School nurse

A school nurse takes care of students from pre-K school to college, who get sick or injured in an academic setting.

Required education

ADN or BSN

Average annual salary

$52,000

Payscale (Jan. 2026)

Varied

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

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

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

Independent

Work on your own or even start your own practice, in some states.

What is the role of a school nurse?

You’ll use your skills to manage a wide range of responsibilities and maintain a healthy learning environment.

What you’ll do as a school nurse

Advocacy

You’ll speak up for children that may need social services intervention.

Assessment

You’ll perform hearing and eye tests.

Communication

You’ll work with parents and family physicians.

Education

You’ll teach students about healthcare and growth development.

Treatment

You’ll administer medication, provide basic first aid, perform procedures for students with physical disabilities, and monitor conditions such as diabetes and asthma.

Female healthcare professional speaking with patient at doctor's office.

Where you’ll work as a school nurse

School nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

Daycare centers
Schools
Universities

How to become a school nurse

Get an Associate’s Degrees in Nursing (ADN) or 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.

Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining three years or 4,000 hours of experience.

Pass the School Nurse Certification exam through the National Board for Certification of School Nurses.

You’re ready to work as a school nurse!

School nurse career resources

Become a member of a school nurse organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
National Association of School Nurses

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