MBA vs MSN

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Dear Nurse Beth,

I want to know what your thoughts are on pursuing an MBA as an R.N. I currently have my Associates in Nursing and a Bachelors in Business. I am in school currently for my BSN. I want to know if it would be worthwhile financially to pursue my MBA as well.

I am not quite sure where I want to end up in the future; I am currently a bedside nurse. I really enjoy it but I don't want to be a bedside nurse when I get to be in my mid-50s. So I want to know what kind of doors an MBA would open? I do plan on getting my MSN after my BSN as I want to keep the door open for teaching in future even if just on the side.

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3 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Should I get my MBA?

Congrats on getting your BSN, it is absolutely critical for future career planning. A master's degree opens up even more opportunities.

An MBA will prepare you for business and leadership/executive roles in a wide variety of healthcare organizations. An MSN will prepare you for nursing leadership, educational and NP roles. Some corporations require an MBA for Patient Care Executives (PCEs) as business acumen is needed for the role.

With your background and desire to keep doors open, consider a dual degree program- MBA/MSN. You would be well rounded, well qualified and positioned for any number of amazing opportunities.

Specializes in Critical Care; Cardiac; Professional Development.

Most of the nursing executive leadership in my area have both MSN and MBA :)

Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Totally agree with Beth: the combo MSN/MBA is the ideal grad degree in the current market. Healthcare is a business.

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