MSN Leadership/Ed or MSN-FNP?

[nursewithgrace]

Hi all! I have just been accepted to a master's program in Leadership and Education, a program that I'm excited about and I feel that it would be a good fit. I also have applied to two FNP programs and was invited to interview with the local one as part of the admissions process. My dilemma and reason for seeking advice is that I have to confirm my admission by 2/14/19 to the MSN program but my interview for the FNP program is on 2/11/19 and I have no clue if I were to be admitted when I would find out.

I have always been interested in becoming an FNP, but have recently started working at a hospital with a wealth of leadership opportunities. I am so unsure of which way to go and would love to hear how you all might make this choice. If I decline my admission and don't get accepted to either FNP program, that would be awful as I really am hoping to start a master's program in 2019. Or, If I accept my admission and then get accepted into an FNP program, will I regret not waiting and going to NP school?

Both FNP programs will require me to find my own preceptors (even the local one). The MSN L/Ed is an accelerated format with an internship in the final semester. I am concerned about the perceived over-saturation of NPs in my area. I have considered the potential to do a post-master's FNP program, but that seems like a lot of extra money and time if I end up getting accepted into one of these FNP programs.

[PICCRN79]

Not sure what its worth, but remember, you can work in leadership with a FNP, but you can't be a FNP with a MSN in leadership. I have chosen to get my CNS because I want to work in education and or leadership, but with my CNS, there are so many additional opportunities.

I used the rule of thumb that as a CNS (APRN) I can be an educator or leader, but with a MSN in leadership and education I will not be a APRN or a CNS.

[nursewithgrace]

I appreciate your response to my post and I totally agree with your reasoning! I actually received similar advice from the nurse educator on my unit and I think the FNP route would be best suited for me.

I have looked into the CNS path and if I am rejected from all the programs I’ve applied I’ll probably wait until this fall and apply for a CNS program for next year. The CNS role can so diverse and appeals to my craving for advanced practice while still being a leader.