Genetic nursing degrees are specialty degrees that prepare nurses for careers in the field of genetics, which is growing rapidly in the medical industry today. Genetics and the related research are on the cutting edge of the healthcare industry today and providing many more answers than ever before. Genetic nurses are trained to work with couples, families, and individuals on various genetic health issues. These nurses have advanced practice degrees in the best positions, but entry-level RNs might be able to work in the practice at a lower level. Genetic nurses have special certification that proves their knowledge in healthcare and related issues. They also help patients with genetic issues like Alzheimer's, cancer, diabetes, congenital diseases, and reproductive health issues. Nurses can provide similar care as they would in other settings, but with a focus on genetics.

Nurses also provide a supportive role in this career because there is often not much to be done about genetic conditions in the first place. Prevention and maintenance is often the best measure for this type of healthcare issue and research and clinical trials are commonly a part of many genetic nursing careers simply because there is so much going on in the industry right now. This career is mostly about supportive and symptomatic care, prevention, and education because there are almost no cures available for the myriad of genetic disorders that occur in the world today. Nurses will need to be educated on proper methods of treatment and disposition, as well as have good communication skills and coping skills because of the serious nature of this department of healthcare.

When it comes to genetic nursing training, this field is highly specialized and requires a lot of specific training. There is a lot still to discover in the industry and nurses need to get proper training and stay on the forefront of the industry if they want to be the most successful in their careers. Integrity and compassion as patient advocates is a must for genetic nurses, as is a commitment to education and ongoing support of the genetics field itself. RN licensing is required for these professionals and entry level jobs can be obtained in some genetic positions without advanced training.

Advanced training, however, allows genetic nurses to get more involved in genetics and the care of patients. It also provides more career opportunities and better pay for those who want to go above and beyond the RN degree. MSN programs typically take up to 2 years to complete, but can be done faster with accelerated programs for those who want them. The certification is available to MSN degree candidates that have 300 hours of experience in genetics and an RN license. This career is growing rapidly and creating a demand for more nurses, which is why this degree is becoming so popular. The salary for genetics nurses is around $67,000 annually.

Directory of Schools has the resources that you need to get started on your genetic nursing degrees. We have compiled the best nursing schools and degree programs along with other resources to help you start your new career today.