Those with a two-year associate in nursing degree can become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN). It depends on what licensing exam the student takes and passes. Many two-year curricula prepare students to pass the NCLEX, the exam for RNs. Those with an associate in nursing who become RNs can pursue a number of entry level jobs in a variety of specialties. Additionally, an associate degree can act as a bridge to a bachelor's degree and there are many programs designed for that purpose.
Licensed practical nurses, also known as licensed vocational nurses, have the industry's lowest level of licensure. LPNs traditionally provide patient support for RNs, who perform more complex tasks and levels of care. Many LPNs only possess an education that covers the basic skills required for essential patient care. Besides traditional nursing environments such as hospitals and doctor's offices, other LPN job options include work in dental offices, mental health institutions, community health clinics and public health departments.
Registered nurses are found in hospitals more than any other type of patient-care environment, such as clinics and nursing homes. They are the industry standard. RNs have more flexibility when it comes to career choices. RNs have the opportunity to pursue further certification in an array of advanced nursing fields that can involve several more years of study.
When RNs become certified in a specialty field, they broaden their career opportunities and usually will garner a higher salary. Certification generally requires further education and an examination that results in certification by a certifying board other than your state board of nursing. Specialty certification usually calls for periodic renewal through examinations or continuing education classes. There are countless numbers of specialty certifications, such as certified director of nurse administration --- Long Term Care (CDONA/LTC), certified emergency nurse (CEN), certified family nurse practitioner (CFNP), certified pediatric nurse (CPN), certified pediatric oncology nurse (CPON) and certified pain practitioner (CPP).