A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares registered nurses for a wide array of advanced career opportunities. Though a bachelor’s degree or even an associate degree can be enough to acquire entry-level positions, an MSN can lead to specialized practice and higher-paying positions.

The healthcare system is evolving, so the need for nurses with more knowledge is growing as well. The implementation of the Affordable Care Act has provided healthcare access to thousands of previously uninsured citizens, which will exacerbate the current shortage of nurses and primary care physicians. The implementation of various state mandates for all nurses to achieve their BSN is also prompting an accelerated amount of nurses seeking their higher degrees. At Concordia University Texas, you can reach your MSN level in the same amount of time it takes in many other programs just to reach the BSN.

An MSN program covers subjects such as research, leadership, healthcare technology, and healthcare policy and ethics. An MSN shows potential employers that a nurse has developed leadership and management skills and a higher level of critical thinking. An MSN distinguishes a registered nurse as being committed to continuing education and keeping track of trends and advancements in the nursing profession.

It qualifies registered nurses for job opportunities in nurse management, education and specialized practice. Therefore, graduates are prepared for positions like chief nursing officer (CNO), nurse administrator, governing board members, clinical nurse educator or directors and faculty in a nursing program at universities.

Nurses with a Concordia University Texas MSN who desire specialty in clinical care are eligible after graduation for enrollment in certification degree programs for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) including nurse practitioner, certified nurse anesthetist, clinical nurse specialist and certified nurse midwife. In today’s world of high competition and faculty shortage, achieving a MSN before seeking admission to these higher level clinical education programs can be a huge advantage for any nurse. The Concordia University MSN graduate also is eligible to take the ANCC specialty certifications in informatics or leadership or education.

Those who prefer to work in management, informatics or education can find multiple positions, or advance their career ladder within their own place of employment. Practicums help to network students into newer positions with the same or new employers. Nurses with a MSN from an accredited school like Concordia University Texas can also teach at accredited universities across the country.

Other possible career outcomes for graduates of MSN programs include:

  • Governing board members
  • Nurse managers
  • Nurse case managers
  • Performance improvement managers
  • Directors of nursing
  • Nurse informaticists

A registered nurse who has graduated from an MSN program has the ability to earn an average of almost $8,000 a year more than registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the field of nursing will experience a much faster rate of growth by 2022 than the average occupation. The national nursing shortage, the changes in healthcare legislation and the aging of Baby Boomers affects the need for highly qualified nurses.