Clinical Nurse Specialists
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Direct nursing staff in the provision of patient care in a clinical practice setting, such as a hospital, hospice, clinic, or home. Ensure adherence to established clinical policies, protocols, regulations, and standards.
Median pay: $97,550/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +4.9% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 189,100 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Provide specialized direct and indirect care to inpatients and outpatients within a designated specialty, such as obstetrics, neurology, oncology, or neonatal care.
• Collaborate with other health care professionals and service providers to ensure optimal patient care.
• Read current literature, talk with colleagues, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in nursing.
• Develop, implement, or evaluate standards of nursing practice in specialty area, such as pediatrics, acute care, and geriatrics.
• Maintain departmental policies, procedures, objectives, or infection control standards.
• Instruct nursing staff in areas such as the assessment, development, implementation, and evaluation of disability, illness, management, technology, or resources.
• Develop and maintain departmental policies, procedures, objectives, or patient care standards, based on evidence-based practice guidelines or expert opinion.
• Evaluate the quality and effectiveness of nursing practice or organizational systems.
What's the median pay for Clinical Nurse Specialists?
The median pay for Clinical Nurse Specialists is $97,550 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Clinical Nurse Specialists?
Employment for Clinical Nurse Specialists is projected to change +4.9% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Clinical Nurse Specialists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Clinical Nurse Specialists?
About 189,100 openings per year, on average, over the decade.