Whether you’re drawn to patient care, technology, education, or leadership, a nursing degree opens doors to a multitude of rewarding opportunities. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is the foundational entry point into the in-demand and lucrative field of nursing, with the option to pursue a number of career paths immediately or continue on to an advanced degree. Bethel University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares you for whichever path you choose:
Traditional roles in nursing
Bedside nursing
Bedside nursing remains a cornerstone of healthcare, with nurses working in very diverse settings. As a bedside nurse, you’ll provide direct patient care, assist with medical procedures, and collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Bedside nurses often work in specialized units, including medical-surgical, pediatrics, intensive care, cardiac, trauma, maternity, or mental health. This broad role offers invaluable experience in patient care and is often the first step for nurses who plan to transition into more specialized roles.
Public health nursing
Public health nurses are essential in promoting community health and preventing illness. Working in public health agencies, schools, and community organizations, they help develop and implement programs that educate the public on health issues, administer vaccinations, or provide screenings. Public health nurses are on the front lines of health education, working to improve the well-being of entire communities.
Specialized nursing roles
Nurse practitioner (NP)
For nurses seeking more autonomy in patient care, becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) is a highly rewarding option. NPs can diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and create treatment plans for their patients. They often work in clinics, private practices, hospitals, and specialty areas such as cardiology or pediatrics. To become an NP, you will need to complete a Master’s or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. With a growing demand for primary care providers, NPs have excellent career growth potential and often enjoy higher earning opportunities compared to bedside nurses.
Certified nurse midwife (CNM)
Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) provide specialized care to women throughout pregnancy and beyond. They assist with labor and delivery, offer prenatal and postnatal care, and provide gynecological services. CNMs work in hospitals, birthing centers, and private practices, often focusing on holistic, patient-centered care. This role is ideal for those passionate about women’s health and supporting mothers through one of the most important phases of life.
Nurse anesthetist (CRNA)
Nurse anesthetists are responsible for administering anesthesia during surgeries and managing patient care before, during, and after the procedure. As a CRNA, you will work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals in operating rooms, dental practices, and surgical centers. CRNAs are among the highest-paid nursing professionals, with strong demand in both urban and rural settings. Earning this certification typically requires completing a master’s or doctoral degree.
Nurse educator
If teaching and mentoring future nurses is your passion, a career as a nurse educator could be the perfect fit. Nurse educators work in academic settings, such as universities and colleges, as well as in hospitals, where they develop curricula, teach nursing courses, and supervise clinical training. Given the growing demand for nursing faculty, becoming a nurse educator offers excellent job security and the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare. Most nurse educator positions require a master’s or doctoral degree.
Nursing informatics specialist
In today’s digital world, data is crucial to improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. Nursing informatics specialists combine their clinical expertise with data management skills to optimize healthcare information systems, such as electronic health records (EHRs). They help healthcare organizations implement new technologies and analyze data to enhance patient care. This growing field is ideal for tech-savvy nurses who are passionate about the intersection of nursing and technology.
“Bethel nurses aren’t just excellent at patient care, but have the critical thinking and leadership skills to help shape the future of the nursing profession. We’re in an interesting time, and top-quality, Christian nurses have never been more important.” –Diane Dahl, Chief Nursing Administrator, Interim Dean of Health Sciences
Emerging and growing fields in nursing
Telehealth nursing
With the rise of telemedicine, nurses are increasingly providing care remotely, offering a more flexible approach to patient interaction. Telehealth nurses can monitor chronic conditions, provide health coaching, and manage remote consultations through virtual platforms. This role allows for a better work-life balance and is especially valuable in rural or underserved areas where access to healthcare is limited.
Nursing research
Nursing researchers play a vital role in advancing healthcare by conducting studies that inform clinical practice and healthcare policy. They work in universities, hospitals, research institutions, and governmental agencies. Nursing researchers design studies, collect data, and publish their findings in healthcare journals, contributing to the development of evidence-based practices that improve patient outcomes.
Healthcare administration
For nurses looking to transition into leadership roles, healthcare administration offers a path to managing nursing departments, improving healthcare delivery, and overseeing budgets and staffing. Nurse administrators work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and healthcare corporations. With the growing complexity of healthcare systems, the demand for nurse administrators continues to rise, making this a promising field for those interested in both patient care and management.
Non-traditional and corporate roles for nurses
Corporate healthcare
Nurses are highly valued in corporate healthcare settings, including roles in pharmaceutical companies, insurance firms, and medical device companies. Nurses bring valuable insights into patient care, helping companies develop better products, services, and policies. These roles may include working in sales, healthcare consulting, product development, or policy advising.
Legal nurse consultant
For those with a keen interest in law and healthcare, becoming a legal nurse consultant is an exciting option. Legal nurse consultants assist lawyers in medical-related cases, reviewing medical records, providing expert opinions, and even testifying in court. They typically work in law firms, insurance companies, and government agencies.
Occupational health nurse
Occupational health nurses work within corporate environments to promote workplace safety and manage employee health. Their duties include injury prevention, health education, and ensuring that workplaces comply with health regulations. This role is vital in industries such as manufacturing, where maintaining a safe work environment is crucial.
Advancing your nursing career
Importance of continuing education
The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and continuing education is essential for nurses looking to advance their careers. Certifications such as critical care registered nurse (CCRN) or certified nurse operating room (CNOR) can open doors to specialized roles. Additionally, pursuing advanced degrees like a master’s in nursing or a doctorate in nursing practice (DNP) can lead to leadership roles, nurse practitioner positions, or careers in education and research.
Mentorship and networking
Building a professional network is essential for career advancement. Joining organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) or attending nursing conferences can provide mentorship opportunities, networking, and professional development. Even while still in the Bethel University nursing program, students can join Sigma, the international nursing honor society. These organizations offer resources to help nurses stay up-to-date on the latest trends and advancements in healthcare.
Bethel’s nursing program: preparing you for diverse career paths
With a 40-year track record, Bethel University’s BSN program equips you with the clinical skills, critical thinking, and faith-based values needed to succeed in a variety of nursing roles. Whether you’re interested in bedside nursing, specialized fields, or leadership in healthcare administration, Bethel’s hands-on approach and state-of-the-art facilities prepare you for any path you choose. A strong focus on values and an extensive clinical network set it apart from other programs.
“Our program maintains a strong relationship with the numerous healthcare systems within the Twin Cities. We frequently hear, ‘There’s something special about Bethel grads,’ and we believe this is because our nursing students learn how to integrate their faith into every area of nursing. This is the foundation of our nursing program.” – Julie De Haan, BSN Program Director, Professor of Nursing
Bethel prepares students to pass the NCLEX® and pursue advanced degrees or certifications, providing the foundation for a thriving nursing career. Our program fosters clinical excellence and holistic development, empowering you to make a meaningful impact wherever you go.
With a Bethel nursing degree, you’ll be prepared to deliver high-quality, Christ-like care that improves the health and wellbeing of others. Explore Bethel’s undergraduate and graduate-level nursing and healthcare programs, and take the first step in pursuing your goals.
