give RN care on completion. You can also move to leadership and administrative positions with the help of this.
Masters Entry Level Program in Nursing
This program is for those adults who already possess a degree in some other field and want to become RNs. It takes about 1-2 years. The time period varies in terms of nursing course pre requisites that you may have already completed. It is considered a Masters Degree.
APRN (Advanced Practical Registered Nurse)
An APRN specializes in complex nursing care. Most of the APRN licenses require you to have studied four years and are having a bachelor’s degree. Also a bit of post graduate study. Some may even require a Masters degree.
You may or may not find a campus program close to your home depending on the type of degree you opt for. You can consider going in for online degree and courses if you are unable to. These are available for almost all areas and specialties although they might limit you from clinical experience.
After completion of your nursing degree you will be required to send a nursing application to your states ‘Board of Registered Nursing’. Your transcripts will need to be sent by your Nursing School as well. Your final requirement will be to clear the’ National Council Licensing Examination’.
The salary and job responsibility of a person will depend on the education and training received. Hence if you have a higher degree you have more opportunities in securing a job of your choice. With some consideration and good thought one can enter into a nursing level of their capabilities and be satisfied with a rewarding career.
