How to Answer: Do you have plans to pursue certification in your chosen field?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Nursing job interview.
23. Do you have plans to pursue certification in your chosen field?
How to Answer
Registered nurses with an equivalent of 2 full-time years and a minimum of 2000 practicing hours their specialty with 30 hours of CEU's in that specialty can apply and test for certification in their specialty. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Certification Program showcases expertise and experience in a chosen specialty area.
Written by Ryan Brown on June 5th, 2019
1st Entry Level Example
"I absolutely want to seek certification as an ICU nurse when I get enough clinical hours in my field and two years under my belt. What kind of supervision and systems are in place to help me reach my goal here at JFK Memorial Hospital? I have started accruing my 30 hours of CEU credits in my specialty through the free CEU's offered by my ANA subscription."
Written by Ryan Brown on June 5th, 2019
2nd Entry Level Example
"As a newly licensed RN, the only additional certification I have at this point is CPR. I do plan to obtain my ACLS certification in the next year and would be interested in sub-specialty certifications once I get established within a unit and team. Does your organization offer any certification programs?"
Written by Jaymie Payne on December 18th, 2022
1st Experienced Example
"A majority of my experience as an RN has been working with pediatrics. I currently possess an active ACLS and PALS certification. I would also be interested in obtaining the Pediatric Advanced Emergency Assessment, Recognition and Stabilization (PEARS) certificate in the near future. Are there any other certifications you prefer the candidate to have for this role?"
Written by Jaymie Payne on December 18th, 2022
2nd Experienced Example
"As a seasoned nurse, I have already had the opportunity to obtain additional certifications. I currently have my ACLS and TCRN certifications. I have held both of these certifications for the past 7 years and just recently renewed them within the last 2 months."
Written by Tabitha Cumpian on January 31st, 2023
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About the Author
I began my healthcare career when I was a sophomore in high school and became an STNA (state-tested nursing assistant) at a local long-term care facility. I then went on to work as a nursing assistant at a local hospital and home healthcare agency. During that time, I pursued my Bachelor's in Business Administration: Human Resource Management and transitioned to working for one of the largest long-term care and post-acute rehab companies in the country. I supported the talent acquisition function, and in the span of 8 years, I screened and interviewed over 1,500 nurse aides, LPNs, and RNs.
I hold a very special place in my heart for nurses, as it's often a thankless and tiresome job. Not everyone is cut out to be a nurse, and I have great respect and admiration for those that choose this career path. As a content writer and interview coach for MockQuestions, my goal is to help you prepare and succeed in your upcoming interview. This article offers interview tips and advice along with 50 practice interview questions and answer examples to help you better understand what to expect and prepare for interview day! Wishing you the best of luck!
Learn more about Jaymie Payne