Charge Nurse

Healthcare systems depend on effective leadership at every level to deliver safe, coordinated, and patient-centered care. Among the most vital of these leaders are charge nurses: registered nurses who serve as the point of contact for a unit’s clinical operations. Unlike nurse managers, who primarily handle administrative responsibilities, charge nurses combine direct patient care with leadership duties. They oversee staffing assignments, monitor patient flow, mentor less experienced nurses, and ensure that quality standards are consistently met.

Charge nurses are typically appointed from experienced registered nurses who demonstrate strong clinical judgment, communication skills, and leadership potential. While an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) remains the minimum requirement for RN licensure, most charge nurses today hold at least a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Some pursue advanced education, such as a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) with a focus on clinical leadership, in order to strengthen their qualifications and expand career opportunities. After completing this advanced degree, nurses can sit for the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certification through the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC). 

Demand for all nurses is currently high, with an estimated 6 percent growth in jobs in this field between 2023 and 2033. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2025), this translates into 197,200 new jobs. The median annual wage of all registered nurses is $93,600; charge nurses, who have increased workload, accountability, and leadership, may be recognized with a higher wage than staff RNs. 

To learn more about how to become a charge nurse, read on.

All charge nurses must complete a general nursing education program. This can be an associate’s degree in nursing or a bachelor’s of science in nursing. While it is possible to become a charge nurse with just an associate’s degree, most employers require at least a bachelor’s. 

To obtain a clinical nurse leadership certification, charge nurses must complete graduate-level education. Typically this is a master’s of science in nursing (MSN) in clinical nurse leadership.

Charge nurses can work in any specialization, including pediatrics, gerontology, oncology, obstetrics, and hospice. Charge nurses can choose to specialize by either completing an additional education or simply gaining on-the-job work experience in their chosen field.

Nursing program admission requirements for undergraduate programs will vary based on the level of degree pursued and previous education completed. The most common requirements include prerequisite coursework in biology, anatomy, physiology, and math. Some programs may also have a minimum GPA requirement. The most competitive programs may require letters of recommendation, previous work experience, and a compelling statement of purpose.

MSN programs with an emphasis in clinical nursing leadership will have additional requirements. Most of these programs require that candidates already be licensed registered nurses. Other requirements can include a minimum number of years of work experience and demonstrated leadership skills.

Accreditation is the process by which nursing programs demonstrate that they meet nationally recognized standards for curriculum, faculty, student outcomes, and institutional resources. While technically voluntary, accreditation is essential: most state boards of nursing, graduate schools, and employers require that candidates graduate from an accredited program to qualify for licensure and future advancement. In the United States, nursing programs are accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Charge nurses are typically appointed based on their RN licensure, experience, and leadership ability, rather than completion of a specialized charge nurse program. However, nurses who wish to expand their leadership credentials may pursue graduate-level education such as a master of science in nursing (MSN) in clinical nurse leadership. Those seeking the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certification, awarded by the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC), must complete a CNL-eligible program recognized by the CNC.

Moravian University

The master’s of science in nursing at Moravian University offers several concentration options, including one in clinical nurse leadership. This degree combines generalist nursing education with leadership classes to help students step into charge nurse or other senior hospital roles. This is a 35-credit program that consists of 21 general core classes and 14 credits of specialty courses. In addition to classroom work, students will complete 400 clinical hours in a clinical nurse leader role.  

There are several paths to admission to this program. All applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Those who have completed their BSN at Moravian may apply for direct admission so long as they have at least a 3.0 GPA and a recommendation from a faculty member. Candidates who have graduated from other institutions must complete the competitive admission process that includes a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a minimum GPA. 

• Location: Bethlehem, PA 
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Columbia University – School of Nursing

Columbia University School of Nursing offers a master’s of science in advanced clinical management and leadership (ACML). This school has a long history of graduating outstanding nurses, and this program is no exception. Students in this program are prepared to step into various nurse leadership roles, including that of a charge nurse. 

Topics covered include patient care based on the latest scientific investigations, how to lead care teams, strategies for quality patient care, and how to use new technologies to care for patients. This is an interdisciplinary program that must be completed over five semesters of part-time study.

To be eligible for admission to this program, candidates must be currently employed at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing, and hold an unencumbered New York State RN license.

• Location: Portland, OR 
• Duration: Five semesters of part-time study
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Dominican University – Elizabeth T. MacNeil School of Nursing

High-tech simulation labs, experienced faculty, and rigorous curriculum are just some of the highlights of the bachelor’s of science in nursing program at Dominican University Elizabeth T. McNeil School of Nursing. This is a traditional four-year program, although they do accept transfer students to begin their studies during their junior year. This program emphasizes accountability, close collaboration between faculty and students, and clinical experiences to gain hands-on experience. 

The first two years of this program are general education coursework, while the last two years include the general nursing core and a senior seminar. For nurses looking to get into leadership, there is a nursing leadership dimensions class during the senior year of this program.

• Location: River Forest, IL 
• Duration: Four years
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Duke University – School of Nursing

Students who have already completed an undergraduate degree and the required prerequisites can apply for the accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (ABSN) at Duke University School of Nursing. This 16-month program consists of 58 credit hours and 800 hours of clinical experience to prepare aspiring nurses to deliver high-quality care to patients and families. Ambitious students can also earn up to nine credits toward a future master’s of science in nursing degree.

One of the highlights of this program is the ability to work with diverse populations in Durham County, North Carolina, or through two-week abroad emergent experiences. Students will be able to work with refugees, immigrants, Latinos, and various vulnerable populations such as the unhoused or the elderly.

• Location: Durham, NC 
• Duration: 16 months
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

The Ohio State University – College of Nursing 

The clinical nurse leader track for the master’s of science in nursing at the Ohio State University College of Nursing prepares graduates for work as advanced generalists overseeing care coordination and putting evidence-based practice into action. 

Most students complete this in a full-time format that takes two years, but there is a part-time option that can be completed in three years. Key skills taught in this program include how to evaluate patients, work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and interface with interdisciplinary teams.

Required classes include an introduction to professional nursing, health assessment, nursing care for adults, and pathophysiology of altered health states. This program offers both a traditional master of science for students who already have a bachelor’s degree and a graduate-entry master’s of science for students who have not completed a bachelor’s of nursing degree but have a bachelor’s in another field. 

• Location: Columbus, OH
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Oakland University – School of Nursing

In just 18 months of full-time study, nurses can complete an online master’s of science in nursing clinical nurse leadership at Oakland University School of Nursing. Students in this program will not only learn how to provide quality advanced patient care but also about care coordination, measuring outcomes, and interpersonal communication. Graduates of this program work in all types of facilities, including hospitals, outpatient centers, private clinics, hospices, and even long-term care. 

In total, students must complete 36 credits of classes to earn this degree. Required classes include advanced pathophysiology for health and illness across the lifespan, pharmacology, the clinical nurse leader role, and population-focused nursing care. 

• Location: Rochester, MI 
• Duration: 18 months 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Western Governors University

In as little as two years, students can complete their online master’s of science in nursing leadership and management at Western Governors University. Graduates of this program are prepared to take on managerial roles in nursing and be effective leaders to bring about change to provide the highest level of patient care. 

To help students stand out in this field, all students will have the opportunity to earn the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ) HQ Principles certificate as part of their degree program. They will also earn the NAHQ Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality Certification. These resume boosters are included in the cost of tuition.

Western Governors University is a competency-based model emphasizing skills and mastery over time and testing. Students will complete coursework and assessments until Mastery is demonstrated, and then they can move on to an additional course. Depending on a student’s ability, this can mean the courses can be completed relatively quickly. 

Tuition is charged on a six-month basis for however many courses can be completed during that time. This can translate into significant savings for students who can complete a significant amount of coursework in a short period of time. 

• Location: Millcreek, UT
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Wright State University – School of Nursing, Kinesiology, and Health Sciences 

The master’s of science in nursing, administration of nursing, and healthcare systems concentration at Wright State University School of Nursing, Kinesiology, and Health Sciences is an online program that prepares nursing professionals to step into leadership roles. This interdisciplinary degree combines human resources, finances, management, healthcare informatics, statistics, and data analytics to provide a well-rounded curriculum. 

In total, students must earn 39 credits to complete this degree. If a student already holds a master’s degree, then only 22 credits are required. There are three start times each year in the spring, summer, and fall which allows for a great degree of flexibility. To apply, students must complete a graduate school application and submit official transcripts along with a current resume, statement of professional goals, and two letters of recommendation.

• Location: Dayton, OH
• Duration: 18 months
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Central Methodist University

Nurses to complete the Masters of Science in nursing at Central Methodist University are prepared to step into a professional leadership role in various clinical settings. Through this program, students will gain the skills and knowledge needed to provide ethical leadership and quality patient care. Students will gain both advanced nursing and clinical leadership skills To help them become well-rounded professionals who can step into a clinical nurse leader role.

To be considered for admission to this program, students must complete a bachelor’s of science in nursing from an accredited program, have an unencumbered RN license, have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, and complete prerequisite coursework. Students must submit a resume and cover letter along with two letters of recommendation and a written paper demonstrating a high level of grammar, spelling, and composition right now I am.

• Location: Fayette, MO
• Duration: 18 months
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Aspiring charge nurses must first complete a nursing education program, which can take between two and four years. After completing the nursing program, it is then necessary to gain sufficient work experience to enter this career. Typically, this is anywhere between two and five years of full-time work before candidates are ready to apply for a charge nurse position.

Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED (Four Years)

The first step to becoming a charge nurse is to graduate from high school or earn a GED. This step is required by most nursing programs and demonstrates a dedication to completing an educational program. Aspiring nurses should focus on classes such as psychology, math, biology, and chemistry

Step 2: Complete a Nursing Program (Eighteen Months to Four Years)

Completing the nursing program is essential to becoming a charge nurse. These programs can vary in length depending on the level of degree pursued. Students can complete an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN). These programs include general education nursing classes as well as hands-on clinical experiences.

Step 3: Pass NCLEX-RN (Timelines Vary)

The National Council licensure examination for registered nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a nationwide exam that is required for licensure in the United States. This test is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and demonstrates a candidate’s competence in nursing. 

Step 4: Apply for State Licensure (Timelines Varies)

All charge nurses must be licensed registered nurses in the state where they practice. Licensing requirements vary by state, so candidates should check with their local licensing board to ensure they have the necessary qualifications. More information is found in the certification and licensure section below.

Step 5: Complete Additional Education and Gain Work Experience (Three to Five Years)

Charge nurses typically have at least two to five years of work experience as registered nurses before they are ready to step into this leadership role. While additional education is not required, a master’s of science in nursing with an emphasis on clinical nursing leadership is highly recommended and sought after by many employers. 

Aspiring charge nurses should volunteer for leadership opportunities in their current job to demonstrate that they have the skills to assume a future charge nurse role.

Step 6: Apply for Work as a Charge Nurse (Timelines Vary)

Once the required education and work experience have been completed, registered nurses are ready to apply for a charge nurse job. Requirements for the job will vary based on the employer. Often, charge nurses will move into their first leadership role at their current place of employment.

Charge nurses are found everywhere that nurses work. This can include hospitals, private practices, outpatient centers, government agencies, and community clinics. While the day-to-day responsibilities will vary based on the place of employment, typical duties will include:

• Overseeing patient care
• Monitoring and assessing individual patients
• Coordinating staffing and assigning tasks
• Delegating tasks to other nurses
• Reporting on patient’s condition to other medical professionals
• Supervising admissions and discharges to ensure they happen smoothly
• Communicating care plans to patients and families

To practice as a charge nurse, candidates must secure licensing from their state’s nursing regulatory body. Licensing requirements will vary by state but typically include: 

• Passing that NCLEX-RN exam 
• Completing a nurse education program
• Passing a background check
• Having a clean drug screening

Charge nurses can work in various fields, and each specialty has its own voluntary certification process that they can complete. In fact, there are over 180 Specialties that can include everything from gerontology to pediatrics, obstetrics, emergency medicine, psychiatry, and more.

In addition to specialization certification, charge nurses can earn a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certification through the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC). This certification demonstrates a nurse’s leadership qualifications based on the standards set forth by the CNC. To be able to take this exam, candidates must have completed an eligible CNL program. Topics covered include:

• Nursing leadership
• Clinical outcomes management
• Care environment management
• Nursing leadership 
• Healthcare advocacy
• Implementation of the CNL role
• Patient assessment
• Ethics
• Illness and disease management
• Health promotion and disease prevention
• Healthcare policy
• Interprofessional communication
• Team coordination
• Quality improvement and safety
• Evidence-based practices
• Healthcare finance and economics
• Healthcare informatics

The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not differentiate nurse salaries based on specialization. The 3,282,010 registered nurses in the US earn $98,430 per year on average (BLS May 2024)—the latest data available as of September 2025. The percentiles for wages are:

• 10th percentile: $66,030
• 25th percentile: $78,610
• 50th  percentile (median): $93,600
• 75th percentile: $107,960
• 90th percentile: $135,320

Here are some alternatives to a career as a charge nurse: 

Become a Nurse Case Manager

Nurse case managers help patients with complex medical needs navigate the healthcare system. These registered nurses have excellent interpersonal skills and advocate for their clients’ needs, including helping schedule appointments, ensuring follow-up care is completed, and educating patients and families about conditions and treatments.

• Typical Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), American Case Management Association (ACMA), and the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC)

Become an Athletic Trainer

Athletic trainers help professional athletes with training to help identify, prevent, and rehabilitate athletic injuries. They have completed some education in athletic training and often work for professional sports teams, high school or college athletics, hospitals, or physical therapy clinics.

• Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC)

Become a Health Unit Coordinator

Hospital stays require a significant amount of coordination. Health unit coordinators work in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient centers to ensure that a patient has a seamless day. They can be responsible for everything from preparing a hospital room, to ordering supplies and coordinating medical procedures. 

• Typical Education: Certificate or diploma
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: National Association of Health Unit Coordinators

Kimmy Gustafson

Writer

At HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.

Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.

Matt Zbrog

Writer

Matt Zbrog is a writer and researcher from Southern California. Since 2018, he’s written extensively about trends within the healthcare workforce, with a particular focus on the power of interdisciplinary teams. He’s also covered the crises faced by healthcare professionals working at assisted living and long-term care facilities, both in light of the Covid-19 pandemic and the demographic shift brought on by the aging of the Baby Boomers. His work has included detailed interviews and consultations with leaders and subject matter experts from the American Nurses Association (ASCA), the American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA), and the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA).