Complete List of Common Nursing Certifications

By: Nurse.org Staff

Expert review by: Kathleen Gaines MSN, RN, BA, CBC

Listing your nursing certifications and credentials correctly communicates your skills to employers and colleagues alike. Thus, knowing your RN certification acronyms is essential in your practice. So, Nurse.org compiled a comprehensive list of over 150 nursing certifications, their acronyms, and certifying agencies so you know exactly how to list your hard-earned credentials.

The Complete List of Nursing Certifications

FAQs About Nursing Certifications

• What does RN-certified mean? 

  • An RN certification is an optional and voluntary specialty nursing certification that a nurse can achieve independently and that represents a standard beyond minimum licensure. In addition to APRN certification, RNs can get certifications in areas such as wound care, critical care, hospice care, addictions, informatics, education, and much more. 

• Are nursing certifications worth it? 

  • Nursing certifications are a way to advance your career, show your dedication, and gain advanced education in your field.

• What's the lowest degree in nursing?

  • A CNA is a Certified Nurses Assistant, and they are someone who assists a nurse. An LPN could be considered the “lowest” rank of a nurse, although there is no such thing as a “lowest” degree—all degrees are important and can be right for your career goals and current resources.