The Leadership Roles of Nurses in Academics

The practice of nursing doesn't always mean being on the frontlines of treating illnesses and injuries. Many exciting opportunities exist in academics for nurses, in which they can take on leadership roles that help train the nurses of tomorrow.

Teaching

• Many nursing colleges and universities are seeking qualified nurses to teach classes to their aspiring colleagues. And it is not only the basics of nursing that need to be taught--nurse management, leadership training and how to further your medical career are all subject areas in which students need expert guidance.

Administration

• One step up from the leadership role of teaching is becoming a college or university administrator. Here, nurses have an opportunity to enhance institution funding, shape new curricula and make important hiring and termination decisions.

Research

• Academic fields are constantly seeking innovative researchers who can add to their body of knowledge, and nursing is no exception. Leadership roles for nursing researchers include testing out new procedures, medications and even finding lucrative areas of funding that will allow them to better understand diseases and illness processes.