Clinical Nurse Specialists

High School

If you are interested in a nursing career, it is a good idea to take college-preparatory course work that includes biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. If a course on human anatomy and physiology is offered as a follow-up to basic biology, that would be a good elective. English and speech classes that emphasize communication skills (both written and oral) are also important. Taking a foreign language, such as Spanish, will help you to communicate more effectively with colleagues and patients who may not be fluent in English.

Postsecondary Training

If you want to become a clinical nurse specialist, you will first need to complete the high school and undergraduate education necessary to become a registered nurse. There are three ways to become an RN: a two-year associate's degree (ADN) program at a junior or community college, a two- or three-year diploma program at a hospital, or a bachelor's degree (BSN) program at a college or university. All the programs include supervised hands-on training in a hospital setting. Since a clinical nurse specialist needs a master's degree (MSN), the BSN is the most appropriate educational route to choose. People who are already practicing nursing with an ADN or diploma and decide to upgrade their qualifications generally need to do additional course work to receive a bachelor's degree before they can enter an MSN program.

CNSs must earn a master's or higher degree after completing their studies to become a registered nurse. Many CNSs go on to earn their doctoral degrees. The National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists reports that more than 13 percent of CNSs have a doctoral degree. CNSs can specialize by focusing their studies in a specific area, such as community health, home health, gerontology, or medical-surgical.

The National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists provides a list of educational programs on its Web site, https://nacns.org/career-education/cns-program-directory.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs in nursing, nursing specialties, nursing leadership/management, and related fields. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats.

Other Education or Training

The National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists offers webinars and other continuing education opportunities. Recent webinars included Pain Management Conversions, Pneumonia Prevention, and Professional Communication. The association also provides CE opportunities at its annual conference.