Master's after 40, is it worth it?

Nurses General Nursing

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I am not trying t be funny. I have thought seriously over the past few years about going back for a master's degree. But looking into the programs, it appears as if it will cost about 35 grand. Is it worth it after 40?

Specializes in OB/women's Health, Pharm.

Huh? Think of it this way: you have at least 27 more years of career ahead of you; why shouldn't you go for it? A Masters from a good school can open all kinds of doors for you. (I would be carefuel though about an online degree from a for-profit school.)

When I was in grad school, one person was in her 20s, about 4 in their mid 30s, and the other 9 of us were 40 or older. I was 45; two of my classmates were 50 and 54.

Please be aware although that teaching pays badly, but depending on the state, you may be able to get your loans repaid. Some NP and CNM jobs, depending on the population served, also qualify for loan repayment. Look into this before you enroll.

There is a lot of $$ out there for graduate degrees. Ask the program. Nearly everyone in my class (1996) got some grant money.

Good luck with your future education and career!

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If you're 40, you probably have more working years ahead of you than you do behind you... I say GO FOR IT!!! You have nothing to lose, and so much to gain in terms of career options as you get older. As far as paying for the program goes, many employers will pay a portion, however small that may be. But many (online) programs are quite reasonable, and they will allow you to proceed at your own pace (within reason) - making it possible to take a semester off if you need to for financial reasons, or whatever. Talk to some admissions counselors - most are more than happy to provide you with answers to any and all questions about their programs! Good luck!

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Specializes in Acute Medicine.

I'm 45 and will be 46 when I grad from my BSN program. My current plan is to work for a couple of years to pay off bill then start on my masters. I think I will be over 50 before my education is done, but I will do it to increase my earning potential, increase my employment opportunities, and keep me from stagnating in one job til I retire. I spent 23 years doing a job that didn't challenge me. I can't go back to that! :yeah:

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Specializes in Med-Surg, NICU.

Go for it now rather than regret not doing it later. I, however, want to go straight through and be done with school by 25/26.

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Ouch, what school are you planning to attend that has tuition that high? I will be going to a state university and my MSN will cost only about 9K.

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You are going to be 40 regardless, do you want to be 40 with a masters or without? ;)

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I am on the backside of 40's and still have 2 more semesters for my RN but am looking into getting my MSN. I am not concerned about my age, but more about the financial aspect as I have a daughter in high school/college. It certainly seems as if having a masters can extend your career or at least open up more options. Some time has passed while you pondered, you can be done in as much time if you jump!

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If you have defined career plans that include the masters degree, have money saved up to pay for school and the motivation to go for education, then do it.

Do some financial homework too. Retirement savings, college for kids, and mortgage count.

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Specializes in ER.
You are going to be 40 regardless, do you want to be 40 with a masters or without? ;)

That is what I tell people all the time! Just do it.

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Specializes in geriatrics.

That depends on what your personal goals are as a nurse. If you want to teach, or be a Clinical Nurse Specialist, you require a Masters. I guess you have to weigh the cost with the benefit. Masters educated nurses typically make 10-20 thousand more per year. (At least here in Canada they can). The loans would be an investment, if you are intending to work to 60 or 65. I myself will go back for a Masters eventually, which would make me about 43. I'm 37 now. But some people just don't desire a Masters, which is fine also.

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Specializes in Corrections, Cardiac, Hospice.

Thanks for all the replys. I guess that the reason I asked the question is because finacially, I was wondering if what I would make as a Master's educated nurse would be worth it. I would love to teach, I always enjoy having nursing students with me. Have also thought about family pract. Just thoughts going around in my head. I wasn't trying to insult anyone. The fact of the matter is this, I am 40 years old. I have a wonderful, supportive husband who already helped put me through college. I have 2 children that will be in college in the next 7 year, I have a mortgage and am still paying on my undergrad loans. So, reality creeps into my thoughts and I want to know if the payoff will be worth the sacrifice. Its not that I am unhappy in my position, I just want to know the thoughts on a Master's degree from those that have one.

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Specializes in M/S, MICU, CVICU, SICU, ER, Trauma, NICU.

It is to me. I am bored out of my gourd. I need MAJOR CHALLENGES...

I say go for it.

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