CNA vs CNS Nursing License
Average Salary
$35,760
CNA
vs
$106,020
CNS
Job Growth
4%
CNA
vs
9%
CNS
Workforce
1.4M+
CNA
vs
72K+
CNS
Side-by-Side Comparison
Key Differences
→
Salary
CNSs earn $70,260 more per year on average than CNAs.
Winner: CNS
→
Job Growth
CNS is growing at 9%, indicating stronger demand.
Winner: CNS
→
Multi-State Compact
CNS participates in a multi-state compact, making it easier to practice across state lines.
Winner: CNS
Category Winners
Higher Salary
CNS $106,020
vs CNA ($35,760)
Faster Growth
CNS 9%
vs CNA (4%)
Larger Workforce
CNA 1.4M+
vs CNS (72K+)
Certified Nursing Assistant
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses. CNAs help patients with daily activities, monitor vital signs, and serve as a vital link between patients and the healthcare team.
View CNA state requirements →Clinical Nurse Specialist
Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in a particular area of nursing practice and serve as clinical experts, educators, and consultants.
View CNS state requirements →Explore More Comparisons
Compare specific state requirements for each profession.