Whether you’re just beginning your nursing career or looking to advance it, an MSN is the next logical step. With a master’s degree, you can improve patient care and outcomes and take on leadership roles.
You’ll Learn More
Whether you’re interested in earning a leadership position, want to pursue a specialty area, or are looking to transition into academia, an MSN will give you the necessary credentials.
An online MSN Nurse Informatics program teaches you how to use technology to improve patient care and outcomes. The coursework prepares nurses to assess institutional data needs, develop and implement new systems, and design and evaluate existing ones.
Some RN to MSN programs also offer an optional post-master’s certificate in nursing informatics that may take less time than the full master’s degree. Check with your preferred schools to see what options are available. You’ll be investing in your education for two years, so you want to ensure you get the most out of it.
It’s More Affordable
Many nursing students believe that online programs will give them more flexibility, allowing them to balance schoolwork with work and family obligations. However, finding a program that fits your learning style and schedule is important.
For example, some programs offer synchronous courses, requiring you to tune into lectures in real-time. Others offer asynchronous classes that let you watch lectures at your own pace.
You’ll also have a variety of financing options available to you. Most schools offer scholarships and financial aid to help students afford their education. In addition, you can also apply for private loans or use federal student loans to pay for your program. Lastly, some employers may be willing to cover some of the cost.
You’ll Have More Flexibility
The best online MSN programs will offer a flexible schedule. You can find part-time and accelerated programs that work with your busy lifestyle. Online MSN courses are often synchronous, so you can attend live lectures at times that fit your schedule.
You’ll learn to use digital technologies to improve healthcare systems and patient outcomes. This will make it easier for you to supervise clinical nurses, implement new procedures and programs, and develop hospital-wide policies based on data analysis.
If you’re already an RN, there are also RN-to-MSN bridge programs to help you earn your master’s without first earning a bachelor’s degree. This is an added benefit that makes the online option even more attractive. It’s the ideal solution for working nurses who want to advance their careers.
You’ll Have More Job Opportunities
Nursing is demanding, and an MSN gives you the qualifications to take on leadership roles. You’ll be able to manage projects and teams, and know how to apply systems-thinking strategies to solve complexities like access to quality healthcare and costs.
MSN programs usually last about two years and can be completed on-campus or online. Some colleges also have RN-to-MSN bridge programs that let you complete your bachelor’s and master’s degrees simultaneously.
As a nurse informaticist, you’ll oversee and implement data-driven initiatives to improve the workflow in hospitals, medical centers, and other healthcare-related companies. This will make your job easier, and it will also help you have more options for advancement.
You’ll Be a Leader
A nurse with an MSN has more career options. For those who want to earn more money, take on leadership roles, or focus on a specialty area, an MSN is the way to go.
In addition to your RN skillset, an online nursing informatics program will teach you how to harness digital technologies that will make your job easier. Whether overseeing projects, training staff in new procedures, or creating system-wide policies based on data analysis, your degree will give you the tools to excel.
