The 35 Best Specialty Career Choices for Nurses

The 35 Best Specialty Career Choices for Nurses

Explore the finest options for specialized careers available to nurses while evaluating the potential for job expansion and earnings in each role. In recent times, the nursing profession has observed the proliferation of diverse career opportunities across various specialties. Specializations allow nurses to transition into roles that align with their specific interests. Each specialization necessitates distinct training, proficiencies, and responsibilities. Certain nursing career tracks offer enhanced compensation and improved employment prospects compared to others.

Regardless of whether you’re a novice in the nursing field or an experienced practitioner, utilize our comprehensive guide to discern which specialties offer the most promising avenues for professional advancement. This compilation of the top 35 specialized nursing careers for the year 2022 furnishes a concise overview of each specialization, requisites for eligibility, anticipated salaries, and projected employment growth from 2021 to 2031.

Top 35 Specialty Careers for Nurses

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)
Nurse Administrator
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Nurse Educator
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Pain Management Nurse
Telehealth Nurse
Legal Nurse Consultant (LNC)
Nurse Attorney
Travel Nurse
Informatics Nurse
Dialysis Nurse
Oncology Nurse
Nurse Case Manager
Infection Control Nurse
Critical Care Nurse
Nurse Researcher
Military Nurse
Neonatal Nurse
Geriatric Nurse
Psychiatric Nurse or Mental Health Nurse
Nurse Advocate
Orthopedic Nurse
Home Healthcare Nurse
Public Health Nurse
Pediatric Nurse
Certified Lactation Counselor Nurse
Medical-Surgical Nurse
School Nurse
Pediatric Endocrinology Nurse
Forensic Nurse
Cosmetic Nurse

16 Reasons Why Nursing is a Rewarding Career Choice

Top Nursing Specialty Career Choices to Consider

Certain specialties provide more advantages, professional gratification, and potential for advancement compared to others. Our guide to the premier nursing specialties, arranged based on projected job growth and average remuneration, will aid you in determining which paths within the nursing field resonate best with your objectives and passions.

1 | Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

A family nurse practitioner operates at an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) level, offering care to patients spanning various age groups. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), nearly 70% of nurse practitioners select this specialization.

How to Attain: FNPs need to acquire their RN license, complete a graduate nursing program, and pass the FNP national board certification examination.
Projected Job Growth: 46% across all NPs
Average Salary: $110,000 based on AANP data from 2020

2 | Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

AGNPs focus on elderly patients and medical conditions prevalent in this demographic. With the growing need for specialized care among aging baby boomers, AGNPs can anticipate robust job expansion across diverse settings, from hospitals and clinics to nursing homes and home healthcare. AGNP certification stands as the second most favored nurse practitioner credential after the FNP certification.

How to Attain: AGNPs must possess a valid RN license, an MSN degree, and national board nurse practitioner certification in either adult-gerontology primary care or adult-gerontology acute care.
Projected Job Growth: 46% among all NPs
Average Salary: $113,000 as per AANP figures from 2020

3 | Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

WHNPs, operating as advanced practice registered nurses, provide primary care along with reproductive, obstetric, and gynecologic care for females across various age groups. The increasing awareness regarding female health concerns augments the favorable career prospects for this specialized nursing role.

How to Attain: Aspiring WHNPs must initially secure their RN license and complete a graduate nursing program that offers specialized WHNP training. Subsequently, certification in this area of expertise is required.
Projected Job Growth: 46% across all NPs, according to AANP data from 2020
Average Salary: $105,500 based on AANP data from 2020

4 | Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)

CNOs operate at the highest echelons of healthcare establishments. They oversee day-to-day operations, supervise and assess nursing personnel, manage financial aspects, and introduce technological and other innovative practices. The escalating demand for CNOs in healthcare mirrors industry-wide priorities aimed at enhancing patient outcomes, lowering costs, and heightening efficiency.

How to Attain: CNOs typically hold an RN license and a graduate degree in nursing, health administration, or business. Some CNOs may opt for an MSN/MHA dual degree.
Projected Job Growth: 28% from 2021-2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Average Salary: $135,020 in line with Payscale data from November 2022

5 | Nurse Administrator

Nursing administrators offer managerial support and specialized human resources functions within medical facilities. They engage in tasks such as staff recruitment, training, and selection, as well as handling various business aspects within healthcare organizations.

How to Attain: Nurse administrators may join the field with an undergraduate degree in nursing, health administration, public health, or social services. Certain employers might mandate a master’s degree in healthcare administration or a related field.
Projected Job Growth: 28%, as projected for all health services managers from 2021-2031 by the BLS.
Average Salary: $119,840 among all medical and health service managers, as per BLS data from 2021

6 | Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

CRNAs, the highest earners among advanced practice registered nurses, administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgical procedures. These specialized nurses also conduct physical assessments and monitor patients receiving or recovering from anesthesia.

How to Attain: CRNAs must hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from an accredited program with a nurse anesthetist concentration. Additionally, they need to accumulate a minimum of two years of experience in critical care nursing before passing the CRNA national certification examination.
Projected Job Growth: 12% from 2021-2031, according to the BLS
Average Salary: $202,470 among all nurse anesthetists, as per BLS data from 2021

7 | Nurse Educator

Nurse educators blend a penchant for teaching with clinical expertise to develop, assess, and implement educational programs for nursing students in schools, universities

, and colleges. Nurse educators are in high demand to address the escalating shortage of nursing professionals.

How to Attain: Most nurse educators possess a valid RN license and either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a specialization in nursing education. Certain academic institutions prefer to hire nurse educators with doctoral-level training and, in some instances, a Ph.D. degree with an emphasis on research.
Projected Job Growth: 12% among all postsecondary teachers, according to the BLS in 2021
Average Salary: $82,040, based on BLS data from 2021

8 | Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

A CNM’s primary responsibility involves offering prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care to women and overseeing the well-being of newborns. The demand for CNMs continues to rise as more women opt for natural childbirth and birthing center alternatives.

How to Attain: RNs aspiring to become CNMs must complete a graduate program from an accredited institution offering midwifery specializations. Subsequently, certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board is required. Pursuing a DNP may enhance career prospects and earnings.
Projected Job Growth: 7% from 2021-2031, according to the BLS
Average Salary: $112,830, in line with BLS data from 2021

9 | Pain Management Nurse

Pain management nurses evaluate patients’ pain levels, administer treatments, and aid patients and their families in finding strategies to cope with chronic pain. The demand for these nurses has surged to accommodate the growing interest in non-pharmaceutical and alternative methods of pain relief.

How to Attain: Pain management nurses may enter the field with a valid RN license, either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, and a minimum of two years’ RN experience in pain management. Acquiring board certification in pain management is optional.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, according to the BLS
Average Salary: $82,750 among all RNs as per BLS data from 2021

10 | Telehealth Nurse

Telehealth nurses operate under the supervision of doctors or nurse practitioners, providing remote care and monitoring of patient well-being through phone conversations, video calls, or online chats. Positions in telehealth nursing grew during the pandemic and continue to expand with the popularity of virtual healthcare services.

How to Attain: The minimum educational requirement for telehealth nursing is either an ADN or a BSN degree, along with passing the NCLEX for RN licensure. Telehealth nurses can expand their career horizons by obtaining an ambulatory care certification, encompassing patient care outside clinical settings, including aspects of telehealth in home healthcare.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, according to the BLS
Average Salary: $82,750 among all RNs based on BLS data from 2021

11 | Legal Nurse Consultant (LNC)

LNCs find employment opportunities in law firms, healthcare establishments, insurance companies, and corporate legal departments. Depending on the setting, they conduct interviews, research, offer expert testimony, and scrutinize medical records and related documents.

How to Attain: LNCs typically complete an ADN or a BSN program and maintain a valid RN license. While certification is not obligatory, the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants suggests pursuing the legal nurse consultant certified credential, which mandates at least five years of RN practice experience.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, as per BLS projections
Average Salary: $82,200, based on Payscale data from 2022

12 | Nurse Attorney

Given the limited medical knowledge possessed by most attorneys in comparison to nurses, the demand for nurse attorneys remains substantial. These professionals work in diverse environments, including legal departments within hospitals and law firms specializing in litigation.

How to Attain: Nurse attorneys require a BSN and an RN license, followed by three years of law school education and successful completion of the bar exam.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, as forecasted by the BLS
Average Salary: $82,203 according to Payscale data from 2022

13 | Travel Nurse

Travel nurses, equipped with training in various nursing roles, undertake temporary assignments to fill nursing gaps across the nation. The surge in demand for travel nurses is attributed to shortages in certain geographical regions and high-demand specialties, enabling them to earn considerably more than their counterparts in full-time permanent roles.

How to Attain: Travel nurses must be RNs with at least an ADN. However, depending on the role, some employers might require a BSN or an advanced degree coupled with certifications.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, based on BLS projections
Average Salary: $80,970, according to Payscale data from 2022

14 | Informatics Nurse

Informatics nurses furnish healthcare data to physicians, nurses, patients, and other healthcare providers, while also providing training on updated applications. These specialized professionals leverage their healthcare expertise and technological skills to enhance patient outcomes across various organizations.

How to Attain: An informatics nurse requires at least a BSN, although numerous employers mandate candidates to possess an MSN in health informatics, quality management, or healthcare management.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, as anticipated by the BLS
Average Salary: $80,560, based on Payscale data from 2022

15 | Dialysis Nurse

Dialysis nurses, also referred to as nephrology nurses, care for patients with kidney ailments, operate dialysis machines, deliver other treatments, and educate patients and families about managing these conditions. The prevalence of kidney disease has escalated with the aging U.S. population, resulting in a surge in job opportunities within this specialty.

How to Attain: Graduates of ADN or BSN programs, holding a valid RN license, can embark on a career as a dialysis nurse. Obtaining voluntary certifications as a certified dialysis nurse or certified nephrology nurse can expand employment prospects.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, based on BLS projections
Average Salary: $77,800, as per Payscale data from 2022

16 | Oncology Nurse

Oncology nurses provide specialized care to cancer patients within clinical care centers, homes, or hospitals by administering chemotherapy and other treatments.

How to Attain: Oncology nurses require a BSN and several years of experience as practicing nurses. Additional certifications in oncology nursing can be pursued subsequently.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, as projected by the BLS
Average Salary: $76,870, based on Payscale data from 2022

17 | Nurse Case Manager

Nurse case managers collaborate with patients, families, medical teams, and insurance providers to formulate and monitor patient care plans. Nurses venturing into this sought-after

, non-bedside specialty usually command higher salaries and shorter shifts compared to their direct-care counterparts.

How to Attain: An ADN or a BSN degree coupled with a valid RN license constitute the minimum prerequisites for entering this field. Some employers prefer nurses with nursing case management board certification, necessitating two years of RN experience and 2,000 hours of case management role engagement.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, based on BLS projections
Average Salary: $75,960, based on Payscale data from 2022

18 | Infection Control Nurse

Infection control nurses contribute to public health by reducing and preventing infection transmission through education and evidence-based best practices. These nurses play a crucial role while earning above-average RN salaries.

How to Attain: Infection control nurses may specialize in this area after obtaining either an ADN or a BSN degree and acquiring a valid RN license. The entry-level associate-infection prevention and control certificate does not require prerequisites. Nurses with a minimum of two years’ experience may qualify for the certification in infection prevention and control.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, based on BLS projections
Average Salary: $75,980, based on Payscale data from 2022

19 | Critical Care Nurse

Critical care nurses manage patients with life-threatening illnesses and injuries in fast-paced and demanding environments like ICUs and cardiac units. These specialized professionals can anticipate ongoing job expansion throughout the decade.

How to Attain: Critical care nurses must complete either an ADN or a BSN degree and successfully pass the NCLEX for RN licensure. While not mandatory, certifications in critical care or related specialties, such as cardiac medicine or teleICU, open doors to diverse career opportunities.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, based on BLS projections
Average Salary: $74,820, based on Payscale data from 2022

20 | Nurse Researcher

Nurse researchers generate reports founded on analysis and research conducted within the nursing field, with the goal of enhancing medical and healthcare services.

How to Attain: While RN candidates with a BSN are eligible, individuals possessing an MSN or higher have better prospects of securing this position.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, based on BLS projections
Average Salary: $73,700, based on Payscale data from 2022

21 | Military Nurse

Military nurses provide healthcare to members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families in military healthcare facilities and potentially in combat zones. Although the work can be demanding, military nurses receive substantial benefits for their service, including student loan repayment plans and signing bonuses.

How to Attain: The minimum requirement for military nurses is a BSN degree and a valid RN license. These nurses must enlist in a branch of the Armed Forces and complete the officer basic leadership course.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, based on BLS projections
Average Salary: $72,510 based on Defense Finance and Accounting data from 2022

22 | Neonatal Nurse

Neonatal nurses care for premature and newborn infants facing specific challenges, as well as older infants with chronic complications. Neonatal nursing offers RNs a fulfilling career, contributing to improved life prospects for infants and supporting families during challenging times.

How to Attain: Neonatal nursing requires either an ADN or a BSN degree and a valid RN license. The critical care RN-neonatal certification, while not obligatory, can enhance employment opportunities.
Projected Job Growth: 6% among all RNs from 2021-2031, based on BLS projections
Average Salary: $71,390, based on Payscale data from 2022

 

23 | Geriatric Nurse

Geriatric nurses specialize in caring for elderly patients, addressing their unique challenges such as dementia, arthritis, and heart or lung issues. They work in nursing homes or hospitals that focus on elderly care.

How to Enter: To become a geriatric nurse, you need to have an RN license and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Experience working with elderly patients is also important.
Projected Job Growth: The field is expected to grow by 6% among all registered nurses from 2021 to 2031, as predicted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Average Salary: The average salary for geriatric nurses is $70,480, according to data from Payscale in 2022.

24 | Psychiatric Nurse or Mental Health Nurse

Psychiatric nurses, also known as mental health nurses, focus on caring for individuals with mental health and behavioral conditions. They collaborate with various healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.

How to Enter: Psychiatric nurses need to hold either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, along with a valid RN license.
Projected Job Growth: The field is expected to grow by 6% among all registered nurses from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.
Average Salary: The average salary for psychiatric nurses is $68,940, based on data from Payscale in 2022.

25 | Nurse Advocate

Nurse advocates play a crucial role in helping patients and their families navigate the healthcare system. They provide information about medical conditions, treatment options, costs, and insurance matters.

How to Enter: To become a nurse advocate, you typically need an ADN or a BSN degree and an RN license. Obtaining the board certified patient advocate credential or completing a patient advocacy training program can enhance job prospects.
Projected Job Growth: The field is expected to grow by 6% among all registered nurses from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.
Average Salary: The average salary for nurse advocates is $70,000, based on data from Payscale in 2022.

26 | Orthopedic Nurse

Orthopedic nurses specialize in providing care to patients with musculoskeletal disorders and conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, and related structures.

How to Enter: Orthopedic nursing requires either an ADN or a BSN degree and a valid RN license. RNs with experience in orthopedic nursing can pursue certification to enhance their career prospects.
Projected Job Growth: The field is expected to grow by 6% among all registered nurses from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.
Average Salary: The average salary for orthopedic nurses is $68,160, based on data from Payscale in 2022.

27 | Home Healthcare Nurse

Home healthcare nurses provide medical care to patients in their own homes, offering treatments, medication administration, and monitoring of vital signs.

How to Enter: Home healthcare nursing requires completion of either an ADN or a BSN degree and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Projected Job Growth: The field is expected to grow by 6% among all registered nurses from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.
Average Salary: The average salary for home healthcare nurses is $67,350, based on data from Payscale in 2022.

28 | Public Health Nurse

Public health nurses focus on promoting health and preventing illness in communities. They educate individuals and groups about health issues and advocate for better health practices.

How to Enter: Public health nurses need to hold an RN license and either an ADN or a BSN degree. Some pursue an MSN for advanced opportunities.
Projected Job Growth: The field is expected to grow by 6% among all registered nurses from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.
Average Salary: The average salary for public health nurses is $65,180, based on data from Payscale in 2022.