You may choose to work with a particular age group - babies or the elderly; a particular illness -cardiac or cancer; or in a particular work setting - hospital or home. Hospital nurses have the option of specializing in areas such as critical care, obstetrics, operating room, pediatrics or the emergency room. Staff nurses, legal-nurse consultants, researchers, case managers, educators, community health nurses, entrepreneurs, and directors of nursing illustrate some of the many diverse roles of nurses today.

High School Preparation

Take these high school courses:
Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, Physics, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus, foreign language
Take Honors and AP classes
Take a SAT or ACT prep course (recommended)
Get involved in activities that develop your leadership and time management skills
Participate in community service activities

What to look for in a nursing program

A strong clinical program with hands-on experience in diverse health care settings
Student support
Simulated learning labs
Student nurse organizations
Caring and committed faculty
Individual attention
Service to the community

Search for the right nursing school for you

Begin with an online search
Attend open houses and career fairs
Meet with an admissions counselor and tour the university
Meet with a school of nursing representative and tour the nursing school
Attend nursing classes, talk with students and professors
Apply early

Editorial is provided by Susan Hardner, RN, BSN, Nursing Recruiter at Duquesne University School of Nursing.

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