What Is the Highest Nursing Degree?

Nursing can be a challenging but rewarding career. Everyday, your actions and decisions can change the outcome of someone's health and/or life. There are many options for becoming licensed as a nurse. You can graduate from a 1-year program as an LPN (licensed practical nurse) or you can achieve a higher degree. There are many work opportunities available to a nurse including direct patient care or office work. To really get ahead, consider an advanced degree.

Doctor of Nursing Degree

• To work in administration, look at a Doctoral degree in nursing. These programs are for nurses who want to work in health administration, clinical research and advanced clinical practice. This degree takes between 4 to 6 years to complete.

Masters of Science in Nursing

• Almost equal with the doctoral program is a Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Once you have obtained a Bachelor's of Nursing degree, you need another 2 years of school to achieve your MSN. There are some programs for those who have a nonnursing Bachelor's degree to enter into an MSN program by taking some specialty courses.

Specialization

• When pursuing an MSN in nursing, you can choose to specialize in a particular field. This is called obtaining a post-Master's degree certificate. You are required to take exams administered through the American Nurses Association. See Resources.

Other Advanced Studies

• Many states also allow nurses with Master's degrees to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, Certified Nurse Practitioners or Nurse-Midwives. Check the regulations in your state to learn about local laws.

Licensure

• No matter what level of nursing you wish to practice, you must also obtain a license in the state within you wish to practice. This is done toward the end of your degree program or right afterward.