What Do CNLs Do?
Clinical Nurse Leaders (CNLs) are a vital part of any medical team. They are often responsible for analyzing and implementing evidence-based care models that improve patient outcomes.
CNL Careers is dedicated to bringing you relevant and up-to-date information on the role of and job outlook for CNLs. Whether you’re new to the field and looking for the right master’s degree program, or an experienced professional looking to network at industry conferences — CNL Careers offers tools and resources you can use to grow as a clinician.
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Practice Areas
While a Clinical Nurse Leader can work in various settings, different roles mean different responsibilities. The most common practice areas where a CNL can be found below. To learn more by clicking on each icon.
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What education level is required to be a CNL?
You will need at least a MSN with a concentration in Clinical Nurse Leadership or a similar program. This is because a CNL needs to be a resource for their nursing team, and the MSN assures that a nurse is clinically competent to do that. There are also Post-Master’s Certificate programs that will prepare any nurse already carrying an MSN degree for the CNL exam.

