Should I wait to do my MSN?

[HB Jen]

I'm currently in an accelerated BSN program and I'll be done in July. This particular program gives students the option of going on to get their MSN and NP license (which takes 2-3 years) right after the BSN portion is completed and the student passes the "big exam". What I'm trying to figure out is if I should go on the MSN portion right after I finish the BSN portion. A part of me wants to because I don't want to be going to school forever and I'm afraid that if I take a break, I'll never go back. The other part of me is afraid I'll have a hard time finding a job as an NP with only 2 years experience as an RN. I intend on working full-time while I'm doing the Masters but I'm having a hard time deciding when I should do it! I know it's a bit early, but I figured it's better to plan ahead than wait until the last minute. Any input would be appreciated!

[UVA Grad Nursing]

Jen:

There is no easy answer to this. There are many different types of MSN prorgams -- by and large, MSNs mean specialty training (APN, administration, informatics, education, public health, etc) or generalist (clinical nurse leader). Do you know what you want to specialize in now?

If you are not sure what you want to specialize in now, I'd recommend getting some work experience to ensure that you are making the right specialty selection.

[llg, PhD, RN]

I totally agree with UVA on this one. For some people, it is the right decision to continue. However, MOST people benefit from some experience first. It helps to become competent at the practice of nursing at the entry level before making such a big decision as to your specialty and beginning advanced education.

You'd be surprised how many people change their minds about their paths in nursing once they get out of school and get a taste of the "real world." They end up in different specialties, different roles, etc. than they thought they would like back when they started nursing school.