How to Become a Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist
- 1). Enroll in a bachelor of science in nursing program at a university that is accredited by a state board of nursing. Ensure that you complete the general education requirements, such as English composition, philosophy, politics, mathematics and art history, as stipulated by the university for all baccalaureate candidates. Schedule nursing prerequisite course work, such as chemistry, statistics, microbiology, developmental psychology, anatomy and physiology and nutrition, during the first two years of study. Complete the nursing course work in pediatrics, geriatrics, adult health, ethics, communication and management during the final two years of study.
- 2). Submit an application for licensure to the board of the state where you wish to practice. You need a clear criminal background to qualify for licensure. Contact your university to ensure that your academic credentials are up-to-date so that the state board may qualify your bachelor of science in nursing degree. Wait for the state board of nursing to mail your authorization to test notification, which will enable you to register for the National Council for Licensure Examination - Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). Schedule an examination date within 90 days of receiving the authorization to test notification. Achieve a satisfactory passing score on the examination in order to become licensed.
- 3). Gain at least 12 months and 1000 hours of experience as a registered nurse in the field of intended clinical nurse specialization. Ensure that the 12 months and 1000 practice hours of specialization are completed within the three years prior to application to a master of science in nursing program.
- 4). Enroll in a master of science in nursing program which allows for a specialization in a clinical area of nursing. Examples of clinical areas of specialization include: diabetes, oncology, mental health/psychiatry and obstetrics. Complete the program requirements, which generally include clinical rotations and nursing practicums that focus on the area of specialization. Course work in management, ethics and communication are also common additions to graduate nursing programs. Complete the program within the stipulated time frame, which is generally 24 to 28 months of intensive study.
- 5). Register for the clinical nurse specialist certification examination. You must have a current and valid registered nurse license prior to registration. Prepare for the certification examination in order to ensure a satisfactory score, which is necessary for certification. Submit an application for certification renewal every five years. The application for certification renewal is also dependent upon continued practice in the area of specialization and proof of completed continuing education in the field.