Guide To Online SchoolsGuide To Online Schools



More Information About Masters in Nursing (MSN)

What should I know when considering a degree in Masters in Nursing (MSN)?
  • Nurses with a master's degree are usually promoted into management or teaching positions.
  • Most nursing master's programs require applicants to have some experience working in the field.
  • A master's degree usually promotes a nurse into an "advanced practice nurse" position, and can increase an individual's salary substantially

How does someone earn a master's in nursing?

A master's in nursing is usually earned by professionals who have already earned a bachelor's in nursing and practiced nursing for a number of years already. A master's takes about two years to complete and requires advanced application of nursing knowledge. Most who pursue a master's in nursing are looking to become clinical nurse specialists or nursing teachers.

What are the career opportunities for a nurse with a master's degree?

Generally, nurses work along side doctors and other specialists in the health care industry to make sure patients are cared for and given what they need to live the most comfortable life possible. Nurses with a master's in nursing are usually fairly experienced in the field and go on to get a master's in order to move into a specialist position or teaching position. Nurses with a maste's degree are usually called clinical nurse specialists and their job evolves from doing basic nursing duties, to being more of a nursing consultant for particular departments. Many nurses with a master's degree don't work in health care facilities at all. Instead they choose to teach at community colleges and universities, where they train the next generation of nurses.

What is the job outlook for a Nurse?

The world is in great need of nurses. It's pretty safe to say that whatever the location, nurses are able to find a job. In general, the health care industry is in a growth trend, but nurses top of list of professionals needed in all health care facilities. Nurses who perform the basic "floor nurse" duties, such as an RN, are in the highest demand right now.

How much money do nurses with a master's degree make?

Since nurses are in such high demand, salaries are usually pretty generous. Registered nurses make an average yearly salary of $55,000, with a range from $50,000 to $70,000. Unfortunately, earning a master's degree in many workplaces does not significantly increase a nurse's salary. Clinical nurse specialists are not in as high demand as floor nurses, so they will only make a few thousand dollars more a year than an RN with the same experience. Teaching nurses make even less, with a salary between $10,000 to $15,000 less than nurses working for a health care provider. What are the leading schools offering programs in Masters in Nursing (MSN)?

  • University of Phoenix - Healthcare : Founded in 1976, University of Phoenix is the largest accredited university in the U.S. The healthcare programs offered include bachelor's degrees in health administration and nursing, master's degrees in healthcare management, nursing, and healthcare education, and a doctoral degree in healthcare administration. Many healthcare professionals find a way to continue working in their field, while they earn a degree in as few as 2 years. (More Info)
  • Western Governors University : Western Governors University emphasizes mastery of essential skills and knowledge in your field, basing progress toward your online degree on passing rigorous assessments (such as tests, projects, assignments, etc.) instead of accumulating credit hours. We call it competency-based learning. WGU offers Bachelors and Masters degree programs in Healthcare, Business, MBA, IT and Education. (More Info)
  • Norwich University : Norwich University, established in 1819, offers an advanced education environment that is rich in history. NU offers following online graduate programs - MBA, Information Assurance, Business Continuity Management, Diplomacy, Civil Engineering, Nursing, Information Assurance, Organizational Leadership, and Justice Administration (Criminal Justice). (More Info)
  • American Sentinel University : Since 1998, experienced professionals and non-traditional students have turned to American Sentinel University to fulfill their educational goals. With a full spectrum of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs, American Sentinel provides students with accredited and flexible online learning at an affordable price. Students also appreciate American Sentinel’s focus on providing personal support. (More Info)
  • Liberty University Online : With more than 35 online degrees offered, Liberty University is a convenient, flexible, and affordable way to earn an accredited degree from a solid, Christian perspective. (More Info)
  • Kaplan University - Healthcare Programs : Kaplan University Online offers accredited associate, bachelor, and master degree programs in Nursing, Health and Wellness, Nutrition, Medical Assisting and Healthcare Management. These programs enable you with the knowledge and the credentials for a career in Healthcare and Human Services fields. (More Info)
  • South University Online : Established in 1899, South University offers online career training in Business, Healthcare, Criminal Justice, and Information Technology in the form of Bachelor and Master Degrees. Online students receive the same quality of education as campus students matriculating at the established and trusted University, but without ever entering a classroom. (More Info)
  • Vanderbilt University : With a history dating back to 1909, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing has an established reputation for excellence in nursing education. Vanderbilt's Master of Science in Nursing degree programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. (More Info)
  • Independence University : Independence University offers distance learning healthcare degree programs to accommodate busy working adults. They offer comprehensive online associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs in Respiratory Therapy, Healthcare, Nursing, Gerontology, Public Health, and Healthcare Management. (More Info)

Find Schools offering Masters in Nursing (MSN) Degree Programs