[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses can build a fulfilling career with an associate or a bachelor’s in nursing. But you could benefit from a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree when you want added flexibility, advancement, and leadership roles.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You may have become a nurse because it’s a stable job that allows you to move anywhere in the country. Yet, you may have now fallen in love with your job that has become a career.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many nurses find their desire to provide excellent patient care and support other healthcare professionals is the motivation for promotion. This can include staff development, risk management, or informatics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]But, what is the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/reasons-to-get-a-msn-degree/”]value of a master’s degree in nursing[/hen-ui-link]? Wherever your career path is aimed, you’ll find the journey likely requires an advanced degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You may think that it’s impossible to earn your MSN when you’re working full time and have other duties. Many schools have created alternative programs for working nurses. You may choose from part-time or hybrid programs where you can attend some classes online.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]On this page, we discuss five ways earning an MSN can impact your career.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]1. Qualify for High-Demand Advanced Practice Nursing Roles[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are a vital part of the healthcare team. Studies have analyzed the impact APRNs have in an emergency room or critical care setting. The data revealed that APRNs helped transform healthcare and improved patient outcomes.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]APRNs can work in four advanced practice roles: certified nurse practitioner (CNP), clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist, and certified nurse midwife. As healthcare continues to expand, nurses and APRNs will continue to be a major part of the industry.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners are projected to be the fourth fastest-growing occupation in the country. The rate of growth is 52% for nurse practitioners from 2020 to 2030 as compared to 7.7% for all occupations.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Advanced practice nurses must understand the state laws that regulate their practice. In the U.S., nurses may have full-practice, reduced-practice, or restricted-practice laws. In full-practice states, all CNPs can manage their patients independently. However, in reduced- and restricted-practice states nurses must practice under the supervision of a physician.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Current shortages of APRNs are a concern, especially in primary care. CNPs work most frequently in private practice and outpatient clinics, and 89% are working full or part time.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Several of the roles in high demand are the following:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Family nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospitalist nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/telehealth-nurse/”]Telemedicine nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]2. Become a Mentor or Educator to the Next Generation of Nurses[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/resources//the-importance-of-mentorship-in-nursing/”]Nursing mentors[/hen-ui-link] are important to the next generation of nurses. They help put the information you’ve learned in school into practice. These professionals can save employers thousands of dollars each year by [hen-ui-link href=”/articles/how-to-support-nurses-considering-resigning/”]improving nurses’ retention rate[/hen-ui-link] and patient outcomes. Mentors can help you make career decisions or evaluate interpersonal problems.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/nurse-educator/”]Nurse educators[/hen-ui-link] also play a unique and crucial role in the development of new nurses.They can work in many settings, including hospitals, schools, universities, and community colleges. [hen-ui-link href=”/articles/nursing-educators-navigate-the-nursing-shortage/”]Nurse educators face many challenges[/hen-ui-link] and are in short supply, which means nursing programs must turn away qualified applicants.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Both MSN-prepared nurse mentors and educators take on leadership roles. These roles require strong critical decision-making and conflict resolution skills. The best educators and mentors are positive and patient, have good insight, and are committed to supporting new nurses.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]3. Influence Real Change in Your Organization as a Nurse Manager or Administrator[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses in management or administrative positions have the opportunity to influence healthcare organizations to make real change. Leadership roles may include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Chief nursing officer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assistant nursing manager[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical research specialist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing supervisor[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Director of [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/nurse-case-management/”]nurse case management[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/surgical-nurse/how-to-become/”]Surgical nurse[/hen-ui-link] manager[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Chief information officer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Healthcare organizations are looking for MSN-prepared nurses to lead cross-functional care teams or improve the nursing process. Earning an MSN also places you in a position to help shape health policy or educate nurses within your organization.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse leaders are crucial to creating a successful culture and setting expectations for interdisciplinary collaboration. An MSN degree opens further opportunities in your professional career, including serving on the board of healthcare organizations, analyzing software systems, and overseeing day-to-day operations of the organization.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses in management roles influence both patient care and nursing staff. Few studies have evaluated how the division of responsibilities of nurse managers may affect patient outcomes and nursing staff. One cross-sectional study found multiple relationships affected the outcome measurements. The findings suggested that nurse managers should focus on improving nursing practices while supporting and motivating the nursing staff.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A secondary option is a dual degree. One of the more popular dual degrees is an MSN and master of healthcare administration (MHA). The [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/msn/best-online-msn-mha-programs/”]MSN/MHA prepares[/hen-ui-link] the nursing candidate for leadership and administrative roles. The candidate earns both degrees simultaneously while spending less time and money than if they earned each degree separately.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Similarly, an [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/msn/best-online-msn-mba-programs/”]MSN and a master of business administration[/hen-ui-link] (MBA) dual degree is aimed at nurses with the goal of working on the business side of healthcare, including executives, health information managers, and chief nursing officers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Both dual degrees may be earned in person or online.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]4. Become Certified in a Specialty You’re Truly Passionate About[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Passion drives excellence and [hen-ui-link href=”/articles/best-types-of-nursing-specialties/”]nursing certification[/hen-ui-link] demonstrates passion. Certifications are offered through [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//taking-advantage-of-nursing-organizations/”]professional nursing organizations[/hen-ui-link] in your [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/msn/types-of-masters-degrees-in-nursing//”]MSN specialty[/hen-ui-link], which are earned through an assessment process. In many cases, the certification must be renewed after a specified amount of time.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certification is different from your state license, which gives you the legal authority to practice nursing.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses have a unique opportunity to specialize in a variety of different healthcare fields that affect patient care. Certification in your chosen specialty demonstrates to your employer a growing body of knowledge and skill.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It establishes professional credibility with organizations, and a certification in your specialty also offers you a competitive advantage by differentiating you from other nurses in your field. It shows a commitment to understanding and excelling in your profession.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Several organizations offer certification in [hen-ui-link href=”/articles/best-nursing-specialities-for-the-future//”]nursing specialties[/hen-ui-link]. These include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]American Organization for Nursing Leadership[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additionally, specialty nursing associations offer certifications for MSN-prepared nurses. For example, the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board offers certification for pediatric nurse practitioners, as does the ANCC. Several certifications are more highly sought after, including:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Acute care nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Adult-gerontology primary and acute care nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Adult health clinical nurse specialist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Advanced forensic nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Ambulatory care nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cardiac vascular nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Care coordination and transition management[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Critical care nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Dermatology certified nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Emergency nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Family nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Holistic nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospice nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/surgical-nurse/how-to-become/”]Medical-surgical nursing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Neonatal nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing informatics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Oncology nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pediatric nurse practitioner[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychiatric mental health nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/public-health-nurse//”]Public health nursing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]School nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Trauma nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Wound care nursing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to better nurse and patient outcomes, some employers now require certification for a particular role. For example, in a physical rehabilitation unit, employers seek to hire nurses who are certified rehabilitation registered nurses. This validates the nurse’s competency and is a valued addition for insurance reimbursement.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]5. Increase Your Median Earning Potential by 48%[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Of course, your salary is an important consideration when you’re choosing a career. Yet, many nurses chose a career in healthcare because of a passion for helping people. And the same is true for advancing your education and promotion — most nurses want more of what nursing has to offer.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an MSN can dramatically increase your earning potential while you are fulfilling your passion every day. It’s a win/win situation. For example, the median annual salary for registered nurses (RNs) is $75,330. Some RNs make as much as $116,230 annually. This salary is higher than the median annual wage for all healthcare occupations ($69,870) and far higher than the median annual wage for all occupations ($41,950).[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After you’ve become an MSN-prepared nurse, your potential median annual salary goes up dramatically to $111,680 for nurse practitioners. This can be as high as $156,160, depending on your geographical location and specialization. The median annual salary for nurse midwives is similar, but the end range, depending on geography, certifications, and experience, can be as high as $179,770.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Find the Right MSN for Your Career Goals[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing offers you the unique opportunity to work in healthcare while choosing from a variety of specialty fields. If your interests are in administration, but your passion is infant care, management of a maternity unit may be just what you’ve been seeking.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No matter your interests, there is likely an advanced degree that meets the requirements for your career. This answers the question: What is the value of a master’s degree in nursing?[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an MSN is a commitment to your career, so it’s important to identify the driving force behind your decision. You’ll also need to figure out how the program will fit with your current responsibilities. Seek out information from your local colleges and universities and consider if an [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/online-nursing-programs-overview/”]online nursing program[/hen-ui-link] may best meet your needs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The choices you make for your career today can determine your advancement opportunities and job satisfaction in the years to come. Discuss your plans with your mentor, college counselors, and family before deciding on your future path.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Explore Online MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”34248,34263,34295″][/hen-ui-article-row]