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Discussion

ADN to MSN bridge?

I'm currently working on pre-reqs for my school's ADN program. I realize ADN jobs are slowly going the way of the dodo, so I have planned on doing a BSN bridge after I graduate and obtain my first job.

I recently discovered there are ADN to MSN programs(that take a similar amount of time as the RN to BSN), specifically the program at Gonzaga University. Also, I love research and have entertained the idea of being a nurse educator, so this would be perfect for me.

My understanding of the program at Gonzaga is that you complete 30 bridge credits and then go onto the Masters level coursework, which consists of 36-47 credits. The price is steep compared to my community college at $680-870/credit, so I'm wondering what the salary difference is for a MSN prepared nurse vs. ADN.

Has anyone done an ADN to MSN bridge program? What was the salary difference and did you switch to a different position once you obtained your MSN? Was the cost of school against your salary increase worth it?

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    While I am not an MSN, a significant portion of my friends are.

    3 - 5 years ago an MSN RN was in high demand as nursing school educators, hospital staff educators, hospital managers, etc. On avg it was expected to be a 20k more per year boost in pay. The MSNs that went the route of NP or clinical nurse specialists are still very much in demand and making about 15k - 30k more than staff RNs per year. Unfortunately, many of my education friends are finding it difficult to obtain jobs > $40k as nrsg instructors due to many universities requesting a DNP (doctorate of nursing practice) education rather than a mere Masters. Otherwise, the positions are simply saturated!

    So as an end result many MSNs are simply working at bedside making similar wages as their ADN, Diploma, and BSN counterparts.

    Currently, this is the best possible time to become a mid level practitioner. Become an F-NP or acute care NP to get the biggest bang for your buck. However, don't simply go that route for money. Personal happiness is always the most rewarding!!

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    ... many MSNs are simply working at bedside...

    Have seen some MSNs on the floors. Haven't come across many.

    My experience has been exclusively on the East Coast. Perhaps in other regions there's a greater prevalence of MSNs in clinical spots.

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    We have several MSN's on my floor, as well as APN's who work at the bedside as staff nurses. The hospital where I work pays staff nurses well, with differentials for BSN, MSN, certification, and clinical ladder. Several of us with our MSN work as clinical instructors on the side, but no one could pay their bills on that salary alone. Even our APNs take a pay cut if they leave for positions in other facilities.

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