Becoming a clinical nurse specialist (CNS) requires more than just a nursing degree. It requires dedication, passion, and a desire to help others. Being a CNS requires you to put the needs of others above your own. It is not an easy job, but it is one that has great rewards.
To become a clinical nurse specialist (CNS), you must first earn your degree in nursing. You can then apply for certification as a clinical nurse specialist through the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN). To be eligible for certification as a clinical nurse specialist, you must have at least two years’ experience working in critical care or emergency department settings and meet other requirements set forth by the AACN.
After you’ve earned your degree and become certified as a clinical nurse specialist, there are many exciting opportunities available to you! You can work in hospitals or clinics and specialize in different areas such as neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) or burn centers; other positions include case managers and educators who teach nursing students about specific topics such as cardiac disease management or diabetes prevention strategies; some CNSs even work with patients directly by providing education regarding chronic disease management or helping patients cope with issues related
How To Become Clinical Nurse Specialist
What Is a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)?
Clinical Nurse Specialists provide leadership, conduct research, and perform advanced nursing duties. Typically, clinical nursing requirements include at least a master’s degree and licensure, but some employers may prefer job candidates with a doctorate.
Steps to Becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist
There are several clinical nurse specialist requirements. You will need a graduate degree and licensure as a registered nurse. Most students earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and an RN license, then gain work experience while continuing their education toward a master’s or doctoral degree.
Step 1: Complete Your Master of Science in Nursing Degree
Enrolling in an accredited Master of Science in Nursing program will provide the educational background you need as part of the steps to becoming a clinical nurse specialist. The curriculum will usually include coursework on the following topics:
- Statistics and reasoningClinical Nurse Specialist with pregnant woman
- Clinical pharmacology
- Advanced health assessment
- Disease prevention and health care
- Program development and administration
- Ethics and philosophical aspects of nursing
- Practical applications in real-world settings
Some programs may require one year or more of previous experience to gain entry to these advanced nursing curricula.
Step 2: Earn Your CNS Certification(s)
The American Nurses’ Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers examination-based certification programs for Clinical Nurse Specialists. These certifications are available in a wide range of subspecialties that include adult health care, gerontology, pediatrics, mental health, and community-based health care.
Many employers’ clinical nurse specialist requirements include ANCC certification. For those who don’t require it, holding certification can make you stand out as an exceptional candidate.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Clinical Nurse Specialist?
If you are new to the field of nursing, gaining the education required to become a clinical nurse specialist can take at least five years. Some of this time will likely be spent working as a registered nurse.
For current RNs, earning the master’s degree necessary to practice as a CNS typically takes two years of study.
Earn your Clinical Nurse Specialist Degree at GMercyU
We hope you’ve found this overview of the steps to becoming a clinical nurse specialist helpful. Interested in earning an MSN degree? Explore Gwynedd Mercy University’s programs today.
