Nursing Career Guide

Nurses are always in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over two million people hold some form of nursing licensure.  The Department of Labor lists Registered Nursing as a top occupation for job growth through at least the next decade. Unlike many other professions, the great thing about nursing is the variety of work settings available. For instance, if you find that emergency room nursing isn't for you, no worries! You have many other options to choose from like pediatrics, doctor's offices, clinics, home health…the list goes on and on. Nurses are there when a baby takes its first breath and when an elderly patient takes his last. No other profession offers so much diversity and opportunity. As a nurse, you can make a difference in everyone’s life you touch including your own.

Once you become a nurse, you will have endless opportunities. You could work in an emergency room or the justice system as a legal nurse consultant. You can work as a researcher, an educator, a writer, or work as a surgical nurse. The possibilities are practically endless and because there is a nationwide shortage of nurses, you will be able to find a job anywhere you choose to live.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN)


Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

  • Median Salary: $103,880
  • Minimum Education: MSN
  • Licensure: APRN & AANPCP certification
Clinical Nurse Specialist

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

  • Median Salary: $93,000
  • Minimum Education: MSN
  • Licensure: APRN
Certified Nurse-Midwife

Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)

  • Median Salary: $100,590
  • Minimum Education: MSN
  • Licensure: APRN & AMCB certification
Nurse Anesthetist

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

  • Median Salary: $165,120
  • Minimum Education: MSN
  • Licensure: APRN & NBCRNA certification

Entry Level Nursing Jobs


Registered Nurse

Registered Nurse

  • Median Salary: $70,000
  • Education: ADN (2-3 years), BSN (4-5 years)
  • Licensure: RN (after passing NCLEX-RN)
Licensed Practical Nurse

Licensed Practical Nurse

  • Median Salary: $45,030
  • Education: About 1 year, non-degree
  • Licensure: LPN (after passing NCLEX-PN)
Certified Nurse Assistant

Certified Nurse Assistant

  • Median Salary: $27,520
  • Education: 120 hours (about two weeks)
  • Licensure: Not required (certificate only)