Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) offers advanced courses that will help you develop new skills and move into specialized roles.
MSN degrees in brief
- Course length: 2 years
- Average annual salary: $65k–$196k
What are the benefits of an MSN degree?
Leadership
University lecturer, head of a laboratory and other managerial positions. They’re all within reach.
Earning potential
Advanced qualifications and more expertise bring a bigger salary.
Chance to grow
Your knowledge and experience will set you up to take on more advanced roles.
What you’ll learn with a MSN degree
Your studies will include the following classes, exams and practical training.
Core classes
You’ll take specialty classes in your chosen area of nursing and study health care policy, ethics, management and advanced practice nursing, biochemistry and pharmacology.
Hands-on experience
Your studies will end with a practicum, where you’ll get the chance to apply all of the theory you’ve learned in a clinic or other healthcare facility.
Take the NCLEX-RN
Before you can start practicing, you need to pass this standardized exam set by the Board of Nursing in every state. It’s designed to make sure you’re ready to work as a Registered Nurse.
What you can do with an MSN degree
Nurses with a BSN are in demand. You’ll have a choice of where you want to work and what you’d like to specialize in when you enter the field.
Management, executive and faculty roles will all be within your reach, including specialties like nurse practitioner and nurse anesthetist where you’ll be an integral part of the healthcare system.
Management, executive and faculty roles will all be within your reach, including specialties like nurse practitioner and nurse anesthetist where you’ll be an integral part of the healthcare system.
Did you know?
With a Master’s degree in nursing you can enjoy a more flexible work schedule.
Souce: NurseJournal.org
Souce: NurseJournal.org
Where you’ll work after getting your MSN
- Magnet hospitals
- Hospitals
- Doctor’s offices
- Clinics
- Nursing homes
How to get ahead with your MSN
One of the best things about being a nurse? You’ll never stop learning. You’ll have opportunities to grow from the day you start your career.
Continue your education
Most of the places you’ll work will offer courses that keep your skills sharp and your knowledge up to date.
Get a doctoral degree
A doctoral degree is the highest qualification a nurse can get. You’ll be able to go further in advanced disciplines, such as education and research.
Featured specialties
Nurse practitioner
A nurse practitioner provides primary and specialty care, helping patients holistically through diagnostics, treatment and education.
Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)
A CRNA (certified registered nurse anesthetist) administers and provides anesthesia—related care to patients before, during, and after surgery.
Pain management nurse
A pain management nurse takes care of patients who are experiencing or are debilitated by chronic pain.
Take the next step on your nursing journey.
Are you considering a nursing career but unsure of where to start? Take our quiz to get your personalized guide of the steps you’ll need to take, whether you have prior nursing experience or are looking to enter the profession for the first time!