Types Of Nursing Degrees And Levels in Order

The field of nursing is broad and includes many different pathways. Did you know that there are different levels of nurses and different types of nursing degrees you can complete?

If you're interested in becoming a nurse, read on to find out about the many different options and levels of education you could pursue as you advance through your career.

What Are the Different Types of Nurses?

Generally speaking, nurses fall into one of three categories: non-degree nurses, degree nurses, and advanced degree nurses.

Let's take a look at more specific types of nurses and which categories each one belongs to.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

The lowest level of non-degree nurses is the certified nursing assistant, or CNA. CNAs may also be called nurse aides or nursing assistants.

CNAs commonly work in home healthcare and long-term care facilities. They provide basic patient care including feeding, bathing, dressing, and assisting patients with movement. They may also check vital signs and administer medications.

CNAs must complete short-term training programs that usually run for about three to eight weeks. They must then become certified to work in their state.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Another type of non-degree nurse is the licensed practical nurse, or LPN. These professionals are known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in some states.

LPNs work in various settings, often under the supervision of a registered nurse. They provide intermediate patient care such as starting IVs, inserting catheters, and changing bandages.

LPNs must complete a year-long training program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

Registered Nurse (RN)

Registered nurses, or RNs, make up the first level of degree nurses. They commonly work in hospitals and clinics, private practices, rehab facilities, and other long-term care facilities.

Registered nurses perform a wide range of duties while collaborating with other healthcare professionals such as doctors and specialists. They may supervise CNAs and LPNs or specialize in a particular area of patient care.

Registered nurses must complete either an associate or bachelor's degree in most states; in some areas, a bachelor's degree is required. They must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are degree nurses who have extra training and experience and often fill advanced or specialized roles within the nursing field.

There are different types of APRNs. Some common job titles for this type of nurse include nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse midwife.

APRNs usually have a master's or doctoral degree in nursing. They must also have at least one year of experience as an RN and pass an exam administered by an organization like the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board.

Nurse Executives and Educators

Nurse executives and nurse educators are RNs or APRNs who are specifically trained in administrative or educational practices.

These professionals either manage nursing departments or facilities (executives) or provide training for the next generation of nurses (educators).

Nurse executives and educators typically hold a master's degree in nurse education, healthcare organizational leadership, or a similar field.

How Many Levels of Nursing Degrees Are There?

Now that you know about the different types of nurses out there, let's take a closer look at the types of nursing degree levels that nurses have to choose from.

1. Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)

The Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree is also sometimes referred to as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

This is the lowest level of nursing degree you can obtain. It typically consists of at least 60 to 70 credit hours and takes about two years to complete.

The ASN or ADN degree is all you need to become a registered nurse in many states. However, in some states, a bachelor's degree is required.

2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is one of the most common nursing degrees available. It is the degree most workplaces prefer when looking to hire nurses.

BSN degrees consist of at least 120 hours. Most require four years to complete, but there are exceptions. For example, the RN-BSN degree allows students who are already RNs to complete their bachelor's degree in an accelerated timeframe.

Those who hold a BSN can work as an RN in every state and are often preferred over ASN candidates. They can also pursue advanced levels of education that may not be available to those who only hold an ASN.

3. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is an advanced degree. Nurses who wish to further their education or pursue more advanced roles often seek this type of degree.

MSN programs typically require 30 to 50 credit hours depending on the school and specialization. They usually take two years of study to complete.

MSN degrees offer different specializations, such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and nurse manager. Those obtaining this type of degree generally pursue a career within their degree specialization.

4. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is one of the highest levels of nursing degrees you can obtain. It is commonly sought by those who want to become nurse practitioners or other types of APRNs.

Most DNP programs take about three to four years to complete. Depending on the school, DNP programs may range from 30 to 90 credit hours.

Students must hold at least a bachelor's degree in nursing to enter a DNP program; some programs require students who hold a master's degree.

5. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing is a less common type of advanced nursing degree. Along with the more popular DNP, it is the highest level of nursing education available.

PhD in nursing degrees are intensive, research-based programs. They generally range from 45 to 70 credit hours and require four to seven years of study to complete.

Those seeking a Ph.D. in nursing are typically interested in becoming nursing professors and conducting original research in the field of nursing.

Explore The Different Types of Nursing Degrees

There are many kinds of nurses and many levels of education that lead to these different types of nursing degrees.

Some of the degrees available include Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing (BSN and MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees.