MSN focus

[fergus51]

OK, so is it necessary to specialize in education for your MSN if you want to teach? This might be a stupid question, but the program I am most interested in doesn't have a specialty in education available, its focus is administration. Do you think that I would qualify for a teaching position with that type of MSN? I could take extra education courses later right?

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I don't see why not. In my area, all they specify is the MSN, they don't care in what concentration. However, I have a friend who has an MS in education who can't teach because she doesn't have the MSN!

[elkpark]

No, you do not have to specialize in education to teach -- in fact, many faculty position postings specify that they want people certified in one of the advanced practice roles. Most schools try to have a variety and balance of backgrounds and specialties among the faculty. In my experience (over the years in three different states), only a small minority of nursing faculty actually have MSNs in nursing education; most have degrees related to whatever their clinical specialty has been (including administration).

Many MSN programs have a few "elective" course slots built into the curriculum, and you can choose to take education courses for your electives (that's what I did), and, as you note, you can always take individual education courses later.

Best wishes with going back to school, Fergus!! :balloons:

[sailornurse]

Get your MSN degree in what interests you, one never knows what the future holds. I agree with others, it's the MSN that counts.

I never intented to teach, it just sort of happened. I am a FNP & my favorite class to teach? Health Assessment/Physical Examination. Keeps the students on their toes. I work pt at a clinic doing? Physical Examinations for outpts.

Your desire to teach is even more important then what you MSn focus.

:monkeydance:

[JaneyW]

Check your state's BRN as they may have qualifications. In the state of California, the code of regulations specifically states that faculty must have a Master's or higher degree from an accredited college or university which includes course work in nursing, education or administration. There is also a part that says they must have a year of experience teaching courses related to nursing or having student-teaching experience.

I think others have given good advice for you to go for what you want. There are grave faculty shortages which will only be getting worse!