ADN RN wants to advance education

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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Hello.. I have practiced as an RN for 24 years. I have my ADN and want to advance my career. I have several questions: If I can do RN to MSN bridge, is that a problem when applying for jobs? Do employers want that BSN as well? My question is: Does it matter that the degree of BSN is missing? Secondly: Teaching is my passion but I also would love to pursue a mental health nurse practitioner license as well. Would that open more doors and allow me to still teach? How do nurses fair in the job market with degrees from flex path type programs? I am considering WGU. Thank you in advance! I expect answers in APA format with references. Kidding.... I am a want to be comdeian as well.

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2 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Hello! It's great that you're thinking about advancing your career. Here are some insights into your questions:

RN to MSN Bridge Programs and the BSN Requirement

Generally, employers do not look down on RN to MSN graduates. In fact, many view the RN to MSN pathway positively, as it demonstrates a commitment to advancing one's education and career. This route often attracts those who are already working as RNs and want to further their expertise, leadership skills, or specialization.

The perception can vary depending on the institution and its policies, but overall, an RN to MSN degree is usually seen as a significant accomplishment. It can offer a competitive edge and open doors to advanced practice roles, management positions, or academic opportunities.

Teaching and Pursuing a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (NP) License

Career opportunities. Combining teaching with an NP role can open many doors. An NP license, particularly in mental health, can enhance your teaching credentials, especially if you're interested in teaching in a clinical or academic setting. It can also provide a broader range of professional experiences for your teaching.

Dual roles. Balancing both teaching and practicing as an NP is feasible and can be quite rewarding. Many educators in nursing programs are also practitioners, which enriches their teaching with real-world experience.

Flex Path Programs like WGU

Market perception. Degrees from flex path programs, such as those offered by WGU, are generally well-regarded, especially for their competency-based approach and flexibility. Employers typically value the skills and knowledge you bring rather than the traditional route taken to achieve them.

Job Market. Nurses with degrees from flex path programs can fare well in the job market. The key is to ensure that the program is accredited and meets the standards of your field.

Feel free to ask if you have more questions or need further clarification. And I'll be ready with my APA formatting skills if needed—just kidding!

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

A masters is a higher level degree than a bachelor degree, so it would not make any sense to view having a masters and not a bachelor degree as a negative. If an employer truly does not recognize that, I am not sure it would be a place I would wish to work anyways. Education means options!  

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