Levels of Nursing: Ultimate Guide to the Nursing Career Ladder

By Jenelle Anne FloresUpdated Jun 11, 2026

See if you qualify for training programs

Answer a few questions in 2 minutes. Free, no commitment.

Nurses have always been an essential part of the US healthcare system. Opting for a nursing career presents various advantages. You have the freedom to select from different specialties and opportunities for job growth in your career. Though a promising job outlook awaits, nursing isn’t exactly a one-size-fits-all career. Each level of nurses has its own set of educational requirements and focuses that cater to specific interests. If you're curious about the different levels in the nursing hierarchy and how to navigate them, this article will serve as your guide to understanding the nursing ladder.

‍

Programs for you

Southern New Hampshire University

BA Psychology with concentration in Mental Health

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

STUDENT FAVORITE

Financial aid (may be available)

Southern New Hampshire University

BS Healthcare Administration

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Walden University

BS in Psychology

Online

Online program from an HLC- accredited institution.
Develop creative thinking skills to address behavioral & mental processes.

Financial aid (may be available)

CCI Training Center

Pharmacy Technician certification

Online

100% Online Job Training Program
Quick Training: Full program takes only a few short months

STUDENT FAVORITE

Financial aid (may be available)

I. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

CNAs serve as the starting point for many aspiring nurses. They have more direct contact with residents than other staff because they are on the front line of the network between medical professionals and patients. CNAs help their patients with everyday activities like bathing, walking, dressing, eating, and more. To become a CNA, you must complete a state-approved training program (approximately 3-12 weeks) and pass the state certification exam.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), more than 1.5 million CNA jobs are currently open in the United States. Experts project that this figure will increase by more than 130,000 by 2028—a 9% increase. BLS reports a median salary of $15.99 nationwide for CNAs.

‍

‍II. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

LPNs are also known as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). LPNs are responsible for various patient support duties such as: monitoring patient treatment, performing vital signs, and more. To become LPN, you must successfully complete a practical nursing diploma program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). You can find practical nursing programs at technical schools, community colleges, or career colleges.

The career outlook for LPNs is positive. BLS expects LPN employment to grow 5-9% from 2022 to 2032 and 698,500 job openings in 2031. The average hourly rate for LPNs ranges from $23 to $28, with an average hourly pay of $26.

‍

III. Registered Nurse (RN)

RNs comprise the largest portion of the entire U.S. workforce and take up the widest variety of roles in patient care. They oversee the work of LPNs and CNAs, administer medications, perform patient tests, and contribute to overall patient care.

You must earn an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to become an RN. You can be an RN through different training pathways. Most significantly, you need to pass the NCLEX-RN.

Associate Degree in Nursing - You can be an RN in two years with an ADN. Earning an ADN usually means attending a community college or other academic institution. After earning an ADN, students can already obtain their license if they pass the NCLEX.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - BSN program is another route to becoming an RN. Compared to ADN, BSN takes four years to complete. Students that enroll in this program receive a more in-depth nursing education and advanced concepts. Taking and passing the NCLEX and meeting the other requirements will qualify you to be an RN.
Master of Science in Nursing - A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree may result in more competitive pay and patient autonomy. This type of degree may be ideal for those who wish to take on leadership or management roles. MSN degree duration depends on the school and program you choose. Most MSN programs last two years.
Ph.D. in Nursing - A Ph.D. in Nursing degree is a doctoral degree that prepares nurses for work in academic or research settings. This degree is for nurses who wish to concentrate on research and education rather than leadership roles in a clinical practice.

RNs can limit their work under specifications such as pediatric nursing, emergency nursing, neonatal nursing, psychiatric nursing, and more. MSN and Ph.D. degrees can be used for leadership roles such as nurse educator, CNO, nurse informatics, and other management positions.

A Nurse Instructor is someone qualified to train or teach nursing curricula for nursing students. Most nurse instructors have a Ph.D. or MSN. You can also qualify as a nursing instructor with an ADN or BSN if you have years of experience and additional certifications (not necessary but recommended).

BLS reports about 194,500 job openings for RNs each year. They expect RN employment to grow by 9% in the next decade—an addition of 276,800 new nursing jobs. Basic RNs with 0-2 years of experience have an average hourly pay of $32.

‍‍

More programs to explore

Southern New Hampshire University

BS Healthcare Administration with concentration in Patient Safety and Quality

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Walden University

Bachelor of Social Work

Online

Online program from an HLC- accredited institution.
BSW program with rigorous social work preparation.

Financial aid (may be available)

CCI Training Center

Medical Billing & Coding Specialist

Online

100% Online with live lectures and instructor-led sessions
Quick Completion: Finish in 26 weeks

Financial aid (may be available)

The University of Arizona Global Campus

BA in Applied Behavioral Science

Online

5-6 Week Classes
Flexible start dates allow you to begin as soon as next week

Financial aid (may be available)

IV. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRNs)

APRNs are nurses who either earned their MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). You can have MSN and not be an APRN because it depends on the specialization of your MSN.

The American Nurses Association highlights the four types of APRNs: Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, Nurse Practitioners, and Clinical Nurse Specialists. They have a median salary of $54 per hour. The job outlook for Nurse Practitioners includes a 40% growth rate by 2031. Meaning there will be 118,600 APRN job openings.

Seeing the various credentials under the nursing list can be intimidating. However, it is an opportunity to explore different careers in the healthcare field. Advancing to higher positions in the nursing hierarchy later will not be an issue. You still have options to shape your career according to your passion and priorities, even after starting to work.

Now that you already know about different nursing professions, it’s time for you to join the autonomy in the workforce. Entering the nursing field can be an incredibly rewarding career choice where you can make a positive impact on the lives of others. Be part of the U.S. healthcare industry backbone today–Apply through Dreambound!