Vermont Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Vermont has some wonderful opportunities for nurses who want to earn their Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Find out how you can utilize the programs available and develop the skills you need to earn your degree and have a rewarding career. You can request information from the nursing schools in Vermont directly from this page.
The Need for Nurses with an Advanced Degree
Now more than ever there is a growing need for nurses with advanced degrees. Recent changes in healthcare laws have provided for more people to receive medical care than ever before. A shortage of primary care providers in Vermont is making it difficult for patients to get the proper care they need. The solution is looking toward nurses with advanced degrees. Nurse practitioners have experience in diagnosing and writing prescriptions for many different kinds of common acute and chronic illnesses. They also have the flexibility to work independently or under the direction of a physician.
A nurse practitioner is a great career, but it is only one of the exciting careers that you could take part of. Nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse midwives also play pivotal roles in the future of healthcare. You could even take your degree and go down a different path such as become a healthcare administrator or a nursing educator.
The field of nursing education is in great demand for teachers. A shortage of teachers is to blame for competitive nursing programs in Vermont, allowing only limited amounts of nursing students to participate. Many may not know that a MSN degree could qualify you to become a nursing instructor. What better way to make a difference in the healthcare industry than by earning your MSN nursing degree?
MSN Degree Paths
One of the perks of getting your MSN degree is the amount of flexibility that programs now give with the option of online programs, which allow you to work classes into your schedule while maintaining your work priorities. There may also be a significant cut in costs when comparing online courses to traditional courses. Some studies also show that those who take online courses retain information better.
The goal is to earn your Master’s of Science in Nursing degree, but there are different routes of getting there depending on what you have previously accomplished.
- Direct Entry – this program is for those who have earned their Bachelor’s degree in another field of study but have no nursing experience. In a program such as this, you will learn the basics of nursing and will earn your RN licensure before you continue working toward your advanced courses.
- RN to MSN degree – this program is designed for those who have their RN licensure, but do not have a bachelor’s degree. It offers a fast track to receive your MSN degree without earning your Bachelor’s degree.
- BSN to MSN degree – this program is the traditional method as it is designed for nurses who have received their Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and are continuing on to earn their Master’s degree in Nursing. The scope of studies is designed to build upon what you have previously learned.
A sample course of studies for a traditional MSN degree in Vermont may include: Primary Healthcare, Clinical Nursing Practice, Social Justice, Biosciences, Health Challenges, and Health Optimization.
Earning your Master’s of Science degree in nursing can be expensive, but there are many programs available such as grants, scholarships, and loans that may be able to help curb the cost. Research is the key to finding out what is the best option for you. A good starting point is checking out the resources on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Financial Aid page.
Careers for MSN Prepared Nurses in Vermont
After you have earned your degree you may be surprised at how your marketability for opportunity can increase because you have a Master’s of Science in Nursing degree. Many employers are seeking nurses with an advanced education, and with a higher position comes the potential for earning a higher salary. For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a nurse practitioner in Vermont is $88,050 (2013).
With the healthcare reform laws in effect, there has never been a better time than to earn your Master’s of Science in Nursing degree. The challenge is finding the right program that will work for you. With hard work and research, you should have no problem obtaining your MSN degree. Contact the Vermont nursing schools on our site to request more information.
MSN Programs to consider in Vermont
- Georgetown University (online MSN programs). The prestigious Georgetown University offers an online program in advanced practice specialties along with other tracks such as education. Clinical requirements for advanced practice specialties can be arranged in your area.
- The University of Vermont (Burlington, VT). UVM offers MSNs for some advanced practice tracks – some with a primary care focus are being transitioned into DNP programs.
