Regardless of specialty or skill level, nursing associations are an ideal resource for professional growth, networking, and lifelong learning. Associations exist for a variety of interests and career paths, and can help you connect with fellow professionals and obtain new certifications. Many associations offer research grants, scholarships, and award programs to help nurses recognize their peers. What are you waiting for? Join a nursing association and broaden your career today! We’ve made it easy with an extensive list categorized by specialty and state. Don’t see your association or specialty? Let us know in the comments and we’ll add it to the list!
Ambulatory Care
American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing (AAACN)
Created in 1978 as a nonprofit educational forum, the AAACN works expand the reach of ambulatory care nurses to achieve a greater positive impact for patients. The organization offers several professional development outlets, including an annual conference, online resources, webinars, and a career center. The association also provides study resources and member savings on certification exams. Scholarships and grants are available to nurses and student nurses at multiple levels.
Anesthesia
American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA)
Boost your learning and professional development with the CRNA Knowledge Network, offering CE courses and other resources. The association also offers volunteer opportunities and a Member Advantage Program with a variety of benefits, including savings on practice tools and student loan debt consolidation or refinancing.
Assisted Living/Rehabilitation
American Assisted Living Nurses Association (AALNA)
Representing assisted living RNs, licensed practical nurses, and licensed vocational nurses, the AALNA works to promote safe, effective, and dignified nursing practice in assisted living, in an era when the number of older adults needing this type of care is increasing. Among professional development opportunities are an annual conference, webinars, and training resources.
Critical Care
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
The AACN promotes lifelong learning and professional growth. Members also grow professionally through national conferences, a webinar series, and certification programs geared toward nurses who care for high acuity and critically ill patients. The association offers continuing/professional scholarships and a scholarship to attend the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses’ National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition.
Dermatology
Dermatology Nurses’ Association (DNA)
Founded in the 1980s following the creation of the first education program for dermatologic nursing, DNA has a vision of becoming the global authority in the field. The nursing association offers certification resources, advice, and connections for professional growth. The association also provides awards to recognize fellow members as well as a scholarship program and grant opportunities.
Diversity
National American Arab Nurses Association (NAANA)
Created in 2003, NAANA serves as a voice, network and resource for Arab American men and women in their pursuit of employment and advancement within the nursing profession. Members can earn contact hours at continuing education events and seminars, network, and access online job postings. The association provides annual scholarships of between $500 and $1,000, depending on funds available.
