How do I get into and grow my nursing career?

With increasing and growing shortage of physicians, the demand for licensed nurse practitioners (LNPs) as primary care providers is the highest that the world has ever witnessed.

Get information you need to know in a clear and concise manner for nursing on the courses below to help you map your own pathway to your dream nursing career.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

General nursing qualifications & Licensing Information

Admission Preparation

• HESI A2
• ATI TEAS 7
• NEX (Formerly NLN PAX)

Entry Level

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Intermediate Level

• NCLEX – RN
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Advanced Level

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing

General nursing qualifications & Licensing Information

Here’s a breakdown of the general nursing qualifications path, starting from the beginner level assessment exams to the top level qualification:

Admission Preparation

HESI A2

The HESI A2, or Health Education Systems Incorporated Admission Assessment, is a crucial step for aspiring nurses in the United States. 

License Provider: HESI A2 isn’t a license itself, but an admission assessment exam created by Elsevier Health Sciences. Nursing schools use it to evaluate applicants’ academic preparedness for nursing programs.

History: Launched in 1978, HESI A2 has become a widely accepted benchmark for nursing schools. It ensures potential nurses possess the foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in the program.

Requirements to Take the HESI A2:

• Typically, enrollment or application to a nursing program that mandates the HESI A2.
• Each school might have specific score requirements

Opportunities with a Passing Score:

• Gaining admission to your desired nursing program.
• Demonstrating your academic readiness for a challenging nursing curriculum.
• Increased confidence in your foundational knowledge for a successful nursing career.

Who Takes the HESI A2?

Demographics:

• Primarily pre-nursing students seeking entry into Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or other nursing programs.
• Individuals aiming for a career transition into nursing.
• Registered Nurse (RN) applicants for refresher programs or advanced degrees.

Age:

There’s no specific age range. Pre-nursing students typically take it after high school or during their undergraduate studies. 

Career changers might take it at any point in their working lives.

Country:

Predominantly administered in the United States and its territories, where it’s a common nursing school admission requirement.

UK Comparison: In the UK, nursing programs often require applicants to take the Occupational English Test (OET) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) as an English language proficiency test. These tests assess the language skills of non-native English speakers. 

Additionally, applicants may need to take the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Test of Competence Part 1 (CBT – Computer-Based Test) 

& 

Part 2 (OSCE – Objective Structured Clinical Examination) after completing their nursing education to register as a nurse in the UK.

Demand:

The demand for HESI A2 remains high due to the ever-growing need for qualified nurses. Many nursing schools rely on it for selecting capable students, making it a vital step towards a rewarding nursing career.

ATI TEAS 7

The ATI TEAS, or Test of Essential Academic Skills, is another key assessment for aspiring nurses in the United States. 

License Provider: ATI TEAS isn’t a license, but a standardized exam developed by Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI). Nursing schools use it to gauge potential students.

History: Introduced in the 1980s, TEAS has undergone revisions to reflect evolving educational standards. The latest iteration, ATI TEAS 7, launched in 2022, incorporates new question formats and updated content.

Requirements to Take the ATI TEAS:

• Enrollment or application to a nursing program that mandates the ATI TEAS.
• Each program might have specific score requirements, so confirm with your chosen school.

Opportunities with a Passing Score:

• Increased your chances of admission to your desired nursing program.
• Demonstrated your academic readiness for the demanding nursing curriculum.
• Boosted your confidence in your foundational knowledge for a successful nursing career.

Who Takes the ATI TEAS?

Demographics:

• Primarily pre-nursing students aiming for entry into Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Diploma, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.
• Individuals considering a career shift into nursing.
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) seeking to bridge to Registered Nurse (RN) programs.

Age:

There’s no specific age limit. Pre-nursing students typically take it after high school or during their undergraduate studies. Career changers might take it at any point in their professional lives.

Country:

The ATI TEAS is predominantly used in the United States and its territories, where it’s a common nursing school admission requirement.

In the UK, the HESI A2 nursing entry test is not commonly used for admission to nursing programs. Instead, nursing programs in the UK typically require applicants to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like the Occupational English Test (OET) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). 

In Canada, the HESI A2 nursing entry test may be used by some nursing programs as part of their admission requirements, but its usage can vary among institutions. 

Nursing programs in Canada typically have their own specific admission requirements, which may include academic prerequisites, standardized tests (such as the HESI A2 or other similar tests like the TEAS), interviews, and other criteria.

Demand:

The demand for ATI TEAS remains high due to the ongoing need for qualified nurses. Many nursing schools rely on it for selecting capable students, making it a crucial step towards a fulfilling nursing career.

NEX (Formerly NLN PAX)

The NLN PAX exam is no longer offered. It has been replaced by the National League for Nursing (NLN) Nursing Entrance Exam (NEX).

NLN PAX (no longer offered)

• License Provider: Not a license itself. It was an entrance exam created by the National League for Nursing (NLN).
• History: The NLN PAX was used by nursing schools from the past until around 2022. It assessed potential students’ readiness for nursing programs.
• Requirements: Enrollment or application to a nursing program that mandated the NLN PAX. Score requirements varied by school.
• Opportunities: Increased chances of admission to a nursing program demonstrating foundational knowledge for nursing studies.
• Who Took the Courses?
  • Demographics: Primarily pre-nursing students applying to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.
  • Age: Typically after high school or during undergraduate studies (no specific age limit).
  • Country: Predominantly the United States, where it was a common nursing school entrance requirement.
  • Demand: No longer in demand as it has been superseded by the NEX.

Current Replacement: NLN Nursing Entrance Exam (NEX)

• License Provider: Not a license itself, but an admission assessment exam by the National League for Nursing (NLN).
• History: Introduced in 2022 as a successor to the NLN PAX, the NEX assesses the same core competencies for nursing school readiness.
• Requirements: Similar to the PAX, enrollment or application to a nursing program requiring the NEX is necessary. Specific score requirements vary by school.
• Opportunities: Identical to the PAX – increased admission chances and demonstrating nursing program preparedness.
• Who Takes the Courses?
  • Demographics: Pre-nursing students applying to nursing programs (BSN or others).
  • Age: No specific age limit, typically after high school or during undergraduate studies.
  • Country: Primarily the United States, where it’s a common nursing school entrance requirement.
  • Demand: High demand due to the ongoing need for qualified nurses and nursing schools relying on it for selecting students.

Entry Level

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

A CNA program is a certificate program that typically takes a few months to complete. It prepares you to provide basic care to patients under the supervision of a licensed nurse. CNAs work in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays a vital role in healthcare, providing direct care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.

License Provider: CNAs are licensed by individual states within the United States. The licensing process is overseen by the state’s nursing board or department of health.

History: The CNA role emerged in the 1960s to address the growing need for patient care support staff. Standardized training and certification programs were established to ensure competency and quality care.

Requirements to Become a CNA:

• Completion of a state-approved CNA training program, typically lasting a few weeks to several months.
• Passing a written and skills competency exam administered by the state.
• Meeting any additional requirements set by the specific state, such as criminal background checks.

Opportunities with a CNA License:

• Employment in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare agencies.
• Competitive salaries and benefits, with potential for career advancement.
• The ability to make a real difference in the lives of patients by providing compassionate care.

Who Takes CNA Courses?

Demographics:

• Individuals seeking entry-level healthcare careers.
• Those looking for a career change into healthcare.
• People interested in gaining experience before pursuing higher nursing qualifications like Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).

Age:

There’s no specific age restriction for CNA programs. However, many students are in their late teens or early adulthood.

Country:

CNA certification is primarily a US concept, although some countries have similar healthcare support staff roles with different titles and training requirements.

In the UK the CNA Equivalent is Healthcare Assistant (HCA) or a Nursing Assistant  individuals require relevant vocational qualifications or apprenticeships in healthcare or social care to obtain a HCA Certification.

In Canada  the CNA Equivalent is known as Continuing Care Assistants,to achieve  the qualification individuals need to complete a formal training program in personal support or healthcare assistance offered by colleges, vocational schools, or healthcare facilities.

Demand:

The demand for CNAs is high and expected to grow due to the aging population and increasing need for long-term care services. With a CNA license, you can expect a stable and rewarding career path.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a two-year program that equips you with the knowledge and skills to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Let’s delve into the specifics:

License Provider: After completing an ADN program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), you’ll earn your RN license from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) or your state’s nursing board.

History: The ADN program emerged in the 1950s as a faster alternative to the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. It offered a practical, hands-on approach to nursing education, meeting the growing demand for nurses in hospitals and communities.

Requirements to Qualify for an ADN Program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in science, math, and English (requirements vary by program)
• Competitive GPA (typically minimum 3.0)
• Strong showing on standardized tests like the HESI A2/  ATI TEAS/NEX (in some cases)

Opportunities with an ADN:

• Employment: Work in various healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare agencies.
• Competitive Salary: Starting salaries for ADN nurses are generally good, with potential for growth through experience and specialization.
• Career Advancement: ADN prepares you for the NCLEX-RN, which opens doors to RN positions. You can further your education with a BSN or pursue advanced nursing certifications.

Who Takes ADN Courses?

Demographics:

• Individuals seeking a faster entry point into a nursing career.
• Students who may not have the time or resources for a four-year BSN program.
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) aiming to advance to RN roles.
• Career changers looking for a fulfilling healthcare profession.

Age:

There’s no strict age limit, but ADN students are often in their late teens, twenties, or thirties.

Country:

ADN programs are prevalent in the United States and Canada. Other countries may have similar associate’s degrees in nursing, but specific requirements and titles might differ.

Demand:

The demand for ADN nurses remains high. Hospitals and healthcare facilities constantly seek qualified nurses to provide care for an aging population. An ADN can equip you with the skills to join this in-demand field.

Intermediate Level

NCLEX – RN

National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN)

After graduating from an accredited ADN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed RN.

The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a crucial hurdle aspiring Registered Nurses (RNs) must conquer. 

License Provider: The NCLEX-RN isn’t a course, but a standardized exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). After passing, you’ll obtain your RN license from your state’s nursing board.

History: Launched in 1982, the NCLEX-RN ensures consistent standards for RN competency across the United States. It safeguards public health by assessing nurses’ knowledge, skills, and abilities for safe and effective practice.

Requirements to Take the NCLEX-RN:

• Graduation from an accredited nursing program (ADN, BSN, or other approved program).
• Completion of a state-approved application process.
• Meeting eligibility requirements set by your state’s nursing board.

Opportunities After Passing the NCLEX-RN:

• RN licensure: The NCLEX-RN is the key to becoming a licensed RN in the United States and some other countries.
• Employment opportunities: RNs are in high demand across diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, home care, and more.
• Competitive salaries and benefits: RNs typically earn competitive salaries with potential for advancement and specialization.
• Career progression: The NCLEX-RN opens doors to pursue advanced nursing degrees, certifications, and leadership roles.

Who Takes the NCLEX-RN?

Demographics:

• Graduates of Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or other approved RN programs.
• Internationally educated nurses seeking licensure in the US.
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who have completed RN bridge programs.

Age:

There’s no specific age limit. NCLEX-RN test takers range from recent graduates to experienced nurses seeking licensure in a new state.

Countries:

The NCLEX-RN is primarily for US licensure. However, some countries (like Canada and Australia) have adopted similar exams based on the NCLEX framework.

UK Comparison: In the UK, nursing programs often require applicants to take the Occupational English Test (OET) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) as an English language proficiency test. These tests assess the language skills of non-native English speakers. Additionally, applicants may need to take the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Test of Competence Part 1 (CBT – Computer-Based Test) and Part 2 (OSCE – Objective Structured Clinical Examination) after completing their nursing education to register as a nurse in the UK.

Demand:

The demand for nurses taking the NCLEX-RN remains high. The growing healthcare sector and aging population necessitate a steady influx of qualified RNs. Passing the NCLEX-RN positions you for a rewarding and in-demand career.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A BSN program is a 4-year degree that provides a broader and deeper understanding of nursing compared to an ADN program.

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year undergraduate program that equips you with the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills to become a Registered Nurse (RN). 

License Provider: While a BSN program itself doesn’t grant a license, it prepares you to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). After passing the NCLEX-RN, you’ll earn your RN license from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) or your state’s nursing board.

History: BSN programs emerged in the early 20th century as a way to elevate nursing education beyond vocational training. They emphasized a broader scientific foundation alongside practical nursing skills.

Requirements to Qualify for a BSN Program:

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in science, math, English, and social sciences (specific requirements vary by program)
• Competitive GPA (typically minimum 3.0)
• Strong showing on standardized tests like the HESI A2 or ATI TEAS (in some cases)

Opportunities with a BSN Degree:

• RN licensure: BSN graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and become licensed RNs with wider career options.
• Stronger job prospects: BSN nurses are often preferred by employers due to their broader knowledge base and leadership potential.
• Higher earning potential: BSN nurses generally command higher starting salaries and have better salary progression compared to ADN nurses.
• Smoother career advancement: A BSN provides a stronger foundation for pursuing advanced nursing degrees like Master’s in Nursing (MSN) and specialization in areas like nurse practitioner or nurse educator.

Who Takes BSN Courses?

Demographics:

• Individuals seeking a comprehensive nursing education with a focus on both science and clinical practice.
• Students aiming for a wider range of career opportunities and leadership roles in nursing.
• Those who may have the time and resources for a four-year program compared to an ADN.

Age:

There’s no strict age limit. BSN students can be recent high school graduates or individuals entering nursing later in life seeking a career change.

Country:

The BSN degree is a recognized qualification in many countries, although specific program structures and requirements may vary.

Demand:

The demand for BSN nurses remains high. Hospitals and healthcare institutions increasingly value the broader skillset and leadership qualities BSN programs cultivate.

Advanced Level

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

An MSN program is a 1-2 year graduate degree that allows you to specialize in a specific area of nursing, such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator.

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) elevates your nursing expertise to a whole new level. Let’s explore the intricacies of this advanced degree:

License Provider: The MSN program itself doesn’t grant a license. However, depending on the chosen specialization, you might need to acquire additional certifications. The licensing body varies by state and specialty, but it often involves passing an exam overseen by a national nursing organization.

History: MSN programs emerged in the mid-20th century to address the growing need for nurses with advanced clinical expertise, leadership skills, and research capabilities.

Requirements to Qualify for an MSN Program:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited program.
• A valid Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• Meeting the specific program’s GPA and prerequisite coursework requirements (varies by program and specialization).
• Strong professional experience as an RN in some cases (program-specific).

Opportunities with an MSN Degree:

• Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) Licensure: Certain MSN specializations (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwife) allow you to pursue additional certifications and become an APN with expanded practice authority.
• Leadership and Management Roles: MSNs equip you for leadership positions in nursing administration, education, and clinical settings.
• Higher Earning Potential: MSN graduates often command higher salaries compared to BSN nurses, especially in APN roles.
• Enhanced Career Flexibility: An MSN opens doors to diverse fields like research, education, informatics, and policy development within healthcare.

Who Takes MSN Courses?

Demographics:

• Registered Nurses (RNs) seeking career advancement and specialization.
• Nurses interested in leadership, management, or education roles in healthcare.
• Those who want to expand their clinical expertise and practice scope as Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs).

Age:

There’s no specific age limit. MSN students are typically experienced RNs, so they might range from their late twenties to fifties or beyond.

Country:

MSN degrees are recognized in many countries, but specific program structures, specializations, and licensing requirements may vary.

Demand:

The demand for MSN-prepared nurses remains high. The healthcare system needs more APNs, nurse leaders, and educators to manage a complex and growing patient population.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing

A PhD in Nursing is the highest level of nursing qualification. It prepares you for research and leadership roles in the nursing profession.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing equips you with the highest level of academic preparation in the nursing field. It prepares you for a career focused on research, scholarship, and advancing the science of nursing practice. 

License Provider: A PhD in Nursing itself doesn’t grant a direct patient care license. However, depending on your previous nursing degree and state regulations, you might be eligible for advanced practice certifications after completing additional requirements. The licensing body varies by state and specialty.

History: PhD programs in Nursing are a relatively recent development, emerging in the latter half of the 20th century. They address the need for nurse researchers and scholars to lead evidence-based practice advancements within the profession.

Requirements to Qualify:

• A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from an accredited program.
• A valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in most cases (program-specific).
• Strong academic record and research experience (demonstrated through publications, presentations, etc.).
• Competitive scores on standardized tests like the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations).

Opportunities with a PhD in Nursing:

• Research Positions: Lead or participate in research projects that contribute to new knowledge and improve nursing practice.
• Faculty Roles: Teach future nurses at universities and colleges, shaping the next generation of the profession.
• Leadership in Policy and Administration: Influence healthcare policy and administrative practices based on strong research and scholarship.
• Consulting Roles: Provide expert advice to healthcare organizations on best practices and evidence-based solutions.

Who Takes PhD in Nursing Programs?

Demographics:

• Experienced Registered Nurses (RNs) with a strong passion for research and scholarship.
• Nurses interested in shaping the future of nursing through research and knowledge generation.
• Individuals seeking leadership roles in academia, healthcare policy, or administration.

Age:

There’s no specific age limit, but PhD students are typically experienced nurses, often in their late thirties or beyond.

Country:

PhD programs in Nursing are offered in many countries, but specific program structures, research focuses, and career opportunities might vary.

Demand:

The demand for PhD-prepared nurses is steadily growing. The healthcare field needs more nurse scientists to conduct research, translate findings into practice, and elevate the profession’s evidence-based foundation.

While the demand might be lower compared to other nursing degrees, PhD graduates hold highly specialized and influential positions within the nursing field.