Do I Need A High Gpa To Enter The Program
While we welcome all educational backgrounds, as a true Masters level program, a low GPA is not sufficient for direct entry MSN programs. You must have earned a minimum of a 3.0 GPA with your bachelors degree in a non-nursing field. Your degree must also be awarded by an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
What Could I Pursue With A Direct Entry Msn Online Degree
Students may typically enter a wide range of career paths. Many choose fields that interest them. This may include careers such as these.
You may aim to become a registered nurse. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes the annual median wage for a registered nurse was $73,300 as of May of 2019.
You may work as a nurse practitioner. The 2019 annual median pay for this field is $115,800 per year as noted by the BLS.
Some students may work as a nurse midwife. This is a growing field. The BLS reports it is growing at 45% through 2029. That is much faster than average. The 2019 annual median pay for this field was $115,800 per year. Another career path may typically include a medical and health services manager. Those in this field had a median annual pay of $100,980 in 2019. Thats noted by the BLS.
Choosing The Best Rn Program For You
Where you complete your RN program can help shape your future career in nursing and other health sciences. Your undergraduate degree can also influence which advanced practice degrees you choose to pursue later.
First, you have to choose between a bachelor of science in nursing or an associate degree in nursing program. More and more employers require new nurses to have a BSN, though many will also hire ADNs who agree to complete their BSNs over the next couple of years.
Youll also need to consider the economic side of each degreein some cases, it may be more affordable to get your ADN so you can start working as a nurse, then enroll to get your BSN online and qualify for employer tuition assistance but in other cases, it may actually be faster and more affordable to go straight for your BSN if thats your ultimate goal
> > Related: ADN vs BSN: What Nursing Degree Should You Get?
Then youll have to decide whether to enroll in a large or small nursing school, an accelerated or four-year degree, and much more. Each factor can influence your career.
Any given program might not work for some students but could be perfect for you. Nursing schools are intentionally different to best educate specific students.
The demands of your current life will also influence your choices. More and more leading universities offer online nursing degrees, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also Check: How To Become An Ob Nurse Practitioner
Top Program That Might Interest You
Contact the university below for info on start dates, cost, transfer requirements, and how to land the financial aid you need.
Our Master of Science in Nursing is an excellent degree for nursing professionals preparing for management roles within hospitals and other healthcare delivery organizations. The MSN program was designed to closely align with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing MSN Essentials. Finish your online degree in as few as 26 months. Get started today!
Msn Degree Program Considerations If You Are Not A Registered Nurse And Hold A Bachelors Degree In A Related Health/science Field
If you are currently not a registered nurse, but would like to pursue a career as an APRN , there are online programs available for you, also. These are called BSN to MSN programs. Typically, these programs first focus on the BSN portion and are normally 18 months. After completing this part of the program, the student will take the NCLEX exam . Following taking and passing this exam, the remainder of the program focuses on the MSN degree, which also takes about another 18 months. The total time depends on how long it takes the student to pass the NCLEX exam between the two portions of the program.
Who would choose to do this? This is normally someone who has a bachelors degree with experience in the work force, but decides after a number of years that they are drawn to a career in nursing. Some people also find that the field in which they got their degree is very limited with a lack of employment opportunities. They would like to become a nurse , but arent interested in starting all over with a traditional college education to earn a BSN, and then an MSN. People such as these can complete an online BSN to MSN program and have better employment opportunities and earning capacity.
Recommended Reading: How Long Are Accelerated Nursing Programs
How To Become A Nurse Practitioner Without A Bsn/nursing Degree
Is it possible to earn a MSN degree without having a BSN ? Absolutely. You can also earn a MSN if you have a bachelors degree in a non-nursing field of study.
Most people interested in earning a masters degree in nursing pursue careers in a variety of healthcare work environments and are referred to as APRNs, or advanced practice registered nurses. In this area of patient care, a few career examples include nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and nurse anesthetists. Many people choose to complete an online MSN program because they are currently working registered nurses. This type of higher education normally requires less time and money while still maintaining all of the necessary learning that is included in a traditional MSN degree program.
A Few More Things To Examine When Choosing The Best Online Masters In Nursing Program For You
Many online education experts mention the following things to keep in mind when choosing an online program.
Make sure the program is accredited. One of the first things healthcare employers look for is if you graduated from an accredited program. The following national accreditation organizations are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Research state licensing requirements in the state you plan to practice. Its important to know if the state you plan to reside and practice in will accept the program/degree you work so hard to earn. Its also important to know ahead of time what the state licensing requirements are for you. The National Council of State Board of Nursing has extensive, useful information and a state search tool. This organization also has information on their site about the APRN Consensus Model .
Determine how much it will cost. Research your options. Each school and program varies. Do the math now. You will thank yourself later.
Look into financial aid. Speak to a school representative about financial aid options. Some schools offer government-funded financial aid. Some nursing organizations also offer grants, scholarships and other programs. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners is an example of such organizations.
Also Check: Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Prescribe Medication
How Much Do Online Nursing Programs Cost
While the cost of classes and programs varies greatly by school, many students discover that online programs are less expensive than traditional programs after considering the time and money saved on commuting and incidentals. The convenience of completing classes from the living room often outweighs the downsides.
Many schools will require electronic books to be purchased as well as uniforms, stethoscopes, and white nursing shoes or other items needed for clinicals, if required.
Online courses require each student to have access to a computer that is fast enough and has enough memory to support the program. Purchasing a new computer may be required if the standard is not met.
See our guide discussing the cost of RN programs.
The Path To Your Destination
- Graduates will receive enhanced bedside nursing education and training and the necessary tools to advance into a leadership role or continue toward a doctoral degree.
- Students will have opportunities to explore their areas of interest, including global health, research, quality and safety, and practice in many specialty areas.
- Graduates of the MSN Program will be prepared to take the nursing licensure exam, NCLEX, and be licensed as an RN.
- Post-graduation, students can choose to enter the nursing workforce immediately or continue their studies toward an advanced practice nursing specialty or doctoral degree.
- Scholarships and financial aid are available.
MSN Entry Virtual Information Session October 2021
You May Like: Carleen Nursing School Palm Bay
Roseman University Of Health Science
Roseman University of Health Sciences is a non-profit, private institution with locations in Nevada and Utah. Its College of Nursing offers a hybrid-online accelerated BSN program that is available to both graduates of bachelors degrees in other areas of study and applicants with 54 specific college credits.
Courses are offered in a block curriculum that allows students to take one course at a time continuously. In addition to completing all didactic classes online, lab assignments, and assessments are conducted in person, as is the clinical rotation component of the curriculum.
- Tuition: $58,200
- Program Length: 18 months
Can You Get A Master’s In Nursing Without Experience
Direct-entry MSN programs target students interested in jumpstarting their nursing career or students who would like to transition out of their current profession and enter the nursing field in an expedited format. Therefore, applicants do not need experience, as direct-entry MSN programs emphasize clinical coursework to provide students with enough experience to begin their careers.
Read Also: Best Liability Insurance For Nurses
Master’s Entry Clinical Nurse
The UCLA School of Nursing has an option within the Master of Science in Nursing degree program that is designed to prepare individuals with a baccalaureate degree in another discipline for a career in nursing. This two-year pre-licensure program includes summer enrollment between the first and second years. Those who complete the program are granted the Master in Science in Nursing degree and are eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination to be licensed as registered nurses . They are then prepared to practice nursing at the bedside in a hospital setting.
Graduates of the program are also qualified to take the Clinical Nurse Leader certification exam given by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and may apply for a Public Health Nursing Certificate from the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Excellent Jobs For Nurses Who Don’t Want To Be Nurses
Jobs for nurses who don’t want to be nurses exist in more industries than you might realize. As a nurse, jobs in a wide range of sectors and settings could be open to you. So whether you’re looking to care for patients outside of a traditional hospital or you hope to get out of clinical work altogether, you have plenty of options to choose from.
And you’re certainly not alone in wanting to make a change. One study found that twenty-two percent of new RNs leave their positions within the first year. The majority move into other nursing roles rather than leave the profession. However, research from RNnetwork has revealed that close to 50 percent of working nurses have seriously considered leaving the field entirely.
This article outlines career options for LPNs/LVNs or RNs who want something completely different, along with good jobs for ex nurses who want to take on roles that don’t involve direct patient care. You’ll also find several job options for registered nurses who would like to continue providing hands-on nursing care, but outside of a hospital.
You absolutely can create a more satisfying future for yourself. Read on to discover the incredible range of new possibilities!
Salary information is based on 2021 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook unless otherwise indicated.
Don’t Miss: Online Courses For Nursing Degree
What Exactly Is An Online Bridge Program
As discussed briefly above, an online bridge program is a unique higher education degree program created to help students advance their current education to the next level by providing the necessary information needed to connect the students knowledge from where they are to where they need to be academically. Many programs offered can be done in an accelerated amount of time and cost less than going back to a traditional college to earn the same degree.
Are There Entrance Examination Requirements
While admissions requirements will vary by school, most Direct Entry MSN programs utilize entrance examinations to ensure prospective students have the minimum academic qualifications to be successful in the program. At Ameritech, all MSN students must pass the ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills with a minimum passing score of 60% cumulative.
Once you graduate with a Master of Science in Nursing, youll immediately enter the field ready to make an impact. Whether you have more questions or youre ready to enroll, give Joyce a call at 890-4704. Or read more about our direct entry MSN program to decide if its the right choice for you.
You May Like: Who Do I Report Nursing Home Neglect To
Why Become A Registered Nurse
If youre looking to make a difference and save lives on a daily basis while enjoying high job security and impressive benefits, nursing is for you.
Its no secret that qualified registered nurses are in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected growth of registered nurse jobs is nine percent from 2020 to 2030. Registered nurse is also ranked the #12 top job by the U.S. News and World Report.
A BSN will help you to take your career to the next level while making an impact.
Do Nursing Programs Accept Credits From The Clep
Many programs do not accept credits from the College Level Examination Program .
The CLEP is an exam designed to curb the cost of college tuition by allowing students to “test out” college classes. However, looking into each program individually is recommended as these rules are subject to change and programs vary.
Recommended Reading: Siena Heights University Nursing Program
What Is An Aprn Nurse Midwife And Nurse Anesthetist
An advanced practice registered nurse is a licensed healthcare clinician who may work independently or together with a medical doctor/physician. All APRNs hold at least a masters degree. A doctoral degree in nursing practice, also called a DNP, is becoming more preferred and may eventually be required for APRN professions. There are multiple areas or degree types of advanced practice nursing. Of those areas, three of the main types we will discuss include nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, and nurse anesthetist.
According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners , specialities in advanced nursing include: acute care, adult health, family health, gerontology health, neonatal health, oncology, pediatric/child health, psychiatric/mental health, and womens health. Sub-specialty areas include: allergy and immunology, cardiovascular, dermatology, emergency, endocrinology, gastroenterology, hematology, oncology, neurology, occupational health, orthopedics, pulmonology/respiratory, sports medicine, and urology.
Typical patient care duties that advanced nurses perform depends on the type of APRN practice and the state where the healthcare is being given. Below is a list of general duties for each type.
A Nurse Practitioner provides primary and specialty care, gathers information about the patient, performs exams, orders tests, diagnoses health problems, prescribes medicine, determines needed healthcare solutions and counsels the patient on managing and improving health.
Accelerated Bachelor Of Science In Nursing
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing is an undergraduate degree for students seeking to become an RN or for those who already have an ADN or their RN degree but want to continue their education.
Generally, BSN programs are offered for any prospective students who can meet admission requirements. However, accelerated BSN programs are designed for and generally only open to individuals who have already completed a bachelors-level education1. If you do have an RN license, you may consider an accelerated RN-to-BSN program.
Completion of a BSN program allows graduates to pursue an advanced degree, such as an MSN, or enter into nursing leadership positions.
Possible Careers with a BSN
People who have earned a BSN and RN certification often work in leadership roles that require them to supervise other nurses. Those who have earned their BSN have a variety of career options, including:
- Recommendations
Programs
BSN program structure and curriculum vary by school. However, every program will involve classroom coursework and hands-on clinical practice. Some common coursework may include nursing research and evidence-based practice, health assessments, nursing systems and ethics, nursing leadership, and clinical experience.
The best option will depend on your previous education, career goals and personal preferences. For prospective students who have completed a non-nursing undergraduate degree program but wish to begin a nursing career, an accelerated BSN program may be a good option.
Recommended Reading: University Of St Thomas Accelerated Nursing Program
What Youll Learn In An Online Direct
Since direct-entry MSN programs are designed for individuals with no prior background in nursing, students in these programs receive a solid education in foundational nursing concepts and practices, as well as specialized knowledge and skills that prepare them for advanced practice and leadership roles in the profession. By the end of the program, students should be able to:
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of professional knowledge and the application of critical-thinking skills to improve healthcare outcomes throughout the nursing process.
Provide safe, efficient, and respectful patient-centered care through all levels of care across diverse patient populations.
Provide efficient, effective, and ethical management of healthcare resources across the spectrum of care settings.
Demonstrate the ability to assume leadership roles in a range of healthcare systems and settings.
Demonstrate comprehensive communication skills, both written and oral, in leading interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
Accelerated Bachelor’s To Bsn
For students who hold a non-nursing Bachelor’s degree, an accelerated nursing program offers a faster way of earning a Bachelor’s degree in nursing. These programs may have a higher standard for admission than traditional programs, such as a minimum 3.0 GPA and a requirement of “hands-on” healthcare volunteer hours, but the waiting list may be shorter than in other programs.
Accelerated BSN programs can be completed faster because they omit breaks and often have more intense courses so that they can be completed in a shorter amount of time. Since the same amount of clinical hours is required for any entry-level RN program, they may be scheduled at a grueling pace. For these reasons, many students find this type of program more challenging than traditional programs. Balancing family life and keeping up with friends may also be difficult. However, for the ambitious student who is good at setting priorities, the reward is working as an RN quickly!
Learn more about accelerated BSN programs.
Also Check: Social Worker To Nurse Practitioner