Modern definitions of nursing describe it as a science and an art that focuses on promoting quality of life as defined by populations, communities, families, and individuals, throughout their life experiences from birth through the end of life.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four year academic degree in the science and principles of nursing, granted by a tertiary education university or similarly accredited school. Though one is eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing examination to become a registered nurse after graduating from either a two year program with an Associate's Degree (ADN) or from a four-year nursing program with a BSN, the BSN prepares nurses for a professional role away from the bedside with coursework in nursing science, research, leadership, and nursing informatics.

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is an advanced-level quaternary education degree for Registered Nurses. It is required to become an advanced practice nurse, such as a Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife, Nurse Administrator, or a Clinical nurse leader, and is considered an entry-level degree for nurse educators and managers. It is also a prerequisite for doctorate-level nursing education.