by Inspired1920

hello,

I have been browsing through threads and came across some that were helpful but I needed more clarity on my question. I have a BS in Public Health and I am interested in becoming a Public health Nurse. I have been going back and forth with where I should be and where I should go and I am now at a Community College taking science courses. I am feeling that I need to get my Bachelor's in nursing instead of an Associate's. So my question is, to become a public health nurse should I get my BSN and then my MPH?

I hope someone can help me so I can get on with my degrees. I'm so frustrated.

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

Originally Posted by Inspired1920

hello,

I have been browsing through threads and came across some that were helpful but I needed more clarity on my question. I have a BS in Public Health and I am interested in becoming a Public health Nurse. I have been going back and forth with where I should be and where I should go and I am now at a Community College taking science courses. I am feeling that I need to get my Bachelor's in nursing instead of an Associate's. So my question is, to become a public health nurse should I get my BSN and then my MPH?

I hope someone can help me so I can get on with my degrees. I'm so frustrated.

Hi and welcome to allnurses,

There is much debate related to this topic. The general consensus is that at a minimum, a BSN is required for entry level and a Masters in Nursing with an emphasis on public health is preferred. In a two year ADN program, the emphasis is on technical proficiency with a fundamental understanding of nursing process. Although systems integration in AA programs discuss the public and community in the context of a client, there is minimal coursework.

In a BSN program, there is more education provided with working with communities as the client with integration of nursing theory and process driving, informing and directing care. At the masters level, you discover additional models of care and theory to help guide care of the community as a client.

I really didn't think the distinsion between the various levels were too important until I started working as a public health nurse.

Also, check with your local state boards of nursing and public health for certification requirments. In California, as an example, you can not hold yourself out as a public health nurse unless you are certified by the BON which requires a minimum of a BSN or BA/BS in a related field with additional coursework on top of the RN.

Hope this has helped.

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

Oh thanks. You are the first person that gave me straight forward answers. Oh Bless you.

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

Definitely the BSN, at a minimum.

And Tammy, thanks for that answer. Really helkpful.

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

In my state, public health nurses are required to have a BSN and a state PHN certificate (included in some/most/all? BSN programs). We had a rotation with these nurses as students in my BSN program. They picked up cases and made visits in the community. It was one of my favorite rotations! Too short!

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

A BSN is required to work at the Public Health Dept where I live.

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

I graduated with a BSN and we were able to apply for a public health certificate.

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

Hi,to become a Public Health Nurse you should have a BSN and pass the Nurse Licensure Exam and at least a you have two years related work experience to qualify .

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

My BSN program granted a public health nurse certificate. Not all BSN programs in my state do.

Re: What kind of Degree do I need for Public Health Nursing?

I actually entered public health with an ADN degree - This was the only job offer I got, after applying to many hospitals. I am very happy with my job and actually really enjoy being a PHN.