phd rn salary

Ph.D. in Nursing Salary – 2024

The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing degree (Ph.D. in nursing) is a terminal degree chiefly pursued by nurses who are interested either in teaching or in participating in evidence-based research that advances the practice of nursing. The average Ph.D. in nursing salary is $99,000 a year. Until relatively recently, the Ph.D. in nursing was the only option for nurses interested in doctoral-level studies. In 2006, however, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) issued established parameters for an additional terminal nursing degree called the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). A useful way of distinguishing between the nursing profession’s two terminal degrees is that Ph.Ds. discover the evidence while DNPs translate that evidence into clinical practice. Fewer than 1 percent of the nation’s 3.8 million registered nurses hold a doctoral degree, and DNPs far outnumber PhDs. in nursing. How much do Ph.D. in nursing graduates make? This article will present you with a comprehensive analysis of the salary for Ph.D. nursing graduates in 2024.

Is There A High Demand For Ph.D. in Nursing Graduates?

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We have used the following sources to compile the salary data on this page.

Doctoral Nursing Career Paths

You put a lot of work into earning a doctorate in nursing, and you want to make sure your hard work pays off. Earning an in-person or online doctoral nursing degree may prepare you for a wide variety of specialized career options. On the first half of this page, you can learn more about career paths for PhD nursing graduates. The second half of the page handles Doctor of Nursing career paths.

Looking for specific information? Find page navigation links to the right. If you’re interested in doctoral nursing programs , search for schools near you in the search box. Contact our featured schools below to get more information.

PhD in Nursing Career Options

After spending several years on the floor as a nurse, it’s time to find the right career path for you. But what can you do with a PhD in nursing? Earning your PhD should have provided you with plenty of experience in the areas of research, leadership, education and healthcare policy. Most available career paths fall into one of these areas of study.

Many PhD graduates hope to go into medical research. With your experience and training, you may be able to guide research in several areas. Nurse researchers often look at nursing protocols, policies, patient care standards and evidence-based practices. The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that job openings for medical scientists may swell 13% between 2016 and 2026 (2017). Most nurse researchers and medical professionals with PhD degrees work in research laboratories, post-secondary institutions or hospitals.

Nurse educators are essential to the growth of this field . Many nursing schools have to turn students away each year, due to a lack of nursing instructors ( National League for Nursing , 2017). You could teach undergraduate courses, graduate courses or both. Job growth is extremely high in this field. Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for nursing educators could jump 24% between 2016 and 2026 (2017). You may teach at two-year community colleges, public four-year institutions or private four-year institutions.

If you’re a natural leader and you’d like to inspire other nurses, you may be a good fit for a nurse leadership position. Medical and health services managers work in several settings. Most employed health services managers work in hospitals, physician offices and residential care facilities. The job outlook for medical managers is positive . Overall, look for an expected 20% increase in job openings by 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017). In this role, you may supervise other nurses and create policies.

PhD in Nursing Salary

With your doctorate in nursing, jobs may offer you higher income levels. The expertise you bring to this field with a PhD may be well-rewarded by employers. Across all work settings, medical scientists earn an average of $80,530 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017). The average salary for nursing educators is $69,130 annually (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017). Bureau of Labor Statistics data reports an average salary of $96,540 per year for medical managers (2017).

Doctor of Nursing Practice Career

With a clinically focused doctoral nursing curriculum , you may pursue a range of Doctor of Nursing Practice jobs. Some of these jobs overlap with PhD jobs. For example, DNP graduates can often go into medical management or nurse leadership positions. However, this degree also helps students broaden their clinical expertise and job options. The most common DNP career is that of nurse practitioner, which you can learn more about here .

A popular choice for doctoral graduates is nurse anesthesia. This requires specialized training, so you must study nurse anesthesia at the doctoral level to become certified and follow this career path. From 2016 through 2026,  job openings for nurse anesthetists may increase 16%  across the country (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017). Professionals in this role often work in hospitals, providing pain relief and sedation services during routine and emergency surgeries.

Nurse practitioners work in many specialties , including pediatric, adult, psychiatric and gerontological care. With the growing demand for primary care providers, demand for nurse practitioners is extremely high. Job openings could jump 36% by 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017).

Those who specialize in nurse midwifery work exclusively with women, primarily during the childbearing years. You may provide well-woman care, as well as pregnancy and labor care. Job growth for nurse midwives is climbing steadily and is expected to reach 21% between 2016 and 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017).

Doctor of Nursing Practice Salary

While drive and passion may drive your career choice, salary potential is also a deciding factor. To answer the question “How much does a DNP make a year?” you have to compare different career paths open to DNP graduates. Nurse anesthetists report the highest salaries at this level, bringing in an average income of $160,270 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017). The average salary for a nurse practitioner hits the six-digits level, coming in at $100,910 annually (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017). Nurse midwives earn an average of $99,770 per year across the United States (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017).

Home / Getting Your Ph.D. in Nursing

Getting Your Ph.D. in Nursing

Becoming a ph.d. nurse, what does a ph.d. nurse do, ph.d. nurse salary & employment, ph.d. vs. dnp in nursing, helpful organizations, societies, and agencies, what is a ph.d. nurse.

A Ph.D. nurse is one who has completed a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing degree. A Ph.D., or doctoral degree, is the highest level of education a nurse can achieve. Different from a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which focuses on advanced clinical practice, a Ph.D. in Nursing program is a research and science-focused degree that prepares nurses for careers conducting important medical research that will advance the entire nursing profession and for teaching nursing at the college level.

In order to become a Ph.D. nurse, of course, nurses must complete a Ph.D. in nursing program, which generally takes 4 to 6 years to finish. An aspiring Ph.D. nurse must have a strong interest in conducting medical research and/or teaching future nurses. Strong leadership skills are also important, as many Ph.D. nurses go on to supervise and mentor other nurses, whether they work in scientific research, management, or teaching capacity.

What Are the Educational Requirements For a Ph.D. Nurse Program?

A Ph.D. in Nursing program is known as a terminal degree, meaning it is the highest level of education for the nursing profession (in addition to the DNP degree, another separate nursing doctorate program track). Prior to entering a Ph.D. program, nurses must complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. In some cases, applicants to a Ph.D. in Nursing program must also complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, which provides advanced education in nursing practice with courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and clinical practice.

Educational Prerequisites

Specific requirements to complete a Ph.D. in Nursing program will vary slightly from school to school. Schools offer Ph.D. in Nursing programs in traditional classroom formats, as well as online and hybrid styles that combine in-person study with online coursework. In addition to a variety of formats for Ph.D. in Nursing programs, students can also sometimes opt to take these programs on a full-time or part-time basis to suit their personal schedules.

The curriculum for a Ph.D. in Nursing program is research-focused, with coursework in advanced scientific research principles, data analysis, and statistical measurement. Ph.D. programs generally culminate in a dissertation and original research project. As an example of Ph.D. curriculum, below is a selection of courses offered by the Medical University of South Carolina as part of their online Ph.D. in Nursing Science program:

• Advanced Quantitative Research Methods
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Advanced Statistical Methods for Nursing Research
• Advanced Study Design and Methods
• Advanced Health Policy & Advocacy
• Research Team Leadership

A Ph.D. nurse conducts scientific research that advances the nursing profession. The knowledge that Ph.D. nurses gather and present as a part of their scientific research powers positive change in the quality of patient care and outcomes in the entire nursing field. In addition to their role as nurse scientists, Ph.D. nurses also teach and mentor nurses at the college/university level, working to shape the next generation of nurses.

What Are the Roles and Duties of a Ph.D. Nurse?

The majority of Ph.D. nurses pursue careers in either the research or teaching fields, so their day-to-day duties will vary depending on which career track they have chosen.

For a nurse researcher , typical duties may include:

• Identify research questions, and design and conduct scientific research in partnership with other scientists from various fields
• Collect and analyze scientific data and publish reports detailing findings
• Write proposals and apply for grants to help fund their research
• Establish and maintain quality assurance programs to ensure the validity of their data findings
• Train and supervise laboratory staff and other nurses or scientists

For a Ph.D.  nurse educator who has chosen to pursue a faculty position, typical duties may include:

• Plan, prepare, and revise curriculum and study materials for nursing courses
• Deliver lectures to undergraduate and graduate level nursing students
• Supervise students' laboratory and clinical work
• Grade students' classwork, laboratory, and clinical performance
• Mentor and advise students regarding their future work in the nursing industry

For faculty members who pursue department chair or administration roles, additional duties may include:

• Hire, supervise and conduct performance reviews of faculty members
• Assist with the scheduling of classes and professors
• Oversee department curriculum and provide quality control as to the content and materials of given nursing courses

Workplace Settings

A Ph.D. nurse can work in a variety of settings, depending on the career path he or she has chosen. A Ph.D. nurse may find employment at a hospital, medical laboratory, research facility, or university as a research scientist, or may work at a nursing school, college, or university as a faculty member or department chair. In some cases, a Ph.D. nurse may also work as a public health nurse in a government setting, helping to develop research-based solutions to public health issues.

Salaries for Ph.D. nurses vary based on the type of employment a nurse seeks after graduation. Nurse researchers, a primary career path for Ph.D. nurses, can expect a median salary of $90,000 according to Payscale.com. For Ph.D. nurses who pursue a teaching position, the median annual wage for post-secondary nursing instructors is $77,440 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2021. Geographical location, career length, and experience level are all factors that can influence a Ph.D. nurse's annual salary.

The nursing profession as a whole has a particularly bright employment outlook, with the employment of registered nurses projected to grow 9 percent from 2020 to 2030 according to the BLS. In addition, a large number of healthcare facilities are looking for nursing professionals with higher degrees, which means the demand for Ph.D. and DNP level nurses will continue to grow. In fact, the Institute of Medicine 's 2015 "The Future of Nursing Report" emphasized the need for more Ph.D. level nurses.

As there are two doctorate-level nursing program types to choose from, there may be some confusion as to the differences between a Ph.D. nursing program and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The primary difference between the two programs relates to nurses' career aspirations. A DNP program trains nurses to perform the highest level of nursing practice and to translate research into high-quality patient care, while a Ph.D. program prepares nurses to conduct cutting-edge research that will advance the science of nursing and patient care. In addition to research positions, a Ph.D. program prepares nurses for leadership and teaching positions at hospitals and colleges/universities. To simplify, a DNP is a nursing practice doctorate degree, while a Ph.D. is a research and teaching doctorate.

Other key differences between DNP and Ph.D. programs are curriculum and program length. A typical DNP program includes courses on advanced nursing practice, leadership, and management topics and requires patient care clinical hours as well as a final capstone project. A Ph.D. program includes coursework on research methodologies, data analysis, and healthcare leadership and policy, and requires students to complete original research and a dissertation. In general, a Ph.D. program takes longer to complete than a DNP program, with Ph.D. programs taking an average of 4 to 6 years to complete and a DNP program taking 3 to 4 years, but can be completed in as little as 2 years depending on the school and program chosen.

• American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• American Nurses Association
• International Association of Clinical Research Nurses
• National Institute of Nursing Research

PhD Education

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There is no doubt that education is the path for a nurse to achieve greater clinical expertise. At the same time, however, the nursing profession needs more nurses educated at the doctoral level to replenish the supply of faculty and researchers. The national shortage of faculty will soon reach critical proportions, having a significant impact on educational programs and their capacity to educate future generations of nursing students.

Although the number of doctorate programs has continued to increase, the total enrollment of students in these programs has remained fairly constant, resulting in a shortage of newly minted PhDs to renew faculty ranks.  As a result, approximately 50% of nursing faculty possess the doctorate as a terminal degree. Furthermore, with many advances being made in the treatment of chronic illnesses, there is a continuing need for research that assists patients in living with their illness.  This research requires individual investigators who are prepared on the doctoral level.

One reason there is a lack of nurses prepared at the doctoral level is that, compared with other professions, nurses have more interruptions in their careers. Many in the profession are females who work as nurses while fulfilling responsibilities as wives and mothers.  As a result, many pursue their education on a part-time basis. Also, the nursing profession traditionally has viewed clinical experience as being a prerequisite to graduate education. This career path results in fewer individuals completing the doctorate at an earlier stage in their career, thereby truncating their productivity as academics, researchers, and administrators. To reverse this trend, many nursing schools have developed programs that admit students into graduate (doctorate and master's) programs directly from their undergraduate or master's programs.

Nursing Research

When nurses do research for their doctorates, many people tend to think that it focuses primarily on nurses and nursing care. In reality, nurses carry out clinical research in a variety of areas, such as diabetes care, cancer care, and eating disorders. 

In the last thirty years, advances in medicine have involved, for the most part, advancing treatment not cures. In other words, no cure for the illness has been discovered, but treatment for that illness has improved. However, sometimes the treatment itself causes problems for patients, such as the unwelcome side effects of chemotherapy. Nurses have opportunities to devise solutions to problems like these through research, such as studies on how to manage the illness and its treatment, thereby allowing individuals to lead happy and productive lives.

The Curricula

Doctoral programs in nursing are aimed at preparing students for careers in health administration, education, clinical research, and advanced clinical practice. Basically, doctoral programs prepare nurses to be experts within the profession, prepared to assume leadership roles in a variety of academic and clinical settings, course work and research, students are trained as researchers and scholars to tackle complex health-care questions. Program emphasis may vary from a focus on health education to a concentration on policy research. The majority of doctoral programs confer the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, but some award the Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS), and the Doctor of Education (EdD).

Doctoral nursing programs traditionally offer courses on the history and philosophy of nursing and the development and testing of nursing and other healthcare techniques, as well as the social, economic, political, and ethical issues important to the field. Data management and research methodology are also areas of instruction. Students are expected to work individually on research projects and complete a dissertation.

Doctoral programs allow study on a full- or part-time basis. For graduate students who are employed and therefore seek flexibility in their schedules, many programs offer courses on weekends and in the evenings.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for doctoral programs vary. Generally, a master's degree is necessary, but in some schools a master's degree is completed in conjunction with fulfillment of the doctoral degree requirements. Standard requirements include an RN license, Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores, college transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an essay. Students applying for doctoral-level study should have a solid foundation in nursing and an interest in research. Programs are usually the equivalent of three to five years of full-time study.

Selecting a Doctoral Program

Selecting a doctoral program comes down to personal choice. Students work closely with professors, and, thus, the support and mentoring you receive while pursuing your degree is as vital as the quality of the facilities. The most important question is whether there is a "match" between your research interest and faculty research. Many of the same questions you would ask about baccalaureate and master's degree programs apply to doctoral programs. However, in a doctoral program, the contact with professors, the use of research equipment and facilities, and the program's flexibility in allowing you to choose your course of study are critical.

Some questions to consider asking include: Are there opportunities to present research findings at professional meetings? Is scholarship of faculty, alumni, and students presented at regional and national nursing meetings and subsequently published? Has the body of research done at a university enhanced the knowledge of nursing and health care?

Other questions to consider include: Does the university consider research a priority? Does the university have adequate funding for student research? Many nurses with doctorate degrees make the natural transition into an academic career, but there are many other career options available for nurses prepared at this level. For example, nurses prepared at the doctoral level are often hired by large consulting firms to work with others in designing solutions to health-care delivery problems. Others are hired by large hospital chains to manage various divisions, and some nurses with doctorate degrees are hired to manage complex healthcare systems at the executive level. On another front, they conduct research and formulate national and international healthcare policy. In short, because of the high level of education and a shortage of nurses prepared at this level, there are a number of options.

Salaries are related to the various positions.  Faculty salaries vary by the type of institution and by faculty rank, typically ranging from approximately $80,000 at the assistant professor level to over $115,000 at the professor level.  Salaries of nurse executives also vary, with the lowest salaries being in small rural hospitals and the highest being in complex university medical centers. Consultant salaries are wide ranging but often consist of a base plus some percentage of work contracted. Clinical and research positions vary considerably by the type of institution and the nature of the work.  Needless to say, a doctoral education does provide individuals with a wide range of opportunities, with salaries commensurate with the type and level of responsibilities. 

DNP vs. Ph.D. in Nursing: What’s the Difference?

• DNP vs. PH.D. Nursing Compared

Duties and Responsibilities

• Education and Certification

Salary and Career Outlook

• Which Is Best?

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Nurses who have already earned a masters degree and are looking to pursue the next step in their education have two options: doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing.

Both degrees offer nurses a variety of professional opportunities, allowing them to utilize their expertise to benefit the field of nursing.

This guide outlines the differences in earning a DNP vs. a Ph.D. in nursing, and what opportunities lay ahead for graduates of either program. In understanding the roles and responsibilities of each, nurses can determine which degree is right for them.

DNP and Ph.D. in Nursing Key Similarities and Differences

A DNP and Ph.D. are both terminal degrees, meaning they are the highest degree a nurse can earn. Regardless of their choice of program, interested nurses need a bachelor of science (BSN) degree in nursing, an active and unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license, and clinical experience before gaining admittance to either doctorate program.

While a DNP and Ph.D. are both advanced degrees, they prepare nurses for different roles within the nursing field. DNP programs focus on educating nurses who want to pursue leadership roles in a clinical setting. Ph.D. programs provide nurses with an education to pursue academic or research-based positions.

What is a DNP?

A DNP is an advanced degree for nurses who want to become experts in clinical nursing. The degree is an alternative to research-centric doctoral programs, and provides nurses with skills and training to work at an advanced level in the nursing field.

What is a Ph.D. in Nursing?

Earning a Ph.D. in nursing prepares graduates for work either in academia or research settings. Graduates often pursue faculty positions with academic institutions or in a career that involves performing research in a medical laboratory.

Source: Payscale

Popular DNP Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The roles of a nurse with a DNP vs. a Ph.D. in nursing are fundamentally different. The former focuses on clinical work, whereas the latter is geared more toward research and education.

Their duties revolve around those two major areas. As such, DNPs are more likely to work with patients, while Ph.D graduates focus on educating nurses and analyzing medical practices.

What Can You Do With a DNP?

Nurses with a DNP are considered expert clinicians who are prepared for the highest level of nursing practice.

Upon earning the degree, nurses can choose to focus on leadership and administrative roles (e.g., nurse administrator, public health, healthcare policy, informatics) nursing education (e.g.,clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator), or clinical care (e.g.,certified registered nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner).

After earning a DNP, nurses’ responsibilities may include:

• Diagnose and treat patients
• Prescribe medications
• Order various diagnostic tests
• Handle patient complains
• Consult on complex cases
• Implement policy changes

Keep in mind that some DNP programs are for roles (clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator) that will not have authorization to perform some of the above responsibilities.

What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Nursing?

Nurses with a Ph.D. often focus on the areas of education and research. They may design studies and conduct research on clinical practices, nursing education, health systems, and public policy.

People with a Ph.D. in nursing often find employment in academic, business, or governmental settings. Overall, nurses with a Ph.D.can:

• Design, conduct, and publish research
• Develop new nursing knowledge and methods
• Utilize research results to improve nursing outcomes
• Write proposals and apply for grants to fund research
• Mentor and advise students
• Compose curriculum for nursing courses

Education Prerequisites

When looking to earn either a DNP or Ph.D., most programs require applicants to have similar prerequisites. Institutions often look for candidates who have attained an undergraduate degree, are actively able to practice nursing, and can meet certain academic requirements.

How to Earn a DNP

To apply for a DNP degree program, candidates need a BSN or master of science in nursing (MSN) from an accredited institution, a GPA of at least 3.0, and an active nursing license.

Once enrolled, students can choose an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role such as clinical nurse practitioner (CNP), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), certified nurse-midwife (CNM), or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA).

CNPs and CNSs then choose a population focus (i.e., neonatal, pediatrics, womens health, psychiatric-mental health). DNP candidates often focus on a research or capstone project throughout their entire program.

The program can last 2-4 years, and full-time students are able to earn their degree faster than their part-time counterparts. Students participate in courses on informatics, health policy, healthcare delivery systems, evidence-based practice, and project management.

Learners must also complete a total of 1,000 clinical hours, 500 of which can stem from a previous masters program that resulted in national certification. Learners with previous hours may become more common as some programs, like CRNA, transition from MSN to DNP-only.

How to Earn a Ph.D. in Nursing

To get accepted to a Ph.D. program, candidates need a BSN or MSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 to 3.5 minimum GPA, and an active nursing license. Applicants must also provide a CV or resume, professional references, and a personal statement.

The length of a Ph.D. program ranges from 4-6 years depending on the status of the student (full-time vs. part-time). The curriculum revolves around theory, analysis, and statistics, with students taking classes in grant writing, research design, and research methods. Since their work takes place within education and research, Ph.D. candidates are not required to complete clinical hours.

Upon program completion, DNP and Ph.D. graduates may benefit from a higher earning potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a steady need over the next decade for nurses with advanced training.

Ultimately, degree type, specialization, and population focus dictate the average annual salary and the type of demand nurses should anticipate.

$107,000 Average Annual DNP Salary

$99,000 Average Annual Ph.D. in Nursing Salary

DNP in Nursing Salary and Career Outlook

While the average salary of nurses with DNPs is approximately $107,000, their chosen specialization impacts their earning potential and demand. DNP-holders working a CRNAs average $164,340 per year, according to July 2022 Payscale data, while those who work in pediatrics earn $92,030 .

Not only do CRNAs earn the highest average salary, but they are also one of the most in-demand specializations; the BLS projects a job growth rate of 45%, significantly higher than the 9% average for all other professions.

Another main factor that influences DNP earning potential is years of experience. Entry-level nurses earn an average annual salary of approximately $87,000 , according to July 2022 Payscale data. Whereas those with more than 20 years of experience can earn upwards of $187,000 depending upon the specialization.

Ph.D. in Nursing Salary and Career Outlook

Much like nurses with a DNP, the salary of one with a Ph.D. varies based on focus. According to the BLS , nurse educators with a Ph.D. can receive upwards of $125,930 annually.

While all nurses with advanced degrees continue to be in demand, Ph.D. graduates who choose to become educators can especially benefit from this need. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing , nursing schools had to turn away over 80,000 qualified applicants in 2019 due to the shortage of educators.

Many states are looking to provide incentives to nurses who choose to become educators, thereby increasing the benefit of selecting this role.

DNP vs. Ph.D. in Nursing: Which Degree is Right For Me?

Deciding which degree works best depends upon a nurse’s personal and professional goals. The degrees lead nurses down two fairly distinct paths – one clinical and one research-oriented.

DNP and Ph.D. graduates are both in high demand and have above-average earning potential. The degrees differ in time commitment and responsibilities.

Nurses who prefer to work in a clinical capacity either directly with patients or in a nursing leadership role should pursue a DNP. Graduates often find themselves in a variety of clinical settings, such as hospitals, specialty practices, or public health offices.

Learners more interested in preparing future nurses or conducting research that aids in the development of new and effective nursing methods should pursue a Ph.D. Nurse Ph.D. graduates often use their expertise in settings such as colleges and universities, research facilities, medical laboratories, and government agencies.

Related Pages

Why Get a Doctorate in Nursing (DNP)?

Graduating with a doctoral degree in nursing can advance careers, increase salaries, and lead to rewarding jobs. Learn why and how to become a DNP.

Online DNP Programs of 2024

Explore the top online DNP programs. Learn about on-campus requirements, accreditation, cost, and program length while choosing your next career step.

Types of Nursing Degrees and Levels

Learn about the types of nursing degrees available and how to launch your career in this field. Explore in-demand job opportunities and earning potential.

Page last reviewed: May 6, 2022

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DNP vs PhD in Nursing – A Complete Guide to Understanding the Difference Between a DNP and PhD in Nursing

As you move up the ladder in nursing, you’ll be faced with a lot of choices. Should you specialize or keep your options open? Will you pursue advanced practice nursing, or remain an RN? Should you go into management or remain a hands-on clinician?

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Many of those decisions will point you back to school in pursuit of an advanced degree in nursing. Eventually, if you advance far enough and set your sights high enough, you’ll be faced with another choice: pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or PhD in Nursing?

What is the Difference Between DNP and PhD in Nursing Degrees?

There is one big difference that sets these programs apart by design:

• The Doctor of Nursing Practice is a practice-oriented, professional education in nursing
• The PhD in Nursing is an academic and research-oriented study of nursing

That difference between a PhD and DNP translates into the intended role for graduates of each program:

• DNP graduates in various tracks are prepared to become advanced practice registered nurses, clinical leaders, or administrators and executive leaders
• PhD graduates are best equipped for positions in nursing research or to teach nursing skills at the college level

Although these roles are specifically what each degree is designed to prepare you for, they aren’t set in stone. You will still find many DNP graduates teaching or performing advanced research work. You will also find many PhDs in nursing working in clinical practice and licensed in one of the four advanced practice registered nursing (APRN) roles as nurse practitioners, nurse-midwives, nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse leaders.

What is a PhD in Nursing?

The traditional PhD degree, or Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing, takes you through a heavily research-based, academic study of the principles and theory of nursing. The degree programs take between four and six years to complete.

The coursework offered in these programs revolves around research and theories of nursing.

You will find PhD courses to be uniquely student-driven. In fact, much of the coursework will consist of seminar programs in which students are expected to help design their own course of study. The degree plan is shaped by their goals and interests.

PhD programs are considered strong preparation for teaching roles. They often involve taking on some instructional and research assistant roles even during the program.

A nursing PhD, like most doctoral programs, is completed by finishing and defending a doctoral dissertation. These are dense academic papers, detailing original research and thinking, and can take as much as half of your total program time to complete.

What is a DNP?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice degree is a two-to-three-year program that emphasizes advanced practice studies in nursing. Basic coursework has to meet licensing requirements and typically includes:

• Research and statistical skills
• Advanced pharmacology
• Advanced physiology and pathophysiology
• Diagnostics
• Medical procedures and disease and injury management
• Role-specific skills

Even as a practice-focused degree, there are many DNP programs aimed at teaching advanced leadership and executive management skills rather than a specific clinical focus.

Depending on the track you select, the degree can serve as a qualification for licensing to become an APRN. It can also prepare you to advance in an existing APRN role and take on more specialized aspects of patient care and clinical leadership. If your goal is to move out of direct patient care entirely and into administration and executive leadership, you’ll find DNP tracks to help you do that too.

Naturally, DNP programs designed for BSN-prepared RNs that lead to initial APRN licensure and certification would also typically include a patient population focus, such as:

• Family and Individuals across the lifespan
• Adult/Gerontology (either acute or primary care)
• Women’s/gender-related health
• Pediatrics (either acute or primary care)
• Psychiatric/Mental Health

While DNP programs will include some research work, they strongly favor practical applications of nursing principles. For the same reason, while some DNPs can be completed with a doctoral dissertation, they are more likely to have a capstone project completion option. This allows you to spend less time writing up your findings and more time demonstrating real expertise in nursing practice.

You can learn more about both kinds of degrees in our Nursing Doctorate Frequently Asked Questions.

Differences in Admissions Policies You’ll Find in DNP and PhD Programs

Getting into either type of advanced nursing program isn’t easy. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing keeps track of the numbers of graduates from both types of doctoral nursing program.

In 2020, there were only 759 PhD in Nursing graduates, and 9,158 DNP graduates.

Part of the reason for the relatively limited number of graduates is that there are relatively few programs in the United States that offer those degrees as compared to a master’s in nursing. The big push over the past decade to credential more APRNs with a DNP has resulted in just over 350 programs being offered for that degree. Each of those may accommodate a few dozen students. PhD programs are even more rare. There can be stiff competition for those slots, and often stringent admissions requirements.

You’ll find a lot of similarities between DNP and PhD in Nursing degree admissions requirements:

• Minimum of a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) from an accredited nursing program
• An impressive CV with real-world work experience
• A written statement of career goals and essay describing your motivations
• A number of professional references

The differences, however, add up quickly.

Admissions to a DNP program will depend on whether it caters to BSN-prepared RNs, or those who already hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Both entry-points typically require that you to hold an RN before applying. Post-master’s (MSN-to-DNP) degrees usually require that you have a certain number of hours of clinical practice or a current APRN license.

Admissions to a PhD in Nursing program might not even require that you hold a registered nursing license. Your background in academic and scholastic subjects will draw more attention—you’d better have held a GPA between 3.0 and 4.0 if you want a shot at admission. Undergraduate statistical studies are often considered a prerequisite too.

Which Offers the Best Career Opportunities – a DNP or PhD in Nursing?

Although there’s no rule about what kind of nursing or administrative healthcare positions you can pursue with either one of the two doctoral-level nursing degrees, the intended career focus for each is clear:

Does a DNP Sound Like The Right Choice for You? Check Out The Top Twenty MSN to DNP Degree Programs!

If you take a look at the difference between a DNP and PhD in terms of where those career tracks lead, you get a pretty clear picture. If a quiet, academic life or working in a lab or product development settings is for you, a PhD gives you the best shot at getting there… If either the high-stakes world of hands-on treatment or the idea of making facility- and system-impacting decisions at the executive level appeal to you, then a DNP will be the clear choice.

DNP vs PhD Nursing Salary Comparison

Of course, most people make their career choices based on more than just the daily tasks they’ll be performing. You probably also want to know the difference between DNP vs PhD salaries before you choose one or the other.

There’s no hard and fast rule about how to figure out what PhD vs DNP salary levels look like in the real world. After all, even though the programs differ by design and intent, graduates from either program can ultimately qualify for many of the same kinds of jobs.

Because they are generally aimed at different types of positions, though, we can make some educated guesses about DNP vs PhD in Nursing salaries.

The gold standard for this kind of data is the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Although they don’t specifically track salary levels by academic degree, they do collect information for specific job types. So, it’s possible to compare high-level practical nursing positions against nursing jobs in academia and research.

DNP graduates are most likely to fall into the BLS category for Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners. Since they have the most advanced professional degree to qualify for those roles, it’s fair to say they land in the top ten percent of that category. For 2021, that puts the salary for DNP graduates at more than $200,540 per year.

PhD graduates usually pick up jobs in the BLS category for Medical Scientists. In 2021, that makes the average salary for PhD in Nursing graduates more than $95,310 per year. Some, however, will also become educators and college professors. For those individuals, the average salary was $79,640 per year.

DNP or PhD, Which is Right for You?

It’s always worth keeping in mind that there are plenty of similarities between DNP and PhD in Nursing training programs. By choosing one over the other, you are not necessarily limiting yourself to follow only one professional path.

In general, though, you’ll probably find that a PhD is a better fit for you if you enjoy study and research, or have the skills to pass along your knowledge to others as a nurse educator. If you are interested in a role that won’t involve a lot of direct patient contact, and prefer the theoretical study of disease and treatment, then a PhD will be your degree path. On the other hand, you’ll do well in a DNP in nursing program if you enjoy working with people and like the challenge of diagnosing and treating real-world injuries. If you see yourself consulting with other clinicians, ordering lab tests, and poring over patient histories to find and fix what ails people, a DNP is the way to go.

You can expect a long and lucrative career in front of you with either kind of advanced nursing degree. As the most advanced practice-focused option available, though, a DNP is what you want if your career goals include working in direct patient care or higher level administrative leadership and executive roles.

Ready to learn how to become a DNP? Learn more about its benefits, how to obtain a degree, licensure and certifications, and career opportunities.

2021 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures for Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners , Postsecondary Teachers , and Medical Scientists reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed in May 2022.

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Outlook for PhD in Nursing Salary

Research has shown that less than 1% of all nurses in this country hold a doctorate degree, whether that is a Ph.D. or the DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice). However, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has released The Future of Nursing Report, together with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, in which they have set the goal of having twice as many doctoral nurses in the workforce by 2020. To achieve this, they are pushing to have 10% of all newly qualified bachelor’s degree (BSN) registered nurses (RNs) into a master’s degree (MSN) and then Ph.D. or DNP within no more than five years after they graduate.

There is a huge demand for nurses with a doctorate degree, not in the least because there is such a shortage of nurse educators. If the stock of nurse educators is not replenished, there will be no way to educate tomorrow’s nursing workforce either. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) have therefore put out a call to all nurses to commit to furthering their education.

The outlook for Ph.D. in Nursing graduates is incredibly strong. Exactly how strong, however, will vary depending on what they plan to do after graduation. Different positions are available to them, each of which attracts a different salary. As such:

• Nurse Researchers can expect to earn around $95,000 per year. They can also increase this by speaking at events and conferences, consulting, teaching, and writing books.
• Nurse Practitioners, who continue to work directly with patients in a clinical role, can expect to earn around $98,826 per year. They may also be able to prescribe medication.
• Clinical Nurse Specialists, who mainly work in an advisory role for various conditions, can earn as much as $120,000 per year.
• Nurse Anesthetists, working alongside the anesthesiologist in surgeries, can expect to earn around $81,162 per year.
• Nurse Midwives, who help in antenatal and postnatal care, as well as during deliveries, can earn as much as $102,670 per year.
• Nurse Educators, who train tomorrow’s nursing workforce, earn in excess of $111,870 per year.

There are various other factors, besides exact role, that affect the expected salary of a Ph.D. in Nursing graduate, however.

#1 Your Job Location

Once you have completed your DNP or Ph.D., you will be responsible for problem solving in your workplace, as well as educating the rest of the workforce. You can do this in:

• Surgical and general medical hospitals, where you can influence the treatment plans of patients. At the same time, you are likely to conduct research and drive policy so that health care outcomes are improved.
• Public health offices, where you will be responsible for influencing national and local health officials and policy makers, ensuring that they find solutions to health problems that are smart and based on research.
• Research facilities, which are particularly suitable for those with a Ph.D.. In this role, you will generally research the various health and medical issues that today’s people face. You may also try to uncover new solutions and cures for these health problems.
• Independent practice, whereby you will have the flexibility of determining when you work and who you work with. Furthermore, you are the end responsible for the treatment you feel is appropriate for your patients.
• Physicians’ offices, where you can manage other nursing staff and essentially work independently, but without the stresses of starting your own practice.
• Universities, whereby you can teach the next generation of nurses.

Each of these types of jobs attracts different levels of pay. However, it is not uncommon for Ph.D. in Nursing graduates to earn a six figure income, regardless of where they work.

#2 Geographical Location

The geographical location of your work also has a significant impact on how much you can earn. Generally speaking, larger metropolitan areas attract far higher salaries than rural areas. Certain states also traditionally pay more than other states. However, in general, the areas that attract higher salaries also often have a higher cost of living. Hence, you do need to work out whether you will actually be earning more in terms of your disposable income.

Statistics on Doctorate Educated Nurses

A number of pieces of research have been completed on the salaries of nurses, particularly in comparing doctorate degree nurses to MSN nurses. The American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) 2013 Salary and Compensation Study for Nurse Leaders found that:

• Executive leadership nurses can earn between $120,000 and $300,000 per year.
• DNP nurses earn an average of $7,689 per year more than MSN degree holders.

The outlook for Ph.D. in Nursing graduates is incredibly positive, as you can see, so much so in fact, that employers are fighting over each other to attract any nurses who hold this advanced degree because there are so few of them. This puts you in a unique position of being able to negotiate not just on your annual salary, but also your other benefits. These include things such as retirement plans, medical and life insurance, childcare support, paid vacation, bonuses, commissions, and more. While it is certainly true that obtaining a Ph.D. in Nursing takes a significant investment of both time and money, most would agree that it is an investment worth making.

• Nursing Faculty Shortage. (2015, Mar. 16) Retrieved from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/nursing-faculty-shortage
• The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://nursinglink.monster.com/benefits/articles/126-the-future-of-nursing-leading-change-advancing-health
• What Is the Average Salary with a DNP Degree? (n.d.) Retrieved from http://nursejournal.org/dnp-programs/what-is-the-average-salary-with-a-dnp-degree/
• The Voice of Nursing Leadership – Salary and Compensation Study for Nurse Leaders – 2013 Edition.(n.d.) Retrieved from http://www.aone.org/resources/nurse-leaders-compensation-summary.pdf
• Career Outlook: DNP. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://www.stfrancis.edu/academics/college-of-nursing/dnp/career-outlook/
• DNP Fact Sheet. (2016, Apr.) Retrieved from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/dnp
• IOM Future of Nursing Report. (2010, Oct.) Retrieved from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/media-relations/fact-sheets/dnp

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Professor - Nursing Salary in the United States

Professor - nursing salary.

How much does a Professor - Nursing make in the United States? The average Professor - Nursing salary in the United States is $104,812 as of March 26, 2024, but the range typically falls between $84,429 and $153,751 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education , certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. 

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Job Description for Professor - Nursing

Professor - Nursing teaches courses in the discipline area of nursing. Develops and designs curriculum plans to foster student learning, stimulate class discussions, and ensures student engagement. Being a Professor - Nursing provides tutoring and academic counseling to students, maintains classes related records, and assesses student coursework. Collaborates and supports colleagues regarding research interests and co-curricular activities. Additionally, Professor - Nursing typically reports to a department head. Requires a PhD or terminal degree appropriate to the field. Has considerable experience and is qualified to teach at undergraduate and graduate levels and initiates research and case studies in field of interest and may publish findings in trade journals or textbooks. Provides intellectual leadership and has made significant contributions to the field. May offer independent study opportunities and mentoring to students. Typically this individual is a leader in the field and has been published. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)... View full job description

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• Director of Nursing Sheldon Meadows Assisted Living Center - Hudsonville, MI Licensed Practical Nurse Manager. 68,000.00- 70,000.00. We are looking for a compassionate LPN to join our growing team. We are a family-owned company. The... - 29 Days Ago
• Director of Nursing Holladay Park Plaza - Portland, OR Overview. Director of Nursing - Registered Nurse (RN). Pay: From $118,000 / year DOE. Holladay Park Plaza is seeking an organized and compassionate leader.... - 4 Months Ago
• ADON - Assistant Director of Nursing St. Vincent Rehabilitation & Nursing Cen - Berlin, NH Description. St. Vincent de Paul Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, in Berlin, NH, is an 74-bed skilled nursing facility offering short and long-term care ... - 1 Month Ago
• Registered Nurse - Marwood Nursing and Rehab Marwood Nursing and Rehab - Port Huron, MI Department*: Marwood Nursing & Rehabilitation. Daily Work Times:* 7:00pm – 7:30a. Scheduled Bi-Weekly Hours:* 72. Outstanding benefits: Medical, Dental, Vi... - 1 Month Ago

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Professor - Nursing Pay Difference by Location

Professor - Nursing salary varies from city to city. Compared with national average salary of Professor - Nursing, the highest Professor - Nursing salary is in San Francisco, CA, where the Professor - Nursing salary is 25.0% above. The lowest Professor - Nursing salary is in Miami, FL, where the Professor - Nursing salary is 3.5% lower than national average salary.

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Nurse Salaries By State + the Highest Paying States For RNs

Wondering where you can make the most money as a nurse in 2024? Turns out, the average registered nurse salary varies widely from state to state. The latest data from the  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the difference between the highest and lowest RN salaries is nearly $100,000 in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Read on to find out the highest paying states for registered nurses and check out the average RN salary by state.

In This Article

Average registered nurse salary in the united states.

• Average RN Salary by State Table
• Factors That Impact Registered Nurse Salary
• Other Considerations
• RN Salary FAQs

Many factors impact how much registered nurses make in each state. But how do they stack up against one another? We pulled the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data to rank all 50 states, Wahington D.C., and Puerto Rico registered nurse salaries to see where you can make the most as an RN.

52.  Puerto Rico

Average RN Salary: $37,360

Average  Hourly: $17.96

Number of RNs in Puerto Rico : 21,270

51.  South Dakota

Average RN Salary: $64,500

Average  Hourly: $31.01

Number of RNs in South Dakota: 14,360

50.   Arkansas

Average RN Salary: $66,530

Average Hourly: $31.98

Number of RNs in Arkansas: 28,490

49.  Alabama

Average RN Salary: $66,910

Average  Hourly: $32.17

Number of RNs in Alabama: 49,370

48.   Mississippi

Average RN Salary: $67,930

Average  Hourly: $32.66

Number of RNs in Mississippi:  29,370

Average RN Salary: $69,370

Average Hourly: $33.35

Number of RNs in Iowa: 34,050

46.   Missouri

Average RN Salary: $71,860

Average Hourly: $34.55

Number of RNs in Missouri: 70,440

45.  Kansas  

Average RN Salary: $71,990

Average  Hourly: $34.61

Number of RNs in Kansas: 30,520

44.  West Virginia

Average RN Salary: $72,230

Average  Hourly: $34.73

Number of RNs in West Virginia: 21,110

43.   Tennessee

Average RN Salary: $72,480

Average  Hourly: $34.85

Number of RNs in Tennessee: 60,840

42.   Nebraska

Average RN Salary: $73,510

Average Hourly: $35.34

Number of RNs in Nebraska: 19,870

>> Show Me Online Nursing Programs

41.   South Carolina

Average RN Salary: $74,330

Average Hourly: $35.74

Number of RNs in South Carolina: 44,030

40.  North Dakota

Average RN Salary: $75,000

Average Hourly: $36.06

Number of RNs in North Dakota: 11,300

39.   Indiana

Average RN Salary: $75,580

Average  Hourly: $36.34

Number of RNs in Indiana: 67,350

38.   Louisiana

Average RN Salary: $75,920

Average Hourly: $36.50

Number of RNs in Louisiana: 43,790

Average RN Salary: $76,400

Average Hourly: $36.73

Number of RNs in Utah: 22,830

36.   Oklahoma

Average RN Salary: $76,920

Average Hourly: $36.98

Number of RNs in Oklahoma:  30,320

35.   Maine

Average RN Salary: $77,410

Average Hourly: $37.22

Number of RNs in Maine: 14,610

34.   North Carolina

Average RN Salary: $77,420

Number of RNs in North Carolina: 104,300

33.  Kentucky

Average  RN Salary: $77,620

Average  Hourly: $37.32

Number of RNs in Kentucky: 44,970

32.  Montana

Average RN Salary: $78,350

Average Hourly: $37.67

Number of RNs in Montana: 10,020

Average RN Salary: $78,450

Average Hourly: $37.72

Number of RNs in Ohio: 130,370

30.   Idaho

Average RN Salary: $78,610

Average Hourly: $37.79

Number of RNs in Idaho: 13,680

29.   Florida

Average RN Salary: $79,910

Average Hourly: $38.42

Number of RNs in Florida: 197,630

28.   Vermont

Average RN Salary: $79,990

Average Hourly: $38.46

Number of RNs in Vermont: 6,930

27.   Pennsylvania

Average RN Salary: $80,630

Average Hourly: $38.76

Number of RNs in Pennsylvania: 137,970

26.   Michigan

Average RN Salary: $80,660

Average Hourly: $38.78

Number of RNs in Michigan: 101,470

  >> Show Me Online Nursing Programs

25.   Wisconsin

Average RN Salary: $81,000

Average Hourly: $38.94

Number of RNs in Wisconsin: 61,100

24.  Wyoming

Average RN Salary: $81,010

Average Hourly: $38.95

Number of RNs in Wyoming: 5,070

23.   Virginia

Average RN Salary: $81,860

Average Hourly: $39.36

Number of RNs in Virginia: 69,510

22.   Illinois

Average RN Salary: $82,220

Average Hourly: $39.53

Number of RNs in Illinois: 129,390

21.   New Hampshire

Average RN Salary: $83,420

Average Hourly: $40.11

Number of RNs in New Hampshire: 13,510

20.   Texas

Average RN Salary: $84,320

Average Hourly: $40.54

Number of RNs in Texas: 231,060

>> Related:  Registered Nurse Salary in Texas

19.  Delaware

Average RN Salary: $85,020

Average Hourly: $40.88

Number of RNs in Delaware: 11,490

18.   Georgia

Average RN Salary: $85,180

Average Hourly: $40.95

Number of RNs in Georgia: 82,970

17.   New Mexico

Average RN Salary: $85,580

Average Hourly: $41.15

Number of RNs in New Mexico: 15,910

16.   Colorado

Average RN Salary: $86,590

Average Hourly: $41.63

Number of RNs in Colorado: 52,390

15.   Arizona

Average RN Salary: $86,740

Average Hourly: $41.70

Number of RNs in Arizona: 56,040

14.   Maryland

Average RN Salary: $87,990

Average Hourly: $42.30

Number of RNs in Maryland: 49,790

13.  Rhode Island

Average RN Salary: $88,250

Average Hourly: $42.43

Number of RNs in Rhode Island: 11,190

12.   Minnesota

Average RN Salary: $88,860

Average Hourly: $42.72

Number of RNs in Minnesota: 63,800

11.   Connecticut

Average RN Salary: $94,260

Average Hourly: $45.32

Number of RNs in Connecticut: 34,290

10.   Nevada

Average RN Salary: $96,310

Average Hourly: $46.30

Number of RNs in Nevada: 23,970

9.   New Jersey

Average RN Salary: $96,670

Average Hourly: $46.48

Number of RNs in New Jersey: 78,340

8.  District of Columbia

Average RN Salary: $98,230

Average Hourly: $47.23

Number of RNs in DC: 11,820

7.   New York

Average RN Salary: $100,130

Average Hourly: $48.14

Number of RNs in New York: 190,470

6.   Washington

Average RN Salary: $101,670

Average Hourly: $48.88

Number of RNs in Washington: 64,920

5.   Alaska

Average RN Salary: $103,310

Average Hourly: $49.67

Number of RNs in Alaska: 6,730

4.  Massachusetts

Average RN Salary: $104,150

Average Hourly: $50.07

Number of RNs in Massachusetts: 94,100

3.   Oregon

Average RN Salary: $106,610

Average Hourly: $51.26

Number of RNs in Oregon: 37,400

2.   Hawaii  

Average RN Salary: $113,220

Average Hourly: $54.43

Number of RNs in Hawaii: 11,800

1.  California

Average RN Salary: $133,340

Average Hourly: $64.10

Number of RNs in California: 325,620

*Extracted From BLS July 13, 2023

How Much Do Registered Nurses Make in Each State?

Here is a table of the average registered nurse salary in all 50 states, Washington DC, and Puerto Rico:

Registered Nurse Salary Factors

The salaries by state listed above represent an average across all types of nurses. So, depending on your specialty, place of work, level of experience, degree, and many other factors, you'll see some variances in how much you can expect to earn. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind that can impact how much you make:

1. Types of Nurses

Salaries will vary widely depending on your specialty and the nursing job you work in. 

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) like nurse practitioners , nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives can all expect to earn higher salaries than a nurse without a graduate degree. 

How you work also plays a big role in the annual salary you can expect to earn. Travel nurses and per diem nurses, for example, tend to earn far more than their traditional nurse counterparts.

2. Years of Experience

Registered nurses, at the start of their careers, will usually make less than nurses with more years of experience under their belts. As you improve your skills and progress in your career, you can expect to see your wages improve as well.

3. Degree Type

Nurses will typically see salary increases when they further their education. Nurses who have earned their Bachelor's degree (BSN) tend to earn more than nurses who have only earned their Associate's degree in Nursing (ADN). While a master's in nursing or a doctorate degree will usually earn nurses even higher salaries.

Other RN Salary Considerations 

As a nurse, your salary shouldn't be the only thing you consider when deciding what field to go into or what job to take. 

How far that salary will go will greatly depend on the cost of living in the area. Some of the highest-paying states also cost a lot to live in, meaning that 6 figure salary isn't going to go nearly as far as it would in a less expensive area. Your registered nurse salary in California might get you a comparable standard of living to a lower salary in Iowa.

You'll also want to look at things like the job benefits, the hours, what the work-life balance will be, and what their training and education policies are like. Don't overlook your quality of life!

Registered Nurse Salary FAQs

What are the highest-paying jobs in the medical field .

• Some of the highest-paying jobs in healthcare, other than physicians, are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), which include Certified Nurse Midwives, Nurse Practitioners (NPs), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). 

What is the happiest career in the medical field?

• U.S. News ranked Nurse Practitioners (NPs) as the best job in healthcare in 2022.

What is the easiest medical field job?

• It really depends on what you define as “easy.” If you’re looking for a job that doesn’t require hands-on care and pays well, informatics, technology, or biomedical engineering may all be good choices.

What is the least stressful job in the medical field?

• Audiologists—who diagnose problems with the ears—have a reputation for having the lowest amount of stress in the medical field.

The Takeaway

There are a lot of things at play in the nursing salaries you can expect to earn. And even if you practice in a state with a lower RN salary average, there are always ways to increase your salary and reach your career goals. As you're planning out your career path, don't forget to keep all these factors in mind to set yourself up for success!

Find Nursing Programs

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

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• 25 April 2024

NIH pay rise for postdocs and PhD students could have US ripple effect

• Amanda Heidt 0

Amanda Heidt is a freelance journalist in southeastern Utah.

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Academic workers on a picket line at the University of California, Los Angeles. Credit: Gary Coronado/Los Angeles Times via Getty

Amid a reckoning over poor job prospects and stagnating wages for early-career scientists, the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) said this week that it will raise the salaries of thousands of postdoctoral researchers and graduate students who receive a prestigious NIH research fellowship. The move could boost pay for other scientists as well, because academic institutions often follow guidelines set by the NIH.

Beginning immediately, postdocs who hold one of the agency’s Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Awards (NRSAs) will earn at least US$61,008 per year — an 8% increase and the largest year-over-year increase the NIH has implemented since 2017. Postdocs’ salaries, which are adjusted for years of experience, are capped at $74,088 per year. Graduate students’ yearly salaries will rise by $1,000, amounting to an annual salary of $28,224. The agency will also provide an extra $500 in subsidies for childcare and $200 for training-related expenses.

“This is a major step in the right direction and something that the majority will agree is widely needed to retain talent in the biomedical and academic research sectors,” says Francisca Acosta, a biomedical engineer and postdoc at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, who is herself funded through an NRSA.

Postdoc shortage

In 2022, the agency assembled a working group to advise it on how best to retain and cultivate postdoctoral talent , after reports that principal investigators were struggling to fill vacant postdoc positions . In December last year, the panel recommended a minimum salary of $70,000 for postdocs.

The NIH agreed that a salary increase is indeed needed for the more than 17,000 trainees covered by the NRSAs. But in its announcement, the agency acknowledged that the pay rise it has implemented falls short of the council’s recommendation. It cited its tight budget in recent years as a reason.

Canadian science gets biggest boost to PhD and postdoc pay in 20 years

It added that “pending the availability of funds through future appropriations”, the agency would increase salaries to meet the recommended $70,000 target in the next three to five years.

The agency also suggested that NIH-funded institutions could supplement salaries in other ways. That presents a challenge, according to Sharona Gordon, a biophysicist at the University of Washington in Seattle, given that the NIH’s modular R01 grants — one of the main NIH research awards with which principal investigators fund their labs — have remained at $250,000 per year since they were introduced in 1998. Such grants cannot be used to supplement salaries, meaning that lab heads have to pull money from other sources to increase trainees’ pay.

Even scientists who approve of the NIH’s move say it could have unintended consequences. “For institutions such as ours, which mandate that the postdoc minimum salary be set to the NIH minimum, there are some concerns that this increase in personnel costs could be a barrier for labs based on funding levels,” Acosta says.

For some, the five-year timeline for the increase feels insufficient. Haroon Popal, a cognitive-science postdoc at the University of Maryland in College Park whose work is funded by the NIH, says that although he understands the pressures on the agency, the new salary will not be enough to support him as he assumes multiple caring responsibilities. Even with the boost, postdoc salaries in academia fall far short of what researchers could make in government, industry or non-profit positions.

“This is an issue of diversity and equity for me,” he says. “The new postdoc salary is not allowing people like me to be in academia, which is counter to the NIH’s, institutions’ and our scientific community’s goals of increased diversity.”

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-01242-x

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