• Occupation Overview
• Future Growth Opportunities
• Job Description

II. Job Requirements/Prerequisites:

• Skill Requirements
• Experience Prerequisites
• Education/Training Required

• Bay Area Education/Training Resources

IV. Getting A Job:

• Employers Who Are/Will Be Hiring
• Recommended Job Search Strategy

V. Back To Career Guide Home Page

Skill Requirements

Mental - Basic

• Attention to detail.
  
• Self-motivated.
  
• Good judgement.
  
• Ability to make decisions independently.
  
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
  
• Good record-keeping skills.
  
• Ability to follow specific orders.
  

Mental - Specialized

• Knowledge of how to diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses.
  
• Knowledge of drug properties and interactions.
  
• Knowledge of languages in addition to English can be helpful.
  

Social

• A team player.
  
• Able to convey information to others accurately verbally and in writing.
  
• Ability to understand verbal communications.
  
• Ability to behave sympathetcially and supportively toward others.
  
• Ability to cope with the suffering of others.
  

Physical

• Good coordination.
  
• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.

Skill Maintenance Requirement
Moderate. Obtaining continuing education is common for nurses as treatments and medications evolve, and as they might seek additional training in specialized areas to increase job opportunities or satisfaction. License renewal is required every two years, and Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits are required to earn this renewal.

Experience Prerequisites

Many employers prefer one to four years of experience, but there are also opportunities for those fresh out of school. New graduates can expect to find work in medical or surgical nursing. Positions in specialized areas such as critical care, obstetrics, and pediatrics often require experience.

Education/Training Required

Many employers require a 2-year degree and some require a 4-year degree. A license is required for this occupation, and many RNs work in specialized areas that require additional training or certificiation.

In order to take the California State Nursing Licensing Examination, one must first attend a nursing program that is accredited by the National League for Nursing and earn an Associate or Bachelor degree. Many RNs who start out with an Associate's degree later go on to earn a Bachelor's degree. A Bachelor's degree is required for many administrative positions and to enter graduate nursing programs in education, research, or a clinical specialty. Still, an Associate's degree is the quickest way to get licensed and working.