What Jobs are Available in Nursing?

A nursing degree opens the door to dozens of rewarding career paths — from bedside care and community health to leadership, technology and education. For students and new graduates, understanding those options can help you shape a career that grows with your interests and goals.

For Dr. Audria Denker, DNP, RN, FAADN, ANEF, Chief Experience Officer at Galen College of Nursing, nursing has been just that: a journey of growth and purpose. What began with a single patient has led to decades of impact in education and leadership.

That sense of purpose is what draws so many to nursing — but as Denker reminds students, there’s not just one path to follow.

“Nursing doesn’t happen just in the four walls of a hospital,” she said. “Nursing happens everywhere — in doctor’s offices, home health, schools, community agencies, even corporate settings.”

Many new graduates dream of jumping straight into specialized areas such as pediatrics, emergency care, or intensive care. But Denker encourages new nurses to start with a strong foundation.

“My advice to a new graduate would be go to med-surg first and get a year under your belt,” she said. “Med-surg teaches you time management, critical thinking, and exposes you to a variety of patients. It’s truly a specialty in itself.”

From there, nurses can explore any number of directions — from direct patient care to leadership, education, or even entrepreneurship. Denker herself has worked in pediatric oncology, emergency care, home health, quality improvement, and education before moving into administration and executive leadership.

“What other profession can you go anywhere in the world and get a job?” she said. “You can be an innovator, an inventor, a teacher, a leader — the opportunities are endless.”

Below are just some of the many roles available to nurses today — from bedside to boardroom. Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about your next step, there’s a pathway that matches your passion and strengths.

*Salaries vary by state, experience, and workplace setting.

The beauty of nursing, Denker says, is that it’s a profession built on lifelong learning and purpose.

“You’re there from birth to death and everything in between,” she said. “Not only are you treating the patient — you’re treating their families too.”

And while nursing is consistently ranked the most trusted profession in the country, Denker believes that honor comes along with that responsibility.

“People are trusting you with the people they love most,” she said. “So treat every patient as if they’re the only one you’re caring for that day.”

Whether your dream is to provide bedside care, teach the next generation, or lead change in healthcare systems, a nursing degree can take you there — and beyond.

Learn more about Galen College of Nursing’s programs and how you can start your journey.