Different Types of Masters In Nursing MSN
Studying for a master’s degree program is one thing, but studying a masters in any medical field such as nursing can be a long process however it can be extremely rewarding. There are many pathways one can take and just as many specializations for nurses looking to achieve the highest qualifications available. This article will take a deep dive into this field and give some vital information about your options.
So let’s dive right in.
Degree Paths for Masters in Nursing
When considering taking an MSN degree path, not only will you learn the fundamentals of more than how to become a nurse but the wider field related to the medical field that could help you choose to specialize in a more crucial role within the medical industry.
For instance, the jobs you get having achieved an MSN qualification can make you more in demand, and the job salaries would also be at a higher rate. The higher the degree, the more you’re earning potential.
Depending on the educational institution you go to, to achieve that degree, it is always recommended to get it through an accredited one, for instance, open that is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission. Certain countries have their relevant authorities, and as long as it meets the standards of the criteria and is recognized globally, you on the right path.
Choosing Between an MSN and BSN
Some may not want to further their education or skills having done a BSN or Bachelor’s degree, so when it comes time to choose between the two, it is important to recognize that most institutions and learning facilities will only enroll nurses in an MSN if they have an RN license to practice. According to the WHO (World Health Organization), the career of a nurse encompasses caring of individuals and includes individuals of many groups such as family, communities, care homes, sick and ill people and more.
In most countries, nurses (especially now during the COVID-19 pandemic) have risen tremendously and a lot more are enrolling in degree courses to study to become a nurse or a doctor. Click here to find out more about what it entails in the real world. It has always been a prestigious role, and more so now than ever. If it wasn’t for nurses and doctors, the world would be a very unhappy place and possibly the death rates would be much higher.
Going into an MSN requires a bachelor’s degree in the least. You can get this achievement either online through a certified course or by visiting a university that offers it. They usually offer primary courses in nursing informatics, leadership, family nursing and more. Typically the requirement to enroll is to have at least 36 credit hours of evidence-based practices within a medical facility, either working alongside a senior nurse or a doctor.
It takes about 2 years to complete a nursing master’s program, thereafter you go into practical experience. With an RN license, you can apply for an MSN program through reputable institutions online such as https://online.xavier.edu/online-programs/msn-masters-nursing/
Specialization options with an MSN Degree
Once you’ve attained your master’s degree the world is your oyster. You can specialize in various areas such as in becoming a nurse practitioner (NPS), or a registered nurse (APRN), and you can even decide to go into more advanced career pathways such as:
- Mental health
- Psychiatry
- Women’s health
- Pediatric care
- Nurse mid-wife
- Nurse anesthetist
- Family nursing
And more…
Salaries can range up to $63,690-$174,790 on a master’s degree nursing program. We take a brief look at a few of the above areas and what they entail:
Nurse Midwife: provide specialized wellness care for women and the focus is mainly on delivering babies, delivering babies, prenatal care, family planning and gynecological checkups.
Nurse Practitioner: also known as NPS. These types of nurses will directly interact with patients and help in providing many care and health services. When patients are ill they will be the first port of call and oversee any illnesses and find ways to help. They can also help supervise other medical staff, order diagnostics of patients and recommend treatment plans. Needless to say, this type of career pays more than its predecessors as the knowledge band is much wider.
Nurse Anesthetist: Those who administer anesthesia before various procedures done inside of hospitals and after, fall under this category. They can monitor those in need, and provide solutions for pain management and draw up information regarding your medical history, and perform any necessary physical examinations. They are also advice givers who are there to answer the majority of your questions regarding your illness and recommended solutions for before and after treatment or any type of surgery.
This prestigious and highly sought after career is not only rewarding financially but also to a lot of the human race as well.