RN to MSN - Career Benefits and Education Options

Education, Admission Requirements, and Salary

In order for an RN to achieve an MSN and become an advanced practice registered nurse, most programs require a masters program lasting approximately 2 years following the Bachelor of Science Nursing degree. Some programs require at least 1 to 2 years of clinical experience as an RN for admission. In 2004, there were 329 master's programs for nurse practitioners, 218 for clinical nurse specialists, 92 for nurse anesthetists, and 45 for nurse midwives (U.S. Department of Labor). Many programs combine the BSN and MSN degree for the nurse to graduate with two degrees together.

The education includes both classroom learning and clinical requirements. Admissions usually require scores taken from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT). In addition, college transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays, are usually required.

MSN's generally receive a higher salary than BSN's and RN's. The average salary for a RN/BSN is between $43,000 and $63,000. The average salary for a Nurse Practitioner, for instance, is approximately $66,000 and can go up to $90,000 if the nurse owns their own practice.

Conclusion

An RN who is becoming an MSN has much to ponder for the field they are about to enter. It is no longer about just becoming a practitioner. Many RN's become outstanding clinicians; however the doors are open to make a difference in the current financial, political, and health care system. Their training is in leadership, research, clinical learning, and communication skills. This is a formula for success in the dynamic field of nursing.

With a Masters of Public Health and two years of medical school, Michael V. Gruber, MPH provides a unique perspective on the current nursing shortage crisis on the Nursing Career Blog as well as comprehensive articles about nurse education and advancement.

Earn your RN to MSN Degree Online

Explore these accredited online nursing degree programs below and request free no obligation information from any that interest you.

We recommend getting information from several schools so you can compare the programs, costs, time commitments and financial aid options.

Master of Science in Nursing

The University of Phoenix offers an RN to MSN online degree, accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission, blends nursing theory with advanced practice concepts necessary to successfully work within the structure, culture, and mission of any size health care organization or educational setting. full degree description
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Master of Science in Nursing

The Walden University Master of Science in Nursing program prepares students to focus their practice on the identified health needs of society, become leaders in their field, influence health care policy and delivery, and continue a lifelong commitment to learning. full degree description
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Nurse Educator Master's Degree

The University of Phoenix Nurse Educator program prepares advanced practice nurses to function in leadership roles in practice and educational settings. This course series is designed for nursing and health care professionals interested in careers as faculty in higher educational settings. full degree description
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RN to MSN online program

In the Master of Science in Nursing program at South University, you will enhance the knowledge you use as a registered nurse, develop clinical teaching skills and learn to utilize research in the nursing practice. full degree description
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