What nursing jobs are and where to find them

Nursing jobs range from bedside care in hospitals to community health work, school nursing, and occupational health roles. The work involves patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, patient education, and coordination with doctors and other healthcare staff. Most nursing positions require a license, but the type of license and the path to get it depends on the role.

You can find nursing openings through hospital career pages, job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn, nursing-specific sites like NursingJobs.com and AllNurses, staffing agencies that place nurses, and your state's nursing board website. Many hospitals also hire directly through their human resources departments, and some post openings only on their own websites.

The job market for nurses varies by location and specialty. Rural areas and certain specialties like intensive care, emergency medicine, and mental health nursing often have more openings than others. Checking your local hospital system's website and asking your nursing school's career office can give you a clearer picture of what is actually hiring in your area.

Key Takeaways

  • Nursing jobs require a license (RN, LPN, or LVN depending on the role), and you must pass the NCLEX or NCLEX-PN exam after completing your nursing program.
  • Entry-level positions often require a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) or ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing), though some hospitals still hire ADN graduates and some prefer BSN.
  • Staffing agencies can place you in temporary or permanent roles and sometimes offer benefits, but direct hospital employment often provides better pay and job security.
  • Shift work, on-call requirements, and mandatory overtime are common in nursing, especially in hospitals, and these terms vary widely by employer and unit.
  • Your state nursing board sets licensing requirements, and you must renew your license every one to four years depending on your state.

Types of nursing licenses and what each one allows you to do

Registered Nurse (RN) is the most common nursing license. RNs can work in hospitals, clinics, schools, home health, and many other settings. To become an RN, you complete either a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), then pass the NCLEX-RN exam. RNs can administer medications, perform complex procedures, and in many states can work independently in certain roles like nurse practitioner (with additional education).

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) — the title depends on your state — requires a one-year practical nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam. LPNs work under the supervision of an RN or doctor and handle basic patient care, wound dressing, catheter care, and some medication administration. LPN roles are common in nursing homes, clinics, and home health agencies.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Home Health Aide (HHA) does not require a nursing license but does require a state-issued certificate. CNAs help with bathing, dressing, toileting, and basic patient comfort in hospitals and nursing homes. HHAs do similar work in patients' homes. These are entry-level roles that often lead to LPN or RN positions.

Some nurses pursue additional certifications after licensure — for example, Critical Care Nurse (CCRN), Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN), or Pediatric Nurse Certified (PNC). These certifications require work experience in that specialty and passing an exam, and they often lead to higher pay and more specialized roles.

Education paths and what they cost

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) takes four years and is offered by universities. Tuition ranges widely depending on whether the school is public or private and whether you attend in-state or out-of-state. Public universities typically charge between $8,000 and $15,000 per year for in-state tuition; private universities often charge $25,000 to $50,000 or more per year. Many students use federal student loans, employer tuition reimbursement, or scholarships to pay for a BSN.

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) takes two years and is offered by community colleges. Tuition is usually lower than a BSN — typically $3,000 to $8,000 per year for in-state students. Some nurses complete an ADN first, then pursue a BSN later through an RN-to-BSN bridge program while working. Bridge programs usually take one to two years part-time.

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program takes one year and costs between $3,000 and $10,000 depending on the school. These programs are offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and some hospitals.

After completing your nursing program, you must pass the licensing exam (NCLEX-RN for RN, NCLEX-PN for LPN). The exam costs between $200 and $300, and you can usually take it within a few months of finishing your program. Some employers reimburse exam fees or offer tuition reimbursement for continuing education.

What hospitals and employers look for when hiring

Most hospitals require a current, unencumbered nursing license — meaning no disciplinary actions or restrictions on your license. They will verify your license directly with your state nursing board. Background checks are standard, and many employers will not hire if you have felony convictions, especially those involving violence or theft.

For entry-level RN positions, hospitals increasingly prefer a BSN over an ADN, though many still hire ADN graduates, especially in areas with nursing shortages. Some large hospital systems have announced they will hire only BSN-prepared nurses for certain positions, but this is not universal. Ask the employer directly about their degree requirements before applying.

Experience matters more for specialty roles. If you want to work in intensive care, emergency medicine, or operating rooms, most employers require one to two years of general nursing experience first. New graduates usually start in medical-surgical units, step-down units, or other less acute settings, then move to specialty areas after gaining experience.

Employers also consider your communication skills, ability to work in a team, and willingness to work flexible schedules. Nursing is a 24/7 profession, so hospitals need staff for nights, weekends, and holidays. Many positions require rotating shifts or on-call availability, especially when you are new.

Pay, benefits, and working conditions

Nursing pay varies by location, employer, specialty, and experience. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for RNs was around $77,000 to $80,000 in recent years, but this varies significantly by state and setting. Nurses in California, Massachusetts, and New York typically earn more than nurses in rural or lower-cost states. Specialty nurses — those in intensive care, emergency medicine, or operating rooms — often earn more than general medical-surgical nurses.

LPNs typically earn less than RNs, with median wages around $48,000 to $52,000 annually, again varying by location and employer. CNAs and HHAs earn the least, usually between $28,000 and $35,000 per year.

Most full-time nursing positions include health insurance, retirement plans (often a 403(b) or pension), paid time off, and continuing education support. Some employers offer sign-on bonuses, shift differentials (extra pay for nights or weekends), or tuition reimbursement for further education. Staffing agencies may offer lower base pay but sometimes provide flexibility and temporary work options.

Nursing is physically and emotionally demanding. Shifts are typically 8 or 12 hours, and you are on your feet much of the time. Mandatory overtime is common in hospitals, especially during staffing shortages. Night shifts, weekend work, and on-call requirements are standard. Burnout is a real concern in nursing, and many nurses report high stress, especially in acute care settings.

How to prepare your application and what employers ask in interviews

Your resume should list your nursing license number, the state where it is issued, and the expiration date. Include your education (degree type and school), any certifications, and relevant work experience. If you are a new graduate, highlight clinical rotations, preceptorships, or internships. Many hospitals use an applicant tracking system, so use keywords from the job posting in your resume — terms like "patient assessment," "medication administration," "electronic health records," or specific software systems the employer uses.

Cover letters are less common in nursing hiring, but if you write one, explain why you are interested in that specific unit or employer and what you bring to the team. Mention any connection to the area or the organization.

Nursing interviews often include behavioral questions: "Tell me about a time you had a conflict with a coworker" or "Describe a patient situation that was challenging." Prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Employers also ask about your experience with specific patient populations, your comfort with technology, and how you handle stress.

Some employers conduct skills assessments or ask you to describe how you would handle a clinical scenario. Be honest about what you know and what you do not know. Saying "I have not done that yet, but I am willing to learn" is better than pretending to have skills you lack.

State licensing requirements and how to maintain your license

Every state has its own nursing board that issues licenses and sets practice standards. To become licensed, you must pass the NCLEX exam and meet your state's education requirements. Most states require an RN to have at least an ADN; some are moving toward requiring a BSN. You can check your state nursing board's website to see the exact requirements for your state.

Licenses must be renewed periodically — every one to four years depending on your state. Renewal usually requires paying a fee (typically $50 to $200) and completing continuing education hours. The number of hours required varies by state, from zero to 30 or more per renewal period. Some states allow you to meet these hours through online courses, conferences, or on-the-job training; others have specific requirements.

If you move to a different state, you may be able to transfer your license through reciprocity or endorsement, which is usually faster and cheaper than taking the NCLEX again. However, not all states have reciprocity agreements, and some states have different practice standards. Check with your new state's nursing board before you move.

Your license can be suspended or revoked if you are convicted of a crime, found to have violated nursing practice standards, or reported for substance abuse or unsafe practice. If you have any concerns about your license status, contact your state nursing board directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a BSN to get hired as an RN, or will an ADN work?

Many hospitals still hire ADN graduates, especially in areas with nursing shortages. However, some large hospital systems now prefer or require a BSN for certain positions. Ask the employer directly about their degree requirements before applying. If you start with an ADN, you can pursue an RN-to-BSN bridge program later while working.

How long does it take to become a nurse?

An ADN takes two years, a BSN takes four years, and an LPN program takes one year. After completing your program, you must pass the licensing exam, which you can usually take within a few months. So the fastest path to an RN license is about two years (ADN plus exam), and the most common path is four years (BSN plus exam).

What if I have a criminal record — can I still become a nurse?

It depends on the type and severity of the conviction and your state's rules. Felonies involving violence, theft, or drugs are more likely to disqualify you than misdemeanors. Contact your state nursing board before enrolling in a nursing program to ask whether your record will prevent licensure. Some boards allow you to petition for a waiver.

Can I work as a nurse while I am still in school?

Yes, you can work as a CNA or HHA while completing your nursing degree. Many nursing students work part-time in hospitals or clinics, which gives you experience and helps pay for school. Once you pass the NCLEX, you can work as an RN or LPN.

What is the difference between working for a hospital and working for a staffing agency?

Hospital jobs usually offer better pay, benefits, job security, and opportunities for advancement. Staffing agencies offer flexibility — you can choose shifts and take time off — but typically pay less and may not offer benefits. Some nurses use agencies temporarily while looking for permanent work, or to fill gaps between jobs.