Clinical Nurse Specialist Programs

Clinical Nurse Specialist Programs & Careers

These days, we hear more and more about the field of nursing as a stable career choice. While a nursing license can be obtained in as little as one year, some individuals wish to pursue higher levels of learning. For example, to obtain a position as a clinical nurse specialist, an individual must complete an advanced degree in the nursing. Though most clinical nurse specialist programs require students to be on-campus during lectures, some online clinical nurse specialist programs are available. While participating in clinical nurse specialist programs online can be a challenge due to increased time and attention requirements, they are a viable option for individuals who are limited by distance or hours of availability.

Program Requirements

To gain acceptance to clinical nurse specialist programs, applicants are expected to complete specific pre-requisite work. At a minimum, individuals who are interested in applying for traditional or online clinical nurse specialist programs must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in the field of nursing, along with licensure as a registered nurse. Current pushes in legislature and education mean that is some cases, colleges and universities can only accept individuals who have obtained a master’s degree in nursing to their clinical nurse specialist programs. Those interested in participating in clinical nurse specialist programs online may be faced with an additional set of technological requirements, such as a working computer, high-speed internet access, and video-streaming capabilities.

Nursing Degree Program Information

Curriculum Overview

In general, the curriculum associated with completion of clinical nurse specialist programs revolves around the provision of high-quality healthcare. Typically, coursework includes studies in the field of research, health assessment, pharmacology, health promotion, and disease prevention. Individuals who are enrolled in more specialty or “niche” programs may also complete classes outside this general range. Whether participating in traditional or online clinical nurse specialist programs, students are often required to complete specific amounts of practicum coursework, in which they shadow or work under supervising nurses who are experienced in the field. Though completing this requirement while enrolled in clinical nurse specialist programs online may seem difficult, it is not impossible. Program administrators will provide guidance and support for distance students, ensuring their completion of all pre-determined requirements.

Program Benefits

There are a number of benefits associated with the completion of clinical nurse specialist programs — namely, the obtainment of a career as a highly-respected medical professional. In addition, individuals who obtain a position as a clinical nurse specialist are expected to earn higher salaries than those who hold a Bachelor’s of Science in nursing, and may also be able to negotiate for increased benefits or better working schedules/rotations. Pursing enrollment in clinical nurse specialist programs online may be especially beneficial, as working professionals can often maintain their “day jobs,” while at the same time furthering their education and career options. While earning a degree as a clinical nurse specialist is undoubtedly challenging, it is definitely worth the effort.

Career Outlook

Over the past several years, many individuals have turned to the field of nursing in an attempt to enter a stable, satisfying career. While jobs in nursing have always been plentiful, they may be even more numerous in the future. In fact, some estimates suggest that by 2020, there may be as many as 800,000 or more open nursing positions in the United States alone. Clinical nurse specialists who are interested in traveling overseas may also be able to find a job with relative ease. Research shows that developing countries, such as those in South America and Africa, have recently increased their demand for advanced-practice nurses, such as clinical nurse specialists.

Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization can be an effective way for either a new or experienced clinical nurse specialist to connect with others in the healthcare field. Though clinical nurse specialists may be interested in joining any of a number of professional organizations, membership in the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists is highly recommended. The National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists is an organization designed to enhance the contribution of clinical nurse specialists within the community and promote their advance-practice techniques. In addition to gaining access to a community of other highly-trained medical professionals, individuals who join the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists are able to obtain subscriptions to specific newsletters, magazines, and may receive discounted exam and membership fees.

Additional Resources

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Clinical Nurse Specialist Programs