Nursing Informatics advice

Specialties Informatics

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I am an RN looking to obtain a Master's degree. I am thinking about Nursing Informatics. I have no IT experience.

I would also like to complete my degree online, but I am not sure about reputable schools. I don't want to sink money into a degree if the employer isn't going to respect the school.

Any advice?

Specializes in ICU, Informatics.

I'm sure there are snobby employers that only look at the school the applicant attended, but IT is a very results driven industry in general. "What you've done" is very much more impressive than what school you attend. So my philosophy is- get the degree because many times you can't get past HR without it, but focus more on beefing up a resume that speaks to accomplishments. I've never seen a mid-senior level position that says, "Masters required, no work experience needed". Jobs that are going to require a masters degree almost always require experience, so that would be my primary focus at this point.

It is very common for people to obtain their masters degrees in online programs. It is more convienent for working people with families. Make sure it is an AACN accreditied school

I would suggest an in state university to avoid the prejudice against online school that are degree mills. Plus, I found tuition is much cheaper at public in state schools. Avoid online programs where the only requirement to get in is the ability to pay tuition.

Specializes in MS, Tele, CM, Informatics.

I'm currently enrolled in a MSN-Nursing Informatics program which is vigorous. Currently I have been able to maintain a 4.0 GPA,due to the work I have put in and the helpful professors that encourage/challenge me. But check around if your planning to do any program no matter if it's online or local. Even with local programs I'm seeing more of the classes going online. I wish you all the best. I hope you find a program that meets your needs.

RN1023, I agree with previous posters. Many reputable brick and mortar schools have online programs in nursing informatics. I generally go with the more established public institutions which tend to be less costly than either religious or private for profit schools.

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