How to Become a Chief Nursing Officer
Chief nursing officers (CNOs) lead and supervise all nursing care throughout their healthcare organization. To become a chief nursing officer (sometimes called a chief nurse executive or CNE), the steps include education, testing, and licensing, after which nurse advocates can pursue employment. Below, we’ll detail the steps to follow, how long it takes to become a chief nursing officer, and where to start.
Become a Chief Nursing Officer in 7 Steps
To become a chief nursing officer, candidates must first become licensed registered nurses (RNs) and gain bedside experience. They can then pursue higher education and certification.
1
Graduate With a BSN Degree
To become a CNO, candidates must earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. A BSN typically takes four years, but many programs offer accelerated options for those with prior degrees or completed prerequisites.
4
Work as a Registered Nurse
Before an RN can pursue work as a chief nursing officer, they must first gain several years of bedside clinical experience. Any field can provide helpful experience for a future career in this executive role.
6
Apply for CNO Jobs
After spending some time at the bedside and graduating with a graduate or postgraduate degree, nurses can apply for CNO positions.
7
Earn Nursing Leadership Certification
Though not required, CNOs may wish to apply for a specialty certification in their field through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), or the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). Specialty certification can make candidates more desirable to potential employers.
Schooling Requirements for Chief Nursing Officers
CNOs must earn a BSN and an advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing gives future CNOs well-rounded education experience. Typically done over four years, the BSN curriculum covers the basics of nursing care and how the body works, but also teaches more specialized critical thinking skills.
A BSN prepares aspiring CNOs to handle a high level of critical thinking. This degree teaches high-level concepts like evidence-based practice, community health nursing, statistics used in research, nursing management and leadership, health informatics and analysis, healthcare ethics, and nutrition.
Master of Science in Nursing
A Master of Science in Nursing, or MSN, can be earned in two years, but many students continue to work throughout the program, increasing completion time.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is the highest level of education a nurse can achieve. This program takes longer than an MSN but may offer higher salaries and more opportunities.
CNO Licensing
Once a new nursing graduate has earned their degree, they must apply for licensure. All nurses must apply for a registered nurse license to practice. To become a licensed and practicing nurse in any state, all nursing graduates must pass the state licensing exam (the NCLEX-RN) and apply for a state license.
NCLEX-RN
The National Council Licensure Examination–RN (NCLEX-RN) is a computer-based exam with 85 to 150 questions. The exam takes anywhere from one hour to a maximum of five hours. Questions fall into four basic categories:
1. Safe and Effective Care Environment
2. Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. Psychosocial Integrity
4. Physiological Integrity
Once completed, the state board of nursing sends test results within six weeks, usually by email. In the time leading up to the NCLEX-RN, it’s important for graduates to study practice questions to ensure a passing grade and many students take NCLEX prep courses to increase their likelihood of success.
Registered Nurse State License Application and Renewal
Each state in the U.S. has a unique registered nurse licensing application process. The state board of nursing will want proof of an NCLEX passing result and a diploma from an accredited nursing program. Most states require criminal background checks and fingerprinting, and some may want to see university transcripts.
In most states, RNs must renew their license every two years after initial licensure. Each state has varying requirements for continuing education and other documentation needed for renewal. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing offers a wealth of information on registered nurse licensing requirements by state.
Specialty Certification
CNOs may choose to pursue specialty certifications through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), or the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). Applicable certifications include:
Where Do Chief Nursing Officers Work?
CNOs can find employment in a wide range of organizations. These may include:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient care facilities
- Private physician practices
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Government agencies
- Corporate offices
FAQs: How to Become a CNO
1. What education is needed to become a chief nursing officer?
Chief nursing officers must graduate from an accredited college or university with a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, followed by an MSN or DNP.
2. How many years does it take to become a chief nursing officer?
The time it takes to become a CNO depends on which degree one pursues, but it may take anywhere from five to twelve years with all degrees and experience required.
3. What are the steps to become a chief nursing officer?
To become a chief nursing officer, candidates must apply to and graduate with a BSN from an accredited nursing school, pass the NCLEX-RN, and apply for and receive a nursing license in their state. After these steps, they must work as RNs, earn higher education, and apply for CNO positions.
4. How much do chief nursing officers make an hour?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), CNOs earn an average of $64.63 per hour, which equals about $134,440 annually.
