Education plays a crucial role in determining a nurse's salary. Nurses who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) generally earn more than those with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), and Nurse Midwives, who often hold a Master's or Doctoral degree, earn considerably higher salaries. For example, a CRNA can earn over $180,000 annually.