Nursing Career Paths & Advancement
From practical nurse to advanced practice: explore the full spectrum of nursing careers and find your path to professional growth.
Nursing Career Ladder
1
Entry Level
Start your nursing career with a practical nursing program
2
Professional Nursing
Advance to registered nursing with more autonomy and opportunities
3
Advanced Practice
Specialize as an APRN with graduate-level education
Compare Nursing Roles
Bridge Programs
LVN/LPN → RN
LVN-to-RN Programs
Transition from practical nursing to registered nursing in 1-2 years. Many programs offer flexible online and part-time options.
RN → BSN
RN-to-BSN Programs
Earn your Bachelor's degree while working. Required for many hospitals and a stepping stone to advanced practice.
RN Requirements → BSN → APRN
BSN-to-APRN Programs
Graduate-level programs for nurse practitioners, midwives, anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists.
APRN Guide →