Explore the differences in responsibilities, qualifications, and opportunities for professional growth
The career progression from a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to a Registered Nurse (RN) represents a significant advancement in the healthcare field. While both roles are integral to providing patient care, there are notable differences in terms of responsibilities, qualifications, and opportunities for professional growth. A CNA is an entry-level healthcare professional who works under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses. An RN is a licensed healthcare professional who has completed a nursing program and passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Transitioning from a CNA to RN brings numerous benefits to an individual’s professional growth and opportunities. RNs have a greater level of autonomy and decision-making authority compared to CNAs. With advanced training and education, RNs take on more responsibilities in patient care, earn higher salaries due to their advanced qualifications and expanded responsibilities, and can choose to work in specialties such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or critical, among others. They can also pursue advanced nursing degrees, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which can lead to roles like nurse practitioner, nurse educator, nurse manager, or nurse researcher.
Learn how to become a Registered Nurse if you
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While this blog may occasionally contain information that relates to Unitek College's programs or courses, the majority of information provided within this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to represent the specific details of any educational offerings or opinions of Unitek College. *Please note that wage data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) or other third-party sources may not be an accurate reflection of all areas of the country, may not account for the employees' years of experience, and may not reflect the wages or outlook of entry-level employees, such as graduates of our program. (accessed on 09/21/2026)
