Nurses are required to register with the nursing councils or bodies before they are allowed to practice in hospitals and health care institutions. The pre-registration academic qualification is at least a degree or diploma in nursing. Most nursing degree and diploma programs are constructed with theory studies and nursing practice in a 50-50 ratio. Foundation nursing theories and skills are taught in the first year of the diploma and degree programs, followed by the specialization modules which depend on the program selected. Nursing practice is supervised training in a community and hospital environment.

There are two main types of nursing qualifications LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) and the RN (Registered Nurse). Licensed Practical Nurse education requirements are one to two years of nursing school studies while the Registered Nurse education requirements are two to four years for an associate degree or bachelor`s degree. The RNs attend classes relating to theory and administrative functions, which are not a requirement for LPNs. Most health institutions, urgent care and hospitals prefer RNs to LPNs.

Neonatal nurses deal with newborn babies that are premature or sick. Pediatric nurses handle and nurse children ranging from newborns to 16-years old. The pediatric nurse education requirements and neonatal nurse education requirements are similar a registered nurse qualification, for which they must have at least a diploma or degree in nursing. Patience, a strong intuitive sense and excellent communication skills are essential qualities for pediatric nurses, as they deal with young children with limited vocabulary or communicative abilities.

Forensic nurses provide support to law enforcement officials in crime investigations such as sexual assault, homicide and assault. Forensic nurse education requirements are a valid RN license with either an associate`s degree or a bachelor`s degree in nursing or a certified forensic nurse (CFN) certification. Continuing nurse education (CE) requirements differ by state; some states do not require CE. In other states, the Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses are required to complete a specified number of contact hours or hours of professional nursing activities or nursing employment