MSW, MPH and want an MSN

fisherpe · Nov 11, 2012

hi, I am 34 ( no time to waste getting old lol) and looking to change careers into nursing. I have a masters degree in public health and a masters in social work. I would like to get an MSN but I feel so sad that have to go far back to an associates. I have no choice coz that's the cheapest and most flex way. ABSN and traditional BSN programs are full time. I need to work as I have been out of work for school for 3 years and have loans. I have found a social work job in a hospital as a case manager with my masters but the pay is miserable. I am willing to go back to school and become an RN then do an online BSN and then after some experience apply for an MSN if need be. Any suggestions as to what specializations in nursing that my MPH and MSW will be an advantage or help me that I should look into? I don't want to waste my two degrees but I am a single mum and need a good paying job and security. I wish I knew social work and public health don't pay much. I would just have gone into nursing three years ago. My friends tell me to do OT instead but I feel OT will waste my MPH and MSW.
Thank You.

Hi Frenchyhalle,

I am in a similar situation and I definitely understand that the field does not offer much in terms of career options and pay! I am 29 y.o. and I have an MSW and I also have my LSW! I am in the process of changing careers into nursing. At one point, I have considered an MPH as well. However, many individuals have encouraged me to not pursue it since the fields are very similar and having both degrees will not guarantee a pay raise or a promotion (Is this true in your case?)! I understand that you may want to get your associates but that option may take too long and place you into more debt. Also, the nursing field is promoting BSN's as the standard of practice and phasing a lot of ASN's out, especially at large hospitals. I have a friend who has her associates and she is currently in school to get her BSN in order to get promoted and make more money. Since you already have your bachelors and two masters...(which I am very impressed :) ) and both are beneficial in the nursing profession! Anyways, have you considered taking the pre-reqs and then apply to an accelerated program? I know that you have responsibilities but the schools that I have looked into will grant you loans (I know more loans), scholarships, and grants in order to study full time in such a rigorous program for that year! I have been told by those who have graduated from the ABSN program mentioned that it is doable with ones responsibilities. I also been told that once you complete the BSN portion you can earn your masters part-time if you choose! Also, I want to ask what specialty would you like your future career in? Have you considered Psychiatric Nursing or Family Nursing NP? They are both in demand and I have decided to pursue the psychiatric nursing myself in order to enhance my clinical skills. Both specialties work well with your degrees in social work and public health. However, the beauty about nursing is that you have many more options!!

Well, I hope you are continuing to pursue nursing. Since I have graduated with my MSW, the job opportunities have been limiting and the pay is not what I have expected even with this economy, the pay scale for MSW's, LSW's, and even LCSW's are not worth it! Plus the health care field is changing so we need more advanced training to keep up with the ever growing market! I wish you the best in your career endeavors. Please let me know if you need any more advice and/or support...we social workers and future nurses need to stick together :)