Pursuing an MSN allows nurses to move into management positions and have more control over their careers. In addition, it can help them earn more money and provide better healthcare for patients.
Additionally, MSN-educated nurses are better equipped to address the nursing shortage and provide high-quality patient care. Read on to learn more about the benefits of pursuing an MSN in nursing administration.
Increased Job Opportunities
If you want to become a nurse executive, a masters nursing administration program will prepare you to apply research and scholarship in practice settings, use innovative healthcare technologies, and demonstrate leadership in professional settings. In addition, you can learn to build a network of nurses and experts, stay up-to-date on changes in the field, and lead interprofessional teams.
However, the MSN degree is only for some. Another degree option is better suited depending on your career goals, financial situation, and other factors. The MSN is a graduate degree designed to help nurses advance into managerial roles like nurse managers, clinical leaders, and directors of nursing. It also prepares nurses to take on administrative responsibilities, such as policy implementation and fundraising.
More Options
Having an MSN in nursing administration will open up many career options for nurses. Whether that means going into research, becoming a nurse educator, or working on the political policy implementation side of things at a hospital.
In addition to advanced nursing theory, coursework will often include pharmacology and pathophysiology. Plus, most programs will ask you to choose a specialty to refine your skills further.
Earning an MSN takes a significant amount of time and commitment. But this may be your degree if you’re a hardworking nurse wanting to advance in the profession. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it can lead to career advancement in a field expected to grow faster than the average job sector.
Better Pay
With an MSN in Nursing Administration at Lamar University, you’ll learn about advancing healthcare technologies, leadership and management principles, and national quality standards to prepare for future careers in healthcare. You’ll also connect with like-minded professionals, expert faculty, and professional organizations to expand your healthcare operations and consulting career options.
Depending on where you work, the salary can be substantial for nurses in administrative roles. Large healthcare organizations tend to pay more than smaller care facilities, but your earnings potential will depend on many factors beyond your education and experience. A good rule of thumb is to aim for an MSN in a Nursing Administration program that aligns with your goals and ideal workplace environment. Then, you can earn a high salary in an industry you love.
Better Job Satisfaction
With the aging baby boomer population in need of healthcare services and rates of chronic diseases continuing to rise, job security for nurses will remain strong. For those who want to expand their career opportunities, an MSN in Nursing Administration can open up new and exciting options.
Depending on the program, a Nursing Administration MSN can prepare nurse executives to lead in many ways. The program’s coursework teaches students to think strategically, participate in policy decisions, and guide organizations through change.
Many MSN in Nursing Administration programs also include dual degrees in business and nursing, providing a solid foundation for those who want to start their medical practices eventually. This enables nurse managers to bring their expertise and leadership skills to the medical community and help improve the overall health of the people around them.
Increased Autonomy
If you’re a goal-oriented individual, an MSN in Nursing Administration may be a good fit. This advanced degree allows nurses to move into managerial positions without putting their current medical career on hold.
Nursing is a demanding job. It requires many hours on your feet and often involves long shifts with no breaks. This can lead to back and leg problems over time.
However, an MSN in Nursing Administration can help alleviate this by moving nurses into management roles where they can sit down and take a breather. This type of position also comes with a higher salary.