Registered nurses (RNs) who have a bachelor’s degree in nursing can pursue a master’s in nursing with the option to complete a doctorate degree. Graduate nursing programs create the potential for career advancement in clinical practice and research settings. A graduate nursing student can specialize in specific care types through educational tracks such as a family nurse practitioner program or a nurse-midwifery program. Here are four career paths for nurses with master’s or doctorate degrees:
1. Advanced Clinical Roles
Nurses who have earned a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can follow a career path in advanced clinical roles. Some of these roles include:
- Nurse Practitioner: NPs provide comprehensive healthcare services, from ordering tests and diagnosing illnesses to prescribing medications and treatments. Students interested in a career as an NP can specialize in a family nurse practitioner program or a women’s health care nurse practitioner program.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist: A CNS is trained in a specific practice area, such as cardiology, oncology, or mental health. They provide education, research, and consultation services in addition to their clinical practice.
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist: CRNAs are authorized to administer anesthesia to patients preparing to undergo surgery or other procedures. This position requires individuals to hold a DNP degree.
- Travel Nurse: While being a licensed RN is usually the minimum requirement for becoming a travel nurse, advanced degrees can lead to more specialized roles, such as leadership positions.
2. Leadership Positions
The additional training required for an MSN or DNP helps prepare nurses for leadership roles in clinical or administrative settings. A nurse manager works within clinical settings, such as hospitals or family clinics, to oversee staff and manage budgets. They also collaborate with other healthcare providers to verify that patients in their department receive high-quality care. Some nurse managers divide their time between administrative tasks and direct patient care, making this an ideal role for those looking to shift their career path.
Nurses with DNPs may pursue executive roles like chief executive officer (CEO) or chief nursing officer (CNO). A CEO leads an organization, whether it is a health-related nonprofit, research institution, or multi-facility hospital. CEOs help establish policies and develop operational strategies to make sure staff adapt to changing care standards and patients receive proper care. A CNO is the head nurse at a healthcare facility. They oversee all operations, including hiring and training staff and responding to equipment needs.
3. Research Opportunities
The clinical requirements for MSN and DNP degrees may reveal information gaps or areas where care practice can be improved. Advanced nursing degree holders can pursue research-based careers to address these issues. A research manager oversees a project by setting goals and deadlines and choosing research methodologies. They also work to secure research funding or achieve publication to share their findings.
Nurses interested in technological development may be interested in a career as a nurse informaticist. Informaticists help create and improve electronic medical records. They also analyze available data to find ways to improve the quality of work in healthcare settings.
A career as a health policy analyst might be a good option for nurses looking to make an impact on healthcare policies. Analysts review current and potential policies to gauge their effects on specific demographics or facility types. They compile research data and present statistical models to government agencies and policymakers to advocate for change.
4. Education Professionals
Nurses with advanced degrees can combine their passions for clinical practice and education by working as nurse educators. Nurse educators work in academic settings like universities and colleges, where they teach nursing courses, develop curricula, and supervise clinical training. Some nurse educators teach entry-level nursing courses for programs like RN certification or Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Others work with graduate students who are pursuing specialization certificates or advanced degrees. Nurse educators can also work in healthcare settings as training instructors or preceptors. Preceptors serve as mentors to students during their clinical rotations. Roles in education allow nurses to help set care expectations and practice standards for the next generation.
Enroll in a Family Nurse Practitioner Program
Nurses with an MSN and a family nurse practitioner specialization provide preventative and primary care to individuals of varying ages and demographics. They complete routine checkups, make diagnoses, and develop patient treatment plans. Nurses with advanced degrees may transition from this clinical work to leadership or research-focused careers. Contact a reputable nursing university today to learn more about how graduate nursing degrees can expand your career opportunities.
