Professional Advancement Ladder for Registered Nurses

The Nursing Professional Advancement System or Clinical Ladder is a 4-tiered performance-based career advancement system that provides a professional framework for developing, evaluating, promoting and rewarding RNs who are direct caregivers. The four levels are based on Patricia Benner's novice-to-expert model (Benner, P. 1984. From Novice to Expert: Excellence and power in clinical nursing practice. Addison-Wesley Publishing Company).

On this page you will find links to information on the four levels within the clinical ladder, including identified behaviors for each level, promotional progression information, and application information. We invite you to read this information and work with your manager to discuss in more detail.  In addition, please feel free to contact a member of the Professional Advancement Review Committee should you have further questions.

• Nursing Professional Advancement System (NPAS) Overview
• Professional Behaviors and Job Standards and Professional Expectations
• NPAS User Friendly Forms
• Professional Advancement Review Committee (PARC) Member / Contact Information
• NPAS Dates / Facts to Remember
• Need More Help? - NPAS Educational Offerings