Nursing Specialties

1. Ambulatory Care Nurse, ASN or BSN

Ambulatory Care Nurses take care of patients in environments outside of hospitals. Their primary focus lies in pain management and general health education for patients with chronic injuries or illness. They provide the medical screenings, triage, and case management that help restore a patient’s ability to live independently.

Things Ambulatory Care Nurses do:

• Provide pain management
• Focus on patient’s general health
• Create treatment plans

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Work as a Registered Nurse
• Work for 2 years as a Registered Nurse with 2000 hours of clinical practice in ambulatory care, and 30 hours of continued education
• Pass Ambulatory Care Nurse Certification exam
• Become an Ambulatory Care Nurse (CAN)

Where you can work:

• Community clinics
• Schools
• Home care

What else you can expect:

• Recent technology allows doctors to perform more surgical procedures in ambulatory clinics, which has created an increased need for Ambulatory Care Nurses.

2. Cardiac Care Nurse, ASN or BSN

Cardiac Care Nurses treat patients suffering from heart diseases and conditions. According to the Center for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in US. 1.5 million heart attacks occur each year, and nearly 80 million Americans suffer from heart conditions, and the number of cardiac patients continues to rise. As a Cardiac Care Nurse, you can help a wide variety of patients, from children to the elderly, in surgical or ambulatory settings.

Things Cardiac Care Nurses do:

• Stress test evaluations
• Cardiac and vascular monitoring
• Health assessments
• Electrocardiogram monitoring
• Care for patients who have undergone bypass, angioplasty or pacemaker surgery

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Work as a Registered Nurse
• You‘ll need to work as a RN for a minimum of 2 years, and get at least 2000 hours of clinical experience in cardiovascular nursing. Also, you’ll need to take 30 hours of continuing education classes, then you can apply to take the Cardiac Care Nursing Certification exam.
• Get Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification (RN-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
• You’ll need to renew your certification every 5 years
• Become a Cardiac Care Nurse

Where you can work:

• Coronary care and intensive care units in hospitals
• Cardiac rehabilitation centers

What else you can expect:

• You’ll be certified in Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Your salary depends on where you practice, the facility you work in, and how specialized you become—such as pediatric cardiac care, post-surgical, etc

3. Case Management Nurse, ASN or BSN

Case Management Nurses coordinate long-term care for their patients. Their goal is to treat their patients at optimal times to keep them healthy and out of the hospital. As a Case Management Nurse, you’ll likely work with specific groups of patients. You can choose to specialize in treating people with diseases like HIV/AIDS or cancer, or you can work with patients of certain age groups like geriatrics or pediatrics. You’ll also research the latest treatment and procedures, and work with insurance companies to help your patients receive the best possible care in the most cost-effective way.

Things Case Management Nurse do:

• Coordinate doctor appointments
• Schedule surgeries
• Determine the best treatment for your patients

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• You’ll need to work as a RN for at least 2 years, getting 2000 hours of clinical experience in case management before applying to take your certification exam
• Get case management nurse certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center
• Take 30 hours of continuing education classes in case management nursing
• Become a Case Management Nurse

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation clinics
• As an independent consultant

How much you can make:

• An average salary of $48K-$66K

What else you can expect:

• You’ll have an opportunity to develop long-term relationships with your patients, getting to know them, their needs, and have a vested interest in their health.

4. Certified Nurse Midwife, ASN or BSN

A Certified Nurse Midwife works with women who have relatively low-risk pregnancies—from prenatal visits through labor and delivery. They can provide care after the pregnancy, too, counseling new mothers. Some Certified Nurse Midwives work alongside gynecologists to help women throughout their reproductive lives, from puberty to menopause.

Things Certified Nurse Midwives do:

• Deliver babies
• Give prenatal and postpartum care
• Assist gynecologists and obstetricians

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• You can start working as a Registered Nurse
• Work for a minimum of 2 to 4 years in a midwife-related field
• Get further graduate education in either a Nurse-Midwife Education program or direct entry program
• Get Certification from the American College of Nurse-Midwives Certification Council (ACNM) or similar organizations
• Become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient facilities
• Patients’ homes

What else you can expect:

• 22% more jobs for registered nurses from 2008-2018. You’ll be giving routine check-ups during your patients’ pregnancies, and helping new mothers care for their newborns.

5. Correctional Facility Nurse, LPN/LVN Certification

A Correctional Facility Nurse provides care for patients in prisons, jails, penitentiaries, and juvenile detention centers. These nurses treat inmates for issues like trauma and influenza, and treat chronic health problems like AIDS infection, substance abuse, and mental illness. Correctional Facility Nurses also have the unique ability to choose the kind of patients they would like to work with, as well as the kind of setting they would prefer to work with them in.

Things Correctional Facility Nurses do:

• Provide medical support
• Treat patients with unknown medical histories

How to get there:

• Get Licensed Practical Nurse Certification (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Certification

• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
• Work as LPN or LVN for a year in a correctional facility
• Pass Correctional Health Professional Certification exam
• Become Certified Correctional Health Professional (CCHP)

Where you can work:

• Jails
• Prisons
• Juvenile detention centers

What else you can expect:

• You’ll have the opportunity to make a difference in the life of an inmate, helping someone who might not have ever received proper healthcare in their life.

6. Critical Care Nurse, BSN and MSN

Critical Care Nurses make sure all critically ill patients get optimal care for their illnesses and injuries. To do that, they use their specialized skills as well as their in-depth knowledge of the human body and the latest technology in the field. Most Critical Care Nurses work in hospitals, but they can work out of nursing homes, outpatient facilities and flight units, too. As a Critical Care Nurse, you can specialize in treating adults, children, or babies.

Things Critical Care Nurses do:

• Perform assessments of critical conditions
• Give intensive therapy and intervention
• Advocate for their patients
• Operate life support systems

How to get there:

• Get Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a RN
• You’ll need to work as a RN for a minimum of 2 years in critical care. Also, you’ll need to take continuing education classes (the amount of hours are set by your hospital), then you can apply to take the certification exam specific to your specialty area
• Get Critical care nursing certification from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN)
• Depending on where you work, you’ll need to take a certain amount continuing education classes after you get certified in order to stay up-to-date on the latest critical care technology
• Become a Certified Critical Care Nurse (CCRN)

Where you can work:

• Coronary and intensive care, telemetry, or progressive care units in hospitals
• Flight units

How much you can make

• An average salary $45K-$75K

What else you can expect:

• You can choose to focus on subspecialties like neonatal, pediatric, or adult intensive care. Continuing education is an important part of your job, since you’ll need to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in technology and care.

7. Development Disability Nurse, LPN, ASN or BSN

Also known as a Special Needs Nurse, Developmental Disability Nurses help patients with mental or developmental disabilities like Down Syndrome or Trisomy 21, autism, and more. These nurses also educate patients’ families about the disability and provide emotional support. As a Developmental Disability Nurse, you can work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to schools, to private businesses and patients’ homes.

Things Development Disability Nurses do:

• Helping patients eat, and perform basic bodily functions
• Teaching patients to move on their own
• Assisting patients with language and communication skills

How to get there:

• Get Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a RN
• You’ll need to work for a minimum of 2 years in developmental disabilities before applying to take the developmental disabilities certification exam from the Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (DDNA)
• Become a Developmental Disability Nurse

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Schools
• Patients’ homes

What else you can expect:

• You’ll have the opportunity to develop long-term relationships with your patients while helping improve the quality of their lives. You’ll be trained to interpret and anticipate the needs of your patients who can’t communicate them with you.

8. Family Nurse Practitioner, BSN and MSN

Nurse Practitioners are Registered Nurses who serve as primary and specialty health care providers under a physician. Much like a family doctor, Family Nurse Practitioners work with patients throughout their lives, diagnosing illness, conducting exams, and prescribing medication. These nurses can also serve as their patients’ sole health care provider and run their own private practices.

Things Family Nurse Practitioners do:

• Diagnose illnesses
• Prescribe medication and therapy
• Conduct routine check-ups
• Order patient lab tests
• Assist in minor surgical procedures
• Focus on disease prevention

How to get there:

• Get Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a RN
• Get Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Take courses in family nursing theory and intervention, acute and chronic illness management, research, primary healthcare concerns and leadership preparation
• Get Board certification in family practice through the American Nurses Credentialing Center of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioner
•  Become a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (CFNP)

Where you can work:

• Physician’s offices
• Your own practice
• Hospice facilities

How much you can make:

• An average salary of $63K-$85K

What else you can expect

• You’ll be able to develop long term relationships with your patients, which will help you to become an expert in their medical background.

9. Geriatric Nurse, ASN or BSN

Geriatric Nurses help elderly patients. These older adults are at greater risk of injuries and diseases like osteoporosis, Alzheimer's and cancer, which is why Geriatric Nurses focus on preventative care. They also help patients, and their families, cope with certain medical conditions that develop later in life. As a Geriatric Nurse, you can work in nursing homes, with home healthcare services and in hospice facilities taking care of bedridden patients, those with impaired mental ability, and for patients who are in pain.

Things Geriatric Nurses do:

• Help rehabilitate patients after injuries
• Conduct routine check-ups and screenings
• Develop patient care plans
• Administer medication
• Assist with pain management
• Bathing and bedsore prevention

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• You can start working as a Registered Nurse
• Get at least 2 years of clinical experience, including 2000 hours in geriatrics, and take 30 hours of continuing education in geriatric nursing
• Get Gerontological Nursing Certification through the American Nurses Credentialing center
• Become a Certified Geriatric Nurse

Where you can work:

• Nursing homes
• Private practices
• Patients’ homes

How much you can make

• An average salary of $41K-$54K

What else you can expect

• Since the elderly are more likely than any other age group to need nursing care, and with the US population growing increasingly older, your job outlook is good.

10. Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, BSN and MSN

Nurse Practitioners are Registered Nurses who serve as primary and specialty health care providers under a physician. Much like a geriatrician, Gerontological Nurse Practitioners work with elderly patients, diagnosing illness, conducting exams, and prescribing medication. As a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, you can work at nursing homes, with home healthcare services and in hospice facilities, or run your own private practice.

Things Gerontological Nurse Practitioners do:

• Diagnose illnesses and diseases
• Prescribe medication and therapy
• Conduct routine check-ups and screenings
• Order patient lab tests
• Pain management
• Focus on preventative care

How to get there:  

• Graduate from four-year Bachelor's in Nursing program and get BSN Degree
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
• Get RN License, and start working as a Registered Nurse
• Get Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Take courses in geriatrics, acute and chronic illness management, research, primary healthcare concerns and leadership preparation
• Get Board certification in Gerontological practice through the American Nurses Credentialing Center of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
• Become a Certified Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (CGNP)
• You’ll need to renew your certification every 5 years, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center

Where you can work:

• Nursing homes
• Patients’ homes
• Your own practice

How much you can make

• An average salary $63K-$85K

What else you can expect

• Since the elderly are more likely than any other age group to need nursing care, and with the US population growing increasingly older, your job outlook is good.

11. Health Policy Nurse, BSN and MSN or PhD

Health Policy Nurses analyze health and public policies, helping to create a healthier society. Nurses with expertise in this growing role can be leaders in advocacy, research, analysis, policy development, implementation and evaluation. As a Health Policy Nurse, you can work in health services research firms, legislative offices, for healthcare provider associations, or hold elective office.

Things Health Policy Nurses do:

• Analyze healthcare laws, regulations and public policies
• Devise strategies to advocate policy change
• Plan and implement new policies in health

How to get there:  

• Graduate from four-year Bachelor's in Nursing program and get BSN Degree
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
• Get RN License, and start working as a Registered Nurse
• Get Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• In addition to coursework, you’ll complete a 10-week health policy residency program in government offices, advocacy organizations, community groups and more
• Get Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD). This degree is optional, but helpful if you want to progress in your leadership role as a Health Policy Nurse
• Become a Health Policy Nurse

Where you can work:

• Research firms
• Government offices
• Healthcare organizations

What else you can expect:

• This specialty will give you the opportunity to effect change in healthcare through nursing.

12. Hematology Nurse, ASN or BSN

A Hematology Nurse is trained to care for patients with blood diseases and disorders. They may also assist with blood transfusions, blood tests, research, and chemotherapy. If you go into hematology, expect to have more responsibility than other nurses, prescriptive authority, and the ability to order diagnostic lab work.

Things Hematology Nurses do:

• Encounter patients with leukemia, lymphoma, sickle cell and hemophilia
• Take medical histories
• Perform exams
• Diagnose and treat blood diseases

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• You can start working as a Registered Nurse
• You’ll work for 2 years in hematology-related nursing, and a year in clinical nursing
• Pass Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse exam (CPHON) or Oncology Certification Exam (OCN)
• Become a Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse or Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Physician’s office
• Outpatient care clinics

What else you can expect

• You’ll work closely with Oncology Nurses.

13. HIV/AIDS Care Nurse, ASN or BSN

HIV/AIDS Nurses are trained to provide care for patients infected with AIDS, a deadly, incurable disease that attacks a patient’s immune system. These nurses help patients cope with and manage the different emotional and physical symptoms that come with having their disease. Many HIV/AIDS Nurses work in community or public health, educating at risk groups about safe sex and the dangers of sharing needles.

Things HIV/AIDS Care Nurses do:

• Connect patients to support groups and services
• Teach patients how to prevent the spread of the disease
• Administer treatments and medications

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a Registered Nurse. Two years of experience working in an HIV/AIDS related field is recommended, but not required
• Pass AIDS Certified Registered Nurse exam (ACRN)
• Become a AIDS Certified Registered Nurse (ACRN)

Where you can work:

• Physician’s office
• Outpatient care clinics
• Hospitals

What else you can expect

• You may be tasked with creating pain management plans for AIDS patients.

14. Holistic Nurse, ASN or BSN or MSN

Also called Complementary Health Nurses, Holistic Nurses use alternative medicine, sometimes combined with traditional Western medicine, to care for patients. This field of nursing is based on the premise that you cannot treat a patient’s physical health without addressing the “whole” person—including their mental, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. This approach to nursing is much different than other, more traditional specialties, and an increasingly sought-after, niche field.

Things Holistic Nurses do:

• Acupuncture
• Stress management
• Aromatherapy
• Massage
• Hypnosis, hydrotherapy and balneotherapy
• Chinese and Eastern healing practices
• Wellness coaching

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• You can start working as a Registered Nurse, practicing Holistic Nursing for a minimum of one-year (full-time). Also, complete at least 48 contact hours of continuing education in Holistic Nursing within 2 years before applying for certification
• If you choose to practice acupuncture and massage, you need to get a separate certification in your state first
• Get Board Certification (HN-BC) from the American Holistic Nurse Certification Corporation (AHNCC)
• The next, and the highest, certification is optional and requires an MSN degree
• Get advanced Holistic Nurse-Board Certification (AHN-BC)
• Become a Certified Holistic Nurse

Where you can work:

• Integrated care department in hospitals
• Patients’ homes
• Birthing centers

What else you can expect:

• A heightened awareness of patients as a whole. A highly sought-after specialty in metropolitan areas.

15. Home Health Care Nurse, ASN or BSN

A Home Health Care Nurse works with patients in their homes. These nurses mainly work with the elderly, but sometimes work with younger children who have developmental or mobility issues. A Home Health Care Nurse is great for people that would rather work outside of a hospital.

Things Health Care Nurses do:

• Work with patients on a long term basis
• Help patients regain physical independence
• Manage patients’ medication

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• You can start working as a Home Health Care Registered Nurse
• Pass Home Health Care Nurse certification exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center
• Become a Certified Home Health Care Nurse

Where you can work:

• Patients’ homes
• Nursing homes

How much you can make

• An average salary of $39K-$55K

What else you can expect

• You’ll help educate family members on how to care for your patient when you aren’t around.

16. Hospice Nurse, ASN or BSN

A Hospice Nurse cares for patients at the end of their lives. Their main responsibility is to help people live as comfortably and independently as possible and with the least amount of pain, in their final days. One of the largest parts of being a Hospice Nurse involves helping patients, and their families, feel more comfortable about death and providing them with the emotional support they need.

Things Hospice Nurses do:

• Focus on pain management
• Help terminally ill patients

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Work as a Registered Nurse for 2 years in a hospice-related field
• Pass Hospice and Palliative Nurses certification exam
• Become a Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurse (CHPN)

Where you can work:

• Patients’ homes
• Hospice care clinics

How much you can make:

• an average salary of $31K-$41K

What else you can expect:

• You’ll spend more time with your patients, than any other healthcare team member will, and will be involved in every aspect of their care.

17. Informatics Nurse, BSN

Also known as Nurse Informatics, these nurses help manage, interpret and communicate vital medical data flowing in and out of doctors’ offices, hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities. Informatics Nurses usually work in the information systems department of a healthcare organization and are skilled in computer science, information technology and nursing science. As an Informatics Nurse, you can also work to develop medical technology, or train other nurses on the latest systems.

Things Informatics Nurses do:

• Incorporate information technology in clinical settings
• Perform research based on clinical data and trials
• Work with information systems to help patients manage their own health
• Work in biosurveillance, outbreak response and electronic lab reporting
• Develop storage and analytic technology to optimize data for research

How to get there:

• Get Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Work as Registered Nurse, get clinical experience as a staff nurse, and then take continuing courses in informatics
• Get Informatics Nurse Certification through the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC)
• Become a Informatics Nurse

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Pharmaceutical and research facilities
• Healthcare consulting firms

How much you can make

• An average salary $49K-$69K

What else you can expect

• Nurses trained in informatics are highly sought-after.

18. International Nurse, ASN or BSN

Some nurses choose to go abroad—traveling the world and taking care of patients in other countries, or aiding underserved nations where learned and experienced professional nurses are in high demand. Like all nurses, these men and women are passionate in their desire to help others and are champions of the nursing profession.

Things International Nurses do:

• Care for patients all over the world
• Take medical histories
• Administer medications and treatments
• Educate patients on their health conditions

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Work as Registered Nurse. Check Council of Nurses to find out requirements for practicing internationally
• Become an International Nurse

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Physician’s office
• Outpatient clinics

What else you can expect

• Working with different patients in different cultures will expose you to more types of medical treatment and procedures, and help you communicate better with all kinds of patients.

19. Labor and Delivery Nurse, ASN and BSN

Labor and Delivery Nurses help bring people into the world every day. They care for women during labor and childbirth, monitoring the baby and the mother, coaching mothers and assisting doctors. As a Labor and Delivery Nurse, you’ll prepare women, and their families, for the stages of giving birth and help patients with breastfeeding after the baby is born.

Things Labor and Delivery Nurses do:

• Monitor the baby’s heart rate and mother’s blood pressure
• Time contractions
• Identify and assist with complications
• Help administer medications and epidurals
• Aid in inducing labor
• Prepare new mothers for before, during and after pregnancy

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Take elective courses in labor and delivery, in school
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a Registered Nurse and getting experience in labor and delivery
• Get Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) certification through the National Certification Corporation
• Become a Certified Labor and Delivery Nurse

Where you can work:

• Hospital delivery room
• Physician’s offices
• Community clinics

What else you can expect

• You can become an OB/GYN Nurse Practitioner. This Advanced Practice nurse can serve as the primary care giver to women, write prescriptions. Order lab tests and make diagnosis.

20. Legal Nurse Consultant, ASN or BSN

A Legal Nurse Consultant is medical part of a legal team. These nurses serve as the medical expert in legal cases, helping attorneys and other legal professionals interpret records and charts, understand medical terminology and consult with them on healthcare-related topics. As a Legal Nurse Consultant, you can also work with insurance companies, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, clinics and government agencies, either as an employee or on a contractual basis. Your nursing background could be anything from emergency to hospital administration, working in private practices or community clinics. This varied experience is part of what makes you an invaluable asset during legal cases.

Things Legal Nurse Consultants do:

• Medical record research
• Identifying medical standards of care
• Testify as an expert witness in court proceedings involving worker's compensation, malpractice, fraud, abuse and other medical matters

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Work as Registered Nurse for 5 years, and then get at least 2 years experience in legal nursing
• Get your Legal Nurse Consultant Certified (LNCC) by the American Legal Nurse Consultant Certification Board (ALNCCB)
• Become a Legal Nurse Consultant

Where you can work:

• Law firms
• Insurance companies
• Hospitals

How much you can make

• An average salary $49K-$64K

What else you can expect:

• Many consultants work for themselves in a contract basis with companies, hospitals and law firms. This allows them to have a flexible schedules and work environment.

21. Licensed Practical Nurse, LPN Certification

Licensed Practical Nurses perform a variety of tasks under the supervision of a registered nurse. They administer medicine and injections, and take vital signs. Starting your career as an LPN is a great way to become a registered nurse. It’s also a great alternative for those who want to become a nurse but do not want to be RNs.

Things Licensed Practical Nurses do:

• Keep records and medical histories
• Perform CPR
• Administer basic care

How to get there:

• Get Licensed Practical Nurse Certification (LPN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
• Become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Physician’s office
• Outpatient care center

How much you can make

• An average salary $28K-$40K

What else you can expect

• The transition to becoming an RN will be an easy one with experience as an LPN.

22. Long-Term Care Nurse, ASN or BSN

A Long-Term Care Nurse cares for patients who have a disability or illness in need of extended care. Many of their patients live in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes. These nurses assist patients with normal day-to-day tasks like getting dressed and taking baths, but they primarily focus on patient healthcare.

What Long-Term Care Nurses do:

• Care for elderly, and younger patients with disabilities
• Monitor a patient’s health
• Educate the patient’s family on the patient’s medical condition

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Work for at least 2 years as a registered Nurse in nursing home
• Pass Long-Term Care Nurse certification exam
• Become a Certified Registered Nurse, Long-Term Care (CRNL)

Where you can work:

• Nursing homes
• Assisted living communities
• Home health care

How much you can make

• An average salary $21K-$22K

What else you can expect:

• Since most Long-Term Nurses care for the elderly, it’s helpful to take elective courses in gerontology in nursing school.

23. Military Nurse, ASN or BSN

Military Nurses care for patients within the military, all over the globe. These nurses are no different from other nurses as they administer medication, treat wounds, and care for the sick. However, one of the more interesting things about being a Military Nurse is that your assignments can take you all over the world.

Things Military Nurses do:

• Setup triage in war zones
• Treat soldiers
• Help patients all over the world

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Enlist in an branch of the military, if you haven’t already
• Become a Military Nurse

Where you can work:

• Ships at sea
• Overseas war zones
• Military base

What else you can expect

• The military needs nurse trained in all specialties, so you can work in whichever specialty you choose, be it pediatrics, psychiatric, emergency trauma, critical care, neonatal, midwifery and more.

24. Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse, ASN or BSN

Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses care for premature and critically ill newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a hospital. These babies are born needing immediate medical attention, so Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses connect them to technology that helps them breathe and allows them to be fed intravenously, so they can gain weight. As a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse, you’ll work under the direction of a physician, caring for the newborn, and helping to educate their new mothers about their baby’s condition, breastfeeding, and answering their questions.

Things Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses do:

• Monitor the newborn's condition
• Administering necessary medications to the baby
• Record the newborn’s progress and recovery
• Change diapers
• Hold and comfort the babies in distress

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Take elective courses in neonatal nursing in school
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start to work as a Registered Nurse
• Get several years of clinical experience working with neonatal patients before applying to take

your certification exam for neonatal nursing

• Pass the critical care neonatal nursing certification exam through the American Association of

Critical Care Nursing

• Become a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse

Where you can work:

• NICUs in hospitals

How much you can make

• An average salary $45K-$58K

What else you can expect

• Job competition is high, as this specialty is a popular one. The more advanced your degree and/or certification are, the more likely you are to get the position you want as a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse.

25. Neuroscience Nurse, ASN or BSN

A Neuroscience Nurse assists patients with brain and nervous system disorders. Some of their duties include monitoring neurological exams, administering medication, and consulting physicians on patient progress. Neuroscience Nurses work in diverse, challenging and rewarding environments, such as hospitals, health care clinics, brain injury units, and intensive rehabilitation units.

Things Neuroscience Nurses do:

• Post-operative care
• Help patients with neurological difficulties
• Maintain health records

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start to work as a Registered Nurse
• Work for 2 years as a Registered Nurse with 4160 hours in neuroscience
• Pass Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse Exam
• Become a Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN)

Where you can work:

• Hospital
• Physician’s office
• Outpatient care facility

What else you can expect

• Neuroscience Nurses often help patients who might be confused or restless due to brain trauma. 

26. Nurse Advocate, BSN

Nurse Advocates are the liaison between patients and doctors. They help patients understand their diagnosis and make the best decisions about their health. Since every patient has different circumstances, beliefs, and preferences, it is not uncommon for their wishes to conflict with doctor’s orders. As a Nurse Advocate, you’ll work with doctors to offer your patients alternative treatment solutions.

Things Nurse Advocates do:

• Teach patients about their illness
• Make sure your patients understand the diagnosis
• Work with patients and doctors to provide the best treatment options
• Represent the patient, when the doctor’s recommendation differs from the patient’s wishes

How to get there:

• Get Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start to work as a Registered Nurse
• Work as a Registered Nurse, getting experience, and continuing education, in social work, research, insurance and patient education
• Become a Nurse Advocate

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Private practices

What else you can expect

• It’s important for Nurse Advocates to stay on top of new health care legislation, insurance procedures, patient treatment and medicine.

27. Nurse Anesthetist, BSN and MSN

This Advanced Practice nurse gives anesthesia and anesthesia-related care to patients before, during, and after surgery. Nurse Anesthetists need to be prepared for a wide variety of situations, which is why the career path to becoming a Nurse Anesthetist is an intensive one. It’s also why Nurse Anesthetists are among the most in-demand, and highest-paid, of all nursing professions.

Things Nurse Anesthetists do:

• Operating Room care
• Outpatient procedures
• Emergency Room care
• Pain Management
• Epidurals

How to get there:  

• Graduate from four-year Bachelor's in Nursing program and get BSN Degree
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
• Get RN License, and start working as a Registered Nurse
•  Get Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Most nurse anesthetist programs require a minimum of a year experience working in an acute care setting before you apply to the graduate program to become a Nurse Anesthetist
• It is the equivalent of a Master's program, and in fact you will receive a Master's degree as part of your formal training to become a Nurse Anesthetist. During that time, you will be trained in the administration of anesthesia which can be sedation all the way up to general anesthesia for surgical procedures. Upon completing your formal coursework, you will need to pass the licensing or certification exam. And you are then ready to enter into practice as a nurse anesthetist working with the surgical team to provide clinical care for patients.
• Pass National Certification Exam (NCE)
• Become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient Facilities
• Physicians’ Offices

How much you can make

• Average salary $98K-$129K

What else you can expect

•    You’ll be a valued member of the medical-surgical team including: surgeons, anesthesiologists, other physicians, registered nurse, and other healthcare practitioners.

28. Nurse Attorney, BSN and JD

Nurse Attorneys have earned both their nursing and law degrees, so they can represent medical professionals in court, or work to change healthcare policies. Nurse Attorneys who choose a courtroom career, can help doctors or nurses involved in malpractice suits, and consult on disputes with insurance companies. The individuals who choose a career in health can advocate healthcare policies, lobby for nursing associations or help inform lawmakers on important issues within the healthcare industry. As a Nurse Attorney, you can also work as a writer, or editor, for professional nursing and legal journals.

Things Nurse Attorneys do:

• Represent healthcare professionals in court
• Analyze personal injury or insurance claims
• Be an expert witness in medical legal cases
• Advocate healthcare policies

How to get there:

• Get Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Work as a Registered Nurse, getting clinical experience before applying to law school
• Pass Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
• Get Juris Doctor degree (JD)
• Pass State bar licensing exam
• Become a Nurse Attorney

Where you can work:

• Law firms
• Hospitals
• Health insurance companies

What else you can expect

• As a Nurse Attorney, you can also work in hospital administration, as a lobbyist, legal consultant, litigator or defense attorney.

29. Nurse Practitioner, BSN and MSN

Nurse Practitioners are Registered Nurses who serve as primary and specialty health care providers under a physician. They can specialize in family practice, pediatrics, women’s health, mental health and more. Most Nurse Practitioners work alongside doctors in a hospital or outpatient facility, but some run their own private practices.

Things Nurse Practitioners do:

• Prescribe medication
• Diagnose diseases
• Initiate treatment plans
• Order patient lab tests

How to get there:

• Get Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a Registered Nurse
• Get Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Get significant clinical experience as a Nurse Practitioner
• Get Board Certification in the specialty through the American Nurses

Credentialing Center (ANCC)

• Become Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP)

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Physician’s office
• Your own practice

How much you can make:

• An average salary $63K-$85K

What else you can expect:

• You’ll have more responsibility in a variety of practices and areas of medicine, than the average staff nurse.  

30. Obstetrics Nurse, Gynecology Nurse, ASN or BSN

Also known as OB/GYN nurses, Gynecology/Obstetrics Nurses care for women from puberty to menopause. They help women during pregnancy, labor and childbirth, as well as women with health issues with their reproductive system. As a Gynecology/Obstetrics Nurse, you’ll also teach women, and teenage girls, about physical and sexual health providing information on treatments from birth control to mammograms.

Things Obstetrics Nurses/Gynecology Nurses do:

• Assist with annual check-ups
• Help with labor and delivery
• Teach patients about birth control options
• Administer HPV vaccinations
• Conduct mammograms and other screenings

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a Registered Nurse getting experience in women’s health
• Get Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) certification through the National Certification Corporation
• Become Certified Gynecology/Obstetrics Nurse

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Physician’s office
• Community clinics

What else you can expect

• You can become an OB/GYN Nurse Practitioner. This Advanced Practice nurse can serve as the primary care giver to women, write prescriptions, order lab tests and make diagnosis.  

31. Occupational Health Nurse, BSN

An Occupational Health Nurse provides preventative health care for people who work at hospitals and other medical facilities. They work closely with employers to insure that health and safety standards are met, and are instrumental in maintaining optimal employee health.

Things Occupational Health Nurses do:

• Develop safety programs at hospitals
• Document employee injuries or illnesses
• Appraise work environments

How to get there:

• Get Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a Registered Nurse
• Get at least 3000 hours of experience in occupational health
• Pass Occupational Health Nurse certification exam (COHN)
• Become Certified Occupational Health Nurse

Where you can work:

• Public health clinics
• Private practices
• Schools

How much you can make

• An average salary of $42K-$55K

What else you can expect

• You’ll be trained to work in environment health, disease management, employee treatment, emergency preparedness, health care services, rehabilitation and return-to-work issues.

32. Oncology Nurse, BSN

An Oncology Nurse provides care for cancer patients and those at risk for getting the disease. They monitor physical conditions, prescribe medication, and administer chemotherapy and other treatments. Oncology is one of the most challenging and rewarding fields in nursing and no two days on the job are ever the same.

Things Oncology Nurses do:

• Create management strategies
• Cancer prevention counseling
• Maintain health records

How to get there:

• Get Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a Registered Nurse
• Work as a Registered Nurse for at least a year, including 1000 hours in oncology
• Get Oncology Nurse Certification through the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
• Become Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)

Where you can work:

• Hospital
• Physician’s office
• Outpatient Care facility

How much you can make

• An average salary of $44K-$57K

What else you can expect

• You’ll teach and counsel patients about healthcare and cancer treatments.

33. Orthopaedic Nurse, ASN or BSN

An Orthopaedic Nurse takes care of people with musculoskeletal diseases and disorders like arthritis, fractures, broken bones, joint replacements, genetic malformations and osteoporosis. When musculoskeletal problems require surgery, Orthopaedic Nurses assist doctors with the operation and help them later with recovering their mobility and strength. Education is also an important aspect of an Orthopaedic Nurse's job, as they teach patients and families about musculoskeletal disease prevention, symptoms, and treatments.

Things Orthopaedic Nurses do:

• Provide treatment plans to help patients
• Assists Orthopaedic doctors with operations
• Help patients recover mobility and strength

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a Registered Nurse
• Practice 2 full years as a RN and work a minimum of 1000 hours as a RN in orthopaedic nursing practice
• Pass Orthopaedic Nurse Certification exam
• Become Orthopaedic Nurse (ONC)

You might consider becoming an Advanced Practice Orthopaedic Nurse.

• Get Graduate Degree (Master’s, Post-Graduate or Doctorate) from an advanced practice (APRN) nursing program with preparation as a Nurse Practitioner (NP)
• Work minimum of 1500 hours of advanced practice nursing work of you are working under the ONC credential or, if not, a minimum of 2500 hours of work experience as a NP in orthopaedic practice
• Pass ONP-C exam
• Become Orthopaedic Nurse Practitioner

Where you can work:

• Hospital
• Emergency room
• Outpatient care facility

What else you can expect:

With a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), you could become

• a Nurse Practitioner working in Orthopaedic Nursing as patients’ primary care provider
• a head Orthopaedic Nurse

You’ll work in a variety of settings, from outpatient to home care to emergency or surgical settings.

34. Pain Management Nurse, BSN and MSN

This Advanced Practice nurse cares for patients experiencing acute or chronic pain. After Pain Management Nurses assess the source of pain, they work with other nurses and doctors to coordinate treatment and care. Pain Management Nurses are also teachers, showing patients how to help manage their own pain, their medications and alternative ways to relieve their pain.

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Practice for at least 2 years, full-time, as a Registered Nurse

• Practice in a pain management nursing role for at least 2000 hours in 3 years prior to taking your Pain Management Certification Exam.
• Get Certification (RN-BC) from the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC)
• Become a Pain Management Nurse (PMN)

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation centers
• Nursing homes

How much you can make:

• An average salary $45K-$61K

What else you can expect:

• You can work as a pain management specialist, a pain management nurse practitioner, or a pain management nursing supervisors. Patients in pain could have trouble communication verbally, so it’s important to be receptive to body language.

35. Pediatric Nurse, ASN or BSN

Pediatric Nurses work with patients from infancy to young adulthood, giving developmental screenings, immunizations, and treating common illnesses like chicken pox and tonsillitis. They work closely with family doctors, pediatricians and other nurses, to provide preventative as well as critical care. As a Pediatric Nurse, you’ll also teach your patients’ parents and family members how to prevent childhood diseases, and about proper nutrition for growth and development.

Things Pediatric Nurses do:

• Conduct routine check-ups
• Give immunizations
• Counsel patients and family members

How to get there:

• Get Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Take courses in child health and psychology in order to prepare for work in pediatrics
• Pass National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start working as a Registered Nurse, getting experience in pediatrics
• Get Pediatric Nurse certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
• You can also get advanced certifications in specific pediatric specialties, such as emergency nursing, acute care, primary care, and behavioral and mental health
• Become a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

Where you can work:

• Hospital
• Physician’s offices
• Your own practice

How much you can make:

• An average salary of $36K-$47K

What else you can expect:

• An understanding of children’s different emotional need will help in treating young patients, as you’ll be able to put them at ease and help them understand their condition.

36. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN and MSN

Nurse Practitioners are Registered Nurses who serve as primary and specialty health care providers under a physician. Much like a pediatrician, Pediatric Nurse Practitioners work with patients from infancy to young adulthood, diagnosing illness, conducting exams, and prescribing medication. These nurses usually work alongside pediatricians in a hospital or outpatient facility, but some run their own private practices.

Things Pediatric Nurse Practitioners do:

• Diagnose illnesses
• Prescribe medication and therapy
• Conduct routine check-ups
• Order patient lab tests
• Counsel patients and family members

How to get there:

• Get your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Pass your National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN)
• Start Working as a Registered Nurse
• Get your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Take courses in child health and psychology in order to prepare for work in pediatrics
• Get Board certification in pediatrics through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
• Become a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP)

Where you can work:

• Hospitals
• Physician’s offices
• Your own practice

How much you can make

• An average salary $63K-$85K

What else you can expect

• With your advanced degree and certification, you’ll have more responsibility, and higher earning ability, than pediatric nurses.

37. Perioperative/Surgical Nurse, BSN

Surgical Nurses care for patients before, during and after surgery. They work alongside surgical teams to make sure that patients are receiving the best possible care, and serve as liaisons between the surgical team and the patients’ families. As a Surgical Nurse, you’ll help patients with recovery immediately following surgery and teach them, and their families, about at-home postoperative care.

Things Surgical Nurses do:

• Interview and assess patients on the day of surgery
• Monitor patients and coordinate care during surgery
• Maintain a sterile operating room during surgery
• Give patients recovery tips for home