What to do with Master's?

VeryPlainJane · Jan 8, 2006

Hi all - I'm hoping to get somegreat advice. I have my BSN degree and have been working in a large teaching hospital for 6 months. I am thinking of going back to school in the fall for my Master's, but am not really sure what I would do with the degree. Can anyone lead me to a good website or give me examples of what opportunities would be open to me with my Master's? Thanks!

Jess, would you like to teach? There is a great need for Nursing educators! It's something to think about as you get older, less stress on your mind and body.

grimmy, RN · Jan 9, 2006

there's a fantastic book by ann hamric about the roles of advanced practice rns. i'm sure there's an edition in your medical/nursing library. its a good place to start.

pvjerrys · Jan 9, 2006

Less than 10% of RNs are master's prepared. Hence, an advanced degree is very marketable. You noticed after your BSN opened doors for you? With a master's degree in nursing, even more doors will open up.

You will take core classes. You will then need to decide the specific area of focus. Good luck!

zenman · Jan 9, 2006

I am thinking of going back to school in the fall for my Master's, but am not really sure what I would do with the degree.

Whoa! Instead of thinking about what to do when you get your master's, first think about what you want to do period.

Cute_CNA, CNA · Jan 9, 2006

clinical nurse specialist?

annasol06 · Jan 9, 2006

hello! I too am thinking of advancing my career except that i am confused and don't know the difference between a MAN and a MSN can anyone out there enlighten me. Thanks!!!:chuckle

pvjerrys · Jan 9, 2006

clinical nurse specialist?

Some institutions are now offernig a CNS/NP focus. This nurse is based in an acute care rather than in ambulatory care setting.

Trauma Columnist · Jan 9, 2006

From my knowledge, most CNS's are hospital-based. However, that is changing (at least in the midwest), and you see just as many NPs as CNS's in the hospital.

llg, PhD, RN · Jan 9, 2006

Whoa! Instead of thinking about what to do when you get your master's, first think about what you want to do period.

I totally agree with this. I see far too many people investing lots of money and lots of time getting degrees because they think another degree will "make them more marketable" without first pausing to reflect upon what type of work they want to do for a living. They graduate thinking, "I can get a good job with this degree" ... and that's true ... but the jobs are ones they don't really want to do.

The first step is to figure out what type of nursing jobs interest you and what jobs you think you will satisfy you in the long run over the course of your working life. Then, identify what type of education and experience will best prepare you for those types of jobs. Third, make a plan for getting both the education and experience that will help you achieve your goals.

While I am all for remaining flexible in your career planning and realize that you might change your mind in the future ... your career plans should be based on a knowledge of yourself and your work preferences first and foremost. Getting to know yourself and your nursing strengths and preferences should come first.

llg