[manders]

Hi everyone. I am writing because I am confused and would like your input. I have a BS in Allied Health/Community Health and have worked for two years as a community health educator for a small organization. I have just completed my first year of an ADN program and plan to grad. may 07. I would like everyone's opinion on whether I should get a BSN or head straight into an MSN program (after the required floor experience of course). My goal is to work as a public health nurse, so my next question is do you think I would benefit from a masters or do you think my BS/Community Health with field experience and RN will be good enough. Just wondering what my next steps should be. Thanks for any input

[cinnyluvscats]

It depends on what type of public health nursing you want to do. I work as an RN at a city health dept. and administer an immunization grant. I have my BSN, which is enough for this position.

If you want to become specialized, such as bioterrorism, epidemiology, etc., you may need an advanced degree.

My thoughts for the asking. Good luck!
Cindy

[manders]

I am still not really sure what exactly I want to do. I love the education part of public health, but I love the clinical nursing also. I guess what I am asking is everyone's opinion on what route I should take to get the best experience out of both my community health degree and the (hopefully) RN. Thanks again for your input!

[earthlynurse2be]

Originally Posted by manders

I am still not really sure what exactly I want to do. I love the education part of public health, but I love the clinical nursing also. I guess what I am asking is everyone's opinion on what route I should take to get the best experience out of both my community health degree and the (hopefully) RN. Thanks again for your input!

I have a bachelor of science in Public Health as well so I would like to know this answer as well.