RN to MSN

The RN to MSN is an accelerated program that is designed for experienced registered nurses who want to move straight into a master’s degree program. Experienced nurses who hold their RN license can apply their associate’s degree toward an MSN without having to first earn a BSN. Students can expect to find positions as expert clinicians, nurse executives, clinical educators, health policy consultants, and research assistants.

RN to MSN Overview

Many RN to MSN programs require students to choose a specialty from the start, which gives them the advantage of getting specialized training in their field even before they complete their BSN.
Students learn to diagnose and treat patients in their field, as opposed to clinical nurse specialists, who typically work in administration, research, and education.
Students study how to effectively communicate with patients on planning goals that facilitate wellness, health, healing and well-being.
The curriculum incorporates adult learning principles and recognizes prior academic course work, continuing education and clinical expertise.
Courses include content in the following subject areas: anatomy and physiology, microbiology, chemistry, sociology, general psychology, developmental psychology, and health assessment skills.

Steps to Obtain a RN to MSN

Earn an Associate’s Degree in Nursing or a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing.
Receive a Registered Nurse Certification.
Enroll and complete a RN to MSN Nurse Practitioner program.
Obtain NP certification and proper licensure, which varies by state.

Salary and Career Information

Estimated Salary: $57,704 – $100,487 (determined by place of employment and area of specialty), according to Payscale.com.
Job Setting: Private practices, outpatient care centers, nursing homes, hospitals (intensive care unit), neonatal unit, internal medicine clinics, ambulatory care, family practice offices.