Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree for those already holding a Bachelor's Degree in another field. Program typically takes one to two years.

Master of Science in Nursing program for Registered Nurses to obtain their MSN degree in less than the typical length of the program.

Accredited nursing programs have been evaluated and approved by a national accrediting body such as the NLNAC or theCCNE. Some programs instead choose to be evaluated and approved by their state governing board rather than opting for national accreditation.

A two-to-three year program offered at junior and community colleges, an Associate's degree trains and prepares nurses to provide direct patient care in numerous settings. Some hospital nursing schools, colleges, and universities also offer ADN programs.

A four-year program offered at colleges and universities that prepares nurses to practice across all health care settings. BSN graduates have the greatest opportunity for advancement. For instance, a BSN is required for entry into a Master's program, which may in turn lead to a career in management, or on to more specialized nursing positions such as Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, or Nurse Researcher.

Case Managers are generally responsible for coordinating long term patient care (heart/kidney disease, transplants, etc.), as well as the care of patients who have been discharged from the hospital to home. They may be employed by the hospital or by a health plan. These individuals are a direct point of contact between the patient and his or her physician.

Certified Nurse Assistant. A CNA must complete a training program (which ranges from 80 hours to one week or more), pass a state certification exam, and then register with the state. After that, he or she will be able to work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in some cases, hospitals as part of a health care team.

Medical care for a critically ill or injured patient. A critical illness or injury is one that acutely impairs one or more vital organ systems such that the patient's survival is jeopardized.

Master of Science in Nursing. Master's degree programs prepare nurses for more independent roles such as Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse-Midwife, Nurse Anesthetist, or Nurse Psychotherapist. Master’s-prepared nurses serve as expert clinicians, in faculty roles, and as specialists in geriatrics, community health, administration, nursing management, and other areas.

Academic study beyond the level of a Doctoral degree. Postdoctoral programs are usually research-based.

Private colleges and universities are independent educational institutions that are funded by tuition, fees, endowments, and other private sources, as opposed to government or public funding.

A branch of medicine that deals with mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. A psychiatric nurse promotes general mental health; assists clients with self-care activities; provides patient counseling; performs case management; administers and monitors psychobiological treatment regimens; and teaches about health issues, including psychoeducation and crisis.

Public colleges and universities are funded by the state or local government, and are therefore usually less expensive than private schools.

A nurse holding an Associate, BSN, or Hospital Diploma degree who is licensed to practice nursing by the state authority after qualifying for registration.

An accelerated one- to two-year education program designed for Registered Nurses who want to earn a BSN degree.