“A good clinical nurse leader has all the qualities of a good nurse: a commitment to patient advocacy, compassion, empathy, evidence-based practice, and lifelong learning.”
Sharon R. Bragg, DNP, Assistant Professor and CNL Specialty Lead, University of Virginia School of Nursing
A clinical nurse leader (CNL) is a master’s-prepared registered nurse (RN) who integrates advanced clinical knowledge with leadership skills to improve patient, unit, and health system-wide outcomes. Developed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) in the early 2000s, the CNL role was created to address critical issues in healthcare, such as fragmented care delivery, patient safety, and quality improvement. Today, CNLs function as leaders at the point of care, focusing on areas such as care coordination, outcomes measurement, transitions of care, risk assessment, interprofessional communication, and the implementation of evidence-based practices.
To become a certified CNL, nurses must first hold an active RN license. But to enter a Clinical Nurse Leader master’s program, an applicant does not necessarily need to be an RN. Most enrollees of CNL programs come from non-nursing fields and have at least a bachelor’s degree, but are ready to become nurses on a fast track. Programs are available in online and on-campus formats and typically require 18 to 24 months of full-time study, though shorter pathways exist for post-master’s candidates.
While curricula vary by institution, CNL programs usually include coursework in advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, informatics, epidemiology, quality improvement, health systems leadership, and research translation. Students also complete extensive clinical immersion hours and a capstone quality improvement project. These experiences prepare CNLs to serve as authoritative resources in evidence-based practice for their healthcare teams.
Upon graduation, candidates are eligible to sit for the Clinical Nurse Leader Certification Exam, administered by the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC). This credential formally recognizes their advanced preparation as clinical leaders.
Keep reading to learn more about becoming a clinical nurse leader, including admission requirements, accreditation, certification, and job responsibilities, along with leading online and in-person program options.
Meet the Expert: Sharon R Bragg, DNP, RN, CCRN
Dr. Sharon R. Bragg is an assistant professor and the CNL specialty lead at the University of Virginia School of Nursing. She earned both a DNP and MSN in health system management from UVA, a BSN from Eastern Mennonite University, and an associate’s degree in nursing from Piedmont Virginia Community College.
Dr. Bragg began her career on the burn unit and in UVA Health’s Medical ICU, ultimately serving as its assistant nurse manager and as a planning leader for UVA Health’s special pathogens units, which cared for patients with everything from Ebola to COVID. In that role, she was responsible for infection control, financial management, safety standards, staffing, and shared supervision of over 150 team members, which allowed her to develop staff and teams.
Dr. Bragg routinely presents on topics such as leadership, healthy work environments, and Covid-era nursing. Her contributions to clinical excellence and mentoring have been recognized with notable honors, including the Preceptor of the Year for CNLs, the Hemmings Fellow and Excellence in Clinical Teaching Award, and multiple Circle of Excellence Awards from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. She holds certifications in Critical Care Nursing (CCRN) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
HealthcareDegree.com: What makes a good clinical nurse leader?
Dr. Bragg: A good clinical nurse leader has all the qualities of a good nurse: a commitment to patient advocacy, compassion, empathy, evidence-based practice, and lifelong learning.
I think what makes CNLs stand out is their inquisitiveness and desire for improvement. They are taught process improvement as a key element of the curriculum, which positions them to improve patient outcomes, inpatient processes, EHR charting efficiency, staff education, and even staff engagement. There are too many things to list!
HealthcareDegree.com,: Do you have any advice for someone interested in becoming a clinical nurse leader?
Dr. Bragg: I’ll have to advise two different groups of clinical nurse leaders. For the direct-entry clinical nurse leader, people who come from outside the nursing profession with at least a bachelor’s degree in another field, who want a fast-track-to-nursing degree, take time to learn about the hospital or patient population they’re most curious about, and notice what processes in those populations or on those units may need improvement.
This time also allows you, as the nurse, to understand health systems’ micro- and macro-systems as you begin to put your clinical nurse leader skills into action. Your education and unit knowledge will offer you opportunities to advance on a clinical ladder or obtain leadership roles in the health system on a quicker trajectory.
For registered nurses who graduate from a Clinical Nurse Leader master’s program, like UVA’s, you’re positioned to use newly acquired skills and education for health system process improvement and possible career advancement. Your education and the Clinical Nurse Leader certification can support you on the career ladder for clinical advancement, and there are a growing number of well-paying roles designed specifically for CNLs who lead teams, unit-based initiatives, and health systems’ evidence-based practice improvements, including at UVA Health and the Veterans Administration hospitals.
HealthcareDegree.com: What does the future of this role look like to you?
Dr. Bragg: I think there is a growing need for nurses to be fully involved in process improvement and process improvement leadership at the bedside, on units, and at higher levels within health systems, and Clinical Nurse Leader programs offer a specialty nursing education track that supports this need. Patients need educated and passionate nurses to champion improved outcomes, whether in the in-patient setting or in the community.
Clinical Nurse Leader Specializations & Degree Types
The two education options to become a CNL are a master’s degree in clinical nurse leadership or, for individuals who are already RNs, a post-master’s certification program. Applicants with a BSN must complete the master’s option, while those with a generalist nursing master’s degree can choose a post-master’s certificate and, ultimately, take the Clinical Nurse Leader certification exam to earn the CNL credential.
Clinical nurse leadership is a specialization for registered nurses. Professionals in this career practice across the entire continuum of care with patients of all ages without the need for further specialization.
Admissions Requirements for Clinical Nurse Leader Programs
Admission requirements for clinical nurse leader programs will vary by program but typically include at least a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA, a current and unencumbered RN license from the state where the candidate practices, two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, official transcripts, and a background check. Some programs may require test scores such as the GMAT or GRE, work experience, and prerequisite coursework.
Clinical Nurse Leader Program Accreditation
Nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Students should verify that the nursing program they are enrolled in holds accreditation, as it is a requirement for certification and licensure.
Holding CCNE or ACEN assures employers, licensing bodies, and patients that the nursing program has met rigorous standards of quality. The accreditation process involves a comprehensive evaluation conducted by the accrediting board, which thoroughly assesses various aspects of the program, including faculty qualifications, facilities, curriculum, and student outcomes.
On-Campus Clinical Nurse Leader Degree Programs
University of Virginia – School of Nursing
UVA has two CNL programs: a direct-entry CNL program and an RN-to-CNL program.
Direct-entry CNL: Students in the direct-entry CNL program complete certain prerequisites and, after enrolling, take two years of graduate nursing courses, including, each semester, leadership courses. They complete clinical rotations to gain experience across five specialty areas: medical surgical, psychiatric, community and public health, pediatrics, and labor and delivery units. They emerge well-prepared for both the NCLEX and CNL certification exams.
While they emerge from the program as novice nurses, they tend to rise quickly in health systems and hospitals, and, with experience, are well-suited for both CNL-specific roles focused on unit and process improvement as well as nurse leaders.
RN-to-CNL: Licensed, registered nurses (RNs) interested in a fast-track, leadership-focused program that prepares them to lead teams, develop evidence-based unit improvement projects, and focus on quality improvements that impact patient care and outcomes, clinician well-being, and health system efficiency can enroll in UVA’s part-time, two-year RN-to-CNL program. These nurses take a special subset of CNL coursework and graduate with a master’s degree and ample preparation for the CNL Certification Exam.
Both graduate tracks offer credits that may be transferred toward the pursuit of additional study, should they wish to become nurse practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, or pursue a DNP or PhD in nursing degree.. Graduates of the direct-entry CNL program are eligible for the NCLEX and CNL certification exams, and UVA graduates have consistently high pass rates on both.
- Location: Charlottesville, VA
- Duration: 24 month, full-time program (including summer) for the CNL direct-entry program; two years, the part-time leadership-focused RN-to-CNL program for working nurses
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
University of Rochester – School of Nursing
Students at the University of Rochester School of Nursing can complete their master’s in clinical nurse leaders. This is the only program available in Upstate NY and features a holistic approach that ensures graduates emerge equipped with the essential skills needed to implement evidence-based clinical practice. There is also a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and improvement at the point of care. While classes for this program are offered primarily in person, students who need more flexibility can take some courses online or in the evenings.
Graduates of this program work as care coordinators, clinical informaticists, unit educators, program coordinators, nurse managers, or nurse executives. For the past four years, 100 percent of graduates of this program have passed their CNL certification exam.
- Location: Rochester, NY
- Duration: One year
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Augusta University offers an accelerated master of science in nursing program clinical nurse leadership degree. This program is specifically designed for individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees who want to make a career change. The curriculum equips graduates with eligibility for both the NCLEX licensure examination and the CNL Certification exam provided by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.
The MSN-CNL program is available at the Augusta and Athens campuses, offering accessible education options. This is a full-time, in-person degree. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, admission requirements include a 3.0 GPA, a personal essay, an interview, prerequisite coursework, and three letters of recommendation.
- Location: Augusta and Athens, GA
- Duration: 16 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The University of Nevada, Reno’s master of science in nursing program aims to equip registered nurses with the necessary skills and knowledge for advanced practice, educator, and leadership roles in healthcare. Through this program, nurses can enhance their clinical competence and apply a theoretical framework to their practice. This program has seven concentrations, including one in clinical nurse leadership.
Completing this degree can also serve as a stepping stone for those interested in pursuing a doctoral degree in nursing, as there is a strong emphasis on scholarly activity and fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals.
- Location: Reno, NV
- Duration: Four semesters
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Online or Hybrid Clinical Nurse Leader Degree and Education Programs
At Rush University, students can complete their master’s of nursing clinical nurse leader degree through online learning. This program is for RNs with a bachelor’s degree in nursing who want to take on leadership responsibilities and be accountable for clients’ health outcomes in various clinical settings. Graduates will be able to promote health, minimize risk, and enhance point-of-care results.
The curriculum prepares students to bring extensive clinical competence and knowledge to individuals and clinical populations throughout the care continuum. They will learn how to coordinate care across multiple settings, implement evidence-based practices to ensure patients benefit from the latest innovations, and act as a resource for the clinical team by implementing quality improvement measures.
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
With six start dates each year, the online master’s of science in nursing clinical nurse leader program at Sacred Heart University is convenient for students looking for flexibility. In addition to the 39 credit hours required to earn this degree, students will complete 348 hours of role immersion to ensure they meet the requirements to sit for the CNL certification exam.
To be eligible for this program, applicants must hold a current and unencumbered RN license and a bachelor’s degree in any field and provide a current resume, statement of professional goals, two letters of recommendation, and proof of malpractice insurance. There are also extensive prerequisite coursework and statistics and health sciences.
- Location: Fairfield, CT
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
In less than two years students can earn their master’s of science in nursing clinical nurse leadership at Cleveland State University. Notably, this program offers the flexibility of 100 percent online asynchronous didactic coursework, eliminating the need for on-campus residencies. Students will gain hands-on experience through 500 experiential learning hours within their communities. This is a part-time program, and upon completion, graduates will be fully prepared to sit for the CNL certification exam.
To be considered for admission to this program, students must already hold a BSN degree with at least a 3.0 GPA or higher, have completed an undergraduate statistics course, and supply a personal essay, two letters of recommendation, current resume, and proof of an active and unencumbered RN license.
- Location: Cleveland, OH
- Duration: Nineteen months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $9,884 per semester
The only online master’s in nursing in clinical nurse leadership in Michigan is offered at Oakland University. This part-time program is designed to accommodate the schedules of working nurses, allowing them to further their decision-making authority and increase their earning potential through potential supervisory roles. With combined online coursework and hands-on clinical instruction, students will gain the skills to effectively implement evidence-based practices at the point of care, collaborate within interdisciplinary teams, and significantly improve patient outcomes.
- Location: Rochester, MI
- Duration: 18 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
How Long Does it Take to Become a Clinical Nurse Leader?
Becoming a CNL can take six to eight years, depending on the individual’s prior education and experience. Typically, it is at least four years for a BSN and then an additional two for an MSN in clinical nurse leadership. Timelines vary depending on part-time or full-time study and program availability.
How To Become a Clinical Nurse Leader – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED (Four Years)
Nursing education starts with earning a high school diploma or a GED. This base education shows commitment to an education program and a minimum level of knowledge. Aspiring nurses should focus on science and math classes to prepare them for college-level studies.
Step 2: Complete a Nursing Program or a Bachelor’s in a Non-Nursing Field (Two to Four Years)
For the most part, aspiring CNLs must first complete a general nursing program. This general nursing program will include extensive clinicals in order to ensure graduates have the hands-on skills necessary to be entry-level nurses. Completing at least a bachelor’s of science in nursing is recommended to be prepared for additional studies.
However, some programs offer direct entry master’s degrees for students with a non-nursing degree looking to change careers to nursing. These applicants will need a bachelor’s in any field and prerequisite classes to be considered for admission.
Step 3: Pass State NCLEX Exam (Timeline Varies)
All states require registered nurses to sit for and pass the NCLEX exam. This test evaluates a candidate’s knowledge and competence in nursing practice. It covers various aspects of nursing care, including patient assessment, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, psychiatric nursing, and more.
Direct entry students will complete this step post-master’s.
Step 4: Apply for State Licensure (Timeline Varies)
After passing the NCLEX exam, nurses can apply for licensure from their state nursing board. Requirements will vary by state, so candidates should contact their local board to ensure they have the necessary qualifications.
Direct entry students will complete this step post-master’s.
Step 5: Earn a Master’s of Nursing in Clinical Nurse Leadership (One-and-a-Half to Two years)
The last education step for CNLs is to complete a master’s in clinical nurse leadership. These programs are available online and in person to suit each student’s needs.
Step 6: Obtain Clinical Nurse Leader Certification (Timeline Varies)
Certification as a CNL is voluntary but can be an excellent way to demonstrate mastery in this field. Certification is through the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC).
What Do Clinical Nurse Leaders Do?
CNLs have many employment opportunities, including hospitals, medical-surgical units, critical care, emergency departments, and specialized areas like pediatrics or oncology. They also play a crucial role in outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, community health organizations, and rehabilitation centers. Typical duties will vary based on place of employment but can include:
- Coordinating and managing patient care plans, ensuring optimal patient outcomes
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to develop and implement evidence-based practice guidelines and protocols
- Serving as a resource and mentor for nursing staff, providing guidance and support in their professional development
- Conducting research and quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and healthcare delivery processes
- Analyzing data and metrics to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to enhance patient outcomes
- Participating in healthcare policy development and advocacy to promote the interests of patients and the nursing profession
- Facilitating communication and collaboration between healthcare providers, patients, and their families to ensure comprehensive and patient-centered care
- Assessing and managing patient populations, identifying health risks, and implementing preventive measures
- Utilizing technology and informatics to improve healthcare systems and patient outcomes
- Staying updated on current healthcare trends, research, and best practices, continually enhancing knowledge and expertise
Clinical Nurse Leader Certifications & Licensure
All CNLs must first be licensed RNs. The respective state board of nursing issues licensure for RNs. Requirements will vary by state but will typically include:
- Completing an approved nursing education program
- Passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN)
- Background checks or fingerprinting
- Drug screening
Certification for CNLs is through the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC). This voluntary certification demonstrates a high level of competency in patient care management and coordination. To be eligible to sit for this certification exam, candidates must be graduates of an accredited CNL master’s or post-master’s program or be students in their last term of an accredited CNL master’s or post-master’s program. Certification is granted to candidates who have passed the exam, have a current, active, and unencumbered RN license, and have submitted all required documentation.
How Much Do Clinical Nurse Leaders Make?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not differentiate between registered nurse salaries and clinical nurse leader salaries. 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
Clinical Nurse Leader Career Alternatives
Here are a few alternatives to a career as a clinical nurse leader.
Become a Nurse Educator
Nurse educators are responsible for teaching and training aspiring nurses and providing continuing education for practicing nurses. Nurse educators develop curricula, design and deliver lectures, facilitate hands-on learning experiences, and assess student progress. They impart knowledge and skills and mentor and guide students, fostering their professional growth and development.
Additionally, nurse educators stay up-to-date with advancements in healthcare and research, ensuring they provide their students with the most current and evidence-based information.
- Typical Education: Master’s
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: National League for Nursing
Become a Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide comprehensive and specialized care to patients across the lifespan. Often, they work collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare professionals. Duties include assessing, diagnosing, and treating acute and chronic conditions, prescribing medications, ordering diagnostic tests, and providing education and counseling to promote health and prevent illness.
- Typical Education: Master’s of science in nursing or doctor of nursing practice
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), National Certification Corporation (NCC), Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB), American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), Dermatology Nursing Certification Board (DNCB), Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC), Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB), and Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC)
Become a Nursing Home Administrator
A nursing home administrator oversees the daily operations of a nursing home facility. They are responsible for managing staff members, creating and maintaining budgets, ensuring compliance with regulations, coordinating resident care, managing the facility’s maintenance, and acting as a liaison between residents, families, and external parties. Their work contributes to providing high-quality care, a safe environment, and effective communication within the nursing home.
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Board (NAB)
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterAt 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
WriterMatt 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).