Very interested in CM but lots of questions!

cubrnjvm, MSN, RN · Jan 31, 2014

I have been nurse for 2 years now working 1 year in an acute med/surg setting and 1 year in L&D. I am interested in doing an online degree in MSN - Case Management. I had a few questions though regarding the road to getting this degree. First off, I know I have to work underneath a CM for 2 years before I can take my exam, so do I have to wait until I graduate before I can work underneath someone? Or are there ways for me to do that now while I'm an RN while I attain my degree? Also, I was wondering if anyone knew of any good online programs for this? Last question (sorry!) How is the pay for someone with this degree? Money isn't a HUGE factor in my decision to become a MSN-CM but I'm worried about adding on more in student loans to just go into a job where pay wouldn't be much different.
Thank you for all your help and sorry for so many questions! :)

I don't know which certification you are referring to and don't know which particular case management position you would like to get but for the majority you don't need a certification to start with, just been able to be certified at some defined point, also there are some positions that allow you to classify as a case manager and apply for certification when you have certain amount of time working on that position ( Home Health RN for example, if you are also doing case management which is most of the time part of it) there is a degree from loyola university that allows you to take your case management certification exam when you complete it, go to the case manager certification ( the commission) website and get all your answers there I recently became CCM.

COLANIC · Jan 31, 2014

Worked as a CM for 1.5 years which qualified me to test for Certification --check CCMC-- https://ccmcertification.org for qualifying details

SHGR, MSN, RN, CNS · Feb 1, 2014

Most job postings in CM that I have seen do not require an MSN; rarely is it even listed as "preferred". I question the worth of such a degree, especially without having worked as a CM already.

SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN · Feb 2, 2014

You do not need an MSN in Case Management to be a Nurse Case Manager. On the other hand, if that is your career ambition, go for it. As the others have already written, you can work as a RN (you already have clinical work experience and background) to start as a Nurse CM for most entry level Case Management positions. The best thing to do is to talk to your current employer or former employers and ask the Director or Hiring manger if he/she would be willing to hire you and train you to be a Nurse Case Manager. After 1-2 years you can sit for your CCM. Again, getting a MSN in CM is not a requirement to get started, but is not a bad degree to get based on what you are looking to do with your career.

I personally want to remain in Case Management throughout my Nursing career. At some point I want to move into management. I have an MBA and do not plan to get a MSN in CM unless later required. Good luck.