Emerging Nursing Specialties for Nursing Students to Consider
As healthcare continues to evolve, so do the roles nurses play within the system. Advancements in technology, population health needs, and shifting care models have given rise to a range of emerging nursing specialties—many of which didn't exist a decade ago. For prospective nursing students, these new specialties offer dynamic opportunities to make a meaningful impact, often in cutting-edge or underserved areas.
Whether you're just starting your journey into nursing or considering a specialized advanced degree, understanding the latest trends in nursing careers can help you plan a future-focused path. Below, we highlight several of the top up-and-coming nursing specialties and the degrees or certifications required to enter each field.
1. Nurse Informatics Specialist
As healthcare becomes increasingly data-driven, nurse informaticists play a crucial role in managing and interpreting clinical data to improve patient outcomes and streamline workflows.
Key Responsibilities:
- Integrate healthcare technologies into patient care
- Analyze data to optimize clinical systems
- Train staff on electronic health records (EHRs)
Required Education:
- BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
- MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) in Nursing Informatics or a related field
- Optional: ANCC Informatics Nursing Certification
Career Outlook:
With the continued expansion of digital health records, nurse informatics roles are projected to grow significantly, especially in hospitals, telehealth companies, and research institutions.
2. Genetics/Genomics Nurse
Advances in genetic testing have revolutionized patient care in oncology, prenatal health, and rare disease treatment. Genetics nurses help interpret results, educate families, and provide personalized care plans based on genetic information.
Key Responsibilities:
- Guide patients through genetic counseling
- Collect and analyze genetic samples
- Coordinate with specialists for gene-based treatments
Required Education:
- BSN
- MSN or Post-Master's Certificate in Genetics or Genomic Nursing
- Optional: Clinical Genomics Nurse (CGN) Certification
Career Outlook:
Genomics nursing is in high demand at cancer centers, reproductive health clinics, and research hospitals.
3. Telehealth Nurse
The telehealth boom has created a new space for nurses who are skilled in remote patient care and digital communication. These nurses provide triage, follow-up, and chronic disease management through virtual platforms.
Key Responsibilities:
- Deliver patient care through phone or video consultations
- Educate patients on remote monitoring tools
- Monitor symptoms and medication adherence remotely
Required Education:
- Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or BSN (BSN preferred for leadership roles)
- Telehealth-specific training or certifications such as the Telehealth Nursing Practice Certificate
Career Outlook:
Telehealth is now an integral part of many health systems, making this role ideal for nurses interested in tech-forward, flexible work environments.
4. Holistic Nurse
Holistic nurses approach patient care by treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. They often incorporate complementary therapies such as meditation, massage, and nutrition guidance alongside conventional medicine.
Key Responsibilities:
- Educate patients on lifestyle and alternative therapies
- Incorporate non-invasive treatments into care plans
- Provide emotional and spiritual support
Required Education:
- BSN
- Optional: Board Certification in Holistic Nursing (HNB-BC) through the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation
Career Outlook:
Ideal for nurses interested in wellness, prevention, and integrative medicine, this specialty is expanding in outpatient clinics and private practice settings.
5. Nurse Health Coach
Nurse health coaches help patients achieve long-term wellness goals, including weight loss, stress reduction, and chronic disease management. They act as motivators and educators, often working in private practice or corporate wellness programs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide lifestyle coaching and health education
- Develop individualized wellness plans
- Help patients navigate healthcare systems and resources
Required Education:
- BSN
- Optional: Certification through the National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC)
Career Outlook:
Nurse coaching is growing in both the private and corporate healthcare sectors, especially among patients with chronic conditions.
6. Forensic Nurse
Forensic nurses provide specialized care to victims of trauma or violence and play a critical role in collecting evidence for legal cases. They work closely with law enforcement, courts, and social services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct medical examinations and collect forensic evidence
- Provide testimony in court as medical experts
- Support victims of sexual assault, abuse, or trauma
Required Education:
- BSN
- Specialized training in Forensic Nursing certification or SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) certification
Career Outlook:
Demand for forensic nurses is growing, particularly in hospitals, victim advocacy centers, and correctional facilities.
Start Your Path Toward a Future-Ready Nursing Career
These emerging nursing specialties reflect the changing needs of healthcare and offer exciting, impactful opportunities for nurses at every stage. Whether you're planning to enter a BSN program, pursue an MSN, or specialize further through certifications, aligning your education with these forward-looking roles can set you apart in a competitive job market.
As the landscape of healthcare continues to change, nurses who embrace innovation, technology, and patient-centered care will lead the future of the profession.
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