What Clinical Nurse Specialists DoDirect nursing staff in the provision of patient care in a clinical practice setting, such as a hospital, hospice, clinic, or home. Ensure adherence to established clinical policies, protocols, regulations, and standards.
- Evaluate the quality and effectiveness of nursing practice or organizational systems.
- Collaborate with other health care professionals and service providers to ensure optimal patient care.
- Develop and maintain departmental policies, procedures, objectives, or patient care standards, based on evidence-based practice guidelines or expert opinion.
- Develop nursing service philosophies, goals, policies, priorities, or procedures.
- Direct or supervise nursing care staff in the provision of patient therapy.
Clinical Nurse Specialists Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationMaster Degree
Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)
Training TimeOver 4 years
Job Openings189,100 Annually
Median Earnings
$140,330 in California
$93,600 Nationally
$0
$25K
$50K
$75K
$100K
$125K
$150K
$175K
$200K
$225K
$250K
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Influencing or leading others
- Relating with or serving others
- Using data or completing tasks
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having support
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Social Perceptiveness
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Clinical Nurse Specialists Explained
Clinical Nurse SpecialistExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Hybrid CollegeA hybrid college combines online learning with the student support typically offered on college campuses, giving students flexibility and accessibility while still providing a comprehensive educational experience.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years
find training near you
Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.
Enter your location to see training near you
What Is the Healthcare Industry?
HealthcareThe primary activities of this group involve delivering medical care and support to patients, including diagnosing illness, treating injuries, administering medication, assisting with daily living activities, and completing corresponding administrative tasks.