Why Earn a Master’s Degree in Nursing?
More nurses are advancing their careers by pursuing a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) to increase their career options and earning potential. But nurses aren’t the only ones who benefit. Studies show that a highly educated nursing workforce is better armed to meet today’s complex healthcare needs.
Entry Into Advanced Practice
Become an advanced practice specialist, such as an NP or CRNA.
Elevate the Profession
Learn the skills to lead change, promote health and enhance care.
Career Opportunities
Experience the demand for master’s-prepared nurses in the job market.
Higher Salary Potential
Command a six-figure salary and rise to the top of leadership.
Top MSN Articles
5 Top Careers with a Master’s Degree
How a master’s degree in nursing can expand your nursing career.
Moving from BSN to MSN: Is It Worth It?
Nurses with MSN degrees have more career options.
What Is the Appeal of Online MSN Programs?
Online education is a growing option to get your MSN degree.
What You Need to Know
Nurses with an MSN degree benefit by having more career options and generally higher pay. They help educate future nurses and lead initiatives that move the nursing profession and healthcare forward.
Nurses should research an MSN program’s professional accreditation and faculty, as well as what the costs will be going in, since tuition and miscellaneous costs vary. Be clear on a program’s clinical requirements and how they might fit into your work and family life.
Nurses with a master’s degree can command up to six-figure salaries, depending on their area of specialization. Plus, nurses with MSNs earn an average of $17,000 more per year than BSN nurses.
MSN nurses often choose to pursue leadership roles or venture into advanced practice, becoming CRNAs, NPs, clinical nurse specialists or informaticists.
Nursing students can earn an MSN via on-site colleges and universities or online nursing programs, which offer more flexible class schedules. Accelerated MSN programs offer degree options for non-nurses and associate degree RNs.
Students can earn a master's degree in nursing in their choice of several concentrations, including an MSN in Nursing Administration, MSN in Executive Nurse Leadership, MSN in Care Coordination and an MSN in Case Management, among others.