There are many benefits to joining the professional nursing association, especially at the local level (Texas Nurses Association). Members of nursing associations receive numerous benefits that help nurses stay current in their field or specialty. Networking that leads to career advancement and better-paying jobs are also positive aspects of membership.
Joining a professional nursing association means that members are taking part in the generation of ideas and advancement that are the cornerstone of the nursing profession. Membership means an increased awareness of the issues and need for support in the nursing community. The exchange of ideas and the fostering of a collaborative environment helps the evolution and progress of the profession.
Engagement with an organization is key to success. Many associations have committees that deal with specific fields of nursing like organizational management, event planning or educational opportunities. Running for office or acquiring a leadership role in a professional network conveys commitment to the field of nursing and its future.
Visibility and credibility go along with higher-ranking positions, which can translate into better career opportunities and advancement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas has the third highest level of employment for nurses.
What Kinds of Benefits Do Members Receive?
Certifications: Certifications are as important to advancing a nursing career as experience and skills. Many national nurse certifications are offered through ANCC that convey dedication, excellence and professionalism to potential and current employers.
Advancement: The combination of certification, networking, being current with trends and technology, and participating in these communities is a great way to meet career goals.
Though the job outlook for nurses is positive, nurses can set themselves apart through participation in their professional association.
Education Required
An individual can choose from many paths to becoming a registered nurse. Some earn an associate degree, a diploma or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and then pursue licensure. A registered nurse must pass the NCLEX-RN exam. A nurse supervisor, educator, leadership position, on the other hand, requires a Master of Science in Nursing.
Most completion-degree programs assist nurses to achieve first a BSN and then a MSN degree. Here at Concordia University Texas, we know your time is valuable and have developed a new way to think about advancing your education. Our graduate program takes you straight through the degree requirements for the BSN and carries you over to the MSN level without any official “stop-outs” which cost a nurse time and money.
Both the BSN and MSN are awarded upon completion of the MSN. Our graduate program covers advanced topics in nursing care and aims to equip nurses with the skills and knowledge needed to advance a career. The concentrations we offer cover those in nursing education, nursing informatics and nursing leadership. Subjects you will study include:
- Informatics and healthcare technology
- Healthcare ethics
- Healthcare leadership
- Healthcare project management
- Theoretical basis of nursing research and practice
- Nursing education curriculum development and implementation
- Curriculum and Design
- Global Health (with a mission trip)
No matter which concentration area you choose, you will be able to advance your career through an online MSN at Concordia University Texas at times and places that are most convenient to you. Practicums take place often in your own place of employment or we help you select another that fits your career goals. All nurses are given the opportunity to take a medical mission trip, both within your own state or county or internationally, depending on your personal choices. Our Christian based learning environment assures you that Concordia is the best place to become a Christian leader in nursing!