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Clinical Nurse Specialist

What will I do in this job?

A clinical nurse specialist is a registered nurse who has completed a mater’s degree in a specialized area of nursing practice and competence.

There are many specialty areas where a clinical nurse specialist can work including:

  • burn care
  • cardiopulmonary
  • diabetes care
  • metabolic care
  • neurological
  • oncology
  • rehabilitation
  • renal
  • trauma nursing

What type education will I need?

Some clinical specialist roles may require certification by a national professional organization. The clinical nurse specialist is an advanced practice role in nursing. Roles for nurses with doctorates include teaching in a university setting or conducting research in nursing.

Will I need a special license?

Length of master’s programs nationally varies from four to eight quarters and from two to six semesters. Almost all programs require applicants to be registered nurses with baccalaureate degrees. Most programs award a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

Will I find a job?

Faster than average growth in the employment of RNs is expected through 2006. In Illinois , a registered nurse is one of the 50 occupations expected to provide the most job openings each year. Specialized knowledge and skills are essential for quality patient care management in today’s health care industry. Nurses with advanced education in areas such as oncology and maternal and child health may expect good job opportunities

How much will I make?

Median Salary: $62,432 (Ranges from $50,000-$71,000)
(2000-2003)

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