A master’s of science in nursing can open new and exciting doors in your nursing career. If you already have your BSN or are currently pursuing it, I encourage you to think about continuing on to an MSN. Even if you only have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), you can obtain an MSN through bridge programs like an RN to MSN.
How exactly can an MSN move your career forward? Let’s explore three different pathways – nurse educator, nurse administrator and nurse practitioner.
Nurse Educator
Do you love precepting and working with new nurses? Maybe you love coaching nursing students who do clinicals on your floor. When you get an MSN with a nurse educator focus, you can make an impact by sharing your expertise with new nurses and pre-licensure nursing students. You’ll learn how to use the latest instructional and simulation technology, along with other strategies that will make you an effective educator.
Nurse Administrator
As a registered nurse, you’re probably already skilled at time management and organization. If your strengths lie in planning, organizing and project management, an MSN with a nurse administrator track is a good fit for you. You’ll hone your skills in delegation and communication, plus you’ll learn leadership techniques to become a stronger leader at work.
Nurse Practitioner
Some nurses can determine a patient’s diagnosis right away and rattle off a list of necessary medications like it’s second nature. If that sounds like you, becoming a nurse practitioner could be your ideal path. You’ll focus on improving your patient care, understanding how best to assess conditions and promote health, and taking on responsibilities similar to those of a doctor.
As an RN, you can have a fulfilling career helping patients while educating new nurses. You can also be the charge nurse and successfully lead a team. Or you can become an expert in patient care, working in close collaboration with doctors. By taking the next step to pursue an MSN degree, you’ll set yourself apart and position yourself as a leader in your field. And when you enroll in a flexible, online program like the RN to MSN at American College of Education, you can complete your degree on your own time. So take a moment to ask yourself: Where do you want to take your career?
American College of Education meets you where you are in your nursing career with a wide range of fully online nursing programs. Explore them all to find the one that’s best for you.
