The Nursing Career Pathway
Your roadmap to advancing through nursing career levels with clear steps and requirements.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Begin your healthcare journey as a CNA providing direct patient care and gaining essential clinical experience.
What You'll Learn
- Basic patient care skills
- Vital signs monitoring
- Infection control procedures
- Patient mobility assistance
Patient Care Technician (PCT)
Build on your CNA skills by adding Phlebotomy, EKG, and CPR/BLS certifications to become a versatile PCT. PCTs can handle higher-level tasks and earn more while preparing for LPN or RN.
What You'll Learn
- Blood draw techniques (Phlebotomy)
- EKG lead placement & interpretation
- CPR/BLS for adults and children
- Advanced patient monitoring
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Advance to an LPN role with increased responsibilities including medication administration and wound care. Consider PCT certification as an intermediate step.
What You'll Learn
- Medication administration
- Wound care management
- Patient assessment skills
- IV therapy fundamentals
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
For a faster route to RN licensure, consider an ADN program as an alternative to BSN, with the option to bridge to BSN later through RN-to-BSN programs.
What You'll Learn
- Comprehensive patient assessment
- Medication administration
- Clinical decision making
- Nursing care planning
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Complete your journey with a BSN degree, opening doors to advanced practice, leadership, and specialized nursing roles. RN licensure is your gateway to this level.
What You'll Learn
- Advanced clinical reasoning
- Leadership and management
- Evidence-based practice
- Specialized clinical rotations