SORTING THE TITLES
REGISTERED NURSE
Degree: Bachelor of science or professional master's
Work focus: Hospital nursing, public health nursing
Annual salary (full time): $66,500
NURSE PRACTITIONER
Degree: Master of science
Work focus: Can prescribe drugs and treatments
Annual salary (full time): $86,000
DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE
Degree: Doctorate
Work focus: Leadership roles in health organizations, clinical research, improving systems
Annual salary: Yet to be determined by the market
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; NP Central