Certification and Specialization Info
There are many different types of nursing certifications. Some certifications are based on career level, with specific certifications for Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) holders and other Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), some for Registered Nurses (RN), some for Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA) and other supporting staff. Other certifications are based on specialization, like surgery, oncology, pediatrics and others. Not all specializations require additional certification, but many do.
For a complete list of Nursing Specialties (1) with links to the certifying organization, see the list maintained by Nurse.org.
98 Types of Nursing Specialties (2) (includes LVN, RN and Advanced Practice), certification requirements, and average annual salary are also listed with links on Betternurse.org.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) are registered nurses educated at Masters or post Masters level and in a specific role with a scope of practice for a specific patient population. APRNs are prepared by education and certification to assess, diagnose, and manage patient problems, order tests, and prescribe medications. Also commonly referred to as Advanced Practice Nurses, APNs include: Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP) or commonly referred to as NPs, Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM).
Members of the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) can grant nursing certifications. Requirements for obtaining a nursing certification will vary by organization and type you pursue. In addition, fees will also vary. Renewal of your certification is required to ensure that you still meet eligibility requirements and pursue any continuing education required. For most states, renewal of your nursing licensure is also dependent upon your certification renewal.(3)
- Houck, K. Nursing Specialties: 98 Types of Nurses. Better Nurse Org. (2023, March 23).
- Nurse.org staff. Complete list of Common Certifications. (2021, December 1).
- Nursing License Map staff. 2022's Guide for Nursing Certifications.
Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice, 4th Edition by
ISBN: 9780999308882Publication Date: 2021-03-31The scope of practice statement answers the who, what, when, where, how, and why questions of nursing. The standards provide authoritative statements of the actions and behaviors that all registered nurses are expected to competently perform, regardless of role, population, specialty, and setting. Each standard is accompanied by detailed competencies for the three practice levels.
- BoardVitals This link opens in a new windowExam Prep for Nursing, Advanced Practice Nursing, Medical, and Dentistry.
Use your @usc.edu e-mail address and register as a Nurse/Advance Practice Nurse or Medical Student to gain access.