Here's how you can navigate the most in-demand nursing specialties for career changers.

1 Career Shift

Making a career change into nursing requires thoughtful planning. You'll need to assess your current skills and consider how they may transfer to healthcare. For instance, if you have experience in education or counseling, psychiatric nursing might be a good fit. It's also important to research the prerequisites for entering various nursing programs. Some may require additional science courses or certifications. Networking with nurses and volunteering at healthcare facilities can provide valuable insights and help confirm your interest in specific nursing fields.

2 Education Path

Your journey into nursing will begin with the right education. Depending on your previous academic background, you may opt for an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. Alternatively, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) can be a quicker route but may limit some career opportunities compared to a BSN. Regardless of the path you choose, ensure that the program is accredited and provides the necessary clinical experience for your desired specialty.

3 Specialty Choices

With numerous nursing specialties available, choosing one that aligns with your interests and career goals is crucial. In-demand specialties such as family nurse practitioner, critical care nursing, and labor and delivery offer unique opportunities to make a significant impact on patient lives. Consider shadowing nurses in different specialties or seeking mentorship to gain firsthand experience and better understand the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of each specialty before making a decision.

4 Certification Needs

Many nursing specialties require additional certifications beyond your nursing degree. For example, to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), you must complete a master's program and pass a national certification exam. Similarly, becoming a nurse practitioner requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and certification in your chosen area of practice. Investigate the certification requirements for your targeted specialty early on to plan your educational trajectory accordingly.

5 Work Environment

As you explore different nursing specialties, consider the work environment and how it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. For instance, if you thrive in high-stress situations, emergency nursing or trauma care might be an ideal fit. Conversely, if you prefer a more predictable schedule, outpatient care or school nursing could be better suited to your needs. Understanding the typical settings, patient populations, and daily routines of each specialty will help you make an informed decision.

6 Job Outlook

Finally, it's important to consider the job outlook of various nursing specialties. Some areas, such as geriatric nursing or home health care, are expected to grow due to the aging population. Other specialties might have more competitive job markets depending on geographic location. Research current job openings, talk to recruiters, and join professional nursing associations to stay informed about trends and opportunities in the field. This will help you choose a specialty with strong potential for employment and career growth.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?