Nurse career paths are varied, with many specializations and opportunities, but a BSN degree is more necessary than ever to access the breadth of the nursing profession. Learn more about nurse career paths, and see why nursing is an exciting degree path, with University of the Incarnate Word.
Nurses are able to practice across a huge array of specializations and work environments, from clinical settings to labs, schools and offices. But increasingly, many nursing career paths require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree to access. University of the Incarnate Word’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing track offers a pathway to earning a BSN degree in as few as 16 months, launching your journey into a nursing career with all the possibilities it entails.
In this post, we explore many of the nursing career paths you can access with a BSN and showcase how this degree fuels career advancement for nurses.
See more compelling reasons why nursing as a second career might be right for you.
Critical Care Nurse
Critical Care Nurses treat patients with life-threatening conditions. This nursing pathway requires advanced knowledge and technical skills to provide care in high-pressure situations, such as in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Cardiac Care Unit (CCU), or trauma centers. A BSN provides a comprehensive understanding of complex healthcare conditions and the necessary clinical judgment to make quick decisions. It can also prepare you to enhance your credentials further.
Pediatric Nurse
Pediatric Nurses specialize in caring for infants, children and adolescents. This role involves performing physical examinations, administering vaccinations and supporting young patients and their families during illness and hospitalization. Degree programs like our ABSN track offer an in-depth understanding of child health issues, growth and developmental stages and strategies for interacting with young patients.
Oncology Nurse
Oncology Nurses are vital in the care of patients with cancer. They administer chemotherapy, manage symptoms, provide emotional support and educate patients and families about treatment options and coping mechanisms. A BSN can equip you with the advanced knowledge needed to understand different types of cancer, treatments and their side effects. Additionally, it can pave the way to becoming an Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN).
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses focus on community health and disease prevention. They educate the public about health issues, advocate for healthcare policy changes and focus on disease prevention at the community level. They often work with government agencies or nonprofits. During clinical rotations as an ABSN student, you will have the chance to interact with patients in a real-world setting.
See more of the top nursing specialties that are currently in demand.
Ready to Open Up Your Career Options With a BSN?
These nursing career paths demonstrate the versatility and opportunities a BSN degree offers. Wherever your passion lies, this degree can help you unlock the door to a rewarding career path.
If you’re interested in earning a BSN sooner, contact us today to begin the conversation with a University of the Incarnate Word admissions counselor.