Whether you’re currently a registered nurse or just beginning your nursing career, expanding your knowledge of the manifold career opportunities available to nurses can help you choose the best long-term nursing career option for you.
To get you started, here are 20 of the most common nursing roles along with their salaries, educational requirements, and long-term job outlook.
Where are Nurses Working?
The nursing field is booming, with over 200,000 new nursing jobs being added every year, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Of the nearly 3.8 million Registered Nurses (RNs) employed nationwide, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates approximately 60 percent of them work in clinical settings or hospitals. However, nurses’ roles and responsibilities aren’t limited to general medical or surgical settings. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, they work in a variety of settings, including:
Healthcare Job
General surgical and medical hospitals
Specialty hospitals
Psychiatric and drug rehabilitation programs
Outpatient care facilities
Home healthcare facilities
Nursing care homes
Physician offices
What Are the Most In-Demand Nurses Today?
With an aging population, increasing demand for healthcare, and a high proportion of nurses preparing to retire, the nursing profession is experiencing an unprecedented nursing shortage, which has been further exacerbated by the pandemic. While nurses at every level are in high demand, nurses that help prepare new nurses, treat elderly patients, or practice independently are in especially high demand. The following roles are in high demand, particularly in states with low nurse counts like Texas, California, Florida, and New Jersey.
Types of Nurses
The diverse skill sets and advanced clinical knowledge earned by nurses equips them for dozens of roles in healthcare; here are 19 common nursing positions.
Registered Nurse (RN)
Role
Assess patient needs and provide necessary medical care
Median Salary in the U.S.
$77,600
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
RNs work in various settings, including surgical and private hospitals, physician’s offices, and drug rehabilitation and healthcare centers.
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and state nursing license
Overview
RNs perform patient care; manage, supervise, administer needed treatments; and provide a broad level of support and assistance to patients.
Salary:
Registered Nurses earn $77,600 yearly as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, although actual salaries vary depending on the nursing specialty and years of experience.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for RNs is expected to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where RNs Work:
RNs typically work with a team of healthcare specialists and doctors in diverse settings. Depending on their level of training, RNs can also work in various specialties, from surgical floors or neonatal units in private hospitals to drug rehabilitation and healthcare centers.
How to become an RN:
RNs become certified by completing a relevant degree program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtaining any applicable state nursing licenses. The NCLEX-RN exam is very difficult, so it’s important to choose a nursing degree program with high pass rates. For example, UCF has a first-time pass rate of 92%, higher than state and national averages. Prospective RNs can either complete an associate’s degree in nursing (ASN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). ASN programs are typically shorter than BSN programs, but nurses with an ASN degree earn less than those with a BSN degree—and RNs with a BSN degree are in higher demand. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 46% of nursing employers require RNs to have a BSN degree, and 86% of employers prefer to hire nurses with BSN degrees.
Oncology Registered Nurse
Role
Educate cancer patients regarding their cancer status and treatment options
Median Salary in the U.S.
$77,600
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Cancer treatment centers and hospitals
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and oncology-certified nurse exam
Overview
An oncology nurse is highly trained in treatment for cancer patients. They educate patients regarding their cancer status and treatment options and monitor and provide care to cancer patients.
Salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a registered nurse is $77,600. Glassdoor estimates the annual salary for an oncology nurse may be as high as $107,133.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for oncology RNs is expected to grow at the same rate as all RNs, around 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where Oncology Nurse Work:
Oncology nurses facilitate patient care at various cancer treatment centers and hospitals.
How to Become an Oncology Nurse:
Oncology nurses must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as an oncology nurse. They must also take an oncology-certified nurse exam to practice.
Surgical Assistant Registered Nurse
Role
Provide pre- and post-surgery care
Median Salary in the U.S.
$77,600
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Surgical centers, outpatient facilities, specialty clinics, and hospitals.
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and Certified Nurses in the Operating Room certification
Overview
Surgical assistant RNs are also called preoperative nurses. Surgical assistant RNs do everything from setting up a surgical room to managing and maintaining tools. They provide pre and post-surgery care for patients.
Salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a registered nurse is $77,600. Glassdoor estimates the annual salary for a surgical assistant nurse may be as high as $111,233.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for surgical assistant RNs is expected to grow at the same rate as all RNs, around 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where Surgical Assistant RNs Work: Surgical assistant RNs mainly work in surgical centers, outpatient facilities, specialty clinics, and hospitals.
How to Become a Surgical Assistant RN: Surgical assistant RNs must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as a surgical assistant RN. They also must also take and pass the Certified Nurses in the Operating Room (CNOR) exam to practice.
Emergency Room Registered Nurse
Role
Stabilize patients and perform aftercare evaluations
Median Salary in the U.S.
$77,600
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Hospital emergency department
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and emergency room nursing certification
Overview
An emergency room RN performs various tasks, including stabilizing patients and performing aftercare evaluations. They also administer medications and maintain medical charts.
Salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a registered nurse is $77,600. Glassdoor estimates the annual salary for an emergency room nurse may be as high as $107,601.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for emergency room RNs is expected to grow at the same rate as all RNs, around 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where Emergency Room RNs Work: Emergency room RNs work in the emergency department at general hospitals.
How to Become an Emergency Room RN: Emergency room RNs must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as an emergency room RN. They may also take and pass the Board Certification for Emergency Nursing to make themselves more competitive for emergency room positions.
Labor and Delivery Nurse
Role
Monitor and assist pregnant individuals during labor and delivery
Median Salary in the U.S.
$77,600
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Hospitals and birthing centers
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree and NCLEX-RN exam
Overview
Labor and delivery RNs monitor and assist pregnant parents during their deliveries and help parents provide post-delivery care to the baby.
Salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a registered nurse is $77,600. Glassdoor estimates the annual salary for a labor and delivery nurse may be as high as $105,387.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for labor and delivery RNs is expected to grow at the same rate as all RNs, around 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where Labor and Delivery RNs Work: Most labor and delivery nurses practice in medical care facilities and maternity centers.
How to Become a Labor and Delivery RN: Labor and delivery RNs must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as a labor and delivery RN. They can also choose to obtain one of several optional certifications, including a Credential in Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB), a Certification in Electronic Fetal Monitoring (C-EFM), or a Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP).
Neonatal (NICU) Nurse
Role
Provide care to premature infants
Median Salary in the U.S.
$77,600
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Birthing centers, trauma units, cardiac units, and hospitals
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree and NCLEX-RN exam
Overview
Neonatal nurses serve in neonatal intensive care units to provide medical care to premature and/or sick babies.
Salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a registered nurse is $77,600. Glassdoor estimates the annual salary for a neonatal nurse may be as high as $90,246.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for neonatal RNs is expected to grow at the same rate as all RNs, around 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where Neonatal Nurses Work: Many neonatal nurses practice in birthing centers, trauma units, cardiac units, and hospitals.
How to Become a Neonatal Nurse: Neonatal nurses must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as a neonatal RN.
Critical Care Registered Nurse
Role
Provide medical care to patients with serious, complex, and emergent medical conditions
Median Salary in the U.S.
$77,600
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Hospital intensive care units, progressive care units, surgical departments, cardiac units, post-operative units, and outpatient facilities
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree and NCLEX-RN exam
Overview
Critical care RNs provide medical care to patients with serious, complex, and emergent medical conditions.
Salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a registered nurse is $77,600. Glassdoor estimates the annual salary for a critical care nurse may be as high as $115,873.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for critical care RNs is expected to grow at the same rate as all RNs, around 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where Clinical Care RNs Work: They work in hospital intensive care units, progressive care units, surgical departments, cardiac units, post-operative units, and outpatient facilities.
How to Become a Critical Care RN: Critical care nurses must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as a critical care RN. Critical care nurses can also obtain an optional Critical Care RN certification to get further training in the field.
Nurse Advocate
Role
Protect patient rights and act as a liaison between patients and providers
Median Salary in the U.S.
$77,600
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation facilities
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and board-certified patient advocate certificate.
Overview
Nurse advocates protect the rights of the patients by ensuring their questions are answered and needs are met before being discharged from care. They also act as a liaison between providers and patients to help patients understand diagnoses and discharge instructions.
Salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a registered nurse is $77,600. Glassdoor estimates the annual salary for a nurse advocate may be as high as $99,440.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for nurse advocates is expected to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030, similar to all RNs.
Where Nurse Advocates Work: Nurse advocates work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation facilities.
How to Become a Nurse Advocate: Nurse Advocates must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license. Nurse advocates should also obtain their board-certified patient advocate certificate to become employed in this position.
Clinical Nurse Supervisor
Role
Oversees patient care performed by RNs
Median Salary in the U.S.
$101,340
Job Growth
32%
Employment Settings
Hospitals, in-home healthcare, physician’s offices
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree and NCLEX-RN exam
Overview
A clinical nurse supervisor oversees the medical care performed by other nursing staff to ensure the plan of care is adhered to.
Salary:
The annual salary of a Clinical Nurse Supervisor is $101,340 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
Healthcare management positions like clinical nurse supervisors are expected to grow by 32% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average.
Where Clinical Nurse Supervisors Work: Clinical nurse supervisors practice in hospitals, in-home healthcare settings, and physician’s offices.
How to become a Clinical Nurse Supervisor: Clinical nurse supervisors must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as a clinical nurse supervisor. They also need some management experience to qualify for the role.
Nurse Manager
Role
Manages nurse recruitments, budget, and schedules and oversees nursing care
Median Salary in the U.S.
$101,340
Job Growth
32%
Employment Settings
Surgical centers, hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, schools, outpatient medical offices
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree and NCLEX-RN exam. An MSN degree may be required in some cases
Overview
Nurse managers manage nurse recruitments, budget, and schedules. They also oversee the day-to-day nursing care provided to patients.
Salary:
Nurse managers can earn $101,340 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
Healthcare management positions like nurse managers are expected to grow by 32% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average.
Where Nurse Managers Work:
Nurse managers work anywhere nurses work—including surgical centers, hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and outpatient medical offices.
How to Become a Nurse Manager:
Nurse managers must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as a nurse manager. They also need some management experience to qualify for the role, and some organizations may require nurse managers to obtain a master’s in nursing (MSN) degree.
Nurse Educator
Role
Teaches nurses and nursing students in general nursing, clinical techniques, and continuing education. May work in a clinical setting or for a nursing educational program.
Median Salary in the U.S.
$82,040
Job Growth
2.4%
Employment Settings
Long-term care facilities, trade and technical schools, community colleges, universities, and hospitals.
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and MSN degree. A DNP or PhD degree may be required in some cases
Overview
Nurse educators teach nursing practices and clinical skills to nursing students and current nurses. In order to teach nurses, nurse educators must have a high level of education and demonstrate superior clinical and leadership skills in their own nursing practice.
Salary:
The yearly salary of a Nurse Educator is $82,040 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for nurse educators is expected to grow by 2.4% between 2020 and 2030.
Where Nurse Educators Work:
Nurse educators work in long-term care facilities, trade and technical schools, community colleges, universities, and hospitals.
How to Become a Nurse Educator:
Nurse educators must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license. They also need an MSN degree to become a nurse educator. To further advance their training and competitiveness, nurse educators can obtain their Certified Nurse Educator certification. To work in an academic setting, they might also need to obtain their Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or PhD degree. Nurses with a DNP degree can work in adjunct or faculty positions, but most academic nurse educators have their PhD degree.
Director of Nursing
Role
Coordinates, directs, and supervises nursing units
Median Salary in the U.S.
$101,340
Job Growth
32%
Employment Settings
Healthcare facilities, nursing homes, and hospitals
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and MSN degree. A DNP degree may be required in some cases
Overview
Directors of nursing are responsible for coordinating, directing, and supervising nursing units. They report to executive directors and nursing home administrators.
Salary:
The average annual salary for a Director of Nursing is $101,340, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but they can earn up to $112,762 according to Glassdoor.
Projected Job Growth:
Healthcare management positions like directors of nursing are expected to grow by 32% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average.
Where a Director of Nursing Works:
Directors of nursing work in healthcare facilities, nursing homes, and hospitals.
How to Become a Director of Nursing:
Directors of Nursing must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license. They also need an MSN degree to qualify for the position. To advance their career opportunities, a DNP degree may be necessary.
Nurse Informaticist
Role
Maintain and develop new medical hardware and improve medical communication between parties.
Median Salary in the U.S.
$45,240
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Information system department
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and MSN degree in most cases. They can also obtain a BS and an MS in Healthcare Informatics to practice.
Overview
Nurse informaticists are responsible for maintaining and developing medical hardware, ensuring the security of electronic documents, improving medical communication, and training medical staff.
Salary:
The yearly salary of nurses working in nurse informatics is $45,240 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
Healthcare management positions like nursing informatics are expected to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where Nurse Informaticists Work:
Nurse informaticists work in the information system department of hospitals and healthy systems.
How to Become a Nurse Informaticist:
Nurse informaticists must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license to work as a nurse informaticist. Most nurse informaticists (66%) also have an MSN degree. Alternatively, they can also become a medical informaticist by obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Healthcare Informatics and Information Management or a Master of Science degree in Healthcare Informatics.
Nurse Anesthetist
Role
Assist with administering anesthesia during surgeries
Median Salary in the U.S.
$195,610
Job Growth
45%
Employment Settings
Hospitals, respiration therapy departments, specialty medical offices, emergency rooms, psychiatric institutions, and surgical centers
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and MSN degree.
Overview
A certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) is a trained nursing specialist who assists with administering anesthesia to patients during surgery.
Salary:
Nurse anesthetists are the highest-paid nurses, with a median annual income of $195,610 according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for CRNAs is expected to grow by 45% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average.
Where Nurse Anesthetists Work:
Nurse anesthetists work in hospitals, respiration therapy departments, specialty medical offices, emergency rooms, psychiatric institutions, and surgical centers.
How to Become a Nurse Anesthetist:
Nurse anesthetists must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license. They must then work in an intensive care unit for at least one full year before beginning a nurse anesthesia doctoral program. After graduating from this program with a DNP degree, they must take and pass the National Certification Exam for Nurse Anesthetists to qualify for this position.
Nurse Midwife
Role
Provide prenatal and labor and delivery care to pregnant patients
Median Salary in the U.S.
$112,830
Job Growth
45%
Employment Settings
Private practices, health departments, and hospitals
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, MSN degree, and CNM certification.
Overview
A nurse midwife provides prenatal care to pregnant patients. Nurse midwives also deliver babies and provide labor and delivery services to pregnant patients.
Salary:
Nurse midwives earn a median salary of $112,830 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for nurse midwives is expected to grow by 45% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average.
Where Nurse Midwives Work:
Nurse midwives work in maternity centers, private practices, and health departments.
How to Become a Nurse Midwife:
Nurse midwives must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license. They also need an MSN degree to qualify for the position. After obtaining an MSN degree, they must take and pass the Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) certification exam.
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Role
Independent nursing care provider who treats patients, prescribes medications, and interprets tests
Median Salary in the U.S.
$120,680
Job Growth
45%
Employment Settings
Hospitals, schools, correctional facilities, emergency rooms, nursing homes, and private practice
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, MSN degree, and DNP degree.
Overview
A nurse practitioner is an independent medical provider who treats patients, orders and interprets diagnostic tests, and prescribes medications. Nurse practitioners are supervised by physicians.
Salary:
Nurse practitioners earn a median salary of $120,680 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for nurse practitioners is expected to grow by 45% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average.
Where Nurse Practitioners Work:
They can work in hospitals, schools, correctional facilities, emergency rooms, nursing homes, or private practice.
How to Become a Nurse Practitioner:
Nurse practitioners must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license. From there they can either obtain an MSN degree or go directly into a doctoral program to become a nurse practitioner. To practice as a nurse practitioner, they must obtain a DNP degree or PhD degree.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Role
Perform direct clinical care including assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients as well as supervising nursing teams and acting in management and leadership
Median Salary in the U.S.
$120,680
Job Growth
45%
Employment Settings
Hospitals, outpatient offices, home healthcare agencies
Relevant Certifications
ASN or BSN degree, NCLEX-RN exam, and an MSN degree. A DNP degree may be required in some cases.
Overview
Clinical nurse specialists provide clinical care to patients. They also oversee nursing teams, direct nursing care, and have roles in leadership and management.
Salary:
Clinical nurse specialists earn a median salary of $120,680 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs available for clinical nurse specialists (and all other types of advanced practice nurses) is expected to grow by 45% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average.
Where Clinical Nurse Specialists Work:
Specialist nurses can work in hospitals, outpatient medical offices, and in home healthcare agencies.
How to Become a Clinical Nurse Specialist:
Clinical nurse specialists must complete either an ASN or BSN program in nursing and earn their RN license. They also need an MSN degree to qualify for the position. In order to perform research, a clinical nurse specialist may also need a DNP degree.
Entry-Level Nursing Positions
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Role
Monitor vital signs and assist patients with everyday tasks
Median Salary in the U.S.
$30,290
Job Growth
8%
Employment Settings
CNAs work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, physician’s offices, adult daycare centers, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.
Relevant Certifications
State-approved education program and competency exam
Overview
CNAs are responsible for monitoring vital signs and assisting the patient in walking, bathing, and dressing.
Salary:
The annual salary of Certified Nursing Assistants is $30,290, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs for CNAs is expected to grow by 8% between 2020 and 2030.
Where CNAs Work:
Certified nursing assistants typically work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, physician’s offices, adult daycare centers, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.
How to Become a Certified Nurse:
CNAs must complete their training with a state-approved education program and clear a competency exam.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Role
Monitor vital signs and assist patients with everyday tasks
Median Salary in the U.S.
$30,290
Job Growth
8%
Employment Settings
CNAs work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, physician’s offices, adult daycare centers, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.
Relevant Certifications
State-approved education program and competency exam
Overview
CNAs are responsible for monitoring vital signs and assisting the patient in walking, bathing, and dressing.
Salary:
The annual salary of Certified Nursing Assistants is $30,290, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs for CNAs is expected to grow by 8% between 2020 and 2030.
Where CNAs Work:
Certified nursing assistants typically work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, physician’s offices, adult daycare centers, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.
How to Become a Certified Nurse:
CNAs must complete their training with a state-approved education program and clear a competency exam.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
Role
Monitor blood pressure, change bandages, and share the concerns of patients with other medical professionals
Median Salary in the U.S.
$48,069
Job Growth
9%
Employment Settings
Home healthcare agencies, nursing care facilities, hospitals, and physicians’ offices.
Relevant Certifications
High school diploma and state-approved educational program
Overview
LPNs monitor blood pressure, change bandages, and convey patients’ concerns to other medical professionals, including to RNs.
Salary:
An LPN can earn up to $48,069 annually according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Projected Job Growth:
The number of jobs for LPNs and LVNs is expected to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030.
Where LPNs and LVNs Work:
Most LPNs and LVNs work in home healthcare agencies, nursing care facilities, hospitals, and physicians’ offices.
How to Become an LPN or LVN:
LPNs and LVNs must earn a high school diploma and obtain a certificate in an approved educational program in order to become licensed.
Advance Your Nursing Education With a Degree From UCF
If you’re looking to advance your professional career in nursing, UCF has online and traditional degree programs available at every level to support you. Whether you’re just starting your journey to becoming a nurse or looking to continue your education to take on a more advanced role, degree options are available.