Masters in Psychology as a Nurse

[Bea Bea, MSN, NP]

So I am interested in pursing a Masters in Psychology, not an MSN. I already have my Bachelors, have Medical/surgical and Psychiatric experience, been a nurse for 2 years. I don't want to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner because it will take too long. Im just not sure if it makes sense to get a Master's in Psychology , not a Master's in Nursing, and what job I could get with that. Please help. Thanks.

[elkpark]

With a Master's in psychology, you could get Master's level psychologist jobs. It will not help you professionally in nursing. If you want to get a degree in psychology because you want to get out of nursing, or for the personal knowledge and satisfaction, go for it! But don't do it because you think it might help you in nursing. Also, if you're interested in psychology, be aware that Master's-level people in psychology are sort of the LPNs, if you will, of the psychology world. If you want to have any independence and status within psychology, you'll want to have a doctoral degree.

[SeouleNP]

Since a Master's degree in psychology is not a terminal degree, you need a Psy.D or a phD to be referred as a psychologist. In my opinion depending on your career goals as mentioned above is what should help direct you. Personally , I dont find it helpful for a counseling related job (non nursing). I have a BA in forensic psych and masters in general psych. I just recently became an RN. For myself I only find it to be helpful because my educational backround may make it easier to land. Psych nursing job. Other than that I would see it as useful for you in terms of upward mobility, however it is good to have the additional knowledge for yourself. Hope this is helpful.

[SeouleNP]

And jobs would be related to mental health counseling, addiction counseling and case management. None of which are even close to being comparable to an RN salary. A Program Director possibly, but even those positions are often seeking LCSW's.