Nursing occupations are the most numerous in the health care industry, with registered nurses holding about 2.6 million jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is because the skills of a nurse are invaluable to health care institutions. Nurses can provide basic health care to patients, assist physicians in diagnosis and medical procedures, and serve a variety of other roles depending on the field in which they specialize. For every health care professional, there is usually a team of nurses working with him or her in the facility. Judging by the plethora of specialty fields in which nurses can focus, it is little surprise that there is also a variety of degree programs available at online nursing schools. The following are degrees most commonly offered by nursing schools:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (Associate in Applied Science)
  Those who earn this degree, also known as the ADN or AAS, are eligible to become registered nurses. Students enrolled in an associate nursing program learn the basics of the nursing profession, nursing theories, patient care, and medical laws.
• Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN)
  The most common path for prospective registered nurses to take, the BSN degree typically concludes with students taking the NCLEX-RN examination (the official certification exam that awards registration to new nurses). Students enrolled in this program delve into nursing education deeper than those enrolled in the ADN program and are also eligible to perform more nursing duties than simple bedside responsibilities. Students learn nursing science, informatics, and research skills.
• RN to Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
  Registered nurses who do not already possess a BSN take this degree program. The courses cover the professional theories and models of nursing as well as health laws, ethics, informatics, and other topics that will expand the nurse's knowledge of the field. Earning an RN to BSN degree help RNs move up in their careers to roles of greater responsibility.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
  Those who wish to specialize in fields like nursing research and management must earn an MSN. This is taken after one has already completed a BSN as it expands on the topics learned in the bachelor's program. Students learn about research analysis, leadership skills, and other higher-level skills that will allow them to join positions of authority at health care facilities.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
  Advanced practice nurses, such as nurse midwives and nurse practitioners, earn a DNP. This allows them to practice on the same level as physicians for basic care as well as offer expertise in particular fields. DNP students study their field of focus intensely to earn their degrees.