Clinical nurse leader

A clinical nurse leader creates and coordinates long-term care plans for patients and the medical teams they work with.

Required education

MSN

Average annual salary

$92,000

Payscale.com (Jan. 2026)

Varied

Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.

Managerial

Oversee other nurses and help improve healthcare for all.

Research-oriented

Analyze data and discover new ways to help patients.

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.

What is the role of a clinical nurse leader?

You’ll focus on improving the quality of patient care by evaluating results and finding ways to introduce the most effective new treatments.

What you’ll do as a clinical nurse leader

Evaluation

You’ll determine the relevance of the latest medical and technological developments.

Management

You’ll oversee and coordinate a patient’s medical team.

Treatment

You’ll prepare long-term care plans for patients.

A group of medical professionals gathered around a laptop talking in a hospital setting

Where you’ll work as a clinical nurse leader

Clinical nurse leaders work in a variety of settings, including:

Medical colleges
Private clinics
Research facilities

How to become a clinical nurse leader

Get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.

Pass the NCLEX-RN and work as a Registered Nurse.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

Get your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with advanced courses in Pathophysiology, Clinical Assessment and Pharmacology.

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) offers advanced courses that will help you develop new skills and move into specialized roles.

Get your Clinical Nurse Leadership Certification from the Commission on Nurse Certifications.

You’re ready to work as a clinical nurse leader!