The healthcare industry is known for paying some of the highest salaries in our society today. Mostly because these individuals are essentially married to their work. Doctors and other healthcare professionals rely on the expertise of nurses to make their job possible. This makes nursing one of the most reliable and growing professions of 2019. While there is a range in levels of nursing (think LPN to BSN), certain types of nurses can make in the six-figure range. Of course, the increase in salary requires an increase in education, just like how a CPA earns more than an accountant. You may have heard of some of these positions, but others will surprise you, as well as their earning potential. 

*salaries vary by state*

1. Nurse Researcher – $95,000

The nurse researcher-made number one on the list as it was most surprising to me. Many professions require research to perform their jobs to the best extent, however, the salary given for this type of research is incredible. One of the biggest advantages of being a nurse researcher is the vast amount of opportunities and various settings in which you can practice. These can range from medical laboratories to universities, giving you plenty of opportunities for employment. The position of a nurse researcher is expected to grow tremendously for the year 2019. 

This branch of nursing requires a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) to qualify for the position. A nurse with this skill set will be creating scientific studies, evaluating research questions, writing articles, and more. They often work with professionals in other fields to further address complicated medical issues. 

Education Required: 8-11 years

The studies performed by the nurses aim to:

• Improve patient quality of life.
• Provide more effective healthcare services.
• Ensure patient safety.

2. Nurse Anesthesiologist – $157,000

Any profession involving the word “anesthesiology” you know makes an impressive income. This is because the job itself is literally life-threatening, you have someone’s life in your hands, similarly to a surgeon. With the authority to administer anesthesia incorrect dosages for surgical or diagnostic procedures, this is a profession for someone who is confident in their abilities. A nurse anesthesiologist is very in demand as they work with doctors from all types of specialties. All surgeons need an anesthesiologist in the OR, and they provide anesthetics to roughly 40 million procedures a year.

For the career path of a nurse anesthetist, you start out as a registered nurse (RN) much like other nursing professions. Then you work in an acute care setting for at least a year. After that, you apply to a nurse anesthesia program, which will take about 3 years to complete. 

Education Required: 7 years

The nurse anesthetist will be:

• Administering a proper dosage of anesthesia.
• Monitoring anesthesia throughout the procedure.
• Overseeing the patient as they awaken from surgery.

3. Nurse Practitioner – $105,546

If you are looking for a high paying nursing career with plenty of freedom to practice medicine, this is the specialty for you. If you are a family nurse practitioner, you have the authority to manage your own clinic, and take control of diagnosing and treating patients. With such a broad range of abilities, you can treat newborns to elderly people. Meaning, you will never have to worry about a lack of patients. You can choose to specialize in pediatrics, women’s health, occupational health, or other specialty. 

To become a nurse practitioner you need to begin as a registered nurse (RN) and then earn a Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN). With your master’s degree, you can pick a specialty to focus your education on. 

Education Required: 6-8 years

A nurse practitioner is qualified to:

• Diagnose injuries and illnesses.
• Order diagnostic testing such as X-rays.
• Prescribe medication to patients.

4. Mental Health/Psychiatric Nurse – $96,460

This type of nursing is becoming increasingly prevalent in the medical community as many people are suffering from mental health issues. Mental health conditions such as depression have always existed in society, however, treatment through nursing is increasing each year. Psychiatric nursing helps people who are suffering from personality disorders, acute grief, depression, and more. These nurses will also work with psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers to effectively treat a patient.  

Most psychiatric nurses will have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Then they need to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to continue their education. Once they complete a set number of supervised hours at clinical practice, they can practice as a mental health nurse. 

Education Required: 6 years

Mental health/psychiatric nurses will:

• Speak with the family about the condition. 
• Develop a plan of care for the patient.
• Prescribe medication and/or psychotherapy.

5. Clinical Nurse Specialist – $105,064

Clinical nurse specialists carry out the normal responsibilities of a nurse which focuses on patient care. Where they differ from typical nurses is their ability to diagnose and treat various conditions. They specialize in patient illnesses and diseases. Clinical nurse specialists tend to work in management based positions where they are leading a team on the best course of action for a patient. They will develop a plan and put it into action based on research conducted. Making this a very multi-faceted and diverse role in the hospital. 

Clinical nurse specialists start with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which then requires 2 years of clinical experience before continuing education. After gaining experience, they will earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). If they really want to boost their expertise, they can pursue a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). 

Education Required: 6-10 years

These professionals can specialize in: 

• Oncology.
• Diabetes.
• Pediatrics.
• Women’s Health.
• Psychiatric.

With so many different types of nursing, the possibility of having a gratifying career and having a comfortable living are endless. With each specialty comes its own challenges, but nurses are always up for the challenge, they change the lives of their patients every single day.