At minimum, a registered nurse (RN) must have a diploma or an associate of science degree from a nurse training program, plus a license. Associate degrees are usually offered by community colleges while diplomas are available through some hospital training programs. Students in these programs learn about anatomy, physiology, chemistry, psychology, patient care and nutrition. These classes, along with clinical experience at a hospital or other health care facility, prepare students for entry-level nursing positions. In addition to earning a degree, an aspiring nurse must also pass the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN) and fulfill state-specific requirements to obtain a state license to practice nursing. These credentials, plus some job experience, can qualify a nurse to work in neonatology.
An aspiring neonatology nurse can pursue a bachelor's of science degree in nursing at a traditional four-year college or university. While a neonatology specialty usually is not available at the undergraduate level, students can take individual classes on the subject. A bachelor's degree in nursing, a license and the appropriate job experience could qualify an applicant for a neonatal nurse position.
Many states require that nurses take continuing education courses at regular intervals to keep their skills and knowledge current. If they choose, nurses can focus their studies on specialties and earn recognized credentials from the American Nursing Credentialing Center or the National League for Nursing. A nurse with at least two years' experience working in a NICU can take an exam to qualify for a Registered Nurse Credential for Neonatal Intensive Care (RNC-NIC). Such a credential is strictly voluntary, but it could lead to promotions and pay raises.
To qualify for a master's degree program in nursing, the candidate must have a bachelor's degree in nursing, licensure, be currently employed as a registered nurse and have a qualifying score on the Graduate Records Exam (GRE). The master's degree student takes classes in nursing theory, neonatal care and illness, pharmacology, health promotion and disease prevention. The master's of science degree in nursing, along with two years of neonatal care experience, qualifies the registered nurse to become a neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP). This designation allows the nursing professional to diagnose conditions and prescribe necessary medications. An NNP works in close consultation with doctors in a hospital's NICU and manages the care of preterm and seriously ill newborns. The NNP is also qualified to teach neonatal care at the university level.
A nurse with a master's degree of science -- but with a focus on a nursing specialty other than neonatology -- can earn a post-master's certificate to become a neonatal nurse practitioner. Program requirements depend on the school and on the courses already completed, but a student can expect both classroom and clinical training. Possible subjects of study include pharmacology, care of high-risk neonates and neonatal assessment.