Graduate Nursing vs Registered Nurse
Key Points:
- Graduate Nurses have more advanced clinical and leadership roles; Registered Nurses focus on direct patient care.
- Graduate Nurses typically earn higher salaries than Registered Nurses.
- Both roles are in high demand, but Graduate Nurses may have more specialized job opportunities.
- Graduate Nurses require a master's or doctoral degree, while Registered Nurses need a bachelor's or associate's degree. Both can pursue online and in-person programs.
- Graduate Nursing programs are generally more expensive and take longer to complete than Registered Nurse programs.
When it comes to pursuing a career in nursing, there are different paths that individuals can take. Two common options are becoming a graduate nurse or a registered nurse. While both roles involve providing care to patients, there are distinct differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to be a graduate nurse and a registered nurse, the differences between the two, and the job description, education and training, as well as the career outlook and salary for each role.
Graduate Nursing:
To become a graduate nurse, you will need to complete a nursing program and obtain a nursing degree. This typically involves:
- Completing a nursing program at an accredited institution, which can be either a diploma program, an associate degree in nursing (ADN), or a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN).
- Passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your nursing license.
Registered Nurse:
To become a registered nurse, you will need to complete the same education and training as a graduate nurse. This includes:
- Completing a nursing program at an accredited institution, which can be a diploma program, an ADN, or a BSN.
- Passing the NCLEX-RN to obtain your nursing license.
However, registered nurses may also choose to pursue further education or training to specialize in a specific area of nursing. This can involve completing a master's degree in nursing (MSN) or obtaining certification in a specialized field.
Graduate Nursing vs Registered Nurse: Career Outlook and Salary
Career Outlook:
Both graduate nurses and registered nurses have promising career outlooks, as the demand for nurses continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to factors such as an aging population, increased rates of chronic conditions, and the need for healthcare services.
Salary:
The salary for graduate nurses and registered nurses can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and education. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses was $75,330 in May 2020. The lowest 10% earned less than $53,410, while the highest 10% earned more than $116,230.
Final Thoughts
Both graduate nursing and registered nursing offer rewarding careers in the healthcare field. Whether you choose to start your nursing career as a graduate nurse or pursue further education and training to become a registered nurse, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Consider your personal goals and aspirations, as well as the education and training required for each role, to determine the best path for you in the nursing profession.
Dreambound extends its programs to various locations. Visit the suggested blogs to delve deeply into the intricate details of the two vocations, learning about their respective requirements and gaining valuable insights on how to kickstart your involvement:
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
