How to Become a Nurse Researcher

Nurse researchers work as part of a team conducting studies to improve patient care, develop new tests and treatments, or improve nursing education and practice. Nurses can work in research as RNs or may pursue higher education for more leadership opportunities and higher pay. To become a nurse researcher, the steps include education, testing, and licensing, after which nurse researchers can pursue employment. Below, we’ll detail the steps to follow, how long it takes to become a nurse researcher, and where to start.

Become a Nurse Researcher in 6 Steps

To become a nurse researcher, candidates must first become licensed registered nurses (RNs). While not mandatory, they can pursue higher education and certification in a specialty.

Schooling Requirements for Nurse Researchers

Nurse researchers may work as RNs, or they may pursue advanced degrees, like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). While most positions don’t require high-level degrees, they may offer higher compensation and more opportunities for professional advancement.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing gives future nurses a 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 future nurse researchers 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, which increases time to completion.

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.

Nurse Researcher Licensing

Once a new nursing graduate has earned their degree, they must apply for licensure. Nurse researchers 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 an 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 to see 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

Nurse researchers may choose to pursue two specialty certifications through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals. The Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) certification demonstrates competence in monitoring and supervising research programs for a sponsor. The Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) certification establishes expertise in the coordination of clinical trials under GCP guidelines.

Where Do Nurse Researchers Work?

Research nurses can find employment in a wide range of organizations. These may include:

• Universities
• Government agencies
• Hospitals
• Private health organizations
• Institutional review boards
• Pharmaceutical research and manufacturing
• Medical research organizations
• Public and private foundations

Most nurse researchers spend most of their day in an office setting, but some positions may involve patient interviews. Some positions may be remote or hybrid, but many require in-person attendance.

Nurse Researcher Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) includes nurse researchers in its “Registered Nurse” category, and they project a 6% growth in this field through 2032. According to the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, grant funding for medical research remains high, so the field of research should continue to grow.

FAQs: How to Become a Nurse Researcher

   1. What does a nurse researcher do?

Nurse researchers combine their clinical knowledge and organizational skills to coordinate research projects, manage patient communication, collect and collate data, and assist in applying for grants.

   2. What do most nurse researchers make an hour?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse researchers make an average of $45.42 per hour, which equals $94,480 annually.

   3. What’s the fastest you can become a nurse researcher?

The fastest path to becoming a nurse researcher is by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which typically takes four years. However, some nursing schools offer an accelerated program that can be completed in as little as a year.