Registered nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their family members. Most registered nurses work as part of a team with physicians and other healthcare specialists. Some registered nurses oversee licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants, and home health aides. Registered nurses' duties and titles often depend on where they work and the patients they work with.
Education and Certification Requirements
A bachelor's of science degree in nursing (BSN) typically takes 4 years to complete. Bachelor's degree programs usually include courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology and other social and behavioral sciences, as well as in liberal arts and usually offer clinical experience in both hospital and non-hospital settings. For students who want a bachelor's degree in HDFS, they can earn a master’s degree (MSN) in nursing to become a licensed nurse.
Registered nurses must have a nursing license.
Pay
The median annual wage for registered nurses was $93,600 in 2024.
Job Outlook
Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 194,500 openings for registered nurses are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
UI students preparing for health-related careers should consult Health Professions Advising at the Career Center for help in identifying appropriate prerequisite courses, preparing for professional school exams, and learning how to construct an effective professional school application.
For more information