Why Get a Master's in Nursing?

As a passionate nurse, you are well aware of the range of opportunities that exist within the modern healthcare system. You have seen firsthand how nurses can make a difference — and you're eager to expand your network to benefit both your patients as well as other healthcare professionals and the healthcare sector at large. There are numerous ways to pursue your goals, but one of the most meaningful pathways involves the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

The MSN represents one of several important nursing degrees and credentials, but this is arguably the most meaningful to nurses with ambitious career goals. Increasingly an outright requirement in advanced practice and for leadership roles, this degree has plenty to offer: clinical skill development, in-depth research, networking opportunities, and much more. The MSN may require hard work and dedication, but it can unlock a whole world of potential, and many nursing professionals would argue it's well worth the effort. Keep reading as we reveal: Why get a master's in nursing?

The Importance of MSN Programs

Every nursing program has something valuable to offer. Through each step in this journey, nurses gain new skills — including not only clinical competencies capable of boosting patient outcomes but also eventually more in-depth knowledge of research and leadership. These are priorities when pursuing the Master of Science in Nursing, which moves beyond the primarily clinical focus of other programs and places a greater emphasis on evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and ethical leadership.

Benefits of an MSN Degree

There is intrinsic value in pursuing additional education, which can inspire confidence in nurses and satisfy their love of learning. Beyond this, however, the MSN promises practical benefits, ranging from skill development to career advancement and even the potential to improve patient care.

Enhanced Clinical Knowledge and Skills

Evidence-based practice is a clear priority within MSN programs, which encourage nurses to integrate research into their clinical pursuits. Through MSN coursework, nurses learn how to evaluate cutting-edge research and build research-backed insights into interventions. A growing body of research reveals that evidence-based practice can boost patient outcomes, so both nurses and their patients can benefit greatly from MSN programs that promote informed decision-making.

Leadership and Management Opportunities

Nurses are increasingly encouraged to take on leadership roles, in which they enjoy both greater autonomy along with the chance to influence and inspire other healthcare professionals. As the American Association of Colleges in Nursing (AACN) points out, "The national movement toward healthcare reform is ushering in new models of care delivery that will place nurses in the driver’s seat." To prepare for these leadership roles, however, nurses need to develop an expanded skill set that draws on leadership theories and even incorporates management competencies such as financial accounting.

Increased Earning Potential

While many types of nursing positions promise excellent pay, this can increase substantially upon moving into higher-level roles such as nurse practitioner (NP) and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners — positions only available to professionals with their master's degree — earn median wages of $129,480 per year. This delivers a significant step up in pay compared to registered nurses, who, according to BLS data, earn annual median wages of $86,070.

Career Flexibility and Job Security

In addition to strong wages, BLS data indicates that higher-level nursing professionals are in high demand, with a notable job outlook of 40% growth from 2023 to 2033. Given the national average of 4% across all occupations (and 6% for registered nurses), it's evident that job opportunities abound for NPs and APRNs, who, once equipped with the right credentials, should be able to find and leverage compelling job opportunities.

Specialization Opportunities

Many graduate students seek specialty training that aligns with specific career ambitions. For those with clear goals, the MSN is uniquely advantageous; students are highly encouraged to specialize, selecting tracks that focus on everything from nursing education to leadership. Some specializations even prepare nurses to take on targeted roles, such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).

Greater Impact on Patient Care

Between enhanced clinical skills (often made possible through evidence-based practice) and leadership development, MSN programs provide many opportunities for hardworking nurses to promote improved patient outcomes and satisfaction. To that end, AACN "encourages all nurses to strive for higher levels of education to advance their capacity to enhance the quality of care available to our nation’s diverse patient populations."

Academic and Research Opportunities

Because evidence-based practice is such a priority within MSN programs, these degrees provide ample opportunities for students to delve deep into cutting-edge research. Beyond this, students have the chance to actually contribute to the growing body of nursing knowledge by getting involved in fascinating research projects. Dedicated courses on scholarly nursing are especially appealing to those who hope to explore this powerful field from an academic perspective.

What Can You Do With a Master's in Nursing?

With a better grasp of the benefits of an MSN degree, you may be wondering what you can do with a master's in nursing. There is no simple answer, as the MSN opens the door to many compelling roles. Typically, though, nurses who seek their master's degree hope to explore one of the following opportunities:

Nurse Practitioner

Leveraging advanced clinical training as they provide direct patient care, nurse practitioners are authorized to diagnose and treat a variety of health conditions. They also emphasize health management and disease prevention, with the goal of empowering patients to make positive choices. NPs are known for offering holistic care, with many serving as family nurse practitioners (FNPs). That being said, specialization opportunities are available to NPs who may prefer to work in gerontology, acute care, or other specialty areas.

Nurse Educator

Passionate about sharing their love of nursing with a new generation of clinical professionals, nurse educators offer in-depth instruction, drawing on their own clinical experience as well as theories of learning to help aspiring nurses master complex concepts. Those with a genuine desire to help others learn will benefit greatly from education-focused MSN programs.

Clinical Nurse Leader

Focused on care coordination and risk management, clinical nurse leaders can have a powerful impact on the day-to-day nuances of the healthcare environment, minimizing barriers to quality treatment while also advocating on behalf of both patients and the hardworking nurses who care for them. Through its dual emphasis on evidence-based practice and leadership development, the MSN provides ample preparation for the clinical nurse leaders of tomorrow.

Nurse Administrator

Working closely with hospital administrators and other healthcare leaders, nurse administrators play a vital role in organizational decision-making initiatives, helping shape everything from hiring and recruitment to scheduling and even budgetary concerns. Administrators are committed to supporting their fellow nurses while ensuring that these nurses abide by stringent standards of care. They can also have a significant impact on the financial implications of nursing, uncovering innovative ways to reduce costs and boost financial performance.

Nurse Anesthetist

Specializing in pain management, nurse anesthetists are responsible for administering anesthesia before, during, or after medical procedures. Their work can ensure that patients feel as comfortable as possible and may also make procedures feel less intimidating. This role calls for a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology and may involve significant autonomy. MSN programs can help aspiring nurse anesthetists rise to the challenge and provide exceptional care.

Steps to Earning an MSN Degree

If you feel drawn to the advanced roles highlighted above — or simply want to elevate your nursing skills and knowledge — you may be ready to take the next step and pursue your MSN. First, however, you must satisfy a few key requirements. Unless you enroll in a bridge program, you will need a bachelor's degree and a valid RN license. Though MSN admissions can be competitive, you should also be discerning yourself, opting for a program that aligns with your goals and interests.

Once you find, apply for, and enroll in an MSN program:

• Take full advantage of available coursework and experiential opportunities.
• Network proactively to develop industry connections.
• Reflect on research and practicum experiences to determine how you can elevate your nursing practice or thrive in other advanced roles.
• Be mindful of specific requirements for your preferred nursing career path, and take active steps to help you meet these requirements when they go beyond the MSN degree itself.

Elevate Your Nursing Career With an MSN From the University of Memphis

A dynamic future in nursing awaits, and with the right degree, you can embrace exciting opportunities in advanced nursing. Look to the online MSN programs from the University of Memphis to guide this journey. With targeted programs for aspiring family nurse practitioners and nurse educators, we offer numerous opportunities to help passionate nurses advance in their careers.

Additionally, we are proud to offer compelling programs such as the Master of Science in Nutrition - Environmental Nutrition and the Master of Science in Lifestyle Medicine with flexible, online curricula. Get in touch today to learn more.