The Guide to an Online Masters’ Nursing Education
A Masters’ of Science in Nursing (MSN) is an advantageous option for registered nurses or recently graduated BSN students, especially when job hunting. Prestigious positions like APRNs are only reserved for holders of MSN.
Interestingly, you can pursue most MSN programs while studying. You don’t have to take time off for this degree! We’ve compiled more information about online Masters’ Nursing Education.
Let’s dive in!
An Online Master’s Nursing Education Explained
The goal of online Masters’ Nursing Education is to educate BSN nurses for leadership roles in advanced practices like nursing professors, nursing educators, and nursing faculty in various settings and programs.
The programs equip skills needed to effectively integrate theories needed to educate adult learners. You learn to evaluate programs and settings and use education modalities and the latest technology to educate nursing students.
Admission Criteria
The commonly followed criteria for admission to most online Masters’ Nursing Programs include but are not limited to:
1. Select a nursing specialty that includes:
- Clinical nursing specialist
- Certified nurse practitioner
- Certified nurse-midwife
- Certified registered nurse anesthetist
2. Attend information sessions that help you compare and choose the best programs
3. Complete the prerequisite coursework
4. Pass the entrance examinations.
5. Provide a letter of recommendation, personal essay, transcripts, and letter of intent.
Reasons Why You Should Pursue a Master’s In Nursing Programs
Some of the top reasons why you should pursue a master’s in nursing programs include:
Job Security
The only way to secure long-term employment is by improving your skills and learning more. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) affirms a shortage of nurses in America. Advisedly, achieve your Master’s in nursing programs to help bridge the gap and secure a job for yourself.
Better Pay
There is a higher demand for qualified nurse tutors. So, pursue a master’s in nursing education online program to position yourself for better pay.
Assume Administrative Roles
An online Masters’ Nursing Education equips you with the skills needed to engage students, increase leadership skills, and significantly contribute to curriculum development. In the long run, these skills prepare you for administrative roles.
Better Working Hours
A Masters’ in Nursing Programs, places you in settings that offer a better schedule, usually weekdays shifts. Currently, hospitals have education departments that help patients learn about their treatment and diagnosis options while in the hospital or after being discharged. So, nurse educators working in such settings not only work during weekdays but also enjoy the extra time off during summer seasons and holidays.
Earn The Respect
Nurse educators are highly respected by their colleagues. The earned respect is well-deserved as they play a significant role in preparing the new nurses to become future lifesavers.
What To Look for in an Online Masters’ in Nursing Education
Here are some of the most crucial factors you need to consider before for quality online Masters’ nursing education:
Admission Requirements
Admission criteria show the likelihood of you getting admitted and how challenging the coursework might be. Also, these requirements tell you what the program values, hence indicating the program’s culture.
Accreditation
Usually, employers hire graduates with accredited programs. Again, you can’t transfer to an accredited school from an unaccredited school.
Program Curriculum
Ensure the program matches your career goals. If you’re interested in high-tech training or academic training like simulations, your online Masters’ nursing education should comprise courses in those fields.
School NCLEX Pass Rate
This tells you how well the BSN or ADN program prepares nurses. This shows the school’s reputation among nurses and the likely quality of the program.
School Graduation Rate
Enroll in a school with an above-average graduation rate, particularly with high NCLEX ratings. This indicates you’re likely to complete the program successfully.
Program Duration
The right program duration depends on your other responsibilities, mainly if you study while working, your budget, and how much time you dedicate to study.
Online Learning Requirements and Format
Confirm if the approaches and tools work well for your learning needs, schedule, and interpersonal preferences.
Final Remarks
There is a shortage of nurses in America, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing is currently leveraging resources to secure state funds to help address the shortage. Advisedly, if you’re an enthusiast for nursing and would like to pass this passion and knowledge to others in this field, this is the best time for you to enroll in online Masters’ nursing education for 2022.
