I am working as an RN, BSN-what next?

I am about to start working at a hospital near Atlanta and I just graduated and passed NCLEX, but when they told me my salary, I was a LITTLE shocked. I want to go further in school, but I also don't want to spend another 4 years in college. I am looking to move up later after starting in med/surg. I just feel like I should keep going, but I don't know what to do. any suggestions?

[laKrugRN]

I recommend getting some experience. You may be able to get your foot in the door somewhere else with experience and higher pay as well. You can always bridge for your BSN online while you work. Good luck!

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

Do you currently have your BSN? If so, there are several routes you can pursue to continue your education. A Master's degree in nursing education will allow you to teach nursing at the collegiate level if you desire. If you're interested in entering management or administration than a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) will be helpful there. You could look into becoming a Nurse Practitioner, a Certified Nurse Anesthetist, or a Certified Nurse Midwife, all depending on your area of interest. There are also dozens of areas of nursing in which you can specialize and become certified, which wouldn't involve additional formal education, but clinical experience and passing an exam.

It really depends on what you find interesting. I agree with laKrugRN. Get some experience. See what interests you. Then decide where you want to go from there.

Right now focus on becoming the best nurse you can be. Nursing is a performing art, and in daily practice you get to develop your skills, gain confidence and make useful professional contacts. They pay you too.

When you are actually working as a nurse, then you can make some informed plans for the future. School will still be there, no hurry.

[RunBabyRN]

I agree, experience for now, school later. You'll have a better sense of where to go once you've been working for a bit, and it'll be more appealing to schools if you've been working for awhile. You'll also feel better as an APRN if you have floor experience.