Medical Solutions provided this article.
Embarking on the compassionate journey of nursing involves not only caring for others but also navigating the many education paths. Obtaining certain degrees or certifications can make all the difference in your salary in many industries, but does the same apply to nursing? From LPNs to advanced practitioners, we’ll explore how different degrees can shape both your knowledge and compensation.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
To be an LPN, you typically complete a diploma or certificate from a one-year practical nursing program, which is a shorter and more focused education compared to RNs with higher degrees. While LPNs are invaluable contributors to healthcare, the scope of their practice is more limited to basic nursing care, which leads to a lower salary compared to other degrees.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
An associate degree not only broadens the scope of practice but also offers a bump in salary compared to an LPN. Nurses with an ADN are better equipped to treat patients, administer medications, and perform diagnostics, and their increased responsibilities are reflected in higher compensation.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
While RNs with a BSN have the same main job responsibilities as those with an ADN, BSN-prepared nurses have a more extensive education, especially with leadership-focused classes, that help qualify them to take on nursing supervisor or nursing management roles. This opens up opportunities for more career advancement with higher earning potential.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Registered Nurses with a master’s degree often take on advanced practice roles in either a clinical setting or non-clinical setting. Some of these jobs include nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, nurse educator, and forensic nurse. The mastery of skill and ability to provide more specialized care—such as analyzing tests, prescribing medications, and diagnosing health issues—contributes to a higher salary.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The highest level of degree you can achieve within nursing is a DNP or Ph.D. Nurses with doctoral degrees are not only caregivers but also healthcare leaders, contributors to research, or educators for future nurses. With the ability to take on roles at the academic and executive levels, nurses with a doctorate tend to have the highest salary.
It’s crucial to note, though, that the type of degree you have is not the only factor when it comes to salary. Location, years of experience, certifications, specialization, and even healthcare setting are also major contributors to your salary. So, while continuing your education can create more opportunities for your professional and financial growth, the spectrum of earning potential as a nurse is vast. What’s important is making sure you know what you want to achieve in your career and finding a recruiter who will help get you there!
Our job board is the perfect place to look when you are ready for your next assignment or looking for your first assignment! Find both the role and the location that speak to you and your priorities.
