Overview
Shape the Future of Nursing and Patient Care
Are you passionate about patient advocacy, nurse education, creating systemic change, problem-solving, and enhancing patient outcomes? If so, consider becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), which is a key role that brings advanced clinical expertise to specialized areas of practice.
The Clinical Nurse Specialist program at USD offers a comprehensive adult-gerontology curriculum designed to prepare students to deliver expert care across the lifespan. Within this broad foundation, the program provides focused preparation in key specialty areas, including critical care, perinatal, oncology, emergency medicine, and more.
This pathway is ideal for nurses seeking to leverage their clinical expertise to improve patient outcomes, influence healthcare policy, and drive system-wide change.
Your Path to Becoming a CNS
Degree & Certificate Programs
Our programs are designed for working registered nurses, active duty military, and international students. Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for either the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) critical care certification exams, as well as apply for state licensure.
Career Outcomes
Roles in the CNS Pathway
Graduates of USD’s CNS program are prepared to become expert clinicians who lead patient care improvements, mentor nursing teams, and drive evidence-based practice across healthcare systems.
In addition to practicing as a CNS, you’ll also be equipped for such roles as:
- Patient Safety Specialist
- Patient Education Specialist
- Quality Improvement Specialist
- Academic Educator
- Clinical Educator
- Transitional Care Coordinator
- Certified Case Manager
- Nurse Entrepreneur
Explore What's Next
Ready to Get Started?
We’re here to help you take the next step in your nursing career.