Top 10 RN to BSN Jobs & Career Pathways

As the healthcare industry becomes more complex, the demand for qualified, quality nurses has increased. The scope of opportunities is ever increasing and the experiences offered outside a traditional healthcare setting are providing more rewarding careers. Here are some of the top career pathways for nurses who hold a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing.

• Travel Nursing is quite an exciting field where nurses fill short-term needs in towns and cities across the globe. The per hour pay is higher than is afforded in a traditional healthcare and nurses get to experience growth as a professional and adventure as the varied locations often need a wide range of capabilities.
• Forensic Nurses work alongside law enforcement in a variety of capacities. They are trained to retrieve and collect evidence from crime or accident scenes, make injury identification and determine the potential cause. Qualified nurses can pursue positions in medical examiners offices, law enforcement agencies and social services.
• Surgical Nurses assist doctors during complex or difficult medical procedures. As part of a surgical team, they prepare patents for surgery and assist with organ transplants or neurosurgery.
• Military Nurses work with all branches of the military, both at home and overseas. These nurses have the opportunity to travel and advance their careers by furthering their education. The prospects for promotion, both within military service and without are enhanced by this experience.
• Legal Nurse Consultants work with attorneys and corporate lawyers. Career opportunities are found within the court system as well as in insurance companies, government agencies and pharmaceutical firms.
• Clinical Nurse Specialists are trained to organize, coordinate and control services, resources and costs in a managed care setting. These advanced practice nurses have taken on the responsibility of a case manager in their specialty. Daily duties include managing the interdependencies of the different parts of healthcare.
• Nurse Practitioners have a wide range of specialty areas to choose from. Family or adult practice, women’s health, pediatrics and acute care are among the most common. They are frequently the primary care provider offering a blend of nursing and other healthcare services.
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) receive the same training as an anesthesiologist. They provide care for the patient before, during and after a medical procedure.
• A Flight Nurse ensures the safety and care of a patient during emergency and non-emergency transport.
• Staff Nurses are charged with making decisions based on their scientific and medical knowledge while adhering to healthcare and facility procedures to ensure quality patient care.

Jobs and career pathways for nurses are changing as the healthcare industry expands. Those who earn a specialized nursing degree have opportunities for travel and advancement that take place outside a hospital or traditional healthcare facility. Salaries vary from under $45,000 to more than $165,000 a year.