A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program often marks a defining moment in a nurse’s career, when he or she decides how to focus their career and whether to pursue direct or indirect patient care. With a number of specializations from which to choose, you can learn how to positively influence the quality of patient care, develop innovations and apply them to healthcare practices, use education to lead other nurses, and improve the overall health of patients and communities. Choose a specialization that aligns your coursework and curriculum with your personal and professional goals. In-demand specializations include Public Health Nursing, Nursing Education, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Informatics, Nurse Executive, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.

Master of Science in Nursing degree-seekers have a lot of options when it comes to choosing the program that is best for them. However, five key factors should always be considered before deciding: accreditation, specializations, flexibility, diversity, and support. First, look for an MSN program that is accredited. Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation affirms the quality of a university’s MSN program and support services, as well as the university’s commitment to continuous assessment and improvement. As you search for the best degree program, also be sure to look for one that offers a number of specializations, allowing you to match your education to your career goals. Flexible scheduling is important as well—which is why online degree programs are such a popular choice for working professionals. It’s also important for you to be able to connect with other professionals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, which can greatly enhance your MSN experience. Lastly, be sure you choose a university with a strong support team that is invested in helping you succeed.

Accreditation is an important factor to consider when researching MSN programs. Walden University’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). CCNE is a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Programs that are CCNE accredited must meet rigorous academic and professional standards, with the ultimate goal of preparing effective nurses who make an impact in their field. CCNE ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs in nursing.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of advanced practice registered nurses is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations—52%  from 2020 to 2030.¹ This growth is projected to include a variety of settings within the field, many of which an MSN degree can prepare you to serve. These settings can include:

• Hospitals
• Physicians’ offices
• Home healthcare services
• Nursing care facilities

¹Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm#tab-6

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs differ from university to university. Walden University, for example, graduates more MSN students than any other university in the U.S.¹ Didactic coursework in Walden’s MSN degree program is 100% online, which allows you to earn your degree on a schedule that works for you. Also, Walden does not require travel for health assessments like other universities often do, and students can attend on a part-time or full-time basis. In addition, you can choose from a variety of specializations, benefit from small class sizes, and receive support throughout the program and beyond.

¹Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) IPEDS database. Based on the most recent year of completions survey data available, using CIP code family 51.38 “Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing” for Master’s degrees (Award level 7). Available at https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/use-the-data. (Retrieved January 2021; may consist of or include provisional release data.)

For the nurse practitioner and specialty practice specializations in our Master of Science in Nursing online program, students benefit from the Walden University Practicum Pledge™. You’ll have access to our large network of field sites and preceptors, plus an additional dedicated Field Placement Team that partners with you to identify a site and preceptor. Walden will assist you in finding a suitable nursing practicum site and preceptor (along with additional requirements*) if you’re unable to identify your own after several attempts.