17 tips for nursing majors who are mapping their careers

Career mapping is the process of creating a structured plan to guide professional growth by identifying potential job opportunities, necessary skills, and long-term career goals. For nursing majors, career mapping is especially beneficial because it helps them understand the diverse career paths available, from direct patient care to leadership and specialized medical fields.

With a nursing degree, graduates can begin their careers as registered nurses (RNs) in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or home healthcare settings. Specializing in areas such as pediatrics, emergency care, or critical care can open doors to advanced roles like nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse educator. Those interested in healthcare leadership may move into management positions, such as nursing director or chief nursing officer, while others may transition into research, policy, or public health. By using career mapping to set clear goals and gain relevant experience, nursing professionals can ensure steady career progression and job satisfaction in the ever-evolving healthcare industry.

To provide some additional examples of careers that map well with a major in nursing, we recently reached out to 17 hiring experts. They shared with us a number of examples of rewarding job opportunities for nursing students.

• Phone Triage Nurses Aid Neurology Clinics
• Mental Health Technicians Offer Hands-On Experience
• Assistant in Nursing Provides Foundational Skills
• Patient Care Coordinator Teaches Organizational Skills
• Pharmacy Technician Role Enhances Medication Knowledge
• Patient Care Assistant Bridges Classroom and Practice
• Personal Aged Care Builds Critical Nursing Skills
• Clinical Research Assistant Offers Insight into Medicine
• Telehealth Support Associates Develop Communication Skills
• Blood Bank Assistant Provides Clinical Experience
• Wound Care Assistant Specializes in Patient Care
• Certified Nursing Assistant Offers Hands-On Experience
• Health and Wellness Coach Leverages Nursing Knowledge
• Medical Scribe Builds Clinical Knowledge
• Occupational Therapy Aide Supports Patient Recovery
• Hospice Aide Develops Emotional Intelligence
• Medical Writer Utilizes Medical Knowledge

Phone Triage Nurses Aid Neurology Clinics

Nursing majors are versatile graduates with knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, compassionate bedside care, and excellent communication skills. Armed with a nursing education, registered nurses (RNs) are well-suited for a variety of jobs including bedside care, phone triage, home healthcare, and management positions. 

Some of these jobs require significant past experience such as clinic management, while other jobs are especially well-suited for a recent graduate such as phone triage. Nursing majors may or may not be aware of this largely remote work career option, and phone triage RNs are absolutely critical to the delivery of effective outpatient care in neurology. Neurologists deliver care to hundreds of patients and simply cannot make 30-50 phone calls per day to adjust care plans in real-time, though this task is necessary for effective patient care. 

For example, our neurology clinic serves patients with epilepsy who have seizures at times despite our initial clinic plan including medical, dietary, and surgical therapies. Phone triage nurses serve as our listening ear to families who need additional care and can determine if the events the family describe are seizures or not based on expert history. Triage RNs then use their expertise to inform our neurologists of the patient’s symptoms so that we can quickly adjust the patient’s management plan in between appointments. We respect and admire our phone triage nurses, and families appreciate the listening ear at all hours of the day.

Derryl Miller, Assistant Professor of Clinical Neurology, Indiana University and IU Health Physicians

Mental Health Technicians Offer Hands-On Experience

From my experience, I’ve seen nursing students thrive as Mental Health Technicians, where they learn to support patients during group therapy and assist with daily living activities. I found this role particularly valuable because it gives hands-on experience with behavioral health protocols while allowing flexible schedules that work around classes.

Aja Chavez, Executive Director, Mission Prep Healthcare

Assistant in Nursing Provides Foundational Skills

Any job can be relevant for a nursing student as long as it shows you’re reliable, can manage your time well, and treat others with respect. Employers want to see that you can balance responsibilities, prioritize tasks, and work with others. 

If you’re looking for something more aligned with nursing, working as an assistant in nursing (AIN) after your first year could be a great option, depending on where you live. Support worker roles or even receptionist jobs in healthcare settings are also worth considering. It can help you learn how hospitals run, get familiar with terminology, and build connections. It won’t be a clinical experience, but it can give you a solid foundation. 

Don’t overlook jobs like working at a supermarket or in customer service. Those roles teach important skills like communication, patience, and staying calm under pressure, all useful in nursing.

Chris McDermott, Certified Life Care Planner, Intercoastal Consulting & Life Care Planning

Patient Care Coordinator Teaches Organizational Skills

One job I think is well-suited for a nursing student is working as a patient care coordinator in a medical or dental office. In this role, the student can gain experience managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and helping with patient intake, all while working closely with healthcare professionals. This provides an opportunity to understand the importance of organization and clear communication in a healthcare setting, which is essential for nursing.

The job also offers valuable insight into patient care processes and can help students develop skills in patient education and support. They can learn how to address patient concerns, explain treatment plans, and navigate insurance or billing issues—skills that will be directly applicable in their nursing career when dealing with patient care. It’s a role that gives a nursing student a broader view of healthcare and can serve as a great stepping stone for their future clinical work.

Dr. Avi Israeli, Co-Founder and Dental Implantologist, Sage Dental NJ

Pharmacy Technician Role Enhances Medication Knowledge

One job well-suited for a college or university student majoring in Nursing is working as a pharmacy technician in an online or physical pharmacy. This role offers valuable hands-on experience that complements their academic studies and provides insights into medication management, patient care, and prescription processes. As pharmacy technicians, students learn to understand medical terminology, dosage calculations, and drug interactions, which are critical aspects of nursing practice.

This position allows nursing students to develop essential skills such as communication, organization, and attention to detail. It also provides an opportunity to work in a healthcare setting, giving them exposure to the collaborative nature of the field. Interacting with pharmacists and other professionals helps students understand how different roles within healthcare contribute to patient outcomes, which can be valuable when they transition into nursing.

Working as a pharmacy technician can also enhance a nursing student’s confidence in handling medication-related responsibilities. It prepares them for scenarios they may encounter in their future careers, such as managing prescriptions and educating patients on proper medication use. This experience not only builds practical skills but also deepens their understanding of the importance of accurate and safe practices in healthcare, making it an ideal part-time job for aspiring nurses.

Daniel Higham, Director, Hightown Pharmacy

Patient Care Assistant Bridges Classroom and Practice

For college or university students majoring in Nursing, working as a patient care assistant or aide is an excellent job option. This role provides hands-on experience in a health care environment, allowing students to apply their academic knowledge while building essential skills like communication, empathy, and attention to detail. It helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world practice, giving students a firsthand understanding of patient care dynamics. This practical exposure is invaluable for those pursuing a career in nursing, as it enhances their ability to work effectively in clinical settings. 

Being a patient care assistant also offers opportunities to build a professional network within the healthcare industry. Students can interact with nurses, doctors, and other health care staff, gaining insights from their experiences and creating connections that may support their career growth. Working closely with patients helps students develop a strong sense of compassion and adaptability, traits that are critical for success in nursing. 

This job aligns closely with their studies and gives them an early start on developing the competencies needed in their future roles. It is not only a way to earn experience but also a chance to confirm their passion for health care, helping them stay motivated as they complete their degree.

Aspen Noonan, CEO, Elevate Holistics

Personal Aged Care Builds Critical Nursing Skills

In my opinion, personal aged and senior care is a fantastic job for nursing students. It allows them to apply their medical knowledge in a compassionate, hands-on environment while building critical skills for their future careers. Nursing students can develop their ability to manage medications, assess health conditions, and provide emotional support to elderly patients.

This job offers flexibility with scheduling, which is perfect for students balancing coursework and clinical hours. It also gives them the opportunity to create meaningful connections with patients and their families. Plus, it’s a fulfilling role where students can make a real difference in someone’s life while gaining invaluable experience.

Conrad Wang, Managing Director, EnableU

Clinical Research Assistant Offers Insight into Medicine

One lesser-known but valuable job for nursing students is working as a clinical research assistant in healthcare studies. This role often involves helping to manage patient trials, collect data, and assist with study documentation under the guidance of healthcare professionals or researchers. Meanwhile, it’s an excellent fit for nursing students because it provides insight into the research side of medicine, something that’s often overlooked during clinical training. It also sharpens organizational skills and exposes students to the importance of evidence-based practice, which is foundational in nursing.

For example, a student might assist with monitoring patients during a trial for a new therapy or medication, learning both patient care techniques and the critical processes behind healthcare advancements. This kind of work not only enriches their understanding of clinical protocols but also opens doors to specialized fields like clinical research nursing or public health.

Tika Hitchkock, Herbalist / Founder, The Wooed

Telehealth Support Associates Develop Communication Skills

We’ve had great success with nursing students working as Telehealth Support Associates, helping coordinate virtual consultations and providing basic patient education. I’ve noticed these students develop crucial communication skills while gaining practical experience in modern healthcare delivery systems, plus the remote nature of the work makes it super manageable with their study schedules.

Albert Aka, Founder, Top At Home

Blood Bank Assistant Provides Clinical Experience

The best job for a college or university student majoring in nursing is a blood bank assistant. This role provides hands-on experience in a clinical setting while helping students develop skills in patient care, lab procedures, and medical documentation. Working in a blood bank teaches students how to handle and store blood donations properly, monitor donor health, and interact with both patients and healthcare professionals. It is a great way to gain confidence in handling medical equipment, following safety protocols, and understanding the importance of blood supply in emergency care. This experience helps nursing students establish a solid foundation before progressing to more advanced clinical jobs.

Barbara Robinson, Marketing Manager, Weather Solve

Wound Care Assistant Specializes in Patient Care

Being a wound care assistant is, in my opinion, one of the best job opportunities for a college or university student majoring in Nursing. This role allows you to specialize in an area that requires both technical skill and a compassionate approach to patient care. You’ll learn to assess, clean, and dress various types of wounds, from simple cuts to complex diabetic ulcers or surgical wounds. 

This job provides hands-on experience with patient care and teaches you about infection control, tissue healing, and the psychological aspects of patient recovery. It’s a unique niche within nursing where you can make a huge impact on patient outcomes, learning to manage pain, promote healing, and prevent complications, which are all essential skills for any future nurse.

Gerti Mema, Marketing Manager, Equipment Finance Canada

Certified Nursing Assistant Offers Hands-On Experience

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a good opportunity for students to attend as a college or university student and major in Nursing. It provides hands-on experience in patient care, which is very important for students to connect learning from school to the real world. CNAs provide service to patients with vital signs, activities of daily living, and comfort, among other responsibilities, all contributing to the patient’s interaction and time management skills. 

Becoming a CNA helps build vast knowledge in the healthcare field and patients’ needs, which prepares them for subsequent clinical rotations. Besides, it offers flexibility to this job that helps students to work around their academic schedules. Overall, an experience like this not only enhances a student’s resume but can also reinforce certain skills and give them more confidence, which provides an ideal step to becoming a successful nurse.

Tzu-Hsuan Chen, Marketing Coordinator, Achievable

Health and Wellness Coach Leverages Nursing Knowledge

One non-obvious, yet—in my opinion—exceptionally well-suited career choice for a college or university student majoring in nursing is health and wellness coach. The role in question leverages the foundational knowledge nursing students gain in anatomy, physiology, and holistic care. Also, it enhances their communication and empathy skills, qualities that are essential in nursing.

A health and wellness coach’s job involves guiding clients in improving their fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, tailoring advice to individual needs. It can be incredibly satisfying as you witness clients transform their lives through healthier habits. Additionally, this role often offers flexible hours, making it ideal for students balancing coursework and clinical rotations.

On the financial side, the earnings are attractive, with many coaches earning $20-$50 per hour, particularly if they hold certifications or specialize in areas like, for example, weight management or stress reduction.

I believe this fulfilling and financially rewarding career is a good choice for nursing students to build experience in preventive care, a cornerstone of modern healthcare, and make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

Agata Szczepanek, Career Expert & Community Manager, Zety

Medical Scribe Builds Clinical Knowledge

One job that will suit a college or university student majoring in nursing is the role of a medical scribe. This will allow them to immerse themselves in a healthcare environment while gaining valuable experience.

As medical scribes, they assist healthcare providers by accurately documenting patient encounters and ensuring proper medical records are maintained.

This role can significantly benefit nursing students as they familiarize themselves with medical terminology, patient histories, and various treatment protocols. It also helps them build a stronger foundation in clinical knowledge, which is essential for their future careers.

Additionally, a career as a medical scribe offers flexible work schedules that can often be adjusted to accommodate students’ academic commitments. This flexibility ensures that they balance their studies with practical, hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.

In a nutshell, a medical scribe position offers nursing students an excellent opportunity to gain real-world healthcare experience, improve their understanding of clinical practices, and build their resumes while continuing their education.

Peter Bryla, Senior Community Manager, Resume-Now

Occupational Therapy Aide Supports Patient Recovery

The job that I believe is well-suited for a college or university student majoring in nursing is an occupational therapy aide. This role supports therapists in helping patients regain mobility and independence after injuries or illnesses. A nursing student already learns about patient care, rehabilitation, and medical conditions, which makes this job a great fit. 

Occupational therapy aides assist with setting up treatment equipment, guiding patients through exercises, and keeping records of progress. Since nursing involves hands-on care, working in this environment gives students a deeper understanding of how therapy plays a role in recovery. It also helps them develop communication skills by working closely with both patients and healthcare professionals.

Eli Itzhaki, CEO & Founder, Keyzoo

Hospice Aide Develops Emotional Intelligence

In my opinion, the best job for a college or university student majoring in Nursing is working as a Hospice Aide. This role is incredibly well-suited because it provides a unique opportunity to develop both clinical skills and emotional intelligence in a way that few other positions can. As a Hospice Aide, you’re working closely with patients during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives. This means you’re not just learning how to provide physical care, like assisting with daily activities or monitoring vital signs, but also how to offer compassionate, patient-centered support.

This kind of experience is invaluable for a nursing student because it teaches you how to balance the technical aspects of healthcare with the human side of it. You’ll learn how to communicate effectively with patients and their families, how to manage end-of-life care with dignity, and how to handle emotionally challenging situations with grace. These are skills that will serve you well throughout your nursing career, no matter what specialty you pursue.

Daniel Vasilevski, Director & Owner, Bright Force Electrical

Medical Writer Utilizes Medical Knowledge

One job that is well-suited for a college or university student majoring in nursing is medical writer. If you decide that maybe nursing isn’t the right fit for you, you’ve now got this whole slew of medical knowledge that you can use and share with others as an expert. Many nurses can help fact-check medical blogs or healthcare blogs using their own knowledge and expertise that they’ve learned in school.

Nicole Martins Ferreira, Product Marketing Manager, Huntr