Published Feb 11, 2017
Meganlynn1
2 Posts
Hello, so I plan on starting college soon for nursing and my main goal is to have a masters and specialize in neonatal or maternity nursing what would be the best route to get here? I keep hearing bout different programs but I'm not sure which way to go. Also, are there special programs where I can finish school in a shorter amount of time?
HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD
9,051 Posts
In the US, pre-licensure nursing education produces nurse generalists. There is no opportunity to specialize until after you obtain your license. Employers provide training programs for inexperienced nurses who are hired into OB areas.
If you pursue advanced education (MSN) you can become a Nurse Midwife (CNM) or NP specializing in Neonatal care. There are no shortcuts - these intense clinical roles require very high levels of clinical expertise.
djh123
1,101 Posts
I think the only way you can get a nursing degree in a shorter amount of time is if you already have another degree - they're called accelerated programs. You may not agree with me, but I'll say what I've told a couple of CNA's at work who've thought about becoming nurses: you really don't want to go through nursing school 'as quick as possible'. Why? Because at least in my experience - but I think this is true for all but the smartest nursing students - I didn't learn it all, and don't remember everything I allegedly learned. :^) Yeah, I look stuff up somewhat often to either learn something new or refresh my memory. But going through school any quicker is, to me, only a quicker road but not necessarily a thorough-enough one.