Earning a nursing degree is an excellent investment in your education. With a consistently strong demand for nursing professionals across the United States, the field is poised for continued growth in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are currently over 3.1 million registered nurses (RNs) practicing in the U.S., and employment for RNs is projected to increase by 6% from 2021 to 2031. Additionally, the demand for nurse practitioners (NPs) is expected to grow by 46% during the same period.
There are numerous pathways to enter the nursing profession, ranging from diploma programs for licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs) or certified nursing assistants (CNAs) to associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in nursing. Exploring the various types of degrees and educational levels within the nursing field can help you choose the most suitable path for your career aspirations.
Types of Nursing Degrees and Levels
Nursing degrees and levels encompass a variety of educational pathways, each offering different levels of preparation and specialization in the field of nursing:
CNA (Diploma or Certificate)
CNAs complete short-term training programs, typically lasting a few weeks, to provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses.
Median Annual Salary (Nov 2022): $35,740
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 5%
Minimum Education Required: Diploma or certificate
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
LPNs/LVNs complete one-year nursing programs and pass licensure exams to provide basic nursing care, administer medications, and monitor patient health under the supervision of RNs or physicians.
Median Annual Salary (Nov 2022): $54,620
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 6%
Minimum Education Required: Diploma or certificate
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADN programs typically take two years to complete and prepare students to become registered nurses (RNs) who provide direct patient care in various healthcare settings.
Median Annual Salary (Nov 2022): $81,220
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 6%
Minimum Education Required: Associate or bachelor’s degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
BSN programs typically take four years and provide a more comprehensive education in nursing, preparing graduates for a wider range of nursing roles and leadership positions.
Median Annual Salary (Nov 2022): $81,220
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 6%
Minimum Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
MSN programs offer advanced education and specialization in nursing, preparing graduates for advanced practice nursing roles such as nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists.
Median Annual Salary (Nov 2022): $112,000
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 38%
Minimum Education Required: Master’s degre
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
DNP programs offer the highest level of education in nursing and prepare graduates for leadership roles in nursing practice, healthcare administration, and healthcare policy, as well as advanced clinical practice.
Median Annual Salary (Nov 2022): $112,000
Job Growth Rate (2021-2031): 38%
Minimum Education Required: Doctor's degre