Nurses who qualify in the U.S. have the option of pursuing graduate programs that allow them to specialize in a particular field. These programs can involve specialties that focus on patient contact, for example, women’s health or oncology. Alternatively, there are programs that focus on leadership and management. If you are a qualified nurse looking to upgrade your current degree with a master’s program, there are multiple options out there.
Which Nurses Can Study a Master’s?
The entry requirements for master’s programs vary between academic institutions. This means some may allow entry with a nursing diploma, while others may want a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Some colleges may state that a diploma with post-graduation experience is sufficient. Before applying for a program, checking with your prospective college’s admissions department is advisable.
What Unique Nursing Specialties Are Available?
The concentrations across the U.S. are now incredibly varied, which provides nurses with plenty of choice. Popular and common concentrations include pediatric nursing, women’s health, public health, and maternity care, nurse practioner, and nurse anethetist. These are the concentrations that are not too niched and provide advanced practice in areas that apply to populations across the U.S.
It is now also possible to focus on niche nursing concentrations. This includes global health, which prepares nurses for clinical interactions with those from outside the U.S. Such skills are transferable both on domestic and international soil, broadening career prospects. Another nursing concentration includes diabetes care, which tackles a disease that is rapidly rising across the country.
Are There Options Available for Prospective Nurse Educators?
You may want to do a master’s program that focuses on nursing in order to enter education. As well as helping you advance your practice, these programs also broaden your career prospects in the education field. Such programs focus on helping nurses recognize different learning methods and patterns, as well as how to assess and intervene with students. In some cases, these programs are available online, allowing nurses to fit them in with their on-going responsibilities of taking care of patients, managing a household, finding time to go buy nurse scrubs in addition to managing your studies.
How Can Nurses Manage a Career and Studying?
Working while you are completing a master’s degree is feasible. Advanced training usually features a curriculum that bears the on-going responsibilities of a nurse in mind. Many also offer modules that integrate into a practicing nurse’s workplace. Alternatively, you can choose to complete your program of study on a part-time basis, which means the pressures of working and studying are lifted. In some cases, online study is an option. This is particularly beneficial if you’re working patterns change regularly, as it allows you to study at a time that is convenient for you.
How Can Nurses Figure Out if a Program is Right for Them
Working towards a master’s is a big commitment, which is why you need to make sure your proposed program is right for you. Most, if not all, institutions offer online brochures that allow you to learn more about their courses. In addition to this, they have dedicated admissions teams you can chat to. Many will also hold open days throughout the year, which allow you to visit your chosen college to see if it is right for you. Some even feature online open days, which is convenient for those who live far away from their chosen college.
As well as making sure a curriculum is right for you, always focus on the way the program is delivered and the financial aspects of the course. Weighing your options carefully can help you arrive at a decision and choose the program that will help you advance your practice.