Skill path
How to become a Nurse
How to become a Nurse: skill roadmap with 2 core skills, degree usually required, courses and salary data. Updated weekly.
Education & experience requirements
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.
- On-the-job training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Foundations
Skills assumed by employers — the base to build on
- Anatomy and PhysiologyFoundation
The study of the body's structure and function. Nurses need this foundational knowledge for patient assessment and care.
- Medical TerminologyFoundation
The specialized language of healthcare. Nurses use this to accurately document and communicate patient information.
- PharmacologyFoundation
The study of drugs and their effects. Nurses require this knowledge for safe medication administration and patient education.
Core skills
The skills that define the role today
- NursingHigh demand
Providing patient care and health support. Essential for nurses and sometimes maintenance workers in healthcare settings for patient safety and well-being.
- CPRHigh demand
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation techniques. Nurses and security guards need this certification for emergency response.
Tools in demand
Specific tools that appear in live postings
- EHRIn demand
Electronic health records systems. Needed for patient care coordination. Learn via system training.
- Epic SystemsIn demand
Specializations
Same profession, different paths. Each branch opens its own set of skills.
Pediatric nurseCare for infants, children and adolescents
- Child Development
- Vaccination
- Pediatric Assessment
Geriatric nurseCare for older adults and chronic conditions
- Gerontology
- Dementia Care
- Medication Management
ICU / critical care nurseHigh-acuity care in intensive care units
- Ventilator Management
- Hemodynamic Monitoring
- Advanced Life Support