Masters Degree in Nursing - Online MSN Programs

With an online masters in nursing degree, you can pursue a career in a number of specialty areas including clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner, nurse-midwife, or nurse anesthetist. All of these specialists are in high demand, particularly in underserved areas and rural locations.

If you plan to work as a clinical nurse specialist your training will prepare you to provide primary healthcare to different populations (from neonatal through senior care) and in many different settings. Common specialty areas for nurse practitioners include family practice, adult practice, pediatrics, acute care, and geriatrics, but there are numerous other specialty areas for nurse practitioners. For a career as a nurse anesthetist, you'll learn to administer anesthesia, help patients manage pain, and provide care for surgery or other medical procedures.

Training for nurse-midwives includes learning to provide health services for women (i.e., gynecological exams, prenatal care, labor and delivery assistance, and postpartum care).

RNs with advanced educational degrees and training may perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and may be able to prescribe medication. As an advanced practice nurse you may work independently or collaborate with physicians.

Some graduates of Online MSN Programs work in positions such as forensics nurses and nurse educators, that have little or no direct interaction with patients, but these jobs still require you to have an active RN license. You can also apply your masters in nursing online and RN experience to a career as a health writer; researcher; or consultant for healthcare organizations, public agencies, and pharmaceutical companies.