How to Become a Registered Nurse: A Career Guide
Introduction: The Growing Demand for Registered Nurses
The role of Registered Nurses (RNs) is more crucial than ever in the United States healthcare system. With over 3.17 million RN jobs in 2023, employment in the field increased by 3.3% from 2022 and 4.2% from 2021. Alongside job growth, median wages rose by 6% in 2023, reaching $86,070—a 10.9% increase from 2021.
As demand for healthcare services continues to expand, nursing remains one of the most stable and rewarding careers. If you’re considering a career in nursing, this guide will walk you through the educational requirements, skills, job responsibilities, career prospects, and salary expectations for RNs.
Educational Requirements and Certification
To become an RN, aspiring nurses must complete formal education, pass a licensing exam, and obtain state certification. The three primary educational pathways are:
1. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
A two-year program offered at community colleges.
Covers basic nursing knowledge, patient care, and clinical practice.
An entry-level option for quickly joining the workforce.
2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A four-year program from universities and colleges.
Offers a broader curriculum, including leadership, research, and specialized nursing skills.
Preferred by many healthcare employers and often leads to higher salaries and greater career opportunities.
3. Accelerated BSN (ABSN) or Direct-Entry MSN
A fast-track program for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field.
Can be completed in 12 to 18 months.
Licensing: The NCLEX-RN Exam
After completing a nursing degree, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This standardized exam ensures nurses have the knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective patient care.
Additional Certifications for Career Advancement
While not mandatory, specialized certifications can enhance career prospects and salary potential. Some common options include:
Critical Care (CCRN)
Pediatrics (CPN)
Emergency Nursing (CEN)
Oncology Nursing (OCN)
Key Responsibilities of a Registered Nurse
Registered nurses provide essential medical care and perform a variety of tasks, including:
Assessing patients’ health conditions and developing treatment plans.
Administering medications, treatments, and vaccinations.
Assisting physicians and healthcare teams during procedures.
Educating patients on disease prevention and post-treatment care.
Coordinating patient care across different healthcare departments.
Where Do Registered Nurses Work?
Top Industries for RN Employment
The majority of RNs work in Health Care and Social Assistance, which employed 2.67 million nurses in 2023. Other key sectors include:
Federal, State, and Local Government: 169,570 jobs, with median salaries of $99,880 (10.3% above the RN national average).
Administrative and Support Services: 141,400 jobs, with median salaries of $99,510 (16.2% above the RN national average).
Educational Services: 93,950 jobs, with median salaries of $71,550 (20.1% below the RN national average).
Top-Paying Industries for RNs
RNs working in government agencies, management, and specialized services tend to earn higher wages:
Federal, State, and Local Government: $99,880 median salary (10.3% above the national average).
Administrative and Support Services: $99,510 median salary (16.2% above the national average).
Management of Companies and Enterprises: $94,490 median salary (4.2% above the national average).
Best Locations for RN Employment and Salaries
Top States for RN Jobs
The five states with the most RN jobs in 2023 were:
California: 332,560 jobs, median salary $133,990 (+45.7% above the national average).
Texas: 251,840 jobs, median salary $85,110 (-4.5% below the national average).
Florida: 207,910 jobs, median salary $80,960 (-10.3% below the national average).
New York: 188,060 jobs, median salary $104,570 (+12.8% above the national average).
Pennsylvania: 144,100 jobs, median salary $82,780 (-7.4% below the national average).
Top Metropolitan Areas for RN Jobs
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA: 184,360 jobs, median salary $108,540 (+17.7% above national average).
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA: 123,940 jobs, median salary $129,000 (+28.5% above national average).
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI: 102,330 jobs, median salary $85,160 (-3.9% below national average).
Regions with the Highest RN Concentration
Some regions have a higher concentration of RNs relative to the national average:
Rochester, MN: 3.6x national RN concentration, $97,300 median salary.
Bloomsburg-Berwick, PA: 3x national RN concentration, $81,160 median salary.
Ann Arbor, MI: 2.4x national RN concentration, $87,800 median salary.
Career Growth and Advancement Opportunities
1. Advanced Practice Nursing (Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife)
Requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Offers higher salaries and independent practice in some states.
2. Nurse Leadership and Administration
Manages hospital departments, budgets, and staff.
Requires leadership experience and advanced business training.
3. Specializations (Oncology, Pediatrics, Cardiology, etc.)
Specializing in high-demand fields can lead to higher salaries and more career opportunities.
4. Nurse Educator
Involves teaching future nurses at colleges or hospitals.
Requires an MSN or higher.
Job Outlook and Salary Trends
The demand for RNs will continue to rise due to an aging population, healthcare expansion, and medical advancements. Key trends include:
Job Growth: 3.3% increase in RN employment from 2022 to 2023.
Wage Growth: 6% increase in RN wages from 2022 to 2023.
Top-Paying States: California ($133,990), New York ($104,570), and Pennsylvania ($82,780).
Conclusion: Is Nursing the Right Career for You?
Becoming a Registered Nurse offers strong job security, competitive wages, and career advancement opportunities. The healthcare industry continues to expand, and the role of RNs remains critical to patient care and public health.
For those passionate about helping others, problem-solving, and working in a fast-paced environment, nursing is a highly rewarding profession. With multiple educational pathways, flexible career options, and strong salary growth, the demand for RNs is expected to remain strong for years to come.
Next Steps for Aspiring Nurses:
Choose an educational pathway (ADN or BSN).
Pass the NCLEX-RN to obtain licensure.
Consider specializations or advanced degrees for higher salaries.
Explore job opportunities in top-paying states and industries.
If you’re ready to start your journey, nursing schools, certifications, and job opportunities are waiting for you!
For more detailed insights, visit our Registered Nurses Dashboard.
