Nursing is an in-demand profession. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15 percent job growth rate for RNs, which is more than double the average for all occupations.
Many registered nurses (RNs) start their careers with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) so they can quickly begin working and earn a paycheck. But changes in the nursing profession and practice are ongoing. Not only is healthcare more complex than ever before, but the educational requirement for preparation also is undergoing an adjustment.
Many employers prefer to hire nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for entry-level positions. That means nurses who seek leadership jobs may need a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
How Can You Obtain an MSN If You Don’t Already Have a BSN?
If you are an ADN nurse and you want to competitively qualify for nurse leader positions, you can apply to an RN to MSN program. These programs combine all of the BSN and MSN preparation you need into one program. After completing the bridge program, you will graduate with an MSN degree. An online RN to MSN program typically takes about 36 months to complete.
What Kind Of MSN Degree Do You Need For Nurse Leader Jobs?
For nurses pursuing nurse leader jobs, an MSN in Nursing Administration or MSN in Nursing Education are two good options. Here is what you can expect to learn in each program:
| Degree | Preparation | Courses |
| MSN in Nursing Administration | Nurses gain knowledge about organization, management, leadership, healthcare policy and economics. | General education classes, electives, BSN core courses, RN to MSN transition courses, MSN core courses and MSN administration courses. |
| MSN in Nursing Education | Focus is on equipping nurses with learning strategies and theories, curriculum development, measurement and evaluation as well as preparing nurses with the expertise needed to become educators. | General education classes, electives, BSN core courses, RN to MSN transition courses, MSN core courses and MSN education courses. |
What Are Your Job Prospects?
With an MSN in Nursing Administration or an MSN in Nursing Education, you are eligible for a variety of positions that pay a significantly higher wage than you can earn as an ADN nurse. According to PayScale.com, the median annual salary for an ADN nurse is $57,276 as of February 27, 2018. Additionally, PayScale.com has current information on the median annual salaries for the following jobs:
| Title | Job Description | Salary |
| Nurse Consultant | Nurses advise healthcare organizations about how they can improve communication, lower costs and develop a risk management plan. | $78,742 (As of April 6, 2018). |
| Nurse Administrator | Nurses supervise nursing and administrative staff within a department. They are in charge of hiring and scheduling along with overseeing policies and procedures. | $82,003 (As of April 9, 2018). |
| Nurse Manager | The main responsibilities of nurse managers involve recruiting new nurses, maintaining patient files and balancing the department budget. | $82,631 (As of April 9, 2018). |
| Nurse Educator | Nurse educators instruct nurses and nursing students about the delivery of patient care. They also may educate the public about wellness and health issues. | $72,498 (As of April 9, 2018). |
What Circumstances Influence Your Pay Rate?
Salary information is generally based on national statistics. So how much you are paid may vary based on these factors:
- Experience: The number of years you work helps you receive or negotiate a higher salary.
- Geographical location: You can earn more by working in large cities such as New York, Los Angles or Chicago, rather than practicing in less populated areas.
- Employer: Nursing homes and smaller clinics do not pay as much as large hospitals.
The idea of returning to school to earn an MSN may seem overwhelming, especially if you do not want to leave work. In addition, you may have a family. An online RN to MSN program allows you to continue working while completing your degree. Online programs, like the one offered by Lamar University, have multiple start dates and flexible schedules so you can fit in all of your commitments. An MSN can help you gain momentum in your career by preparing you for challenging and well-paying nurse leader jobs.
Learn more about the Lamar University online RN to MSN program.
Sources:
Nurse Journal: 5 Best Paying MSN Jobs in Nursing
PayScale: Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Average Salary
Nurse.com: What Makes a Good Nurse Leader?
PayScale: Nurse Administrator Salary
PayScale: Nurse Consultant Salary
PayScale: Nurse Educator Salary
PayScale: Nursing Manager Salary
MastersinNursing.com: Nursing Salary Levels and Career Trends
Best Master of Science in Nursing Degrees: What Kind of Job Can I Get With An MSN-Leadership Degree?
Nurse.com: Nurse Manager vs. Nurse Leader: What’s the Difference?
