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7 Nursing Student Resume Examples That Work in 2024

Nursing Student

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Nursing Student Resume

• Nursing Student Resumes by Experience
• Nursing Student Resumes by Type

Without registered nurses (RNs), healthcare as we know it would cease to exist. They’re the glue that keeps hospitals together, and nurses serve on the front lines in the service of their patients.

RNs are more in demand now than ever, but the road to becoming a nurse is still challenging. Whether you’re working toward your BSN or becoming a nurse practitioner, hard work is required.

You shouldn’t have to be an expert at making a resume or writing a nursing student cover letter .

After analyzing numerous resumes from nursing students, we’re sharing the best resume-writing practices along with  seven excellent nursing student resume samples that are succeeding in 2024 .

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you’ve held multiple full or part-time nursing roles, you can omit your rotations, but otherwise, leave them in. They’re great experience!
• If those circumstances fit, add an objective! Just remember you have to tailor it to each job you apply for . If you don’t have time to do that, then skip this part.

Learn how to land a job

Get the free 4-day email course for college students and recent grads.

Beginner Nursing Student Resume

• Narrow down your focus on critical thinking, data gathering and analysis, and other skills that shore up your competency.

Nursing Student No Experience Resume

• This is especially true if you already have an RN certification. If you do have certification, make sure to list it in a separate section, along with the year you got certified!
• List any specialties you might have (like pediatrics or geriatrics), plus technical skills like clinical documentation.

Nursing Student for Externship Resume

• Volunteer experience is a good idea, especially if it relates to healthcare.
• If you can, include numbers. For example, how many people did you work with? How many rotations did you serve? Did you increase efficiency or productivity by a quantifiable amount? There are numbers there if you know where to look!

Nursing Student Clinical Experience Resume

• Show your research, communication, and problem-solving skills and crown them with adding your experience gained from clinicals on your nursing student clinical experience resume.

Nurse Practitioner Student Resume

• If you’re on the border between one page and two, try some handy  resume formatting tricks , like reducing the font size and page margins to fit more content (while keeping an eye on overall readability). Don’t make your text too small, or it’ll be hard to read.
• Also, include the state(s) where you’re certified since, sometimes, certification doesn’t carry over.

Graduate Nursing Student Resume

• When it comes to  checking your resume , consistency is key. For example, your work experience bullet points should end the same, either with or without periods.
• Instead, add a certifications section to prove you have an ALS, CPR, or EMT certification.
• Do you need a  nursing student cover letter ? Keep reading for a cover letter template you can edit and adjust as needed!

Need Help with Your Nursing Student Cover Letter?

It’s satisfying to finish writing your resume, but don’t forget about writing a cover letter , too! We’ve got you covered (get it?) with a cover letter template you can edit in Google Docs and Word.

Nursing Student Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• Always tie your skills to the organization’s values by pulling phrasing like “shape the future of healthcare” from their website’s mission statement.
• If you have stand-out experience, like exemplary bedside manner or familiarity with a specialized area like pediatrics, showcase these. 
• Always make sure you list your certifications in your graduate nursing student resume, of course—but it doesn’t hurt to mention them in your cover letter, too!
• It’s also ideal to establish how much experience you have alongside your qualifying certifications at the intro to your cover letter.
• An extra resume tip: your resume should be concise, but your cover letter should tell a story about your qualifying background.

Related resume guides

• Physician Assistant
• Pharmacy Technician
• Medical Assistant

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• Resume Examples

Nursing Student Resume Examples for 2024 (Template)

Our customers have been hired by:

After getting your fair share of experience during a nursing program, you’ve decided it’s time to find work. But it’s not easy writing a nursing student resume. 

Stop needling yourself. Make sure your new grad nursing resume gets you noticed by hiring managers by following our advice. This guide is a prescription to your future success, and it all starts with the perfect nursing student resume.

This guide will show you:

• A nursing student resume example better than 9 out of 10 other resumes.
• How to write a nursing student resume that will land you more interviews.
• Tips and examples of how to put skills and achievements on a nursing student resume.
• How to describe your experience on a resume for a nursing student to get any job you want.

Here's a sample resume for a nursing student made using our resume builder.

Want to save time and have your resume ready in 5 minutes? Try our resume builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click. See 20+ resume templates and create your resume here .

Sample resume made with our builder— See more resume samples here .

Read about more specific nursing resumes here:

• Registered Nurse Resume
• New Nursing Graduates Resume
• Charge Nurse Resume
• Pediatric Nurse Resume
• OR Nurse Resume
• Labor and Delivery Nurse Resume
• Nurse Practitioner Resume
• Nursing Resume Examples
• Sample Resumes for 500+ Jobs

What's the Best Format for a Nursing Student Resume?

Meet the hospital's HR director, Tracie.

Why is she so frazzled ?

It's because her scuffed old laptop holds 300 nursing student resumes, and she's got to read them all.

Ready for the bad news?

She only spends seven seconds looking at each one, according to our HR statistics report.

That means the format for your new grad RN resume really matters.

The reverse chronological resume layout is the best format for a nursing student resume.

That's because it shows your best stuff, stat. Then Tracie can dig into the details once she's got the gems.

Use neat, distinct headings and clear, legible fonts. No comic sans.

Use white space to avoid that "epidemic of words" feeling.

Finally, save your new grad nursing resume in the PDF format . That'll keep the layout from going into critical condition later (unlike Word files.)

Pro Tip: PDFs are generally best, but check the job description to make sure they're OK. Some Applicant Tracking Systems don't play well with new grad RN resumes saved as PDFs.

Want to explore other options for your nursing student resume format? Trying to learn how to write a resume for the first time? See this guide: " 3 Resume Formats: How to Choose the Best One [Examples] "

How to Write a Resume Summary or Resume Objective

"This one's very interesting."

You want the HR manager to say the words above when she sees your new grad RN resume.

You can make that happen with a solid resume objective or resume summary.

A resume summary is for nursing students with truckloads of experience.

A resume objective is for those with fresh diploma ink.

Either one needs measurable achievements.

These two nursing student resume examples show what I mean.

Nursing Student Resume Examples: Two Summaries

Check out the very different new grad nursing resume examples below:

Not bad, but neither are the other 299 beginner nursing resumes on Tracie's laptop.

To get the interview, you'll need something more like this:

Bam. That's an adrenaline shot right to the hiring manager's heart.

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a  professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, our free resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

Don't have that kind of experience? In that case, look at the two new graduate nurse resume examples below.

Two Entry Level Nursing Resume Objectives

If you're still a student nurse and you haven't completed your degree, don't fret. You can still prove that you're perfect for the job.

A student nurse resume objective works for entry level nursing job applicants, interns, or anybody seeking a new niche.

Check out these two student nurse resume examples:

That misses the mark like a dull needle on a rolling vein.

But add a few details, and even a new nursing student can have a resume objective like this:

Remember Tracie? Our hospital HR person?

She's looking for proof you can do the job well.

The nursing student resume example above gives her that proof.

Pro Tip: Your new grad RN resume objective or resume summary is the finishing touch on your nursing student resume. Write it last, once everything else is done.

Want to really dial in your resume? See the RN resume sample at the top of this article. Also, read these guides: Resume Summary Examples for 20+ Jobs and 20+ Resume Objective Examples to Use Now

How to Put Licenses and Certifications on a Resume

The hiring manager has 97 things to do before lunch.

She won't waste time on new grad RN resumes that make her hunt for licenses and certifications .

You might have one of the following licenses:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

Put your certification in the resume title , like this:

Sarah Rodonovick, RN

Then add it at the start of your nursing student resume summary . Finally, put it in a separate section for licenses and certifications, right under your experience section.

Why put your certification above your education? It's recommended for doctors, and what makes sense for doctors makes sense for nursing students.

Certifications & Licensure

• Registered Nurse, New Jersey Board of Nursing, License # 0000000
• Phlebotomy Certification
• Basic Life Support Certification
• Patient Care Technician Certification

Is putting your RN license on your nursing student resume three times an overdose?

No. It respects the HR manager's time by helping her find what she's looking for, fast.

Pro Tip: Many nursing students fear putting license numbers on a new grad nursing resume. They think it aids identity theft. However, most states publish nursing licenses publicly online.

Want more help writing the best nursing student resume you can? See this guide: " Writing a Student Resume [13 Tips, Examples] "

Is Your Education Section Flatlining? It Might Be

For a nursing student, education is everything.

Remember Tracie, our hospital HR manager? She'll spend the most time looking at your new grad nursing resume's education section.

Make sure to make it stand out like a light bar on an ambulance.

Start with the basics:

• College Name and Location.
• Years in School.

Then add relevant coursework in a way that fits the job description.

Look at these two nursing resume examples:

Nursing Student Resume Examples (Education Section)

Here are two entry level nursing resume examples. They both target a job opening that values wellness promotion, patient education, wound dressing, and leadership.

That's not a nursing student job applicant. It's Katy Perry in scrubs. It fits the job description like a pair of custom Dansko Mules.

Now look at the second of our new graduate nurse resume examples. It shows what happens when we lose the details.

That's as bland as coffee with no coffee in it. Every nurse takes those classes, and every licensed RN has to pass the NCLEX exam.

But add the details, and you're back off life support.

Pro Tip: You don't have to make up anything. Just look at the job offer, then think about the things you've done in school that prove you've got the chops.

To make your new grad RN resume pop out like a hazmat label, see our guide: " How to Put Your Education on a Resume [Tips & Examples] "

How to Describe Your Nursing Student Experience

Wonder Woman has a magic lasso and bracelets that deflect bullets.

When it comes to new grad nurse resumes, you have a magic weapon, too.

It's internships, clinical experience, and volunteer experience .

All of these look great on a nursing student resume. Most nursing students graduate with plenty.

List your most recent experience first.

Then, add measurable achievements in 3-5 bullet points. Use the new grad nursing resume examples below for inspiration:

Nursing Student Resume Examples (Experience)

Check out these two new grad RN resume samples:

The HR manager just used her thumb to check her pulse. Your top-notch entry-level nursing resume just blew her mind. And it didn't take 7 pages!

Here's how to do it wrong:

No details. Like a SOAP Notes form that hasn't been filled out yet.

You must add details to get that HR manager to notice you.

But what if you don't have details?

In that case, see the next two nursing student resume examples.

How to Write a Resume for Nursing Students with no Experience

In the nursing world, there's no such thing as no experience .

That's because nursing programs offer clinical components.

But all student nurse resumes show this clinical experience. So you need to make yours stand out like a surgeon's signature on a pre-op body part.

I'll show you how in the two nursing student resumes below.

Two Nursing Student Resume Samples (No Experience)

See if you can spot what's wrong with this first sample nursing student resume:

See the problem? It's as generic as a carton of atorvastatin.

But add a few details and you've got a professional entry level nurse resume like this:

Now you're A&Ox3. But with a little effort, even someone who hasn't graduated yet can have a nursing student resume like that.

Pro Tip: Even a single semester of clinical experience can beef up your student nurse resume experience contents. Dig deep to find achievements in each position, e.g., how you instructed parents about administering medication.

Don't lull that HR manager to sleep with boring language in your student RN resume. Grab her attention with action words instead. See our guide: " +80 Resume Words, Synonyms, and Phrases for Every Profession "

How to Put Skills on a Resume for a Nursing Student

Come with me.

We'll sneak into the hiring manager's office as she reads her stack of resumes.

She's muttering and she does not look happy.

That's because her stack of 300 nursing student resumes all have the same skills list.

Worse, not one candidate proves she has those skills.

Then the hiring manager sees your resume. The scowl fades like a bad rash after a shot of hydrocortisone.

Wow. How did you do that?

You did it by picking the right skills resume keywords to get past her applicant tracking system.

Then you proved the skills, like in the first of these two new grad nursing resume examples:

Nursing Student Resume Examples (Skills)

Tracie, our HR manager, listed these skills in her job offer:

Patient care, patient education, compassion, teamwork.

So, you put them in your resume, along with a few more:

Patient care, patient education, wound dressing, compassion, teamwork, stamina.

Then you worked this magic with your clinical experience:

• Responsible for patient care for four patients.
• Regularly performed patient education in advance of procedures and treatments.
• Received 96% positive comments from patients for my compassion.
• Given a letter of commendation from my preceptor for teamwork skills.

See how you linked the skills to your experience?

Now do that with your entry level nurse resume. You can use the skills below.

List of Skills to Put on a Nursing Student Resume

Let's give you a nice jump start.

Use these new grad nursing resume skills.

Then look at some real nursing student job descriptions online to get more skills for your list.

If you follow the advice above, your student nurse resume will make you look like Clara Barton or Nurse Katz.

Remember to use the skills mentioned in the job posting. This way you will gain advantage over other candidates especially in the context of a large skills gap in the healthcare sector .

Pro Tip: Only list the skills you really have on your new grad nursing resume to keep from getting tripped up in the interview.

Need to give your nursing student resume skills a shot of epinephrine? See our guide: " +30 Best Examples of What Skills to Put on a Resume (Proven Tips) " and Nursing Skills: A Checklist For Your Career & Resume

How to Add Other Sections for an Effective Resume

Jobs for nursing students are growing really, really fast .

Now the bad news:

The competition is growing even faster.

It's like a big bowl of delicious cookies that's getting bigger all the time.

But more people keep coming in to eat the cookies.

Make sure you get your cookie.

By using "other" sections to make your new grad nurse resume glow like you dipped it in barium.

Let's see how that can work in two nursing student resume examples:

Nursing Student Resume Examples (Other Sections)

The first of these two new grad RN resumes will fail.

What's wrong with tattoos, motorcycles, and walking on the beach?

But they don't prove you fit the job description.

Now take a peek at this (much better) nursing student resume example:

That's practical magic.

The publications and volunteer experience show you're not just in it for the paycheck. They show you actually care.

The additional activities prove you are a rounded person with legit qualifications.

With a little thought, any student nurse can build a resume example like that.

Pro Tip: Consider joining the American Nurses Association. Not only does it look great on an entry level nurse resume, but it opens up dozens of great networking opportunities.

Don't want to add an activities section to your new grad RN resume? Consider a hobbies section. Nobody does it, but it works so well. See this guide: " 20+ Attractive Interests and Hobbies to Put on a Resume "

Here's the Most Common Myth About Cover Letters

" Nobody reads cover letters ."

Right. And " Just the other day a student nurse fed Maalox through an IV line ."

The truth is, 60% of hiring managers don't read cover letters.

The other 40% consider them essential.

You have to write a nursing student cover letter for the other 40%.

Here's how:

If you know the HR manager's name, use it.

Connect your skills directly to the job description. Do that by mentioning some details from the job offer.

Then list one or two achievements that show you're Carla Espinosa in disguise.

Basically, it's, "You need XYZ. I have XYZ. Here's proof." But a lot shorter than a nursing student resume.

Close it with a call to action. Use a simple statement like, "I'd welcome the chance to talk with you about your needs."

Pro Tip: After you send your student nurse resume and cover letter, make sure to follow up. A phone call or an email in a few days can put you top-of-mind. Now that's a good impression!

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Need a more concrete example for your nursing student cover letter? Check out our guide: " How To Write A Cover Letter [Complete Guide With Examples] ", " Nursing Student Cover Letter Examples ", and " Nursing Cover Letter for a New Grad "

How to Add Contact Info to Your Resume

You made a rookie mistake. You botched the contact info on your student nurse resume. Now the hiring manager has crossed you off the list.

If only you'd known this:

Add the basics:

• Updated Phone Number
• Professional Email Address

Sarah Rodonovick, RN, [email protected], 973-261-1414

Then add your LinkedIn profile, your Twitter handle, and other relevant connections.

Your LinkedIn profile is as important as an open airway. Make it sing with our guide to LinkedIn profile fixes here .

Pro Tip: One embarrassing Facebook pic can put your job search into cardiac arrest. Don't let that happen. See our guide to cleaning up your online presence here .

Want more tips to make the best nursing student resume you can? See our guide here: " How to Make a Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide (+30 Examples) "

Key Takeaway

Now you know how to write a new grad RN resume, and where to put certifications and licenses. Remember:

• For an entry level nursing student resume or CNA resume with no experience, focus on your licensure and clinical experience.
• Tie your education section and experience to the job description. Make sure every section of your new graduate nursing resume proves you have what the recruiter wants.
• Whether you're making an entry level LPN resume or a new RN resume , be sure your license info figures prominently.
• Never forget to include a nursing student cover letter in your job application .

Got questions or tips about how to make a professional graduate nurse resume? Give us a shout in the comments section!

Article summary

The article on Zety.com provides an example of a nursing student resume and offers tips on how to create an effective resume for a nursing student. The sample resume includes a header with the applicant's name and contact information, a professional summary, education and relevant coursework, clinical experience, skills, and certifications. The article emphasizes the importance of tailoring the resume to the specific job or organization, using strong action verbs, and highlighting achievements and measurable outcomes. Additionally, the article offers advice on how to make a nursing student resume stand out, such as including volunteer experience and extracurricular activities, and utilizing a clean and organized format.

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

• https://www.hiringlab.org/2019/03/20/healthcare-skills-gap/
• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm

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In 2024, a vague, uninspiring nursing resume just won't cut it. Recent years have fostered growing competition for the best nursing jobs , creating a greater need for nurses to learn how to write exceptional nursing resumes. With vast opportunities and diverse requirements from various employers, every nurse must put their best foot forward to market themselves for the best positions. 

However, this ever-changing world of online applications and robotic resume readers makes it more complex for nurses to get to the first rounds of interviews. This article will help you tackle the daunting task of writing a nursing resume that stands out. We'll help you build a better nursing resume by giving you an inside look at how robotic resume readers work and providing tips on how to make your resume, things you should and shouldn't include, and provide examples and templates.

Think of your job search as your own personal marketing campaign. And the product is you! Your resume is an advertisement for your professional nursing brand. A brand is more than a logo - it’s the overall impression you give your audience. In this case, your audience is a potential employer. 

As with any advertisement, the goal of your nursing resume is to pique your audience’s interest in a limited amount of time. It’s commonly said that hiring managers will spend less than ten seconds reading your resume. And in many cases, it has to first be screened by a resume-reading robot before it reaches human hands.

So, you must carefully curate your brand for these employers. Captivate them with your professionalism, unique skillset, experience, and personality using your nursing resume. These tactics may help get your foot in the door for an interview, where you can close the deal by impressing them in person.

The first and most important step in any marketing campaign is the research phase. The more you learn about potential employers, the better you can tailor your registered nurse resume to their requirements.

Initial Employer Research for Nursing Resumes

Before you begin tailoring your resume for specific jobs, take some time to answer the following questions about each company:

• Who are they?
• What is their company culture?
• What do they struggle with as an organization?
• What qualities are they looking for in a potential candidate?
• Which of their desired qualities do you possess?

Researching Company Culture and Values

The internet has made it fairly easy to hop online and start your research right now from your mobile device. Employers' websites and social platforms will give you an inside glimpse at their culture and values.

Instead of simply reading a job posting, take a few extra steps to investigate the employer's online presence:

• Check out the company website - what does their mission statement say?
• See what they tweet about
• Investigate what photos they post on Instagram
• Learn about the articles they share on Facebook
• Check their LinkedIn - do you have any connections at the company?
• Look at their Google ratings

Examine Required vs Preferred Nursing Qualifications

The research phase isn't just about investigating the company - you also need to understand the job description. Specifically, understanding the difference between "required" and "preferred" qualifications will help you build a tailored resume for each job:

Required Qualifications

These are just what they say - requirements. Those who do not possess these qualifications will not be considered. 

Preferred Qualifications

Skills that are desired but are not deal-breakers for the employer. You may still be considered even if you do not possess these. 

As you personalize your nursing resume to different opportunities, these qualifications will, in part, guide what you do and do not include. You should include any and all required qualifications if you want an employer to consider your candidacy. 

If you do not possess some or all of the preferred qualifications, you can apply anyway and still be in the running. However, including the ones you do possess on your tailored nursing resume is always the best practice.

Build a Master Resume

You may want a solid starting point from which you can use your research to build a dedicated resume for each position you apply for. Queue the "master resume," a comprehensive working document that highlights everything you've accomplished and every skill you've fostered as a nurse thus far. 

We recommend starting with a foundational nurse resume so that you can alter it for each role you apply to. This way, you won't be rewriting a new resume for every single position. But you'll also avoid submitting "cookie-cutter" resumes that employers won't bother looking at twice.

Use Research to Personalize Your Nursing Resume

Dale Carnegie once said that “A person’s name is, to that person, the sweetest and most important sound in any language.” Personalizing your RN resume matters, with both how you mention and address the future employer and how to include your specific qualifications that match what they are looking for.

Using your research and leveraging your professional brand and personality to target your nurse resume could lead to the interview of your dreams. Not targeting it, however, could lead you on the fast track to nowhere.

The internet revolution transformed the hiring process, impacting the entire labor market in a very short time. 15 years ago, printing your resume on off-white linen paper and hand-delivering it to employers was the status quo. But as little as five years later, doing so might only get you some perplexed looks and urges to apply online.

Technological advances will continue shaping the job market in 2024.  USC Annenberg reports that up to 55% of companies are making investments in AI recruiting measures. But even now, many employers screen online applicants using resume-reading robots. 

This section explores how these bots impact the hiring process and how to get your nursing resume past them and into a real person's hands.

What Is a Resume Reading Robot?

ATS systems are highly technical but can only do what their program says, unable to come close to human discretion. So, knowing how ATS systems work can help you write a resume that passes their screening.

Here's a brief overview of how employers use ATS software to screen nursing applicants:

1. Knockout Questions

Recruiters can use an ATS to scan for keywords or "knockout questions" like "Do you have an active Washington State Nursing License?" These functions help them swiftly eliminate unqualified candidates.

2. Disqualifying Statements

They may also configure the ATS to include “disqualifying statements.” An ATS searching for these statements will automatically reject nursing resumes with certain keywords or phrases. 

For example, an ATS screening for bachelor's-trained nurses might reject resumes that mention an associate's degree. If you have both, consider listing only your BSN.

3. Keyword Screening

Finally, recruiters may use the ATS to find resumes with exact keywords or phrases. These may include qualifications listed in the job description, degrees, or skills. They can program the ATS to reject any application that does not include their specified keywords.

How Does ATS Work?

Not all ATS systems are created equally. They vary greatly in their functionality and behavior. Most ATS systems are programmed to score resumes according to keywords. However, they can be configured to search and score resumes based on various other criteria.

The results are imperfect. Some ATS systems can't differentiate between titles, such as Clinical Nurse II and Registered Nurse, or distinguish between the terms BLS and Basic Life Support. So how do you navigate these intricacies in your nursing resume?

Best Practice:   R ead the job description and use the exact wording for the qualifications listed that you possess.

If you use acronyms and abbreviations, make sure to spell out the entire word, followed by the shortened version. It would be disappointing to have all the requested qualifications but be filtered out by the ATS because you used only the acronyms when the robot was programmed for the full phrases spelled out.

What Are the Shortcomings of ATS?

The problem is that ATS does not ‘read’ a resume as a human would - it simply collects data. It doesn’t care about aesthetics, either. It is programmed by an employer to search for the right keywords, in the right order, on the right part of the resume.  

Also, the system can get confused pretty easily. For example, if the font is too fancy or if it encounters unrecognizable symbols, it may score the resume as ‘unqualified’ and move on to the next resume. It does what it is configured to do, nothing more and nothing less.

While ATS has streamlined the hiring process for employers, it’s also made job search extremely challenging for the job seeker. In fact, 94% of hiring professionals say that ATS has positively influenced their hiring goals, while 80% of job seekers say that their online job search is stressful.

What Other Hiring Technology Might I Encounter?

Recently, some employers have started to use artificial intelligence in a different way - during the interview process. Rather than having strict ATS filters, they offer more candidates the opportunity to interview, but there is a catch.

You don't interview with the employer but with a computer. In these one-way or “on-demand” interviews, you essentially get the opportunity to record your video response to interview questions. After you submit it, hiring managers or recruiters review the video responses before choosing the candidates for formal interviews.

Does Every Employer Use ATS?

While many employers use ATS, there are definitely employers who still rely on human resource professionals to screen resumes. In those instances, a human resources professional usually skims the resumes and invites the most qualified candidates in for an interview.

The problem here is that most employers will receive hundreds of resumes for a single opening. To get through the resumes quickly, the HR professional may resort to a simple scan of the resumes knowing that even qualified applicants may not make it. It’s simply a way to reduce the number of applicants.

In either case, the goal of the modern resume is to ‘sell’ yourself in an organized, targeted manner for a specific role. The best way to design an effective, attention-grabbing resume is by making strong assertions in the beginning followed by supporting evidence.

How to Get Past the ATS

• Target your resume to the specific position. Do this by reading job descriptions and selecting keywords noted in the descriptions - competencies, skills sets, education, and experience.
• Match individual experiences to keywords/key skill sets found within the job posting.  
• Research the employer and target the resume based on the facility's values and culture. 
• Make strong assertions within the top ⅓ of the resume.
• Follow those assertions with supporting evidence.
• Include a “ Professional Summary ” if you are an experienced Nurse.
• Only apply to roles that you match 100% of the “Required Qualifications.” 
• Use simple fonts such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
• Never use smaller than 10-point font. See Part 5 for more styling suggestions. 
• Use simple black bullet (dots) points, not special bullet symbols.
• Save your resume as a .doc, .docx, or .pdf format.
• If using an abbreviation, always spell out the words followed by the abbreviation or acronym. You never know how the abbreviation was entered into the ATS. 
• Use standard, simple section headers such as “Work History” or “Education.”
• Settings you’ve worked in 
• Patient demographics
• Policies/procedures
• EMR/EHR used
• Medications administered
• Equipment used
• Don’t use the same title as at your current employer if it is different from the title in the job description. Use the title in the job description. 
• Don’t overload your resume with keywords. Use them appropriately. Overusing keywords will flag a resume and could cause the ATS to lower your score.
• Don't forget to support the keywords you use with evidence throughout your resume.
• Do not put your contact information in the header section because ATS will not see it.
• Do not include tables because most ATS can’t read them. Other ATS can only read them if their operator programmed them to do so. 
• Do not use creative section headers such as “Where I’ve Worked” because the ATS likely doesn’t understand what that means.
• Don’t include a headshot, graphics, special fonts, photos, colored fonts, or unique bullets. 
• Do not state, “References available upon request.” It takes up too much space and is unnecessary. If employers want references, they’ll ask. 
• Don’t place skills at the bottom of the resume. Many ATS systems only scan the top ⅓ of the resume for keywords. If you have important keywords at the bottom, the ATS may not see them and could disqualify your resume. 
• Don’t use “I” statements; resumes should be written in the third person. 
• Do not rely on resume builder software. Stay in control of your registered nurse resume.

How to Spot an ATS

If you’ve ever visited a job posting and seen an “APPLY NOW” button, you’ve encountered the elusive resume-reading bot. ATS requires candidates to enter data on the front end. 

Maybe you’ve gone through the steps to create a login, complete the application and upload your resume. Perhaps you didn’t realize at the time that you were entering your information into an applicant tracking system.  

Raise your hand if you never heard back from an employer after applying online. Raise your other hand if you received an automated response “thanking” you for your interest and never heard back!

Now, keep in mind that it can be difficult to stand out when you are applying for a job online, especially when there is an ATS involved. As you consider your overall job search strategy, try to think of other ways that can increase your chances of getting a job. Don’t be afraid to ask your network connections for referrals and recommendations, or let friends and family know what type of position you are looking for and where. While your resume is absolutely important, it isn’t the only tool that can lead to you getting a job.

Prior to ever typing words onto your resume, it’s important to first decide on a resume format. There are three types of resume layouts. While we highly recommend the reverse-chronological layout for most nursing professionals, we’d encourage you to make the best choice for yourself.

Here’s a breakdown of the three most popular types of resume layouts: 

1. Reverse Chronological Nursing Resume

This layout focuses on career history and lists jobs in reverse chronological order. We recommend this type of registered nurse resume for the majority of healthcare professionals and will focus the details of this article on the format. It is best suited for:

• New nursing graduates
• Nurses with fewer than 5 roles within the past 5-7 years. 
• Travel Nurses with <10 completed assignments
• Nurses with experience in only 1-2 specialties
• Nurses applying for a similar role
• Nurses wanting to show vertical career progression 

2. Functional Nursing Resume

This nurse resume layout places emphasis on skills and deemphasizes work history. However, it does not pass the ATS test well, and hiring managers overall do not prefer it. We recommend against this layout for the majority of nursing professionals. Typically, people who use this format are: 

• Changing careers
• Have large gaps in employment
• Do have years of experience in the role in which they are applying

3. Combination Nursing Resume

This layout is a mixture of the reverse chronological and the functional resume. While it places emphasis on skill sets, abilities, and accomplishments, it also highlights applicable work history. We recommend combination resumes for nursing professionals with the following background, goals, and barriers: 

• Nurses with experience in multiple specialties and/or medical professions
• Seasoned travel nurses with >10 completed assignments
• Nurses with multiple small gaps in employment
• Nurses looking to change specialties
• Nurses interested in changing careers

Writing a nursing resume can feel overwhelming. It’s no easy task! Nowadays, nursing resumes must be able to pass through resume reading software before it even reaches a recruiter. That’s why we’ve put together THREE nurse resume templates to cater to your unique professional needs and employment situation.

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The first formatting and design consideration you should make when creating your nursing resume is how well an  ATS will read them. We recommend the following comprehensive design and formatting guidelines to appease common ATS systems:

Many experts believe you can achieve the perfect balance of text to white space in your nursing resume using the following margin settings:

• Top Margin: 1"
• Side Margins: .63"

Left alignment is standard since that’s how most people (and robots) read. You may think a justified alignment looks tidier, but it can leave uneven gaps between words and ultimately make text harder to read. 

In the nursing profession, length should not be the focus of the resume. While we recommend 1-2 pages, some nurses may have resumes with 3 (or more) pages.

Don’t stress over length too much. If the resume is slightly over the page amount by a few lines try changing the margin, font style, font size, or shortening statements. The bottom line is it should look visually appealing and should include keywords.

We recommend  Times New Roman or Arial to best utilize the functionality of the ATS. However, this is your personal preference. Take note that Times New Roman can be difficult to read if it is smaller than 11pt.

If you are striving for a resume that looks visually appealing when printed, there are great ways to achieve that without going overboard with design. For example, you could use the “small caps” feature for headings, which keeps the font the same but adds a bit more character and differentiation. Or, you could try a font pairing, using serif fonts for headers and sans serif for body text.

Important Note: Different font styles will take up different amounts of space. See how these identical statements look vastly different despite both being in 11 pt font:

Experienced Travel Nurse with 8 years experience in critical care nursing.

Throughout the resume, there should be different-sized fonts. We recommend the following for each section: 

It’s important to note that 10-point font should be the smallest size on the resume. 

While some ATS systems claim to read colors, we encourage you to simply use black. 

Special Characters

We recommend keeping the resume very simple. Basic bullet points (black dots) may be used when desired. Simple lines are acceptable as well. 

Design Features to Avoid

The following design features are best left off the resume: 

• Multiple font styles
• Special characters

As you’ve learned, ATS systems skim resumes and locate specific information in the correct order. We’d suggest using the following categories and section headers to optimize your nursing resume for ATS scoring.

Contact Information

This is the first section of the resume and does not require a title. Your name should be front and center. Don’t make the recruiter search for it. Make sure it’s the largest font on the page. While there are varying opinions on the exact placement of the name, we recommend a simple classic version in the following format:

Your name should be the first thing a recruiter, hiring manager, or ATS system sees on your nurse resume. It should share a line with your nursing credentials and be in a bold, readable, 18-22 pt font. If you go by a different name, make sure to list both in this section.

Nursing Credentials

Your nursing credentials should directly follow your first and last name on a nursing resume. The preferred order to list these in is Highest degree earned, Licensure, then National Certifications.

We've included a  credential quick reference guide below to help you fill out your resume perfectly.

The days of listing your home address on a resume are over - most employers don't need this information, and we advise against including it on your resume as a security precaution. However, this is a personal decision you can make at your own discretion.

You should never leave your location off completely because many employers have location parameters set in their ATS systems. Ensure you include your city and state in the contact information portion of your nursing resume.

Phone/Texting Number

Oh, technology! Yes, some employers will actually text their candidates. Make sure to indicate if you receive texts and whether the phone number is a cell phone or a home phone. This is a great time to make sure your voicemail message states your full name and is professional.

Email Address

It is in your best interest to ensure that you have a professional email address that does not reveal your age. Age discrimination is real, and listing your birth year or using an antiquated email service like AOL can definitely trigger it.

Your email address should include a variation of your name and some numbers if necessary. You can even make a totally separate email account and use it only for your job search.

LinkedIn Profile

If you have a LinkedIn profile definitely include it. If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, you could be missing out on opportunities. Now is the time to create one!

In your settings, you can easily create a shortened LinkedIn URL that doesn’t have a bunch of random numbers and letters.

How Your Digital Footprint Impacts Your Nursing Job Search

Though you may not list it, you should consider your social media and online presence when you complete the contact information portion of your resume. Potential employers will likely look you up online. Many Recruiters tell us that looking a candidate up on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter is one of the first things they do. So, make sure everything you post online is what you would want an employer to see. 

Additionally, online behavior can benefit you. Do you have a nursing-related website or blog? Are you an Instagram celebrity? Maybe you created a successful YouTube channel when you were a newbie nurse. Include all this on your resume if it relates to nursing. This is all part of your unique brand!

Nursing Resume Credential Quick Reference Guide

According to the American Nurses Credentialing Center (AACN), the preferred order is Highest degree earned, Licensure, and National Certification.

Educational degrees include doctoral degrees (Ph.D., DrPH, DNS, EdD, DNP), master’s degrees (MSN, MS, MA), bachelor’s degrees (BS, BSN, BA), and associate degrees (AD, ADN).

Licensure credentials include RN, LPN, CNA, and APRN.

National certification , which is occasionally voluntary for nurses and obligatory for advanced practice nurses, is awarded through accredited certifying bodies such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), includes RNBC (Registered Nurse-Board Certified) and FNP-BC (Family Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified).

You may also choose to include awards and honors:

Outstanding achievements in nursing, such as FAAN (Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing).

Other certifications that recognize additional skills, such as the EMT-Basic/EMT, awarded by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.

Here is an example of contact information on a nursing resume that puts it all together:

Penny Lite, BSN, RN   Los Angeles, CA | Text/Call: (987) 654 - 3210 | [email protected] | www.linkedin.com/pennylitern

Professional Summary

Don’t make an employer (or ATS) search your entire resume for reasons to invite you to an interview. Tell them right off the top exactly why you are the best candidate for the role.

Every position is unique, and this is your first opportunity to optimize the resume for ATS and to also catch the employer’s eye. Spend a little time to target it and let your qualifications and accomplishments shine. 

While there is some debate about how to introduce your resume, we suggest using a professional summary as opposed to a career objective. The professional summary can be formatted in either a short paragraph or a bulleted list asserting qualifications and providing a concise career snapshot.

How to Write a Professional Summary for a Nursing Resume

Think of your resume summary as an “elevator pitch” - a quick, attention-grabbing, loaded statement that entices the reader to want to continue on. Your professional summary is unique to you and should be targeted to a specific role, just like the cover letters career counselors used to tell us about.

However, it could definitely include the following information: 

• Number of years of experience in a specialty 
• Common keywords found in nursing job descriptions e.g., excellent patient care, acute care, family education, compassionate
• Facility designations or info about facilities 
• Supervisory experience and number of subordinates
• Special certifications or awards
• Language abilities
• Soft skills such as patience, compassion, and a cooperative spirit

Nursing professional summary example: 

4+ years nursing experience with strong clinical background in critical care (CCU) and intermediate care nursing (IMCU). Proactively streamlines operations, initiates tasks, and supports the healthcare team while prioritizing excellent patient care. Champions patient and family education by providing compassionate, inclusive care that encourages self-sufficiency. Recipient of the Daisy Award. Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Nursing Skills and Areas of Expertise

List your nursing skills within the top ⅓ of the resume - Don't make the common mistake of adding them last. With the popularity of ATS, this mistake could cost you an interview. This is especially true in nursing, as the profession requires very specific skills. 

Additionally, your hard skills should be directly targeted to the role as expressed in the job description. Is the employer asking for a specific EMR that you are experienced with? List it! Are you an expert at starting IVs because of your five years of experience in the emergency room? List it!

This should not be a generic list of skills but a specific list that is as quantified as possible. It’s possible that if you are a newer nurse or are making a specialty pivot you may not have hard skills to include. In that case, it’s okay to omit this section and highlight your transferable  soft nursing skills within your job history.

While most nurses list their license titles on their resumes, it’s been our experience that they leave off a few very important details - most notably, whether the license is active and the expiration date. 

Why is this important? Including this information lets potential employers know that you are ready to start work ASAP. They don’t have to wait for the licensing process. Including your license number is optional, and you can make this decision based on your privacy comfort. The employer will likely be verifying your license online anyway (this is all public information).

If you are an advanced practice nurse, you may decide to leave off license numbers for privacy purposes, especially your DEA number or controlled substance registration number.

Here’s an example of how to list your licensure:

Registered Nurse - California, #RN00101, expires 4/17/2024.

Certifications and Credentials

This is another key section where some important details are typically missing on the nursing resumes we’ve seen. While most nurses list their credentials, it’s important to list them in a specific manner.

Don’t simply list acronyms, as some ATS systems may not be programmed to read shortened versions. Make sure to list the accrediting body, credential/certification number (where applicable), and expiration date. 

Here’s an example of how to list your certifications and credentials: 

Basic Life Support (BLS), American Heart Association, expires: 12/1/2021

Work History

Employers want to know what you can do for them, period.  Nurse recruiters we’ve talked to will zero in on this section. What are they looking for? Evidence, facts, quantifiable points - proof to support the assertions made in your resume summary.

Vague work histories are particularly frustrating to employers - especially when applicants copy and paste job descriptions. To avoid falling into those pitfalls, try incorporating these tips: 

Use simple section headers such as “Work History” or “Relevant Experience,” these are ATS friendly. “What I’ve Done” is not. 

List your experience in reverse chronological order.  If you have a lengthy employment history, you may consider only including the most recent 10-15 years of experience. This will shorten your resume and also limit the chances that you’ll encounter age discrimination. Looking at the big-picture experience from 25 years ago doesn’t necessarily speak to your recent nursing experience because employers care about what you can do for them now.

Work History Format

Adding your work history in a logical format can help your nursing resume beat the ATS and impress recruiters. We recommend using the following format for each work history segment:

1. Job Title and Specialty

This is a controversial subject, but we believe employers care more about what you’ve done than who you’ve worked for. Use the job title as it is listed in the job posting, or use a more industry-wide job title. Registered Nurse as opposed to Clinical Nurse II. 

2. Facility Name

Add the name of the facility or company you worked for after your job title. You can add this on the same line or a different line, but using the same line will optimize space.

3. Employment Dates  

These are important and can be listed in a number of ways. However, it’s been our experience that specific dates are not necessary for a resume. On an application, yes, on a resume, not so much. You can simply list the months and years (mm/yy - present).

4. Facility-Specific and Unit-Specific Information

This information is helpful and important to employers but is left off the majority of resumes we’ve seen, it includes: 

• Trauma level: level I, II, III
• Facility Designations 
• Total Hospital beds
• Total unit beds

Primary Duties and Accomplishments

This section looks best in a bulleted list of no more than six points and should include duties, noteworthy accomplishments, and achievements. It’s important to emphasize specific duties and not be too vague.

Also, try your best not to simply regurgitate basic nursing duties that would be assumed of your role. This will take up valuable space on your resume and not really tell the reader much about you !

Wondering what specifics to include? Here are a few questions to get those wheels turning:

• What illnesses, injuries, or traumas do you care for? 
• What cases do you work on? 
• What type of medications do you administer and how? 
• What therapies do you perform? 
• What equipment do you use? 
• How have you improved processes? 
• When have I been first or best?
• No. 1 achievement in each position?
• Which achievements have the most impressive numbers?
• When have I been publicly recognized?

Write Strong Nursing Resume Bullets

Wondering how to order your bullets and what to include? Try this: start with a verb leading to quantifiable data or a specific point and include a relevant duty.

Use our comprehensive tables to build compelling nursing resume bullets that make your achievements shine:

Here is a brief work history resume example for nurses that puts it all together:

Registered Nurse, Acute Care - Example Medical Center 09-19 - Present

• Supervised staff of 15 registered nurses, 8 certified nursing assistants, and 7 paramedics while multitasking excellent patient care. 
• Cared for up to 4 patients per shift with acute neurological disorders, including strokes, spinal cord injuries, and head trauma.

Education and Training

In the nursing profession, education and training are of utmost importance. If you have work experience, this section can be fairly brief.  You should list your relevant degrees in chronological order. 

There are varying opinions regarding the specific ordering of education. However, we believe that the degree or certification title should be listed first. Employers care firstly that you have the education requirement they need and secondarily where you obtained the requirement. 

We suggest the following format:  Degree or Certification Title (acronym), Institution Name 

Here’s an example: 

Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN), University of Washington 

Should I Include Graduation Dates on a Nursing Resume?

You are not required to include your college or high school graduation dates on your nursing resume , as it could reveal your age. Age discrimination is the top form of employment discrimination and affects all age groups. If you graduated more than 10-15 years ago, it may be a good idea to omit the date.  But this is a personal decision you should make at your own discretion.

Should I Include My GPA on a Nursing Resume?

Including your GPA in your nursing resume is optional. If you are particularly proud of your GPA, by all means, add it! However, it is not required. If you graduated with honors that you are proud of, you can definitely include that as well. Again the resume is a unique snapshot of you!

Should I Include my Non-Nursing Degrees and Credentials?

If you possess other degrees not related to nursing, it is not necessary to include those on your nursing resume. Some second-career nurses like to list this information, especially if there has been an interesting career pivot or one that brings a lot of value to your role as a nurse. Remember, you are telling your personal, unique story, and you get to decide what to include.

How Do I Add In-Progress Advanced Education Programs?

If you are currently enrolled in higher education to advance your studies within the nursing field, that should be listed on your resume and state that the degree is pending or in progress. However, if you started a graduate degree program, never finished, and do not plan on finishing, it is unnecessary to include it on the resume. 

Should I Include my High School Education?

Nurses do not need to include their high school diplomas on their resumes. The nursing profession requires completion of higher education, and therefore, your higher degree trumps your diploma. 

Awards, Accomplishments, and Affiliations

Though this section is not required, we encourage including awards and accomplishments that are relevant to the nursing profession. These details will provide the potential employer with more proof and evidence of who you are as a nurse. 

In this section, you can include: 

• Awards and recognitions that are specific to the hospital or facility where you work, e.g. the Daisy Award, Employee of the Month, and Nursing Excellence Award
• Professional memberships and affiliations relating to nursing and/or healthcare
• Volunteer work, if it relates to nursing

We suggest the following format: Title, organization, year

Here are a couple of examples:

• Recipient, Nursing Excellence Award, Washington Medical Center
• Volunteer, American Red Cross - Haiti - 2012

Naming Your Nurse Resume Save File

One last thing, saving! Don’t just give your resume any old name! Hiring professionals sometimes receive multiple documents from candidates, and they don’t want to waste time sorting through every document to find the resume. Some prefer to organize resumes by specialty. Tell them exactly which document is your resume. 

We suggest the following format: firstlast_specialty_resume.doc

Here’s an example:

PennyLite_ICU_resume.doc

We’ve seen a lot of resumes over the years, and you might be surprised by the amount of strange information people have included on them. So, here are the top mistakes we’ve seen:

Woot! If you’ve made it this far you should have an excellent understanding of how to write a great nursing resume. We know it’s a lot of information right now, and we hope that you’ll use the information to advance your career.

For a little more help, try using our free resume templates. And when you’ve landed your next interview, check out the next part in this series, The Complete Guide to Nursing Job Interviews .

>> Download free nurse resume templates!

What should be included in a nursing resume?

• A nursing resume should include your education, experience, including clinical, work, and volunteer, any certifications you have, and skills. 

How do I write a nurse resume?

• You can use a template to fill out your nursing resume or fill out your own. 

How do I list my nursing skills on my resume?

• List skills that are in the job description or outline on the facility’s website. For instance, common nursing skills include critical thinking, teamwork, communication, team management, and high ethical standards. 

Do you put RN after your name on a resume?

• You can include "RN" or "RN, BSN"  if you have other credentials. If you haven’t passed your NCLEX yet, you can put G.N. for Graduate Nurse.

How long should a nurse's resume be?

• A nursing resume should be no longer than 1-2 pages. 

What is your greatest skill as a nurse?

• The most valuable skill you have as a nurse may depend on your exact role and specialty, but in general, communication, kindness, empathy, and critical thinking are highly valued traits as a nurse. 

How far back should a resume go?

• If you’re a recent graduate, you don’t need to go to high school, just include your college experience and degree. For experienced nurses, include all relevant experience. 

Amanda is an Ivy-league-educated nurse practitioner and career mentor who helps nurses find and land their dream jobs. She founded The Résumé Rx  in 2018 to help nurses with career and résumé strategy  Learn more about Amanda and her products at  www.theresumerx.com  and follow her on Instagram  @theresumerx.

Angelina has her finger on the pulse of everything nursing. Whether it's a trending news topic, valuable resource or, heartfelt story, Angelina is an expert at producing content that nurses love to read. She specializes in warmly engaging with the nursing community and exponentially growing our social presence.

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How to write a personal statement for nursing school.

Reviewed by:

Jonathan Preminger

Former Admissions Committee Member, Hofstra-Northwell School of Medicine

Reviewed: 6/19/23

Writing a personal statement for nursing school can be a daunting task, but we’re here to help! Here’s everything you need to know about writing a personal statement for nursing school.

Writing your personal statement is a nerve-wracking experience, no matter what program you’re applying for . You may be wondering: “what are nursing schools looking for in a personal statement?” or, “how can I make my personal statement for nursing school stand out?” Lucky for you, we’ve got some answers. 

Here we’ll cover everything you need to know about writing a personal statement for nursing school. We’ve included a breakdown of the components to include, examples of nursing school personal statements, and tips to improve your own. 

Let’s get started!

Get The Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

What Is a Nursing School Personal Statement?

When applying to nursing schools , you’ll most likely notice that most applications require a personal statement. A personal statement is a short essay, typically no longer than two pages, that tells your target schools a little bit about who you are. 

Each school has different expectations for the length and contents of your personal statement, so make sure to check the specific requirements of your target schools. Some common topics include your personal goals for nursing school and why you want to become a nurse.

Nursing School Personal Statement Format

Before writing your personal statement for nursing school, you should plan out what you want to include. If your school does not ask you to answer a specific question with your essay, here is a list of what you should include in your nursing school personal statement.

An Introduction

The introductory paragraph should focus on what brought you to this point. Your school primarily wants to get to know you as a candidate through your personal statement. Your intro should include things like:

• How you first became interested in nursing
• What inspires you about becoming a nurse
• What you intend to achieve through a nursing degree

In this paragraph, your main goal is to introduce yourself and give the admissions committee a bit of background on your passion for nursing. Perhaps you have a family member who inspired you to pursue nursing, you grew up near a hospital, or you’ve struggled with health issues yourself - these are all great examples of an origin story. 

Think to yourself: “If my journey into nursing school was a movie, how would it begin?”

Body Paragraph(s)

In the body paragraph(s) of your nursing school personal statement, you can include a bit about your achievements. However, this isn’t the place to simply list your achievements. 

Think about how your experiences helped you to develop skills for nursing school . Include things like:

• How you’ve furthered your interest in nursing through experience (both in and out of school)
• How your achievements make you a good fit for the program
• Specific things about the program that interests you

The body portion of your essay should contain the majority of the information you want to include. Make sure to only include accomplishments if they help to explain how you’ll contribute to the program. Your CV will list any other achievements that don’t come into play here.

A Strong Conclusion

Your personal statement should end on a positive note. Think about summarizing your statement by looking toward the future. Include things like:

• Your future ambitions following nursing school
• What you’ll be able to contribute to the program 

The end of your body paragraph(s) should mention what you hope to achieve in the future with your nursing degree and lead into your conclusion. The final sentences of your personal statement should further state your passion for your program and how you’ll be a great fit at your target school. 

What Not to Write in a Personal Statement for Nursing School

Before getting into our tips and examples, let’s go over what not to include in your personal statement for nursing school. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when crafting your personal statement. 

Keep it Simple

Your personal statement should be authentic and genuine, but make sure to keep the brief in mind while you’re writing. As mentioned above, a personal statement is typically no longer than two pages in length. 

You should absolutely include some personal anecdotes; in fact, we encourage it! Just make sure to stick to the relevant parts of your story and not to elaborate too much on areas that are not relevant to your application. 

Do Not Reiterate Your CV

Your personal statement is an essay, not a resume. Keep in mind that your application already contains all of your achievements on your CV, transcripts, and other application materials. 

Your personal statement is about understanding your passion and motivations. You can use examples from your CV to further assert your interest in the program, but only if you can elaborate on how they’ve specifically helped you on your journey to nursing school. 

Tips for Writing a Stellar Nursing Personal Statement

Let’s go over a few tips on how you can improve your personal statement. Using these tips can help to make your personal statement and essays for your nursing school application stand out while remaining authentic and genuine. 

Create A Timeline

When writing your personal statement, your focus should be on telling your story. Creating a clear timeline of events can help to effectively tell the story of how you decided to apply for nursing. 

Start with how you became interested in nursing, develop your story with experiences that have cultivated your knowledge, and conclude by talking about your program and your future goals. A timeline will make your essay easy to read and give the admissions committee a good idea of your journey so far.

Stick To the Brief

If your target school(s) give you a specific prompt for your personal statement, make sure to refer back to the prompt while writing your essay to ensure you’re staying on track. 

For example, if your prompt asks you a question, be sure to answer the question at the beginning, the end, and throughout your essay. Your personal statement shouldn’t be vague or veer too far off course. 

Speak From the Heart

It is crucial in your nursing personal statement to share what makes you unique . This is your chance to show the admissions committee why you’d be a perfect fit in their program and demonstrate what you bring to the table. 

Include genuine experiences that have pushed you toward nursing throughout your life. Conveying your passions and motivations is critical in your personal statement for nursing school.

Do Your Research 

One great way to make your nursing personal statement stand out is to do thorough research on your program and include it in your piece. Showing your passion for the specific program. you’re applying to can give you an edge over others and impress the admissions committee. 

When you include your research, be sure to add it organically into your writing. Use your research as a way to connect your personal experiences to the program rather than simply listing information.

Nursing School Personal Statement Examples

Here are two nursing personal statement examples that were written successfully. We’ve also included explanations of how they are good examples to help you improve your own personal statement. 

*Important note: Do not use our samples in your nursing school application. These examples are meant to serve as a guide when crafting your own original personal statement for nursing school. 

Example #1: Indeed ’s Nursing School Personal Statement Sample

“I walked backward down the hill, my arms supporting the weight of the wheelchair as its wheels rolled slowly in reverse. Sunlight danced through the trees around us and shone in my grandmother's hair as she sat inside the wheelchair. I couldn't see my grandmother's face from that angle, but I could hear her laughing with joy as she enjoyed the outdoors for the first time in weeks. My grandmother came to live with my family two years ago after breaking her hip. Although she completed much of her recovery at our home, Nurse George came by every day to perform my grandmother's personal care tasks, monitor her vital signs and assist with her physical therapy exercises. George also taught me some basic patient care practices, such as how to support a wheelchair correctly while going downhill. I had never considered a career in nursing before, but George helped me see the rewards of helping people with their medical conditions and injuries. I am excited by this opportunity to apply to Fern Hill's College of Nursing because I appreciate your program's specialization in rehabilitation nursing. Being a part of my grandmother's recovery team has inspired me to pursue a nursing career that helps patients recover from injuries or medical conditions. I believe that your school's emphasis on assisting patients in regaining their independent skills can help me achieve these professional aspirations. Since realizing that I want to become a nurse, I have become a regular volunteer at Jefferson Rehabilitation Center. I mentor young people struggling with drug addictions and provide childcare for the children of rehabilitation patients. There is no feeling comparable to when a mentee or outgoing patient offers you a sincere "thank you." I can no longer imagine pursuing a career where I do not get to help people overcome their challenges and navigate their way to recovery. My experiences helping my grandmother and patients at Jefferson have taught me the value of empathy and communication. Frequently, my mentees simply want someone to listen to them. I do my best to give them a judgment-free space in which to share their stories. Whether the medical issue is emotional or physical, patients appreciate working with flexible and considerate people. I believe I embody these qualities by actively listening and letting patients talk at their own pace. I am ready to pursue a nursing career and learn about helping patients in a more professional and technical capacity. Fern Hill's College of Nursing is the ideal place to prepare for my future nursing career.”

Why this is a good example: In this example, the writer has done an excellent job of telling the story of how they became interested in nursing. They also develop a clear timeline of events from when they first thought about nursing to how they began developing their skills through volunteering. 

Most importantly, the candidate mentions specific reasons why they’re interested in the program and how they feel they can contribute to the school and field. 

Example #2: Johns Hopkins University Nursing Personal Statement Sample

“I grew up close to a hospital, where I watched patients go through the double doors for a variety of ailments. From a young age, this drove me to develop a strong interest in the field of medicine. I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the future that would allow me to take care of those in need. Through my courses in the natural sciences as well as social studies, I have continued to develop my knowledge in the field in order to be ready to continue my education. Now, I am ready to take the next step in my education by applying for the Nursing program at Johns Hopkins University.  Three years ago I completed a nursing shadowing internship that opened my eyes to many of the daily struggles of being a nurse. During my time in the clinic and on the wards, I had the opportunity to work In the critical care and trauma ward as well as In obstetrics and geriatrics. These various experiences showed me the diverse role that nurses play in a healthcare setting, and emphasized the importance of empathy and dedication to patient care.  Johns Hopkins University Is known worldwide for its focus on patient wellness and medical research. As a nursing student at Hopkins, I hope to not only further the institution's goal of providing exceptional patient care, but also to assist with the many clinical trials ongoing at the hospital that pave the way for new treatments. Through hands-on training with knowledgeable staff, I know that I will be able to make the most of my nursing training at Johns Hopkins and become a nursing professional that is capable of enhancing patient wellness in a healthcare setting.”

Why this is a good example: In this example, the writer develops a clear timeline and clearly defines their relevant information. The writer covers when they first became interested in nursing, courses they’ve taken, and what experiences have made them get serious about the profession. 

Finally, they include why they are specifically interested in the program at Johns Hopkins and conclude by adding what they will add to the program as a student.

FAQs: How to Write a Personal Statement for Nursing School

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about nursing school personal statements. 

1. Do All Nursing Schools Require A Personal Statement?

Almost all nursing schools require a personal statement, which can typically be described as a short essay (2 pages or less) that explains who you are and why you want to attend the school’s nursing program.

2. Is a Personal Statement for Nursing School an Essay?

Yes, a personal statement is a short essay that briefly describes your past, present, and future experiences in relation to nursing.

3. How Long Should A Nursing Personal Statement Be?

Each nursing school has different length requirements, which can typically be found in the prompt. If no length is specified, two pages or less is recommended. 

4. What Should I Include In My Nursing School Personal Statement?

Your nursing personal statement should include:

• Why you want to become a nurse
• What inspires you about nursing
• Elaborate on the experiences you’ve had that have taught you about nursing
• Program-specific reasons for your interest in the school
• How you intend to contribute to the program and the field of nursing

If your school’s personal statement asks a specific question, that question should be answered throughout your essay. 

5. Does Nursing Require Essays?

Yes, most nursing program applications require personal statement essays, and some require secondary (or supplemental) essays as well.

6. When Should I Write My Personal Statement for Nursing School?

You should begin writing your personal statement(s) for nursing school as soon as you receive the prompt. Make sure to give yourself an adequate amount of time to complete all sections of your application before the deadline.

7. How do you Start a Personal Statement for Nursing School?

To start a compelling nursing personal statement, there are a few different writing techniques you can use. You can start by introducing yourself, start by talking about how you became interested in nursing, or you can start “in the action” by cutting right into your story. 

Final Thoughts

Your personal statement for nursing school should be genuine, heartfelt, and express how you will make an excellent addition to your target school’s nursing program through a series of examples. 

Each personal statement you write should be adjusted to suit the individual program you are applying for. Sending a general personal statement with every application you submit is impersonal and not recommended. Make sure to follow your brief closely and map out your essay before writing it to ensure you include all of the relevant information. 

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Nursing School Application Cover Letter Example

Need a nursing school application cover letter example? Look no further. Nursing school applications can be tough and writing a formal cover letter requires a bit of guidance. Nursing school application cover letters can be a great way to emphasize your professional work experience or volunteer work as you apply for nursing school. But unlike a personal statement, cover letters are bit more structured and formal writing. Nursing admissions consulting services can certainly help coach students on writing cover letters but reading nursing school application cover letter examples is a good place to start, too! In this blog, we’ll look at what a nursing school cover letter is and how to write a strong cover letter. At the bottom, we’ve also included some samples of nursing cover letters.

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Article Contents 7 min read

What is a nursing school application cover letter.

A nursing school application cover letter works almost the same as a cover letter for any job application. For prospective nursing school students, a cover letter is the introduction to your application package, and a way of introducing yourself on paper to the admissions committee of a school. It is similar to a nursing school letter of intent or nursing school personal statement , but there are some key differences.

Firstly, a cover letter is typically shorter and more formal than a personal statement. It also tends to focus on your professional work experience, volunteer experience and skillset. A nursing school cover letter is designed to demonstrate why you are a good fit for a nursing program and how you will be an excellent future medical professional. A letter of intent or personal statement usually examines your personal motivations, experiences and reasons for wanting to become a nurse. It’s your way of answering the question ‘ why do you want to be a nurse ?’.

A nursing school application cover letter is a formal letter, typically no more than one page long. Or about 200-400 words maximum. Since the word count is low, you’ll need to be fairly concise and get to your point. You’ll also need to limit yourself to only a few points and keep things relevant. Like other formal letters, such as letters of intent, they include several important sections, which we’ve outlined below.

Restate why you are an ideal choice for the program and what you bring to the table. Invite them to get in touch if they have any questions about your application. Use a formal, polite salutation to close your letter. "}]">

Writing a good cover letter means convincing the admissions committee that you are a prime candidate or a nursing program and to give you a chance to interview with them. To do so, you want to provide evidence of your candidacy by sharing key experiences or skills you have. Then align those experiences to the nursing school’s program values. The cover letter allows you an opportunity to highlight the most important sections of your application package and demonstrate how you will become an excellent future nursing professional. There are many different kinds of experiences you can emphasize in your cover letter, even if you don’t have much work experience in health care or related jobs. Read some physician cover letter examples or MBA cover letter examples to get a better idea of what kind of experiences to include. You can also look at some ERAS experience section examples to see what kind of professional and personal experiences admissions committees like to see.

Next we’ll look at what kind of experiences to include in your nursing school cover letter—and what to leave out!

If you have any nursing certifications such as a CPR course, or have achieved anything noteworthy in your academic or personal life, such as a lifeguarding save at the community pool, definitely include these in your cover letter! These can be excellent examples of what you have to offer the nursing profession, and your dedication to living by the values of the profession. ","label":"Certifications or achievements","title":"Certifications or achievements"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

What not to include

Your cover letter is relatively short, so avoid using too many details or launching into extensive personal anecdotes or stories. Avoid getting lost in the weeds or using irrelevant examples. Be sure to show why your chosen examples are relevant to the nursing school’s values or the nursing profession. It’s also important not to repeat too much information from your resume or other parts of your application. Elaborate and expand, but don’t just rehash old information.

Here we’ve included some samples of nursing school cover letters for your reference. Use these examples to help you write your own cover letter for nursing school!

Dear Director Higgins,

I am writing today as part of my application to your program at [Nursing School]. I am a recent graduate of [Pre-med university] and I am excited to take this next step in becoming a nursing professional. In my application you will see that I exceed the stated qualifications for your program intake, but first allow me to share with you why I believe I will be an excellent nursing student.

Throughout my undergraduate years, I have worked as a server at a family restaurant. In my years of working there, I have cultivated many desirable soft skills that make a good professional nurse, such as strong communication skills, diplomacy and conflict management. In interacting with the customers and other staff, I have developed an ease in managing all kinds of different individuals. Working alongside a restaurant team has also been very rewarding for my personal skill development, as it is a fast-paced and sometimes chaotic environment. It is challenging, but strong teamwork and collaboration is essential, and I have learned effective ways to work as part of the team.

I am also proud to have some experience in caring for patients. Although I have not had the opportunity to provide for human patients, I volunteer my free hours at an animal shelter, helping to care for sick animals, do routine cleaning and medication administration. I am consistently recognized for my strong work ethic, my compassion for the animals we help and my steady hands when helping the staff vet administer injectable medications. I have found working with these animals to be incredibly rewarding, and I look forward to an opportunity to work with human patients as a professional nurse.

I believe my experiences have give me a solid introduction to the work of a nurse, and I am excited to continue my education in health care. I will be an enthusiastic student in the classroom and no doubt an excellent example of the kind of nurse [Nursing School] can produce. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding my application. I look forward to your reply.

Sanjay Deepa

  Writing a letter of intent instead? Read this infographic.

Free Webinar: How to Make Your Nursing School Application Stand Out ","buttonText":"Register Now!","buttonColor":"#ffffff","bannerUnderText":" Limited Spots Available ","trustpilot":false}" :url=""https:\/\/bemoacademicconsulting.com\/nursing-app-webinar-registration"" code="banner2" background-color="#000066" button-color="#ffffff" banner-image> Sample #2

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing this letter to share my qualifications for admission at [Nursing School] in this application cycle. I am a graduate of [University] and I have dedicated myself to gaining the needed experience in healthcare for the past several summers. My goal is to enter a career as a nurse in a women’s health centre or health clinic.

In pursuit of this goal, I have been gaining shadowing experience with several nurses at the [Name] Women’s Health Clinic in [City]. It was important to me to have multiple shadowing experiences so I could get some insight into my future career from actual practicing nurses and see firsthand what treating patients was like. I have found these experiences incredibly rewarding, as I have been able to assist with patients and earn valuable experience interacting with them in a clinical setting. Shadowing has shown me what I can realistically expect from a career in women’s health, and it has solidified my decision to enter this field of medicine. I have also been fortunate to meet a team of dedicated and talented nurses who have shared with me their insights on working in women’s health. Their advice and guidance on my burgeoning clinical skills has been a valuable teaching experience for me. Several of these nurses have also agreed to write letters of recommendation for me which you will find in my application package.

My shadowing experiences have given me a solid foundation of nursing and I am looking forward to starting my journey to becoming a women’s health care nurse. Please feel free to contact me at the email address or phone number on my application. I look forward to enrolling in the fall semester.

Kind Regards,

Alexandra Clopin

To write a cover letter for nursing school, use a formal letter format with the addressee’s name and title, an introduction, body and conclusion, followed by a formal salutation and closing. You should also include your contact information and details. 

While a cover letter for nursing school is not always required, it can be a good idea to include one anyways. A good cover letter can help your application by providing some context or expanding on the information in your application.

To write a strong cover letter for nursing school, include the best and most meaningful of your professional or volunteer work experiences. Highlight the skills and abilities you have that relate to the nursing profession and provide clear, relevant examples.

Cover letters use a formal letter structure, as well as the familiar introduction, body and conclusion for the main sections of the letter. 

A nursing school cover letter might include examples of your work experience, any skills, achievements or certifications you have that relate to your ability to become a good nursing professional, or how your personal values and commitment align with the nursing school’s mission and values. 

No, a cover letter is not always a requirement for nursing school applications. Some nursing programs may ask for one, or they may state it as an optional part of your application. 

Begin a cover letter for nursing school with a “Dear [Name and Title]. Try to address your letter to a specific person. If you’re not sure who will be reading the letter, use “Dear Admissions Committee” or similar. Avoid using “To Whom it May Concern.”

Cover letters are used to “pitch yourself” and secure an interview opportunity. They are an admission committee’s first impression of who you are and what you bring to the table. To pitch yourself in a cover letter means convincing the admissions committee that you have the experience, drive and skills to succeed in a nursing program. Essentially, you sell them on the idea that you are a prime candidate.

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Admission Nurse Resume Examples

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City, State, Zip Code

Home: 000-000-0000 | Cell: 000-000-0000

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Conscientious Admission Nurse providing high quality patient care services. Adept at greeting patients taking care of paperwork confirming insurance and ensuring the accuracy of patient information. Specialize in efficiently working in fast-paced environments.

● Collaborated with physicians and nursing staff to schedule admissions/discharges. ● Confirmed that patients completed required tests prior to scheduled procedures. ● Ensured that medical orders were properly entered into hospital database. ● Maintained inventory of medical equipment and available medications. ● Coordinated with appropriate staff to ensure optimal patient care. ● Updated patient information and verified insurance. ● Ordered and maintained hospital supplies.

● Ensured compliance with medical center’s admissions policies and guidelines. ● Collected admissions information on patients and confirmed existing data. ● Scheduled patient appointments for blood work and various medical tests. ● Identified changes in the clinical or emotional condition of patients. ● Verified patient histories and corrected any inconsistencies. ● Developed and implemented nursing care plans and schedules. ● Scheduled required lab work prior to patient surgeries.

There are plenty of opportunities to land a Admission Nurse job position, but it won’t just be handed to you. Crafting a Admission Nurse resume that catches the attention of hiring managers is paramount to getting the job, and LiveCareer is here to help you stand out from the competition.

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150 Top Nursing School Interview Questions and Answers in 2024

Are you preparing to pursue a career as a nurse? If so, you know there is much to do beforehand. Gathering documents, submitting test scores, and filling out college applications are just a few of the things you must do before you are "officially" a nursing student. Another important step is participating in a nursing school interview. Oh, I know what you're thinking, "An interview? Just to see if I can go to school?" I can’t tell you how many people have asked me, “What are the top nursing school interview questions?" or "How can I prepare for my nursing school interview?" Don't worry, though. This article is just what you need to help you prepare. As you continue reading, you will discover 150 top nursing school interview questions + sample answers. I'll also share some do's and don'ts to help you succeed in the interview process.

What Is A Nursing School Interview?

What is the main purpose of a nursing school interview, are nursing school interview questions hard to crack, 5 ways to prepare for nursing school interview questions, 1. get to know the school., 2. gather important documents and make extra copies., 3. know what you bring to the table., 4. be prepared to be upfront and honest about your academic record., 5. think of this interview as an opportunity to achieve your dreams, what are the top nursing school interview questions, 5 good questions to ask at the end of your nursing school interview.

1. How many applicants receive an offer of admission each year? 2. Should I expect a phone call, letter, or email to notify me of my acceptance into the program? (This is a great question because it exudes confidence that you are an acceptable candidate for admission.) 3. What is the closing date for admissions interviews? 4. How soon after the final interviews will you notify candidates of acceptance? 5. What advice can you give me to prepare for my first semester here? (Again, this question shows the interviewers you are confident and plan on receiving notice of acceptance.)

4 Things To Do Immediately After Your Nursing School Interview

1. send a thank you note to the nursing admissions office., 2. enjoy some time with friends and family., 3. don’t stress, 4. practice some self-care., bonus 5 last-minute tips for your nursing school interview day, my final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered by our expert, 1. do i need to worry about my nursing school interview, 2. do all nursing applicants get an interview invite, 3. are nursing school interviews in-person, 4. are nursing school interviews conducted in panels or one-on-one, 5. usually, who conducts interviews for nursing school, 6. can i answer my nursing school interview questions online, 7. when should i start preparing for nursing school interview questions, 8. what should i do the night before my nursing school interview, 9. how do i handle the stress before my nursing school interview, 10. what to wear to a nursing school interview, 11. what not to wear to a nursing school interview, 12. can i bring notes to my nursing school interview, 13. how do i greet the nursing school interviewer, 14. what is the best way to answer the question “tell me about yourself” in a nursing school interview, 15. what is a good weakness to mention in a nursing school interview, 16. what is a good strength to mention in a nursing school interview, 17. what should i not say in a nursing school interview, 18. what should i say if i’m asked about my bad grades, 19. what are the 5 most common questions asked in nursing school interviews.

• Tell me about yourself • Why do you want to become a nurse • How do you handle stressful situations • Where do you see yourself in five years • Why do you think you are a good fit for our program.

20. What Are Some Of The Most Difficult Questions Asked In Nursing School Interviews?

• What is your biggest character flaw? • What do you like most about yourself? • Tell me about a time you failed.

21. What Are Some Of The Weirdest Questions Asked In Nursing School Interviews?

• If you had one day left to live, how would you spend it? • If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? • If you could give your 16-year-old self some advice, what would you say?

22. How Many Questions Can I Expect In A Nursing School Interview?

23. is it necessary for me to answer all the nursing school interview questions, 23. how do i thank the nursing school interviewer, 24. i answered all the nursing school interview questions, is it a good sign.

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Apply for a Nursing or Allied Health Degree

Thank you for choosing to pursue your degree at Empire State University.

To guarantee that your application is considered for the academic term in which you wish to begin your degree, please review the appropriate academic term information and application deadlines listed below.

Nursing and Allied Health Science academic terms

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Admission Requirements

Rn to b.s. in nursing.

To be considered for admission to the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program , you must:

• Have an associate degree or diploma from an accredited nursing program
• Possess an active, unencumbered New York state RN license
• Meet the RN to BSN application requirements by the Nursing application deadline .

Note:  Due to limited program capacity, the nursing program is only admitting New York state residents at this time.

M.S. in Nursing

To be considered for admission to the M.S. in nursing program, you must

• Have a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) from a regionally accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 or above
• Possess an active, unencumbered RN license with expiration date
• Provide resume showing clear demonstration of clinical practice as a registered nurse (minimum 1 year)
• Provide evidence that you are able to pursue the subject matter and meet the academic demands of the program
• Meet the M.S. in nursing application requirements by the Nursing application deadline .

Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education

To be considered for admissions to the Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education, you must:

• Hold a New York State or state of residence unencumbered license as a registered nurse
• A graduate degree (masters) in nursing with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Graduate-level content for advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology
• Meet the Post Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education application requirements by the  nursing application deadline

RN to Master of Science in Nursing

To be considered for admission to the RN to MS in Nursing program, students must:

• Have an associate degree from an accredited nursing program with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Possess an active, unencumbered NYS registered nurse license
• One year working experience as a registered nurse
• Be able to pursue college-level work (as evidenced by essay)
• Demonstrate capacity to develop graduate level academic skills

The nursing program gives preference in the admission decision to candidates residing within New York state.

B.S. in Allied Health Science

To be considered for admission to the B.S. in Allied Health Science program, you must:

• Have an associate degree or diploma in allied health or related field from an accredited higher-education institution
• Hold a current license or certification (for professions requiring licensure or certification)
• Have completed of a minimum of 12 credits in the natural and social sciences (Anatomy and Physiology I and II are required)
• Meet the B.S. in allied health science application requirements by the application deadline.

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• Practical Nursing Admission

Practical Nursing, Certificate Admission

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Earn Your Pin @ BC3!

Train in the state-of-the-art Victor K. Phillips Nursing & Allied Health Building! See all that BC3 has to offer from high-tech simulation and skills labs to evidence-based instruction and practice. Learn about the Practical Nursing program, admission criteria, and how to apply to start your journey as a healthcare Pioneer here!

BC3’s Practical Nursing program is a candidate for accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the PA State Board of Nursing .

BC3 Shaffer School of Nursing Admission Criteria

All applicants.

• English - 4 units
• Social Studies - 3 units
• Mathematics - 2 units (1 unit of Algebra required)
• Science - 2 units with a related laboratory (Chemistry preferred)
• Students must be 18 years of age at the time of the first clinical course
• Receipt of all final, official transcripts.
• “C” or better grades in all Practical Nursing, Certificate requirements (if applicable).
• “C” or better grades in required developmental/preparatory English and math coursework (if applicable).

Practical Nursing - Anatomy and Physiology Track, Certificate Applicant

This program is for individuals who wish to eventually obtain their Nursing, RN, A.A.S. credential at BC3. The BC3 LPN to RN bridge program can be pursued within 3 years of their graduation with the Certificate and successfully passing the NCLEX-PN exam pending they meet admission criteria. The BC3 LPN to RN bridge program allows eligible students to enter the second year of the Nursing, RN curriculum.

• 2.30 cumulative, unweighted GPA minimum
• Completion of a Chemistry with lab course with a “C” or better grade in the last five years at high school or college-level

Practical Nursing - Human Biology Track, Certificate Applicant

This program is for individuals who wish to graduate with their Practical Nursing, Certificate to sit for their NCLEX-PN exam to enter the workforce. They are ineligible for the BC3 LPN to RN bridge program, but may apply for Advanced Standing consideration in the future.

Interested in the BC3 Practical Nursing Program?

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How to Apply to BC3's Practical Nursing Program

Step 1 | review timelines and meet with an admissions representative.

Though general education courses can be taken at any of our BC3 locations or online, the Practical Nursing, Certificate is only offered at our BC3 Main Campus in Butler .

Applications Open

• June 1, 2024 - October 1, 2024 for Spring 2025 priority consideration

We highly recommend that you meet with an admission representative or your academic advisor prior to submitting your Practical Nursing application to ensure you meet minimum criteria.

STEP 2 | Complete an Online Application for Admission

The Practical Nursing applications will be available beginning June 1. You may begin taking application and general education requirements by applying as a Health Care Science, Pre-Nursing student at any time.

Complete the online Application for Admission . There is a non-refundable $25.00 application fee for all students.

STEP 3 | Submit High School Transcripts

• Submit an official high school transcript or GED/HiSET score report . International transcripts should be evaluated for course-by-course equivalencies through WES.org or ECE.org .
• Official high school transcripts must be sent by USPS mail to the BC3 Main Campus Admissions Office or by a third-party transcript service to [email protected] . They cannot be emailed or faxed by the student or school.
• If you had your final, official transcript sent to BC3 previously, you do not need to resend it.

The mailing address is as follows: Butler County Community College Attn: Admissions Office PO Box 1203 Butler, PA 16003

**Failure to submit required transcripts or test scores will delay application processing and admission decision.

STEP 4 | Submit College and University Transcripts

• Submit all official transcripts from colleges and universities attended. International transcripts should be evaluated for course-by-course equivalencies through WES.org or ECE.org .
• If attending another college or university during the spring or summer semesters prior to the Practical Nursing program starting, submit a final, official transcript once no longer enrolled.
• Official college or university transcripts and AP test scores must be sent by USPS mail to the BC3 Main Campus Registration Office or by a third-party transcript service to [email protected] . They cannot be emailed or faxed by the student or school.

**Failure to submit required transcripts will delay application processing and admission decision.

STEP 5 | Complete BC3 Placement Testing or Determine Exemptions

• Visit bc3.edu/placement-testing to review available placement testing exemptions.
• Applicants who have graduated in the last five years with a minimum 3.00 cumulative, unweighted GPA and A/B grades in their 11th and 12th grade English courses and a “C” or better grade in Algebra 2 may not need to test.
• Need to test? Be on the lookout for an email with instructions on how to schedule.

Successful completion of this program may potentially lead to professional licensure. Licensure may be global or state-specific. This program meets the requirements for the state of Pennsylvania. Requirements for other states may vary:  bc3.edu/professional-licensure .

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to BC3 Admissions at [email protected] or 724-284-8501.

Practical Nursing Clinical Sites

• Armstrong Memorial Hospital
• Concordia Lutheran Ministries
• Independence Health System
• Penn Highlands Health System
• Punxsutawney Area Hospital
• Quality Life Services
• Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

Criminal History Licensure Disclosure

All applicants are considered equally without regard to race, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, handicap or disability, use of a service animal due to disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, perceived gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, family status, or other classification protected by applicable law.

**However, please note that Nursing students must be 18 years of age prior to the start of their first clinical experience.

Pennsylvania law prohibits the State Board of Nursing from issuing a license to anyone who has been convicted of a crime with variable criteria according to Act 53 of 2020.  This law allows for candidates with a criminal conviction to consider an occupation or profession that requires licensure.

With regard to the consideration of criminal convictions, Act 53:

• Prohibits Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affair’s (BPOA) licensing boards and commissions from denying licensure based on considerations of “good moral character,” “crimes of moral turpitude,” or “ethical or honest practice.”
• Requires each board and commission to develop and publish a schedule of criminal offenses that may constitute grounds to deny, suspend or revoke a license. The list must also identify which crimes are likely to pose a barrier to licensure because they are considered to be offenses “directly related” to the occupation/profession.
• Provides for an “individualized assessment” of each license applicant using objective, detailed criteria that includes rehabilitation and public safety.
• Provides a process for individuals who have criminal convictions to request a “preliminary determination” as to whether a particular conviction will be a bar to licensure. This new tool will enable people with criminal convictions to find out if their convictions would prevent them from getting a license − before enrolling in a training or educational program, before investing significant time and resources, and before formally applying for licensure.

Students are encouraged to complete the request for preliminary determination from the State licensing board. This request once submitted will be reviewed by the PA State Licensure board and returned to the applicant within 45 days. This should be completed prior to or the first semester of the registered nursing program to inform the candidate of their eligibility. Information regarding Act 53 of 2020 can be found at the following website: https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/Pages/ACT-53-2020.aspx The BC3 Nursing Admission Committee assumes the responsibility to review the data of all applicants and has the right to offer admission to the best qualified individuals.

Best Nursing Schools: State-by-State Guide 2024

Posted: March 4, 2024 | Last updated: March 4, 2024

Choosing the right school is crucial if you embark on a nursing career. Our comprehensive guide spotlights the top nursing school in each U.S. state for 2024. From prestigious programs to hidden gems, discover where you can pursue excellence in nursing education and kickstart a rewarding healthcare career.

Alabama: University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing

A pioneer in nursing education, research, and patient care, the UAB School of Nursing provides diverse programs from BSN to DNP and PhD. Specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Informatics, it fosters nurse leaders through cutting-edge facilities and extensive clinical collaborations in Birmingham and beyond.

Alaska: University of Alaska Anchorage School of Nursing

University of Alaska Anchorage’s School of Nursing excels in training nurses for Alaska’s distinct healthcare demands, particularly in rural and underserved regions. ADN, BSN, and MSN programs, including remote learning, prioritizes cultural proficiency and evidence-based methods. Graduates are equipped to thrive in varied healthcare settings across the state.

Arizona: University of Arizona College of Nursing, Tucson

In Tucson, the University of Arizona College of Nursing has varied nursing programs, from BSN to PhD. Renowned for pioneering research in cancer prevention, health disparities, and chronic illness management, it emphasizes evidence-based practice and patient-centered care. Its cutting-edge simulation labs and extensive clinical collaborations train students to serve a heterogeneous population. 

Arkansas: Arkansas State University School of Nursing, Jonesboro

Arkansas State University’s Jonesboro School of Nursing provides multiple nursing programs, spanning BSN to DNP degrees. Emphasizing critical thinking and compassionate care prepares students for successful nursing careers. It tackles Arkansas Delta’s unique healthcare challenges with a rural health focus, fostering graduates esteemed for clinical excellence in varied healthcare settings.

California: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Nursing

UCSF School of Nursing stands out for its research, education, and clinical practice excellence. With advanced programs like Master’s, PhD, and DNP degrees, it specializes in Family Health, Pediatrics, and Psychiatric/Mental Health. Led by expert faculty, students access extensive clinical training and research opportunities within UCSF’s renowned health system.

Colorado: University of Colorado College of Nursing

Situated on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, the University of Colorado College of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of programs, from BSN to DNP and Ph.D., including innovative pathways like VBSN – the Veteran to Bachelor of Science in Nursing. It has topline research initiatives and clinical practice opportunities.

Connecticut: Yale School of Nursing, Yale University

Renowned for excellence in education, research, and clinical practice, Yale School of Nursing provides MSN, DNP, and PhD programs. Integrating nursing with public health and primary care equips graduates to tackle healthcare challenges holistically. Rich in social justice and health equity, its curriculum fosters nurses devoted to enhancing community well-being.

Delaware: University of Delaware School of Nursing

BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD degrees at the School of Nursing at the University of Delaware incorporate evidence-based practice and interprofessional education into its curriculum. Located in Newark, its research initiatives address critical societal healthcare issues. The students gain clinical experiences in diverse settings, from urban hospitals to community health centers.

Florida: University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, Coral Gables

In Coral Gables, the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies provides nursing programs spanning BSN to DNP and PhD degrees. Well-known for pioneering research in health disparities, HIV/AIDS, and family health, it guarantees its students advanced clinical simulations and global health experiences.  

Georgia: Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

In Atlanta, Emory’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is a top-notch institution for nursing education. The school is recognized for its commitment to addressing health disparities and promoting patient-centered care. Students can engage in clinical practice and research in a city with some of the nation’s leading healthcare facilities.

Hawaii: University of Hawaii at Manoa School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene

University of Hawaii’s School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene at Manoa gives students a unique perspective on health care in diverse and multicultural communities. All its programs, from the undergraduate to doctoral level, thrive on the integration of traditional and holistic health practices.

Idaho: Boise State University School of Nursing

Boise State University’s School of Nursing addresses the rising need for proficient nursing practitioners. Prioritizing innovative healthcare approaches, leadership, and patient-focused services, the school blends clinical training, research, and community involvement. Students gain distinct clinical exposure through extensive collaborations with healthcare entities statewide, particularly in rural areas.

Illinois: Chicago College of Nursing, University of Illinois

The College of Nursing at the University of Illinois at Chicago excels in research and teaching. Offering various programs from essential to advanced degrees, it addresses urban health issues like unequal health and long-term sickness. Students gain valuable experience in the city environment, preparing them for various healthcare roles.

Indiana: Purdue University-Main Campus, West Lafayette

Purdue University’s School of Nursing in West Lafayette’s BSN, MSN, and DNP programs optimize science and evidence-based practice. Known for its research in rural health, chronic disease management, and health promotion, it equips students with critical thinking skills and clinical expertise. Nursing students benefit from high-tech labs and varied clinical experiences statewide.

Iowa: Mount Mercy University, Cedar Rapids

Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids provides CCNE-accredited nursing programs, with options for new nurses and R.N.s pursuing career advancement. Acclaimed for holistic patient care, leadership, and community health focus, small class sizes ensure individualized attention. Ethical practice and compassionate service are core, supported by robust clinical partnerships that deliver diverse healthcare experiences.

Kansas: Baker University, Baldwin City

Baker University in Baldwin City offers BSN degrees through a nursing program with traditional and accelerated options. It highlights clinical proficiency, patient advocacy, leadership, and lifelong learning and integrates liberal arts, critical thinking, and faith into nursing practice. Clinical experiences across healthcare settings prepare students thoroughly for the nursing profession.

Kentucky: Frontier Nursing University, Versailles

Versailles’ Frontier Nursing University is a trailblazer in graduate nursing education, focusing on midwifery and family nursing. Specializing in MSN and DNP programs through distance learning, it trains nurse-midwives and family nurse practitioners for rural care. Combining online classes with local clinical placements, FNU revolutionizes nursing education.

Louisiana: Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, Baton Rouge

Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University deliver nursing education (ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP) rooted in Franciscan values – service, compassion, and respect. Its programs focus on holistic care, ethical leadership, and social justice. Students gain practical experience in the affiliated health system, readying them for varied nursing and leadership positions.

Maine: University of Maine School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of Maine in Orono prepares students for the complexities of modern health care through BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. It has a supportive learning environment with access to cutting-edge simulation labs and clinical experiences in multiple settings across the state.

Maryland: Johns Hopkins School of Nursing

Based in Baltimore, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing excels globally in nursing education, research, and practice. Its BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs advocate innovation and global health improvement. Focused on evidence-based and interprofessional education, it prepares students to lead and tackle complex health issues.

Massachusetts: Boston College, William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill

The educational programs at Boston College’s Connell School of Nursing in Chestnut Hill merge clinical practice with ethics and leadership in nursing. Its emphasis on holistic care in the Jesuit tradition, access to advanced simulation labs, and clinical experiences in Boston’s top health institutions prepare students for complex health challenges.

Michigan: University of Michigan School of Nursing

The University of Michigan School of Nursing in Ann Arbor delivers BSN to PhD programs, focusing on health promotion, chronic condition management, and health care technology. Supported by top-notch facilities and extensive clinical partnerships throughout Michigan, it’s a game-changer for students wanting to take on industry leadership roles.

Minnesota: St. Catherine University, St. Paul

St. Catherine University in St. Paul’s BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees focus on women’s health, ethical leadership, and social justice in health care. Integrating liberal arts with professional studies, the university fosters compassionate, skilled nurses. Students gain extensive clinical experiences through partnerships with Twin Cities’ top health organizations.

Mississippi: University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson has a range of programs on primary care, health disparities, and rural health. As part of Mississippi’s only academic health science center, the school provides students with extensive clinical training opportunities in competitive settings.

Missouri: Saint Louis University, School of Nursing

Saint Louis University’s School of Nursing in St. Louis is celebrated for prioritizing educational innovation, research, and community service. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, health technology, and interprofessional education, SLU prepares leaders to enhance health care and patient outcomes, supported by a leading simulation center and clinical alliances.

Montana: Montana State University College of Nursing

Montana State University’s College of Nursing, with its main campus in Bozeman, offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. It is distinguished for addressing rural and frontier communities’ healthcare needs and stresses primary care, mental health, and community health. The college’s multiple campuses across the state facilitate access to nursing education

Nebraska: Bryan College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, Lincoln

With its BSN and MSN programs, Bryan College of Health Sciences in Lincoln is known for its hands-on learning approach, small class sizes, and individualized student support. Its nursing programs emphasize critical thinking, patient-centered care, and community health. Their high-tech simulation labs ensure the graduates are well-prepared for professional nursing practice.

Nevada: University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with its BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, stands out for its focus on community health, nursing education, and managing chronic conditions. UNLV’s nursing school is committed to advancing healthcare through cutting-edge research.

New Hampshire: University of New Hampshire Department of Nursing

The University of New Hampshire in Durham boasts a CCNE-accredited BSN program, an MSN program focused on clinical nurse leaders, and a Direct Entry Master’s in Nursing for non-nurses. UNH supports students through innovative teaching and extensive clinical experiences in New England’s contrasting healthcare settings.

New Jersey: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey School of Nursing

Rutgers School of Nursing, spanning Newark, New Brunswick, and Blackwood, presents BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs. It excels in urban health and health disparities research, preparing students for nursing leadership and health policy roles. Strategic clinical partnerships in New Jersey ensure varied practice experiences.

New Mexico: University of New Mexico College of Nursing

The University of New Mexico College of Nursing in Albuquerque, spanning BSN to DNP and PhD, emphasizes rural health, health disparities, and Native American health. It melds traditional and modern educational approaches and excels in training nurses for New Mexico’s varied urban and rural communities.

New York: Columbia University School of Nursing, New York

Columbia University’s School of Nursing in New York City leads in innovative education and research, focusing on global health challenges, health equity, and enhanced healthcare access. It provides comprehensive clinical training across advanced nursing fields in New York’s top hospitals, equipping students for excellence in diverse healthcare environments.

North Carolina: Duke University School of Nursing, Durham

Duke University School of Nursing in Durham, North Carolina, excels globally in nursing education, research, and practice. Its ABSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs include an innovative curriculum, advanced facilities, and robust clinical partnerships. Focusing on leadership, global health, and evidence-based practice, Duke prioritizes diversity and inclusion.

North Dakota: Mayville State University

Mayville State University, located in North Dakota, provides an online BSN completion program for R.N.s with an associate degree or nursing diploma. The program enhances clinical, management, and leadership skills through personalized education. It fosters nurses for advanced healthcare roles by presenting flexible options for working professionals.

Ohio: Ohio State University College of Nursing

Ohio State University College of Nursing in Columbus excels in nursing education, providing BSN to DNP and PhD programs. It leads to health promotion, chronic disease, and evidence-based research. Focused on wellness and prevention, OSU equips graduates for leadership in healthcare, academia, and research sectors.

Oklahoma: Northeastern State University, Tahlequah

Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, provides a BSN program focusing on science, critical thinking, and clinical skills. With an emphasis on cultural competence, community health, and patient-centered care, NSU prepares nurses for diverse populations. Its program includes extensive clinical experiences, ensuring graduates’ readiness for practice.

Oregon: Bushnell University

Bushnell University in Eugene, Oregon, delivers a BSN program that molds compassionate and skilled nurses, emphasizing holistic care, ethics, and leadership. Grounded in Christian values, it merges faith with healthcare, promoting spiritually and culturally sensitive care. The curriculum, rich in clinical experiences, prepares graduates to serve patients and communities empathetically.

Pennsylvania: University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, an Ivy League institution in Philadelphia, provides extensive nursing programs from BSN to PhD. Renowned for leadership in education, research, and practice, it specializes in pediatrics, women’s health, and gerontology. Penn Nursing’s focus on innovation and interprofessional education prepares students for healthcare reform leadership.

Rhode Island: University of Rhode Island College of Nursing, Kingston

Students at the University of Rhode Island College of Nursing in Kingston can pursue BSN to PhD degrees, focusing on gerontology, community health, and health disparities. The program offers a rich mix of evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and interprofessional collaboration, with varying clinical experiences in Rhode Island and beyond.

South Carolina: University of South Carolina College of Nursing, Columbia

The University of South Carolina College of Nursing in Columbia provides BSN to PhD programs, emphasizing research, leadership, and evidence-based practice. With advanced simulation labs and wide-ranging clinical experiences, the college aims to address South Carolina’s healthcare challenges, focusing on rural health, health disparities, and chronic illness management.

South Dakota: Mount Marty University Nursing Program, Yankton

Mount Marty University in Yankton offers a BSN program prioritizing compassionate care, ethical practice, and leadership. Integrating liberal arts with nursing ensures small class sizes for a personalized education that fosters critical thinking and clinical skills, preparing graduates to serve with faith and commitment, especially in the Midwest.

Tennessee: Vanderbilt University School of Nursing

Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in Nashville provides MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, focusing on advanced nursing practice, healthcare leadership, and research. Renowned for innovative education and research, it equips students for leadership in healthcare, academia, and policy, offering extensive clinical experience through Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Texas: University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing provides BSN, MSN, and PhD programs centered on healthcare leadership, innovation, and evidence-based practice. Noted for its psychiatric, pediatric, and chronic illness management research, UT Austin trains graduates for advanced healthcare leadership roles, ensuring improved outcomes for diverse communities.

Utah: Brigham Young University College of Nursing, Provo

This Nursing College is known in Provo for integrating spiritual care with nursing excellence. Its BSN program and graduate certificates are designed to nurture skilled and compassionate nurses. Emphasizing the Healer’s art of holistic care, the curriculum includes disparate clinical experiences in Utah and elsewhere.

Vermont: Norwich University School of Nursing, Northfield

Norwich University’s BSN program in Northfield focuses on molding leaders in nursing and healthcare by enhancing critical thinking, communication, and clinical skills for ethical practice. With a commitment to service and innovation, its rigorous curriculum with extensive clinical experiences targets rural and underserved communities in Vermont.

Virginia: University of Virginia School of Nursing

The University of Virginia School of Nursing in Charlottesville provides BSN through PhD programs, recognized for clinical excellence, leadership, and research, focusing on health equity and reducing disparities. Students experience a challenging academic setting and gain extensive clinical exposure at the UVA Medical Center, a premier academic institution.

Washington: University of Washington School of Nursing

The University of Washington School of Nursing in Seattle excels in nursing education, research, and practice with BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs. It stands out in public health, community health, and health informatics, fostering innovation and excellence. Graduates are equipped to enhance healthcare systems and patient outcomes worldwide.

West Virginia: West Virginia University School of Nursing

West Virginia University School of Nursing, located in Morgantown, Charleston, and Beckley, provides BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, emphasizing rural health, chronic disease, and family health. It aims to equip students with practical experience and research and enhance healthcare access to tackle health challenges in West Virginia and similar areas.

Wisconsin: Marquette University College of Nursing, Milwaukee

Marquette University’s Nursing College in Milwaukee has BSN to PhD programs that uphold innovation, clinical excellence, and social justice. It prepares nurses for health equity advocacy, blending rigorous academics with practical experience, supported by top simulation labs and partnerships for comprehensive practicums and research in healthcare.

Wyoming: University of Wyoming Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing

With its BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, the University of Wyoming Fay W. Whitney focuses on rural and frontier health care, including primary care, mental health, and community health. Its curriculum addresses Wyoming’s unique health needs, preparing graduates for impactful roles in rural communities.

The post Best Nursing Schools: State-by-State Guide 2024 appeared first on Housely .

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Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Overview

NurseJournal.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

• Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
• Provide specific, corrective feedback.
• Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for NurseJournal.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

• What Can I Do?

How to Get an MSN

• Admission Requirements
• Core Concepts
• What to Expect
• BSN vs. MSN

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Degree at a Glance

• Average Program Length: 1-2 years
• Average Credits Required: 36 to 60
• Average Annual Salary: $103,000 (Payscale, February 2024)
• Offered Online? Partially
• Clinical Hours Required? Yes
• Program Traits: Advanced clinical skills, leadership and management, research, health policy, and ethical, legal, and communication skills

A master of science in nursing (MSN) is an advanced degree for registered nurses wanting to specialize in management, education, or clinical practice.

An MSN enhances your clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and research proficiency, helping you pursue higher-level positions and increased salaries.

Popular Online MSN Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Can I Do With an MSN Degree?

With an MSN degree, you can work with various patient populations in different settings. An MSN degree opens the door to advanced roles and increased salary potential.

Graduates can pursue various careers specializing in family care, psychiatry, pediatrics, gerontology, policy, and research:

• Nurse Practitioner

Clinical Nurse Specialist

Nurse educator.

• Nurse Administrator
• Health Policy Expert
• Nurse Consultant
• Clinical Research Nurse

MSN graduates are prepared to lead, educate, and innovate within the healthcare sector. They can have a significant impact on patient outcomes and the nursing profession.

Specialized MSN Tracks

Specialized MSN programs enable candidates to focus on specific areas of care. These specializations prepare graduates for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles addressing various patient needs and advancing healthcare delivery using specialized expertise and skills.

Certified Nurse Midwife

These APRNs specialize in childbirth, reproductive health, and gynecological care. They provide holistic and supportive care throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.

Family Nurse Practitioner

Family nurse practitioners offer comprehensive healthcare across the lifespan. They diagnose and treat a variety of acute and chronic health conditions while emphasizing disease prevention and health management.

Nurse Anesthetist

Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) provide care before, during, and after the administration of anesthesia and surgical procedures. They protect patient safety and comfort in a variety of healthcare settings. Note that a doctor of nursing practice is required to become a CRNA.

Nurse educators help shape the future of nursing by teaching and mentoring students. They collaborate with colleagues to develop curricula and promote evidence-based practice in academic and clinical settings.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

These APRNs specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. They provide therapy, prescribe medications, and implement behavioral health therapies across the lifespan.

A CNS focuses on improving patient outcomes and health delivery within a specialized area of practice, such as pediatrics, oncology, geriatrics, and women’s health.

How Much Will I Make With a Master’s Degree in Nursing?

$8,580 Monthly

$103,000 Annually

Source: Payscale

• Step 1: Decide on the Type of MSN Program
• Step 2: Find an MSN Program
• Step 3: Apply to MSN Programs
• Step 4: Secure Funding for MSN Programs
• Step 5: Attend MSN Classes
• Step 6: Graduate with an MSN

Admission Requirements for a Master in Nursing Program

The length of an MSN varies depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time and the specialization you choose. Admission requirements to a program can vary by institution. However, there are several general requirements, including:

Undergraduate Credits

Most programs require a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited institution. However, some allow nurses with an ADN to obtain their BSN and MSN in the same program; others allow those with a bachelor’s degree in another field who meet specific coursework prerequisites.

Transcripts

Official transcripts from all undergraduate and postgraduate coursework.

Application Materials

These can include a completed application form, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and resume.

Minimum GPA

Most programs require a minimum GPA, but some will compromise when applicants meet other criteria.

Test Scores

Most programs no longer require test scores, but some require GRE or GMAT scores.

Core Concepts in a Master in Nursing Program

An MSN program covers the skills and competencies needed for advanced nursing practice, leadership, and specialized care. Graduates can pursue roles that demonstrate a deep understanding of the complexities of healthcare and the ability to improve patient and system outcomes. Core concepts of an MSN program often emphasize advanced clinical skills, patient care, healthcare policies, ethics, and evidence-based practice.

• Advanced Pharmacology: Understanding the use and effect of drugs in advanced practice.
• Pathophysiology: The study of physical and biological abnormalities in disease.
• Health Assessment: Advanced skills in assessment, including physical and psychological aspects.
• Nursing Ethics: Ethical issues and decision-making.
• Healthcare Policy: Analysis and implications of healthcare policy on practice and patient outcomes.
• Leadership: Strategies for leading teams and improving healthcare delivery systems.
• Research Methods: Techniques for conducting and applying research to improve patient care.

Clinical & Lab Components in an MSN Program

MSN programs require students to complete a certain amount of clinical hours to graduate. Online MSN programs have similar requirements. Clinical Hour practicum requirements vary greatly from specialty to specialty.

• Nurse Practitioner: 500-600 hours
• Clinical Nurse Specialist: 600+ hours
• Nurse Midwife: 1,000 hours
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Programs: 2,500 hours + administering of 800 anesthetics

What to Expect From an Online MSN Program

Traditional and online MSN programs often offer flexibility and accessibility for working professionals. However, students can expect more flexible scheduling in an online MSN format . The didactic component is typically all online and asynchronous, allowing candidates to absorb theoretical and knowledge-based content in self-paced study.

Most online MSN programs use a hybrid approach, including online learning and in-person labs and clinical rotations . Online MSN programs typically use an interactive learning platform to support discussion forums, video lectures, and virtual simulations.

Earning a BSN vs. an MSN

Earning a bsn.

• The BSN is designed to educate aspiring nurses. Students must commit to four years of rigorous study, and many find it difficult to work full time while in school.
• Coursework is designed to develop critical thinking. The study of natural and social sciences, public health, research techniques, and communication teaches nurses how to make informed decisions about patient care.
• Undergraduate programs focus on preparing nurses to work in a variety of clinical settings. Most practicums are designed to expose students to direct patient care, emphasizing general technique and nursing best practices.

Pros to Accelerated BSN

Cons to accelerated bsn, earning an msn.

• Many working nurses complete the master’s degree in nursing in two years without leaving their full-time jobs.
• Master’s degree in nursing candidates can choose study tracks focusing on specialized nursing topics like gerontology, anesthesia, or sports medicine. Nurses interested in nonclinical roles can focus on management, informatics, or nursing education.
• In a master’s degree in nursing program, candidates are exposed to a workplace environment that correlates with their chosen specialization. Hands-on experience allows candidates to put their knowledge of advanced theory into practice.

Pros to Accelerated MSN

Cons to accelerated msn.

Page last reviewed March 12, 2024

The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

Looking to advance your career with an MSN degree? In this guide, explore the best online MSN programs and how to apply.

The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

The Top Direct-Entry Master’s in Nursing Programs

The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree.

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.