4 answers
Chantel
Student
Fort Collins, Colorado
2
Questions
Asked
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Nursing Specialties?
I know there are so many pathways available in nursing; but what is the best advice to get into a specialty that you already have your sights set on?
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4 answers
Lisa Hanson Rodriguez BSN, RN
3
Answers
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Great question Chantel,
When I came out of school, we had to work a year in med-surg, which was not my favorite. It gave us all the necessary basics though. We were also given the opportunity to go to a specialty for a few weeks to see if we liked it. Things have changed a little. I was very intimidated by some of the specialties and held back on trying them. This was a huge mistake for me. I am now a PACU nurse, which I never thought I would end up doing. If you like a fast paced environment that is challenging, then the ER is a good place. If you want a slower pace, then there is things like case management or public health nursing. If you like patient contact but not a patient assignment, then there is things like OR or IR. Talk to people who work in different areas, those are the best ways to learn about different specialties. There are also chat groups on Reddit and Facebook where you can ask questions and nurses from that specialty will answer. I wish you good luck in your career choice and hope you find something you love.
Lisa
When I came out of school, we had to work a year in med-surg, which was not my favorite. It gave us all the necessary basics though. We were also given the opportunity to go to a specialty for a few weeks to see if we liked it. Things have changed a little. I was very intimidated by some of the specialties and held back on trying them. This was a huge mistake for me. I am now a PACU nurse, which I never thought I would end up doing. If you like a fast paced environment that is challenging, then the ER is a good place. If you want a slower pace, then there is things like case management or public health nursing. If you like patient contact but not a patient assignment, then there is things like OR or IR. Talk to people who work in different areas, those are the best ways to learn about different specialties. There are also chat groups on Reddit and Facebook where you can ask questions and nurses from that specialty will answer. I wish you good luck in your career choice and hope you find something you love.
Lisa
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
422
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Chantel:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a nursing career. Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a nurse, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
Here are the Top 10 Best Nursing Schools of 2025 per www.nurse.org:
https://nurse.org/education/top-10-best-nursing-schools/
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- New York University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Michigan
- University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of Washington
- Emory University
- University of Maryland
U.S. News & World Report has additional college listings for the best schools for a Master Degree in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice:
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-nursing-schools
A Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing will concentrate more on math and science courses. This will be earned at a college or university for a duration of four years. Clinical experience is gained while in nursing school at a college or university. Physiology, psychology and anatomy are some additional college courses that are required for one to take to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
There will be a application fee to pay for when submitting college applications. The amount of application fee will depend on the college that you are applying to. If there are questions about the college application process, please reach out to the college's Registrar Office.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and acceptance to the applied college of choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/websites-to-kick-off-your-scholarship-search
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
There should be no limit on the amount of scholarships that one can apply to. It will take time to fill out the scholarship applications and provide all of the necessary required information. Also, there should no fee and no cost to fill out and submit scholarship applications. If there is a fee or cost that is associated with a scholarship application, then please do not send this particular scholarship application in. It will be a scam and money will be lost.
According to Johnson and Johnson, here is a link for Nursing Specialties:
https://nursing.jnj.com/specialty
Here is a list of some of the High Demand Nurse Specialties:
- Cardiac Care Nurse
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Emergency Nurse
- Perioperative Nurse
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Labor and Delivery Nurse (L&D)
- Home Health Nurse
- Hospice Nurse
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Obstetrics Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
Best wishes for your education and career path in Nursing!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a nursing career. Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a nurse, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
Here are the Top 10 Best Nursing Schools of 2025 per www.nurse.org:
https://nurse.org/education/top-10-best-nursing-schools/
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- New York University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Michigan
- University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of Washington
- Emory University
- University of Maryland
U.S. News & World Report has additional college listings for the best schools for a Master Degree in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice:
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-nursing-schools
A Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing will concentrate more on math and science courses. This will be earned at a college or university for a duration of four years. Clinical experience is gained while in nursing school at a college or university. Physiology, psychology and anatomy are some additional college courses that are required for one to take to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
There will be a application fee to pay for when submitting college applications. The amount of application fee will depend on the college that you are applying to. If there are questions about the college application process, please reach out to the college's Registrar Office.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and acceptance to the applied college of choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/websites-to-kick-off-your-scholarship-search
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
There should be no limit on the amount of scholarships that one can apply to. It will take time to fill out the scholarship applications and provide all of the necessary required information. Also, there should no fee and no cost to fill out and submit scholarship applications. If there is a fee or cost that is associated with a scholarship application, then please do not send this particular scholarship application in. It will be a scam and money will be lost.
According to Johnson and Johnson, here is a link for Nursing Specialties:
https://nursing.jnj.com/specialty
Here is a list of some of the High Demand Nurse Specialties:
- Cardiac Care Nurse
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Emergency Nurse
- Perioperative Nurse
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Labor and Delivery Nurse (L&D)
- Home Health Nurse
- Hospice Nurse
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Obstetrics Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
Best wishes for your education and career path in Nursing!
Susana Appiah
MIDWIFE
98
Answers
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Updated
Susana’s Answer
Hi Chantel! Thank you for your question.
It’s great that you're already thinking about specializing in nursing. Here’s some advice to help you get into the nursing specialty you have your sights set on:
1. Research and Understand the Specialty
Before diving into a specific specialty, take time to thoroughly research it. Learn about the role, responsibilities, required skills, and the demand in the job market. For example, if you’re interested in becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, research the specific certifications required, potential work environments, and any specialties within pediatrics (e.g., neonatal, pediatric oncology).
2. Gain Clinical Experience in Your Desired Specialty
Having clinical experience in your specialty of choice is key. If possible, try to secure internships, externships, or part-time roles in that area while you're in school or even during your early nursing career. For example, if you’re interested in Emergency Nursing, seeking out opportunities in an ER can give you hands-on experience and valuable insights.
3. Seek Mentorship and Network
Networking with professionals in the specialty you're aiming for can be incredibly helpful. Consider joining professional associations or attending nursing conferences that focus on your specialty. Mentorship can help guide you on your journey and give you access to insider knowledge on how to best pursue your goals.
4. Pursue Relevant Certifications and Training
For most specialties, additional certifications or training beyond your RN licensure will be required. Look into certification programs like Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) or Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) if your specialty requires it. These certifications can be earned through continuing education and sometimes require a specific number of practice hours in the specialty area.
5. Stay Up to Date with the Field
Nursing specialties are always evolving with new technologies, treatment techniques, and regulations. To stay competitive, make sure to continue your education and stay updated on industry advancements. You might even want to subscribe to journals, attend workshops, or take continuing education courses specific to your specialty.
6. Be Persistent and Patient
It might take time to get your desired role, so don’t get discouraged. If you have your heart set on a specialty, you may have to start with general nursing experience and work your way up. Each step will prepare you for more specialized roles, and staying focused on your goal will ultimately help you succeed.
To conclude, the best advice is to start by gaining relevant experience, seeking mentorship, pursuing certifications, and continuing your education in the specific specialty you're interested in. Over time, your expertise and network will grow, making it easier to transition into the role you want.
It’s great that you're already thinking about specializing in nursing. Here’s some advice to help you get into the nursing specialty you have your sights set on:
1. Research and Understand the Specialty
Before diving into a specific specialty, take time to thoroughly research it. Learn about the role, responsibilities, required skills, and the demand in the job market. For example, if you’re interested in becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, research the specific certifications required, potential work environments, and any specialties within pediatrics (e.g., neonatal, pediatric oncology).
2. Gain Clinical Experience in Your Desired Specialty
Having clinical experience in your specialty of choice is key. If possible, try to secure internships, externships, or part-time roles in that area while you're in school or even during your early nursing career. For example, if you’re interested in Emergency Nursing, seeking out opportunities in an ER can give you hands-on experience and valuable insights.
3. Seek Mentorship and Network
Networking with professionals in the specialty you're aiming for can be incredibly helpful. Consider joining professional associations or attending nursing conferences that focus on your specialty. Mentorship can help guide you on your journey and give you access to insider knowledge on how to best pursue your goals.
4. Pursue Relevant Certifications and Training
For most specialties, additional certifications or training beyond your RN licensure will be required. Look into certification programs like Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) or Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) if your specialty requires it. These certifications can be earned through continuing education and sometimes require a specific number of practice hours in the specialty area.
5. Stay Up to Date with the Field
Nursing specialties are always evolving with new technologies, treatment techniques, and regulations. To stay competitive, make sure to continue your education and stay updated on industry advancements. You might even want to subscribe to journals, attend workshops, or take continuing education courses specific to your specialty.
6. Be Persistent and Patient
It might take time to get your desired role, so don’t get discouraged. If you have your heart set on a specialty, you may have to start with general nursing experience and work your way up. Each step will prepare you for more specialized roles, and staying focused on your goal will ultimately help you succeed.
To conclude, the best advice is to start by gaining relevant experience, seeking mentorship, pursuing certifications, and continuing your education in the specific specialty you're interested in. Over time, your expertise and network will grow, making it easier to transition into the role you want.
Elyse Crotty
Certified Surgical Technologist
42
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Elyse’s Answer
It depends what speciality you have your sights set on. Research this speciality, shadow in this speciality, and make you like it before selecting it!