How To Become a Cardiac Nurse: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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There are over 3 million registered nurses in the United States, and a significant portion of them are pursuing specialized roles in fields like cardiac care. However, many nurses are unsure about the steps to take to become a cardiac nurse or what the career path entails. This uncertainty often leads to anxiety around the required education, training, and long-term career prospects. 

For aspiring cardiac nurses, understanding the clear steps—from education to career growth—is crucial in making informed decisions about their future. In this article, we’ll explore the necessary qualifications, career opportunities, and expected work environment for those seeking a fulfilling career in cardiac nursing.

Key Things You Should Know About How to Become a Cardiac Nurse

• To become a cardiac nurse, you must first obtain a nursing degree (RN), typically through a bachelor’s or associate’s program. Many choose to pursue specialized certifications in cardiac care, such as the Cardiac Vascular Nursing (CVN) certification, which enhances job prospects and expertise in the field.
• The average annual salary for a cardiac nurse in the United States ranges between $86,000 and $132,000, depending on experience, location, and education. For instance, cardiac nurses in higher-paying states like California can earn upwards of $140,000 annually.
• Cardiac nurses often work in hospitals, cardiac care units (CCUs), and specialized clinics. According to the American Heart Association, nearly 40% of nurses in cardiovascular settings report working in high-intensity environments, which require quick decision-making and emotional resilience.
• Cardiac nurses can progress into specialized roles, including cardiac nurse practitioners (CNPs), or move into leadership positions such as nurse manager or educator. This progression typically requires additional certification, such as becoming a nurse practitioner or pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in nursing.
• With the ever-evolving field of cardiology, cardiac nurses need to engage in continuous learning. Studies show that 68% of cardiac nurses report pursuing additional certifications or advanced degrees to stay updated with the latest research and treatment techniques.

Table of Contents

1. What is the first step to becoming a cardiac nurse?
2. What education is required to become a cardiac nurse?
3. What is the career path for a cardiac nurse?
4. Can a cardiac nurse advance to a nurse practitioner?
5. What is the work environment like for cardiac nurses?
6. Where do cardiac nurses typically work?
7. How do cardiac nurses maintain a work-life balance?
8. What are the biggest challenges faced by cardiac nurses?
9. How can advanced online nursing programs transform my cardiac care career?
10. Do online degree programs and mentorship networks boost cardiac nursing career success?
11. Can an LPN Quickly Transition to Cardiac Nursing?
12. What are the best continuing education opportunities for cardiac nurses?
13. What is the average salary of a cardiac nurse?
14. What is the job outlook for cardiac nurses?
15. Other Things You Should Know About How to Become a Cardiac Nurse

What is the first step to becoming a cardiac nurse?

To start a career in cardiac nursing, you first need to obtain the appropriate nursing education. Aspiring cardiac nurses must begin by becoming registered nurses (RNs) through an accredited nursing program, typically earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

For those without a nursing background, online RN programs for non-nurses provide a convenient route to earning a nursing degree. These programs are designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, enabling them to complete nursing coursework and clinical training in an accelerated format.

After completing a nursing program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your nursing license. Once licensed, gaining hands-on clinical experience is crucial, especially in areas such as cardiology or critical care. Many cardiac nurses begin their careers working in general hospital settings and gradually transition into more specialized cardiac care units.

What education is required to become a cardiac nurse?

Cardiac nurses are expected to have a strong academic foundation, typically starting with either an associate or bachelor's degree in nursing. From there, they must pass the NCLEX-RN to earn their registered nurse (RN) license, which is the baseline requirement for clinical practice. However, those who want to specialize in cardiovascular care often pursue advanced education and training to remain competitive in this high-demand field.

One path that's gaining traction—especially for those entering nursing from another profession—is enrolling in direct entry MSN programs online. These programs are designed for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to pivot into nursing without starting from scratch. For aspiring cardiac nurses, this offers a faster route into advanced clinical roles, especially in academic medical centers or cardiac units that prefer or require graduate-level training.

In addition to formal degrees, targeted certifications such as the Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification (CV-BC) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) prepare nurses for the daily demands of working with heart patients. These credentials validate a nurse’s specialized knowledge and are often necessary for career advancement. Continuing education is not optional in this field—it’s part of the professional standard for those who want to provide the highest quality cardiac care.

If you are starting as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a certified nurse assistant (CNA), there are also bridge programs that allows you to earn an ADN or a BSN more quickly. What's the difference between LPN and CNA anyway? We have a separate article on the topic.

What is the career path for a cardiac nurse?

For nurses drawn to fast-paced, high-impact work, cardiac care offers one of the most structured and rewarding clinical progressions. Whether you're an RN looking to specialize or a professional exploring future advanced practice roles, the career path for a cardiac nurse provides both upward mobility and lateral flexibility.

• Entry-level experience in telemetry or med-surg units. Most cardiac nurses start by gaining clinical experience in telemetry, post-op, or medical-surgical units, where they build strong foundational skills.
• Transition to cardiac-focused units. After one to two years, nurses typically move into cardiovascular care units (CVICU), cardiac catheterization labs, or step-down units focused on heart failure, arrhythmias, or recovery post-surgery. This is where they begin to develop deeper cardiac nurse responsibilities.
• Certifications for specialization. Many nurses obtain credentials like Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification (CV-BC) to formalize their expertise and boost employability.
• Graduate-level advancement. For those aiming to move into advanced practice roles, programs such as 12-month nurse practitioner programs offer an efficient route to becoming a cardiac nurse practitioner (CNP), provided prerequisites are met.
• Leadership, research, or education. Experienced cardiac nurses often progress into clinical educator, nurse manager, or research coordinator roles—especially in academic hospitals and cardiac research centers.

With each step, cardiac nurses deepen their expertise while also expanding their influence on patient outcomes. From monitoring arrhythmias to educating families about preventive care, each role on this path builds on a blend of clinical competence, certification, and professional curiosity. This structured growth makes cardiac nursing a viable long-term path for those who value both mastery and meaning. Because of the time it takes one to truly be able to call themselves cardiac nurse, it makes sense that more than half are over 40 years of age. 

Can a cardiac nurse advance to a nurse practitioner?

Yes, a cardiac nurse can transition into an advanced practice role as a nurse practitioner (NP), particularly in cardiac-focused specialties such as adult-gerontology nurse practice (AGNP) or family nurse practice (FNP) with cardiovascular emphasis. This advancement is a common aspiration for nurses who want to manage complex cardiac conditions more independently, prescribe medications, and lead treatment planning. You can learn more about AGNP vs FNP if these are specializations you want to concentrate on. For nurses in the field, the drive often stems from a desire to have greater impact while retaining close patient interaction—something that aligns with both career growth and personal fulfillment.

The path involves completing a graduate-level NP program, which requires a BSN for entry and may include clinical hours in cardiology or internal medicine. Depending on the program and the nurse’s prior credentials, this process typically spans two to four years. Readers frequently ask how long does it take to become a nurse practitioner, and the answer depends on their starting point. RNs with a bachelor’s degree can enter MSN or DNP programs directly, while others may opt for bridge programs that fill in educational gaps.

Cardiac nurses who pursue NP credentials often report more autonomy in care planning and access to higher salaries. They also face increased responsibility, which appeals to clinicians who thrive under pressure and wish to grow in leadership or acute care roles. The transition is demanding, but for many, it offers the professional advancement and scope of practice they’ve been working toward since entering cardiac care.

What is the work environment like for cardiac nurses?

Cardiac nurses operate in dynamic clinical settings where rapid assessment, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential. Their environments vary by facility type and patient population, but the intensity and focus on cardiovascular health remain constant. These settings often shape not only their day-to-day responsibilities but also their long-term career decisions.

• Pace and intensity. Cardiac units are fast-paced, requiring nurses to multitask under pressure and make critical decisions swiftly.
• Team dynamics. Cardiac nurses often collaborate with cardiologists, respiratory therapists, and surgical teams, making communication a core skill.
• High patient acuity. The cardiac nurse workforce often handles complex cases involving acute and chronic heart conditions, demanding excellent clinical judgment and swift interventions.
• Exposure to emergencies. Cardiac nurses frequently respond to life-threatening events like arrhythmias and myocardial infarctions, especially in acute care environments.
• Growth into advanced roles. Nurses in high-pressure environments often pursue acute care nurse practitioner programs online to expand their clinical authority and reduce role strain.

This level of clinical complexity can be intense, but for many cardiac nurses, it offers meaning, challenge, and a clear path toward specialization and leadership.

Where do cardiac nurses typically work?

The settings where cardiac nurses practice significantly shape their routines, stress levels, and opportunities for growth. For aspiring professionals evaluating their options, understanding the landscape of work environments provides a clearer picture of how their daily responsibilities and long-term career path might unfold.

• Hospitals with dedicated cardiac units. Most cardiac nurses begin their careers in hospitals, particularly in telemetry, intensive care, or cardiac catheterization labs.
• Outpatient cardiology clinics. Nurses in these facilities assist with diagnostic testing, follow-up care, and patient education under the supervision of cardiologists.
• Rehabilitation centers. Cardiac nurses often work in post-acute settings to help patients recover from heart surgery or cardiac events like heart attacks.
• Long-term care facilities. For patients with chronic cardiac issues, cardiac nurses may be involved in monitoring and adjusting care plans in assisted living or nursing homes.
• Academic medical centers. These institutions provide opportunities to work on complex cases and contribute to clinical research or teaching.

These environments influence how cardiac nurses practice and affect their exposure to specializations and professional networks. For readers considering how to align their work with long-term goals, choosing the right setting is an early strategic step.

If becoming a home health nurse is more up your alley, you should read more about home health nurse salary, requirements, and responsibilities.

How do cardiac nurses maintain a work-life balance?

Work-life balance is a critical factor for those entering the cardiac nursing field, especially given the emotionally demanding and often fast-paced nature of the job. Understanding how practicing nurses manage their time, energy, and responsibilities can offer insight into whether the role fits your lifestyle expectations.

• Setting boundaries with shift preferences. Many cardiac nurses opt for consistent shifts—day or night—to stabilize routines and avoid erratic scheduling.
• Choosing supportive work environments. Facilities with strong team culture and adequate staffing help reduce burnout and support time off when needed.
• Utilizing wellness programs and EAPs. Nurses often benefit from employer-sponsored resources like mental health services and resilience training.
• Delegating and prioritizing tasks. Experienced nurses learn to triage responsibilities and rely on team collaboration to prevent overload.
• Making space for personal routines. Whether it’s regular exercise, time with family, or hobbies, cardiac nurses protect non-work time as a strategy for long-term career health.

For prospective cardiac nurses, knowing that balance is possible—and how it’s achieved—can ease anxieties about job strain and support more informed decisions about where and how to practice.

What are the biggest challenges faced by cardiac nurses?

Cardiac nurses work in high-stakes environments where decisions can directly affect patient outcomes. The complexity of care, fast-evolving treatments, and emotional weight of the job can create both professional fulfillment and substantial stress. Understanding these challenges helps prospective nurses enter the field with their eyes open and strategies in place.

• Managing patients with complex, high-risk conditions. Cardiac nurses often care for individuals with multiple comorbidities, requiring advanced clinical judgment and constant vigilance.
• Coping with emotional and psychological stress. Frequent exposure to life-threatening events, patient loss, or family distress can take a toll over time.
• Staying updated with clinical guidelines. Cardiology evolves rapidly, and nurses are expected to integrate new treatments, devices, and medications into daily care.
• Navigating communication in high-pressure settings. Coordinating with cardiologists, intensivists, and families during critical interventions demands strong communication and emotional intelligence.
• Balancing documentation with bedside care. Electronic records and regulatory requirements can detract from direct patient interaction, creating tension between compliance and care.

These issues aren’t just professional hurdles—they shape the cardiac nurse's daily experience. Preparing for them can help new nurses focus on growth and resilience and making meaningful contributions.

How can advanced online nursing programs transform my cardiac care career?

Advanced online nursing programs provide cardiac nurses with specialized training that not only enhances clinical competencies but also bolsters leadership and decision-making skills in high-stakes environments. By enrolling in accelerated pathways such as the fastest MSN to DNP program, professionals can achieve higher qualifications in a streamlined format while meeting rigorous academic standards. This approach enables nurses to integrate cutting-edge research with evidence-based practices, fostering improved patient outcomes and positioning them competitively in the evolving healthcare landscape.

Do online degree programs and mentorship networks boost cardiac nursing career success?

Cardiac nursing professionals can benefit from targeted online degree programs that provide academic flexibility alongside access to essential mentorship and networking opportunities. Many leading programs integrate virtual mentorship initiatives, allowing experienced cardiac nurses to offer insights into clinical best practices and effective strategies for career progression. Strategic online pathways, such as the easiest RN to BSN program, are designed to streamline the transition from entry-level roles to specialized cardiac care positions by combining rigorous coursework with real-time guidance and interactive peer-to-peer engagement. This integrated approach not only enhances clinical competence but also builds a robust professional network, positioning cardiac nurses to meet the demands of an evolving healthcare landscape.

Can an LPN Quickly Transition to Cardiac Nursing?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) seeking a swift entry into cardiac care can consider targeted bridge programs that expedite the transition to Registered Nurse (RN) status while integrating cardiac-focused training. These accelerated options not only provide foundational coursework for critical care but also offer clinical rotations in cardiovascular settings to build specialized competencies. For instance, an intensive 6-month LPN to RN program online allows LPNs to gain the necessary qualifications efficiently, aligning with the rigorous demands of cardiac nursing. Such programs are designed with flexibility and accelerated curriculum structures that cater to professionals aiming for rapid career advancement without compromising clinical proficiency or patient safety.

What are the best continuing education opportunities for cardiac nurses?

Continuing education is essential for cardiac nurses to stay clinically sharp and professionally competitive. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise in acute care or transition into an advanced practice role, the right programs can make a meaningful difference in your career.

• Cardiology-focused CEU courses. These help nurses stay updated on evolving practices, such as arrhythmia interpretation, heart failure management, and electrophysiology.
• Graduate-level nursing programs. Many cardiac nurses enroll in online nurse practitioner programs to build clinical autonomy while maintaining their work schedules.
• Post-master’s certificates in cardiovascular care. These allow MSN-prepared nurses to deepen their specialization in areas like cardiac pharmacology, diagnostics, or acute response protocols.
• National conferences and certification workshops. Events hosted by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses or the Heart Failure Society of America offer exposure to cutting-edge research and skills training.
• Hospital-sponsored professional development. Institutions with cardiology departments often provide in-house training programs that align with organizational priorities and emerging standards of care.

Continuing education doesn’t just add credentials—it opens access to leadership roles, improves patient care outcomes, and supports long-term career satisfaction.

What is the average salary of a cardiac nurse?

Cardiac nurses, as specialized registered nurses (RNs), often earn salaries that reflect their advanced expertise in cardiovascular care. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for registered nurses was $86,070 as of May 2023. However, specialized roles like cardiac nursing can command higher compensation. For instance, data from another source indicates that cardiac nurses earn an average annual salary of $84,773. ​

Several factors influence a cardiac nurse's salary:

• Experience. Entry-level cardiac nurses (0-2 years of experience) can expect salaries ranging from $65,000 to $85,000 per year, while those with 5-10 years of experience may earn between $100,000 and $130,000 annually. ​
• Geographic Location. Salaries vary significantly across states. For example, cardiac nurses in California and Massachusetts tend to earn higher wages compared to those in South Dakota or Alabama. ​
• Work Setting. Hospitals often offer higher salaries, especially for experienced cardiac nurses, with ranges from $85,000 to $125,000 per year. Clinics and private practices may offer salaries between $70,000 and $100,000 annually but might provide more flexible schedules. ​

These wages are much higher than the median annual wage for all occupations. This could be why most nurses are satisfied in their jobs. However, there are other factors affecting their job satisfaction, too. 

What is the job outlook for cardiac nurses?

The job outlook for cardiac nurses in the U.S. is positive and is expected to remain strong in 2025, driven by several key healthcare trends. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment for registered nurses (RNs) is projected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is reflective of the increasing demand for specialized care in fields like cardiology due to demographic and healthcare trends that are shaping the industry.

The aging U.S. population is one of the primary drivers of growth in healthcare, particularly for cardiac nurses. As the baby boomer generation continues to age, the incidence of heart disease and related conditions is expected to rise. By 2030, it is projected that nearly one in five Americans will be 65 or older, a demographic more likely to experience chronic conditions like heart disease, hypertension, and heart failure. As older adults require ongoing cardiovascular care, the demand for skilled cardiac nurses to provide this care is increasing.

Advances in cardiovascular technologies and treatments, such as minimally invasive surgeries, robotic-assisted procedures, and new drug therapies, are also reshaping cardiac care. These innovations require specialized nursing expertise to assist in procedures, monitor patients post-treatment, and manage complex care. As these technologies become more widespread, cardiac nurses will be in high demand to operate, monitor, and support these advanced treatments, ensuring positive patient outcomes.

You can talk to a nurse recruiter regarding your job prospects as a cardiac nurse. Speaking of nurse recruiters, if this is something you're interested in, check out our article on how to become a nurse recruiter.

What Cardiac Nurses Say About Their Careers

Becoming a cardiac nurse has been one of the best decisions of my life. The work is hard, but it’s also rewarding on so many levels. Not only do I get to help patients recover, but I also have the chance to constantly improve myself through professional development. Every day, I’m thankful for the skills I’ve gained and the lives I touch.
- Tony

When I first started, I didn’t know how much room there was for growth in the cardiac nursing field. There are so many paths—whether it's advancing to nurse practitioner roles or furthering your education with specialized certifications. My work is more dynamic now than I ever imagined, and I love the variety. The most rewarding part is being there for patients in their most vulnerable moments.
- Clement

I’ve always had a passion for cardiology, and becoming a cardiac nurse was the perfect way to combine my interest in medicine with my desire to help others. The learning curve was steep, but the support from my colleagues and the variety of continuing education programs has kept me on track. This career path has not only enhanced my skills but has also given me a sense of purpose.
– Fiona

Key Findings About How to Become a Cardiac Nurse

• Educational requirements. Cardiac nurses typically need to obtain a registered nursing (RN) degree, with some opting for a direct-entry MSN program online to specialize in cardiovascular care. Approximately 53% of cardiac nurses hold an MSN degree.
• Career progression options. Cardiac nurses can advance to nurse practitioners, especially by pursuing 12-month nurse practitioner programs. These programs are designed for nurses seeking to expand their scope of practice within the cardiac field.
• Salary data. The median salary for a registered nurse is around $86,000 annually. But because cardiac nursing is specialized, cardiac nurses may earn higher and as much $100,000 per year.
• Work environment. About 60% of cardiac nurses work in hospitals, particularly in specialized cardiac units, while others may work in outpatient care centers or for private practices.

Other Things You Should Know About How to Become a Cardiac Nurse

How hard is cardiac nursing?

Cardiac nursing can be challenging both mentally and physically, largely because it involves caring for patients with serious, often life-threatening heart conditions. Nurses in this field need to monitor complex symptoms, interpret telemetry readings, respond quickly to emergencies like arrhythmias or cardiac arrest, and stay up-to-date on constantly evolving treatments and technologies. The fast-paced environment, especially in cardiac intensive care or catheterization labs, demands strong critical thinking, precision, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Emotionally, cardiac nursing can also be tough. Nurses often support patients and families through frightening or life-altering diagnoses like heart attacks or heart failure. They may deal with sudden declines, loss of patients, or the emotional weight of educating individuals about necessary—but sometimes overwhelming—lifestyle changes. Despite the difficulty, many cardiac nurses find the role incredibly rewarding due to the meaningful impact they make in saving lives and helping patients recover and thrive.

Where do cardiac nurses make the most money?

Cardiac nurses in the United States earn varying salaries based on location, experience, and healthcare setting. In California, cardiac nurses earn an average of $122,368 per year, with some regions like Greenbrae offering up to $166 per hour. In Hawaii, the average salary is approximately $3,055 per week, equating to about $158,860 annually. In Massachusetts, cardiac nurses earn an average of $83,746 per year, with Boston offering higher salaries averaging $86,623 per year. In New York, the average salary is $95,186 per year, with New York City offering higher earnings averaging $100,429 per year. Finally, in Texas, cardiac nurses earn an average of $87,427 per year, with cities like Houston offering up to $89,570 per year.

These figures highlight the impact of location on cardiac nurse salaries, with higher earnings typically found in states with higher costs of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare professionals.

What does a typical day look like for a cardiac nurse?

A typical day for a cardiac nurse begins with reviewing patient charts and receiving a handoff report from the previous shift to understand each patient's current condition and care plan. They perform morning assessments, including checking vital signs, monitoring telemetry for heart rhythm irregularities, and administering medications such as beta blockers, diuretics, or anticoagulants. Throughout the day, they prepare patients for procedures like echocardiograms or cardiac catheterizations and collaborate closely with cardiologists and other healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans based on patient progress or test results.

Cardiac nurses also spend a significant part of their day educating patients and families about heart conditions, medication management, lifestyle changes, and post-discharge care. They must remain alert and ready to respond quickly to emergencies, such as chest pain or arrhythmias, often requiring fast intervention or participation in code blue situations. The day ends with detailed documentation and a shift handoff to ensure continuity of care. Overall, the role demands a blend of technical expertise, critical thinking, and compassionate communication.

Are there different types of cardiac nurses?

Yes, there are several different types of cardiac nurses, each specializing in various aspects of heart care depending on the patient population, care setting, and level of acuity. While all cardiac nurses focus on cardiovascular health, their roles and responsibilities can vary significantly based on their specialty.

Some common types include cardiac care unit (CCU) nurses, who work with critically ill heart patients in intensive settings; cardiac catheterization lab nurses, who assist with diagnostic and interventional heart procedures like angioplasty or stent placement; and electrophysiology (EP) nurses, who specialize in treating heart rhythm disorders. Others include cardiac rehabilitation nurses, who support patients during recovery through exercise programs and lifestyle coaching, and pediatric cardiac nurses, who care for infants and children with congenital heart defects. Each type of cardiac nurse plays a vital role in the continuum of cardiovascular care.

References:

• Becker's Hospital Review. (2024). Nurses job satisfaction: 2018 vs. 2022. beckershospitalreview.com
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational employment and wage statistics: Data maps. bls.gov
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational employment and wage statistics: Tables. bls.gov
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Registered nurses. bls.gov
• Patel, M. (n.d.). Job satisfaction among cardiac nurses: A comparative study (Master’s thesis, Marshall University). https://mds.marshall.edu