Cert or not to Cert

Specialties Advanced

Published

Specializes in Adult Gerontology Primary Care, Palliative.

I’m wondering if I should get a post master’s certificate either in Psych/Mental Health or in Hospice Palliative Medicine in the near future. I have 7 years of experience as a hospice RN and I miss the work terribly, but I’m learning a lot as a primary care NP, but I don’t see myself doing primary care for the next 5 years. As far as Psych goes, I’m very interested in it and thoroughly enjoyed my Geri psych NP rotation.

Financially and return on investment wise... what would be the “smarter choice” what’s the best way to do a post master’s cert program (online versus on campus), and is it worth it in the end?

For comparison sake I’m making $120K base salary as a new grad NP (working as a NP less than 1 year) in the Orange County adjacent Southern California area.

Thanks!!

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I don't think you need a certification for the hospice NP role.....maybe trial that first?

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In California, you'll get compensated very well. Not sure what the avg salary for psych NP is in your area specifically, but in the bay area, I've seen several job post for $180k+.

In the capital, I've seen on average $150-$180K, not including bonuses of course.

I currently work in psych as an FNP doing follow up med mgmt (not intake), and make $140K. I will be going back to school doing a post masters online cert program. The school I'm looking at cost about $18K, which if you do the math based on the figures I've given above, is a pretty good return on your investment.

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As an NP, I don't think you can get certified in hospice and palliative medicine, but you can get certified in advanced hospice and palliative nursing. I am an NP certified in hospice and palliative nursing and while you already have seven prior years of hospice nursing that may help you get a job without issue, certification can help you get the job you want, especially if it's in palliative care.

If you are self-disciplined, you could probably get the A-CHPN by studying on your own. Post-masters' programs are not cheap.

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