Info on Masters of Nursing degree? (Not MSN)

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I currently have a BA and an MBA and am taking nursing school prereqs at this time. I have beel applying for accelerated BSN programs. I have found a school that offers a Masters in Nursing (MN) from the College of Mt. St. Joseph in Ohio for people like me who already have a degree and want to go back to school. It is 18 months long. I am wondering if, cost aside, this is better than a BSN? I was hoping that with my nursing license and MBA that I may get promoted and have other opportunities for employment. Would the MN look better, or does it really matter? Does anyone know how an MN is perceived by the healthcare community? What are the advantages/disadvantages to this degree? Thanks!

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

A masters of nursing IS a nursing degree. However, there are various tracks from you can decide your coursework. For instance, administration, education or advanced nursing practice. As for whether or not it is better than MBA - depends on what you want to do with it. If you plan to be an administrator I would think that an MBA or a MSN in administration might have similar degree plans, but what is appreciated in your area of the country may be different elsewhere. In my area one may acquire a MSN-MBA combo. I recommend you look at the degree plans of each type to see what suits you best. Check out the school catalog.

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At least in my state, the Masters of Nursing is a direct entry program to becoming an RN. It's almost exactly like a BSN but with a few more advanced courses or courses taken at a more advanced level. So it is not the same as a Masters of Science in Nursing which would require more schooling and allow you to specialize (i.e. nurse practitioner or speciality nurse). THe Masters of Nursing will get you paid a little more because it is still a masters, but you are still an entry level RN. The nice thing about the Masters of Nursing is that it is a bridge to a doctorate of nursing. The doctorate of nursing is the direction that schools are heading in 2012, I think. People will not be able to be nurse practioners anymore without a doctorate except for those who are already in the field as such. Hope that helps.

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I hadn't heard of an MN, I have heard of MS. The norm is to get an MSN-that is what is normally looked for if you don't have a BSN then go for the MSN. There are many online programs that offer this.

otessa

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

I want to correct some false info: a doctorate is NOT required by 2012 (or any date) in order to practice as an advanced practice nurse.

The doctorate level of education is only a suggestions, there is absolutely nothing set in stone.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, ICU, educator.

Also, having a Masters does not instantly guarantee more money. Some facilities do, some don't. Check your area.

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Well I just received the packet of info in the mail about the program, and it looks really great! And it is only 15 months, not 18! I understand a doctorate is not needed, but what I do understand is that the more credentials one has, the more you will stand out, and hopefully get hired sooner! In the Ohio area, many hospitals are cutting back on hiring grads with ADN's. They are being more selective, which is why I originally looked into the accelerated BSN, but now the MN seems even better! I also know that I may not get paid any more than anyone else, but I think the Master's degree will help me stand out, especially when it comes to promotions in the future. Thanks so much for all the information. I think I'm going to apply! :-)

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