The decision to follow your dreams and become a registered nurse, advanced practice nurse or clinical nurse specialist should include thorough research.

Nursing program accreditation by NCCA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies), an arm of the national Institute for Credentialing Excellence, affirms that the essential standards for a high-quality program meet the health, welfare and safety of the public.

Many solutions are available to help pay for a nursing program, including scholarships, grants, loans, and loan repayment programs. You just have to know where to find them. Aid exists for national, state, minority, graduate and undergraduate programs.

A nursing license from states a part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) allows a nurse to work in any other NLC state. In cases of a natural disaster, national epidemic or residential move, a compact nursing license saves money, time and hassle.

More than 75 advanced practice nursing specialty certifications exist for nurse practitioners and clinical specialists. Each has its own credential, certifying body, renewal timeframe, and fee structure. Membership status may also factor into the fee.

Credentials for nursing specialty certifications are approved by only one board: Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification (ABSNC), a peer-review mechanism that accredits nursing certification organizations by affirming they comply with the highest quality standards. Which program is right for you?

Nursing employment is growing much faster than other occupations; with a median wage of $75,330, RN jobs will grow 9 percent through 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With a median wage of $117,670, nurse practitioners and specialist roles are projected to grow 45 percent.

For more information on nursing careers, salaries, certifications and licensure requirements and more to help guide you to your future as a nurse.