MS in Nursing vs. MSN- What's the difference?

[xInspiredx]

What's the difference between a Masters of Science 'that emphasizes in nursing' versus an MSN degree? I don't quite understand the exact difference based on the research that I have done. It seems like MSN is the more popular degree (out of the two), which makes me wonder if I would be able to get an NP position if I had the MS emphasizing in Nursing.

Ultimately, I would like to know if an MS (w/emphasis in nursing) would allow me to complete post-masters certificates to get an NP job, or if I NEED to have an MSN.

Thank you for any help!

[Ashke]

Hi xInspiredx,

I suspect that the two would be the same. Just like a bachelors of exercise science = bachelors of science in kinesiology = bachelors of phys. Ed. = bachelors of kinesiology. What matters is that the content is the same. I would suggest comparing the program curriculae and if they cover the same things, then it should be okay.

Alternatively, you could research NP programs and inquire about their MSN prerequisites. Sometimes, their websites will give detailed descriptions of what the masters program must cover in order for it to satisfy the requirements. Good luck!

[craftysari44]

When I went to school for my Nurse Practitioner, the difference between MS & MSN was whether you did a thesis vs. a project. I opted for the project and it has never made any difference in my career. Hope that helps!

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

The answer lies in the choice of the university that offers it. Just as Harvard undergraduates get bachelor's degrees called ABs and others may get BAs, some universities choose to call their master's level degrees MSN and some MN. No difference, either in program or acceptability. The features that determine excellence in many quarters include whether the candidate has performed original research and done a thesis versus a program that does not require this. Hint: Thesis is better than no thesis if you want to demonstrate educational achievement. Ask.