Wonky215

Thank you everyone for your comments. I have heard that there is a faculty shortage, but I suspect this will self-correct as the nursing surplus and APRN surplus become apparent. I do like the idea of being a professor though. My thoughts were more towards hospital education. I also agree that ideally one should pursue what they are interested in and then deal with the challenges. In terms of a five year plan, I am not sure where I'd like to be in five years, other than out of bedside nursing... I definitely lean towards education, I would just like to know that there are actually opportunities to use this qualification once earned...

Hello fellow nurses! I have been a nurse for 3.5 years and have recently completed 6 classes in the core curriculum of an online MSN/FNP program. This past semester I withdrew for a much-needed break and to reassess my goals. Honestly, I was burning out. Now that I have time to reflect, I have some general reservations about continuing in the MSN/FNP track and am considering switching to the Education track or simply stopping the program entirely. I like the idea of obtaining the MSN in that it seems to be a generic qualification to be an adjunct professor or a clinical instructor, and perhaps for organizational advancement, etc. However, in terms of which track to choose, everything I have read and heard, even the government forecasts from HRSA, suggests that there is already a surplus of primary care PAs and NPs in many areas, and that there will be an overwhelming surplus in every state by 2025. However, I haven't found any reliable indicators regarding the various practice environments for MSN/Education. Full disclosure: I got into nursing, and was/am pursuing the FNP, from a more practical standpoint of gainful employment as opposed to following a clearly defined passion. I do however greatly enjoy precepting and teaching, so all things being equal, the education actually feels like a much better fit. My concern is that this is not a trivial investment, and I am trying to weigh the return on investment. That is, is an MSN/Ed. a better decision than an MSN/FNP in terms of salary and job prospects? I appreciate your thoughts and insight.

Hello. I am an RN working in critical care, however I would ultimately like to be a Nurse Practitioner specializing in Dermatology. My question is whether it would be more appropriate to earn an FNP or ACNP certification. Does it matter which you choose? Would it influence where you could work? Thanks in advance for your input!