Career Paths in Nursing

Graduates of nursing programs can pursue various career paths. Registered Nurses (RNs) work in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings, providing direct patient care. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) take on advanced roles with prescribing authority and specialized patient care responsibilities. Nurse Educators teach future nurses in academic and clinical settings.

Travel nurses take short-term assignments in different locations, often earning higher salaries due to demand. Nursing informatics specialists combine nursing knowledge with technology to improve healthcare systems and patient outcomes.



Types of Nursing Degrees

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) typically takes two years to complete and is offered mainly at community colleges. It prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and provides a faster, more affordable entry into the nursing profession. However, career advancement opportunities may be more limited compared to higher degrees. Schools such as Austin Community College in Texas, Santa Monica College in California, and Cuyahoga Community College in Ohio offer strong ADN programs.

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year program available at universities. It places a stronger emphasis on leadership, research, and community health, making graduates more competitive for job opportunities and higher salaries. A BSN is also often required for advanced practice roles. Some of the top institutions offering BSN programs include the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Michigan, and Duke University.

For students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program provides a fast-track option to becoming an RN. These programs typically take 12 to 24 months and are more intensive than traditional BSN programs. Schools such as Johns Hopkins University, the University of Miami, and Emory University offer well-regarded ABSN programs.

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is designed for nurses seeking specialization, such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator. This degree typically requires a BSN and an additional two to three years of study. Institutions such as Yale University, Vanderbilt University, and the University of Washington offer strong MSN programs.

For those interested in leadership, clinical expertise, or research, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and PhD programs are available. The DNP focuses on clinical leadership, while a PhD in Nursing is research-oriented. Columbia University, UCLA, and Rush University are among the top schools offering these advanced degrees.

Types of Nursing Schools

Community colleges primarily offer ADN programs with pathways to BSN degrees. They provide an affordable option for students looking for a flexible and accessible entry point into nursing. Schools such as Broward College in Florida and Portland Community College in Oregon are strong choices.

Public universities offer BSN, MSN, and sometimes DNP programs. They tend to be more affordable for in-state residents and provide a well-rounded education. Examples of top public universities for nursing include the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Ohio State University.

Private universities often rank highly for their nursing programs and have strong clinical affiliations. Though they can be more expensive, they may offer better student-to-faculty ratios and specialized resources. Johns Hopkins University, New York University, and Georgetown University are excellent examples of private institutions with strong nursing programs.

Research institutions focus on PhD in Nursing and DNP programs, making them ideal for students interested in research or leadership roles. The University of Pennsylvania and Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science are among the top research-focused nursing schools.

Admissions Requirements

Nursing programs typically require certain prerequisites, including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry. Many schools set a minimum GPA requirement, often around 3.0 or higher. The University of Michigan, for example, requires a minimum GPA of 3.5 for BSN applicants, while Emory University mandates coursework in organic chemistry and nutrition.

Entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2 may be required. The University of Florida requires a TEAS score of at least 75%, while the University of Texas at Arlington requires a minimum HESI A2 score of 80%.

Most programs require letters of recommendation from teachers, healthcare professionals, or employers. Duke University, for instance, asks for three recommendation letters, including one from a registered nurse.

Applicants must also submit a personal statement and may need to complete an interview. Schools like Johns Hopkins University require a 500-word essay detailing nursing career goals.

School Categories by Selectivity

Reach Schools (Acceptance Rate Below 20%)

Johns Hopkins University, University of Pennsylvania, Duke University, Columbia University, Emory University, University of California-Los Angeles, Northwestern University, Vanderbilt University, New York University, and University of Southern California.

Possible Schools (Acceptance Rate 21-50%)

University of Michigan, University of Washington, Boston College, University of Florida, University of Texas at Austin, Case Western Reserve University, Northeastern University, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and University of Miami.

Match Schools (Acceptance Rate 51-90%)

Ohio State University, University of Pittsburgh, University of Minnesota, University of Illinois-Chicago, University of Kansas, Arizona State University, University of Iowa, University of Alabama-Birmingham, University of Kentucky, and Portland State University.

Choosing the Right Nursing Program

Accreditation is crucial when selecting a nursing program. Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Additionally, consider NCLEX-RN pass rates, as high pass rates indicate strong preparation for licensure.

The quality and variety of clinical rotations are important factors in program selection. Schools with strong hospital affiliations offer better hands-on training and potential job opportunities. Reputation and rankings also matter, as they can influence employability. Finally, consider the overall cost of attendance and available financial aid options, including scholarships and work-study programs.