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by raindrop

The University of Phoenix online has a MSN degree with interest in Geriatrics. I think it is "MSN in Gerontology," to be exact.

I love, love geriatrics, but I don't EVER want to work in a nursing home. And I don't think working for a doctor will pay very much $$ - and yes, money will be a factor....the UoP is VERY expenisive.

Some people say that having a focus, whether it be in Geriatrics or Peds...whatever....will not be beneficial because of the limitations. Thus, finding a job will be challenging.

I like the idea of having one focus (geraitrics) because it will allow me to learn as much as I can about that population. And also, I won't be 'forced' to study an area that I have absoultely no interest in, like in Undergrad.

My dad thinks that work will be easy for me to find since the baby boomers are becoming senior citizens....soon to be geraitrics.

What do you guys think? I am so confused. I want to do this, but I need to make a wise decision before I spend 40k in loans.

[sharona97]

Re: What type of work can I do if I go for this degree?

My largest experience with the geriatric population has been in an office setting with Internal Medicine. (I've worked LTC and NH, and realize this is not your area of interest).

Research is another area that is rapidly changing and may have some impact on gerentology and or preventative medicine.

The third area that comes to mind is hospice.



Hope this helps.

[philosophical]

Re: What type of work can I do if I go for this degree?

Hi,

I think Gerontology is a great field to get into. I found myself very interested in this subject over my course of study for my Bachelor's in Psych. I can think of a few career ideas...

1. Research
2. LTC / Assisted Living/ Retirement Community Administration (with additional credential)
3. Death and Dying Counseling (not regulated field)
4. Gerontology Consultant to businesses (boomers aging, might need help with market research, etc)

I might have more later...

Rhonda

[Jolie]

Re: What type of work can I do if I go for this degree?

Why not contact the program director and ask for an appointment to explore the job opportunities available to graduates of this program? Ask to speak to some recent grads to find out what positions they have taken and how satisfied they are.

[lindarn]

Re: What type of work can I do if I go for this degree?

Originally Posted by raindrop

The University of Phoenix online has a MSN degree with interest in Geriatrics. I think it is "MSN in Gerontology," to be exact.

I love, love geriatrics, but I don't EVER want to work in a nursing home. And I don't think working for a doctor will pay very much $$ - and yes, money will be a factor....the UoP is VERY expenisive.

Some people say that having a focus, whether it be in Geriatrics or Peds...whatever....will not be beneficial because of the limitations. Thus, finding a job will be challenging.

I like the idea of having one focus (geraitrics) because it will allow me to learn as much as I can about that population. And also, I won't be 'forced' to study an area that I have absoultely no interest in, like in Undergrad.

My dad thinks that work will be easy for me to find since the baby boomers are becoming senior citizens....soon to be geraitrics.

What do you guys think? I am so confused. I want to do this, but I need to make a wise decision before I spend 40k in loans.

If you will have a Masters Degree, I would myself as an Independant Contractor. I think that is the only way you will make any $$$.

Lindarn, RN, BSN, CCRN
Spokane, Washington

[TheCommuter]

Re: What type of work can I do if I go for this degree?

If you earn an MSN degree with emphasis in geriatrics, you could readily become the DON (director of nurses) at a skilled nursing facility, nursing home, rehab hospital, or assisted living facility, and easily be earning in the $80,000 to $100,000 range per year for a desk job that entails the banker's hours of 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. Nursing home management is truly not as depressing as it is frequently portrayed to be.

[clhRN2b2010]

Re: What type of work can I do if I go for this degree?

How much of an entrapenuer are you? You could work in policy, run your own unique business doing consulting for 40 somethings caring for their parents, write a book, whatever.