Indeed.com
Nursing degrees encompass a range of educational pathways, from certificates to doctoral programs, each equipping professionals with distinct skills and responsibilities in healthcare settings. Understanding these degrees enables employers to make informed hiring decisions that align with patient care needs and organizational goals.
In this article, Michelle Hensley, DNP, reviews the different types of nursing degrees and their corresponding responsibilities.
1. Certified nursing assistant (CNA) certificate
Although not a formal nursing degree, certification and training as a nursing assistant may provide adequate education for certain entry-level patient care roles. A nursing assistant certificate program generally takes four to 12 weeks to complete.
A certified nursing assistant (CNA) performs basic patient care to support other medical staff.
2. Licensed practical nurse (LPN) certificate
The licensed practical nurse (LPN) diploma typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete and is often offered at community and technical colleges. LPN training programs include both classroom work and supervised clinical experience.
An LPN, sometimes called a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), typically has more responsibility than a CNA. State regulations dictate what an LPN can do with and without supervision.
3. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
To become a registered nurse (RN), applicants typically need at least an associate degree. This two-year degree program prepares graduates to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam in order to qualify for a state nursing license.
4. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Many RNs opt for a four-year bachelor’s degree. While many healthcare facilities typically hire staff nurses with an associate degree, some prefer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree for all nursing positions.
A bachelor’s degree program can prepare RNs for higher-level positions, including those with supervisory responsibilities. In addition to required technical skills, these programs incorporate leadership development.
5. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree involves two years of study beyond a bachelor’s degree. The coursework generally focuses on a core specialty area and may additionally include leadership, research and healthcare policy. A master’s degree program can prepare a nurse for a career as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
6. Dual master’s degree
Nurses seeking leadership or administrative roles may choose a dual master’s degree program. With this option, the student earns two master’s degrees concurrently, typically faster than if they earned them separately. One of the two degrees is typically the Master of Science in Nursing. The other usually focuses on the business or health leadership aspect of nursing.
Examples of second-degree programs include a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA). These common combinations can prepare the candidate for running a healthcare facility or department.
7. Doctoral nursing degrees
The highest possible nursing degree is a doctoral degree. Doctoral programs are usually research- or practice-focused, depending on the career the participant plans to pursue.
Many students who enroll in doctoral programs are already licensed as APRNs, but some nurses choose to pursue a doctoral degree rather than a master’s to become an APRN. It typically takes two to six additional years to complete the doctoral program, depending on the specific degree and any prior degrees the student holds.