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Nursing offers various career paths, each with different responsibilities and earning potential. Alvernia University prepares students with the education, hands-on training, and ethical foundation to thrive in diverse nursing roles. Students can choose the level of education and specialization that best aligns with their career goals.
Here’s a breakdown of some common types of nurses, their job descriptions, and salaries in the United States:
Registered Nurse (RN)
Description: Provide direct patient care, administer medications, coordinate treatment plans, and educate patients and families about health conditions. They work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community health settings.
Median Annual Salary: $86,070.
Requirements:
- Education – Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Licensure – Pass NCLEX-RN exam and obtain state licensure.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Description: Provide basic medical care, such as monitoring vital signs, assisting with daily activities, and administering medications under the supervision of RNs or doctors.
Median Annual Salary:$59,730.
Requirements:
- Education – Certificate or Diploma in Practical Nursing – 1 year.
- Licensure – Pass the NCLEX-PN exam and obtain state licensure.
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Description: Advanced practice nurses who diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and provide specialized care in areas like family medicine, pediatrics, or mental health. NPs often work independently or alongside physicians.
Median Annual Salary: $129,480.
Requirements:
- Education – BSN and MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
- Licensure – Hold RN license, complete a nurse practitioner program, and pass national certification exam.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Description: Advanced practice nurses who focus on improving patient outcomes and healthcare processes. Often specialize in specific areas, such as geriatrics, oncology, or critical care, and may work in clinical, administrative, or educational roles.
Median Annual Salary:$113,000.
Requirements:
- Education – BSN and MSN.
- Licensure – Hold RN license, complete a CNS program, and obtain certification based on specialty.
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Description: Provide comprehensive care for women, including prenatal care, labor and delivery support, and postpartum care.
Median Annual Salary:$122,613.
Requirements:
- Education – BSN and MSN with a focus on midwifery.
- Licensure – Hold RN license, complete a CNM program, and pass the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Description: Administer anesthesia during surgical procedures and provide pain management services, working closely with surgeons and anesthesiologists.
Median Annual Salary:$214,200.
Requirements:
- Education – BSN and DNP or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP).
- Licensure – Hold RN license, complete a CRNA program, and pass the National Certification Exam (NCE) for Nurse Anesthetists.
Travel Nurse
Description: Work on short-term contracts in various locations, often filling in where healthcare facilities have shortages. Travel nurses enjoy flexibility and opportunities to work in diverse settings.
Median Annual Salary:$112,161 with additional housing and travel stipends
Requirements:
- Education – ADN or BSN.
- Licensure – Pass NCLEX-RN exam, obtain state licensure, and meet requirements for multi-state or temporary licensure.
Nurse Educator
Description: Teach and mentor future nurses in academic or clinical settings, focusing on nursing theory, skills, and professional development.
Median Annual Salary:$86,530.
Requirements:
- Education – BSN and MSN with an emphasis on education.
- Licensure – Hold RN license.
Kickstart Your Nursing Career
With Alvernia University’s John and Karen Arnold School of Nursing, you can choose from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN to BSN Completion, or Master of Science in Nursing programs to help you advance your skills and achieve your professional goals. For more information about the different types of nursing roles and their associated job descriptions and salaries, contact 610-796-8269 or admissions@alvernia.edu.
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