Different nursing degrees can lead to different types of nursing careers. Licensed practical nurses will need to earn a certificate, while registered nurses will need to earn either an associate or a bachelor’s nursing degree. RNs can also earn a graduate degree to advance their careers.
With so many different types of nursing careers and nursing degrees, it can be helpful to take a systematic look at the various degrees to help decide which path is right for you. No matter which type of nurse you’d like to become, however, you will need a strong academic foundation.
At Felician University, we have a longstanding tradition of graduating highly competent, capable nurses who are prepared to become leaders in healthcare. Additionally, you could earn a nursing degree in as few as 16 months through our Hybrid or On-Ground Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs.
Both of our ABSN programs confer the highly respected Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which is toward the top of the different levels of nursing degrees.
Explore the different nursing degrees and programs available to you, comparing your career options to find the right path.
What Are the Levels of Nursing Degrees?
The nursing degree levels refer to the different types of programs that can lead to a nursing career. There are several different levels of nursing, ranging from certified registered nursing assistants (CRNAs) to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), and different certifications and degrees you can earn to qualify. The level of nursing will affect your scope of practice and levels of autonomy.
Nursing Degrees in Order
In order from the lowest on the hierarchy to the highest, the academic credentials are as follows:
Nursing Assistant Certification
While some nursing degrees lead to the same nursing career, nursing assistant certification is only for certified nursing assistants (CNAs). This is an entry-level healthcare position and serves as a starting point for many registered nurses (RNs). While programs and CNA requirements vary by state, you can typically expect a nursing assistant certification program to take approximately four to 12 weeks to complete.
Explore the benefits and opportunities of earning an advanced degree.
Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate
The Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate, also known as a diploma program, is typically a one-year course of study; however, the length and other specific requirements can vary by state. In some cases, it may take 18 months to earn the certificate.
The PN Certificate is the most basic of all nursing qualifications. It covers basic nursing care and guides students through coursework and hands-on learning experiences.
Upon graduating, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN to obtain state licensure as either a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or, in some states, a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). While the precise terminology varies, the scope of responsibilities and practice authority of an LPN vs. LVN are the same.
Associate Degrees in Nursing
If you’d rather become a registered nurse instead of starting a nursing career as a CNA or LPN, you may consider earning an associate degree. There are several types of associate degrees, including the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), and Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS). These types of nursing degrees are similar and typically require two years of study.
Completing any of these associate degrees in nursing will qualify you to take the NCLEX-RN, which is the licensure exam for prospective RNs. Like the PN Certificate, an associate degree includes a mix of coursework and hands-on learning experiences. The course of study is longer, however, and the curriculum is more rigorous, with a greater focus on nursing theory and clinical skills.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
The next of the nursing degrees in order is the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Like an associate degree, the BSN qualifies graduates to take the NCLEX-RN and obtain state licensure as an RN. Compared to an associate degree, however, the BSN is a far more rigorous degree that more thoroughly prepares nurses to:
- Work toward better patient outcomes
- Uphold the highest standards of patient care and safety
- Understand nursing research and apply evidence-based practices
- Make appropriate clinical decisions in various patient care scenarios
In other words, the BSN is often preferred for its more thorough nursing education. Traditionally, the BSN is earned much like any other bachelor’s degree: a four-year program that includes classes and hands-on learning experiences.
Not all students need the full four years to earn a BSN, however. If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or at least 60 non-nursing college credits, you may meet the admissions requirements for Felician University’s ABSN programs.
This would enable you to graduate with a BSN in as few as 16 months. Regardless of which ABSN program you choose, you will receive a high-quality nursing education that combines nursing coursework, skills and simulation labs and clinical rotations.
Although ABSN programs operate on a shorter timeline than traditional BSN programs, they offer the same quality of a BSN education.
Advanced Nursing Degrees: MSN and DNP
The highest nursing degree levels are advanced or graduate-level degrees. These are the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and the Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice (DNAP). Although these graduate-level degrees aren’t necessary to become an RN, they can be helpful for pursuing advancement as a nurse administrator or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
Levels of Nursing Careers by Degree
The nursing career options available to you depend largely on the degree you’ve earned. Working in healthcare is possible with just a certificate or diploma program, but your career options may be limited based on your choice.
It may be tempting for career changers to enroll in an associate degree program but bear in mind that an ABSN program can confer the more prestigious BSN degree in even less time than an associate degree program, provided you meet the admission requirements.
Additionally, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, healthcare employers tend to prefer to hire BSN-prepared nurses. The highly reputable Magnet hospitals only promote RNs to nursing leadership positions if they have at least a BSN.
Before deciding and applying to a nursing degree, consider the types of nursing careers:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
A certified nursing assistant (CNA), also called a nursing aide, is a professional who provides basic patient care by assisting with activities of daily living. For example, they can help patients bathe, dress and eat. They can also perform some basic nursing tasks, such as discussing and recording patients’ health concerns.
The requirements to become a CNA vary from state to state. Usually, all that’s needed is a high school diploma or GED plus a state-approved training program, which may be available at a community college or medical facility. Graduates earn a certificate or a technical certificate of credit, then must pass a state-approved CNA certification exam.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), CNAs made a median annual salary of $39,430 as of May 2024, while employment is projected to grow 2% between 2024 and 2034.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
An LPN provides basic nursing care. They monitor patients’ vital signs, change bandages, and document patient care while working under an RN or other provider’s supervision.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for LPNs was $62,340 as of May 2024. The projected job growth rate for LPNs is 3% from 2024 through 2034, as fast as average.
You can pursue many different nursing specialties with a BSN.
Registered Nurse (RN)
Compared to LPNs, RNs have far more practice authority and autonomy in their work. They also have more responsibility. An RN is responsible for:
- Assessing patients, developing or contributing to nursing care plans, and carrying out treatment plans
- Administering treatments, such as medications
- Delivering patient and family caregiver education
- Serving as an advocate for their patients
- Coordinating care among different providers
- Operating medical equipment
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for RNs was $93,600 as of May 2024. The projected job growth rate is 5% from 2024 through 2034, faster than average for all occupations.
How to Choose the Right Nursing Degree
There are many factors you should consider when choosing a nursing degree. Where do you see yourself in the next few years? Are you interested in pursuing career advancement? How important are the following to you:
- High earning potential
- Strong job growth rate
- Diverse specialization options
- Opportunities for advancement
If you’ve decided that you’d like to take your nursing career to greater heights, then a BSN will serve you well.
Earn Your Nursing Degree at Felician University
At Felician University, you can choose between our Hybrid and On-Ground ABSN programs in New Jersey. The former offers online coursework and in-person learning experiences, while the latter offers an entirely in-person nursing education.
Both programs offer a values-based education with a practice-ready focus. You’ll also receive thorough NCLEX-RN prep and personalized support.
Request more information and connect with our admissions team today.