About the master’s degree in nursingFor those nurses looking to take their career to the next level, pursuing a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree is a surefire way to do so. Committing to a master’s degree program takes dedication, but it can have a huge impact on your nursing success in the form of new opportunities, from higher pay to greater responsibilities.

A master’s in nursing program will equip you with the skills and advanced training you need to give high-quality nursing care in a specialized role, such as nurse practitioner. Earning your MSN qualifies you to deliver many of the same health care services that physicians are qualified to do, which is particularly important in today’s health care field. Physicians may have packed schedules or cost too much for some patients making advanced practice nurses a great alternative.

Typically, nurses who are pursuing an MSN will focus on one of four advanced practice areas:
•Nurse practitioner (NP)
•Certified nurse anesthetist (CRNA)
•Clinical nurse specialist (CNS)
•Certified nurse midwife (CNM)