Last Updated on December 23, 2022
Nurses who have mastered bedside nursing and who strive to facilitate change from a higher leadership role would benefit from looking into earning a dual MSN/MBA degree. This degree combines the traditional Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to demonstrate that the nurse has leadership as well as business skills. It prepares the nurse to assume roles in leadership, management, and at the executive level. The role of the MSN/MBA nurse is to utilize nursing leadership skills and principles of finance and economics to facilitate change within a healthcare organization and improve efficiency and patient care outcomes. Career options might include:
- Chief Nursing Officer
- Chief Executive Officer
- Nursing Management
Which MSN/MBA Program Is Right for Me?
So how do nurses choose the right program? There are many considerations that prospective students should look into based on their individual career goals and needs. Some of the frequently-researched considerations include the following:
- Do MSN/MBA Programs Offer Campus or Online Options? MSN/MBA programs are offered in both online and in-person/campus format. Online learning is beneficial for working nurses as it provides flexibility as well as self-paced learning.
- Is the MSN/MBA Program Accredited? Accreditation is critical when choosing an MSN/MBA program. Nursing programs in the United States must be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). A school might be locally accredited, but national certification is usually required for licensure, and it ensures that the school has met educational standards based on the degree type.
- MSN/MBA Program Course Topics- Students can expect to take courses in advanced-practice nursing and nursing leadership, as well as courses in the field of business. Business courses may include accounting, marketing, and finance.
- Associated Tuition Costs- The cost to complete an MSN/MBA program greatly varies by state and by the school. Base tuition can cost several hundred dollars to around a thousand per credit hour. It’s important to remember that the cost of books and supplies, as well as university fees, are added.
Online MSN/MBA Program Advantages
Flexible Schedule
Online nursing programs have many advantages. Many nurses, especially those pursuing advanced-level roles, must continue to work while attending school. As many nurses are aware, nurses often work around-the-clock, and on weekends and holidays. Therefore, the more flexible a program, the better. Online learning allows for nurses to complete coursework when they can. They can also arrange for mentorship or clinical hours to work with their current work schedule.
Nurses can also work at their own pace. Many programs allow for self-paced learning, but some schools place caps on the time frame in which the program must be completed. For example, a school may require all coursework to be completed within six years. Self-paced learning is beneficial for those who learn best by alternative methods (such as reading as opposed to listening to lectures).
Tuition and Costs
As stated earlier, tuition is variable depending on several factors. One factor is location. Tuition varies based on the state and even city in which it is located. Some states are more expensive than others.
Residency status is another factor that can affect tuition. Out-of-state residents may be required to pay higher tuition. Again, this depends on the school. However, some online programs charge a flat rate for programs regardless of residency status.
The good news is that most schools offer financial aid options as well as incentives when enrolling. Additionally, banks and other financial institutions offer tuition aid/loans, so students needing financial aid are encouraged to shop around for the best offers. Some employers offer nurses tuition reimbursement as well.
Accessibility and Convenience
Online programs are extremely convenient; nurses can study when and wherever they can. They can access learning content anywhere there is a computer and internet, and at any time. A night shift nurse may wish to study at three in the morning, while another nurse may need to cram on a Saturday after working full-time during the week.
Additionally, online programs are beneficial for those living in more remote or rural areas. Commuting long distances to campus, sometimes in terrible weather, finding parking, and racing to get to class on time is a thing of the past with online programs.
Fast Completion
Since online learning allows for self-paced study, nurses can get through the program faster. This helps get the nurse out into the workforce and into their new advanced-level role sooner. The program usually takes around three years to complete if attending full-time, four or five years if part-time. When possible, nurses can attend full time and finish in as early as two years when enrolled in an online program.
MSN/MBA Program Curriculum
The core concepts for dual MSN/MBA programs are standardized, although the learning format is different in online programs. Rather than in-person lectures, learning content can be in module formats online or broadcast at predetermined times (i.e., a distance lecture). Campus visitation requirements may vary between schools- sometimes programs are 100% online, some require “blocks” of time, for example, a few days in a row per semester. Students are encouraged to review campus visitation requirements before enrollment.
Online learners can also expect to find they have peer, faculty, and tech support when enrolled in online programs. Even though coursework can be completed in the privacy of one’s home, the student is never alone.
Additionally, practicum hours may be required based on the specialty track and school. This requirement cannot be fulfilled online, but the faculty is available to provide supervision.
MSN/MBA Classes and Courses
MSN/MBA programs have core courses that nurses must start with before choosing a specialty track. Core courses may include:
- Nursing theory for advanced-practice
- Role development
- Leadership in nursing
- Advanced physiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Advanced physical assessment
- Population health
- Policy
- Ethics
- Project management
- Financial accounting
- Business analysis
- Accounting
In addition to the didactic courses, dual MSN/MBA students must complete supervised clinical practicum hours. This requirement is designed to ensure the nurse applies what is learned in the healthcare setting. While required practicum hours may vary, around 500 hours may be needed to graduate.
MSN/MBA Specialty Tracks
Following the core courses of study, students may select available specialty tracks (depending on the school). Concentrations for MSN/MBA students may include:
- Health Systems Management – focuses on proper management and business leadership to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and address strategic, ethical, and HR issues.
- Healthcare Administration – focuses on policy, economics, and other administrative issues to optimize best healthcare practices.
- Human Resources – focuses on personnel development, organizational behaviors, and promoting workplace satisfaction and performance.
- Organizational Development – focuses on analyzing and predicting behaviors to enhance efficiency in medical environments.
- Strategic Leadership – focuses on strategic planning, development, and growth of healthcare environments and organizations.
What Are the Tuition and Costs of an MSN/MBA Program?
The specific costs and tuition rates for a dual MBA/MSN degree are variable. Base tuition can range from the hundreds to the low thousands per credit hour. Students should be aware of the following costs associated with the program:
- Base tuition
- University fees
- Supplies
- Graduation fees
- Residency fees
- Room and board
- Transportation
- Parking
For online programs, some costs do not apply, such as parking and transportation fees. However, students may need to invest in equipment to be able to utilize online learning. An example would be a laptop or webcam.
What Are the Career Options for Nurses With an MSN/MBA Degree?
Nurses who hold an MSN/MBA degree can take on different roles, mainly in healthcare leadership and management as well as nursing administration. Examples include:
- Chief Nurse Executive– A chief nurse executive is a high-level, senior management position. Responsibilities include supervising patient care throughout a healthcare facility, developing ways to improve efficiency, and creating workflows and policy to improve patient care outcomes.
- Nurse/Healthcare Manager– A nurse manager or healthcare manager is responsible for a specific department or departments within a healthcare facility. They work directly with staff and patients to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently in a specified work area. They supervise staff and implement established workflows.
- Chief Executive Officer– A chief executive officer is similar to a nurse executive and with similar job responsibilities. The difference is in title only- a CEO of an organization may or may not be a nurse while a nurse executive is.
- Director of Nursing Practice– A director of nursing is also a higher level management position. Nurse managers often report to directors. Nurse directors provide patient care oversight. Directors of nursing practice may also develop and implement evidence-based organizational policies and procedures.
- Consulting– A nurse consultant or entrepreneur assists outside agencies, such as government entities and insurance companies. They can assist in:
- Insurance claims
- Healthcare reform
- Legal issues, such as developing healthcare-related laws/regulations
- Improving patient care and financial efficiency
Organizations and Helpful Resources
Other Nursing Degree Programs:
- Nurse Practitioner Programs
- MSN-Nursing Administration Degree
- Master’s in Healthcare Administration Degree
- Dual MSN/MHA Degree
List of Dual MSN/MBA Programs
Dual MSN/MBA programs are available across the country. To find the options nearest to you, we’ve compiled a state-by-state list of schools that offer this growing pathway. You can be on your way to a high level nursing leadership career before you know it!
Select Your State: Select StateArizonaDelawareFloridaGeorgiaIllinoisIndianaKansasMarylandMichiganMinnesotaMississippiNew HampshireNew JerseyNorth DakotaOhioPennsylvaniaTexasVirginiaWest Virginia
Arizona
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Grand Canyon UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMaster Of Business Administration & Master Of Science In Nursing: Nursing Leadership In Health Care Systems Online | 3300 West Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85017 (855) 428-5673 |
Delaware
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Wilmington UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsDual Degree MSN/MBA Online | 320 N. DuPont Hwy New Castle, DE 19720 (877) 967-5464 |
Florida
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Jacksonville UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsJoint MSN/MBA Online | 2800 University Blvd North Jacksonville, FL 32211 (904) 256-8000 |
Georgia
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Thomas UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN-MBA Dual Degree Online Campus | 1501 Millpond Road Thomasville, GA 31792 (229) 226-1621 |
Illinois
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Benedictine UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsDual Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration Online Online | 5700 College Road Lisle, IL 60532 (866) 295-3104 |
| Lewis UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsDual MSN/MBA Program Campus | One University Parkway Romeoville, IL 60446 (815) 838-0500 |
| McKendree UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsDual Online MSN/MBA Online | 701 College Road Lebanon, IL 62254 (800) 232-7228 |
| Saint Xavier UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsDual MSN/MBA Campus | 3700 W. 103rd Street Chicago, IL 60655 (844) 468-6798 |
Indiana
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Indiana Wesleyan UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMS Nursing – MBA Campus | 4201 S. Washington St. Marion, IN 46953 (866) 468-6498 |
Kansas
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| MidAmerica Nazarene UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN/MBA Dual Degree Online Campus | 2030 E. College Way Olathe, KS 66062 (913) 782-3750 |
Maryland
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Johns Hopkins UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMaster of Science in Nursing (MSN) Health Systems Management/Master of Business Administration (MBA), Dual Degree Program Online Campus | 525 N. Wolfe Street Baltimore, MD 21205 (410) 955-4766 |
Michigan
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Spring Arbor UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsBSN-MSN/MBA Dual Degree Online | 106 E. Main St. Spring Arbor, MI 49283 (844) 657-2525 |
Minnesota
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| St. Catherine UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsNursing (DNP): Dual-Degree Hybrid | 601 25th Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55454 (651) 690-6000 |
Mississippi
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| William Carey UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsDual MSN-MBA Online | 710 William Carey Parkway Hattiesburg, MS 39401 (601) 318-6147 |
New Hampshire
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Franklin Pierce UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN and MBA Dual Degree Online | 670 North Commercial Street Manchester, NH 03101 (603) 647-3500 |
New Jersey
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Seton Hall UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsM.B.A./M.S.N. in Health Systems Administration Online | 400 South Orange Ave South Orange, NJ 07079 (973) 761-9000 |
North Dakota
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| University of MaryDual MSN/MBA ProgramsOnline MSN/MBA in Healthcare Administration Dual Degree Online Campus | 7500 University Drive Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 355-8030 |
Ohio
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Kent State UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsOnline MSN-MBA Dual Degree Campus | 1375 University Esplanade Kent, OH 44242 (330) 672-7930 |
| Xavier UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsDual MSN/MBA Campus | 3800 Victory Parkway Cincinnati, OH 45207 (151) 374-5300 x0 |
Pennsylvania
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| California University of PennsylvaniaDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN MBA Dual Degree Online Online | 250 University Avenue California, PA 15419 (724) 938-4000 |
| Carlow UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN-MBA Dual Degree Online Campus | 3333 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (800) 333-2275 |
| DeSales UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN/MBA Dual Degree Online Campus | 2755 Station Ave. Center Valley, PA 18034 (610) 282-1100 x2838 |
| Moravian CollegeDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN/MBA Dual Degree Campus | 1200 Main Street Bethlehem, PA 18018 (610) 861-1660 |
| Robert Morris UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsM.S.N./M.B.A. Dual Degree Online | 6001 University Blvd. Moon Township, PA 15108 (800) 762-0097 |
| University of Pennsylvania School of NursingDual MSN/MBA ProgramsDual Degree: MSN/MBA Campus | 418 Curie Boulevard Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 898-8281 |
Texas
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Lamar UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN/MBA Dual Degree Campus | 4400 MLK Blvd. Beaumont, TX 77710 (409) 880-8817 |
| University of Texas at TylerDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMSN / MBA Degree – Online Online | 3900 University Boulevard Tyler, TX 75799 (903) 566-7128 |
Virginia
West Virginia
| School | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| West Virginia UniversityDual MSN/MBA ProgramsMaster of Science in Nursing/Master of Science in Business Administration (MSN/MBA) Online | 64 Medical Center Drive Morgantown, WV 26506 (304) 293-6607 |
Are we miss
Nurses pursue graduate degrees to advance their careers and increase their salaries. MSN-MBA online programs let nurses earn a business administration and nursing degree simultaneously. Nurses with an MBA can pursue lucrative roles, such as healthcare executives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for healthcare executives is projected to grow 20% by 2026. The high demand benefits MSN-MBA graduates, who combine nursing expertise with business administration training.ADVERTISEMENT
Featured Online Programs
MBA-MSN dual degree programs online offer a convenient, flexible way to earn in-demand degrees. This article explains the structure of an MSN-MBA dual degree, the job and salary outlook for graduates, and scholarship opportunities for nurses earning their MSN-MBA degrees.
Top Online MSN/MBA Dual-Degree Programs 2020
| RANK | SCHOOL | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, MD |
| 2 | University of Texas at Tyler | Tyler, TX |
| 3 | West Virginia University | Morgantown, WV |
| 4 | Benedictine University | Lisle, IL |
| 5 | Indiana Wesleyan University | Marion, IN |
| 6 | Jacksonville University | Jacksonville, FL |
| 7 | University of Mary | Bismarck, ND |
| 8 | California University of Pennsylvania | California, PA |
| 9 | Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ |
| 10 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
Why Get an MSN-MBA Dual Degree?
Completing an MSN-MBA dual degree program demonstrates advanced skills in nursing and business. These complementary fields lead to lucrative careers in healthcare management, consulting, and administration. Earning an MBA also prepares nurses for careers outside of healthcare. During a dual degree, students take courses in both programs.
The Best Online MSN-MBA Programs
Collapse All Expand All
- Johns Hopkins UniversityLOCATIONBaltimore, MD
- University of Texas at TylerLOCATIONTyler, TX
- West Virginia UniversityLOCATIONMorgantown, WV
- Benedictine UniversityLOCATIONLisle, IL
- Indiana Wesleyan UniversityLOCATIONMarion, IN
- Jacksonville UniversityLOCATIONJacksonville, FL
- University of MaryLOCATIONBismarck, ND
- California University of PennsylvaniaLOCATIONCalifornia, PA
- Grand Canyon UniversityLOCATIONPhoenix, AZ
- Liberty UniversityLOCATIONLynchburg, VA
MSN-MBA Online Programs: An Overview
Enrolling in an MSN and MBA dual degree online prepares nurses for healthcare management positions. This section introduces the structure of a dual degree program, the admission process for MSN-MBA students, and the curriculum requirements. These details may vary by school and program.
What is a Dual Degree Program?
Dual degrees let graduate students earn two degrees simultaneously and in less time than it takes to earn each degree separately. Programs identify curriculum overlap between an MSN and an MBA, allowing students to apply certain credits toward both degrees. For example, coursework in healthcare leadership and management fulfill the requirements for an MSN and MBA. Nurses seeking career advancement, particularly nurses interested in management positions, benefit from these programs.
Admission Requirements for an Online MSN-MBA Program
The admission requirements for online MSN-MBA programs varies. However, all programs expect incoming students to hold a current, unencumbered RN license. Admission guidelines may also set minimum GPAs and standardized test scores for full admission. Many programs require prerequisite courses, particularly for candidates without a BSN. Programs may also ask for essays, letters of recommendation, and proof of work experience. To gain admission to an MBA program, MSN students may need to submit GMAT scores.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online MSN-MBA Program?
MSN-MBA online programs let students complete two degrees simultaneously and in less time than it takes to earn each degree separately. For example, while earning a separate MSN and MBA might require over 70 credits, a dual degree lets graduate students complete both with under 60 credits. This option helps nurses advance their careers quickly. Students enrolled in an MSN to MBA online bridge program can finish both degrees in less than three years.
The length of an MSN-MBA dual degree program varies depending on several factors, including internship and clinical hour requirements, required credits, and program structure. For example, some programs feature individually paced learning, where students complete classes at their own pace. Other programs require cohort learning, where students must complete coursework at the same pace as their peers. Students should research the requirements for each prospective program.
Concentrations Offered for an Online MSN-MBA Degree
| HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION |
|---|
| A healthcare administration concentration emphasizes the skills, knowledge, and abilities required for leadership positions in healthcare organizations. Students learn principles of business leadership and how to apply them in a healthcare setting. Careers this concentration prepares for: Healthcare administrator, program director, healthcare executive |
| HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS |
|---|
| A healthcare informatics specialization trains MSN-MBA students in using data, informatics, and quantitative research to improve efficiency and patient outcomes. Students strengthen research, analytical, leadership, and management skills. Careers this concentration prepares for: Program director, healthcare administrator, nursing consultant |
| NURSING ADMINISTRATION |
|---|
| In a specialized nursing administration program, the MSN and MBA coursework emphasizes managing staff, overseeing program administration, and managing finances. Graduates work in leadership roles as administrators, directors, and consultants in healthcare organizations. Careers this concentration prepares for: Nurse administrator, program director, nursing consultant |
Example Courses for Online MSN-MBA Students
MSN-MBA online programs design curricula to train students in advanced medical practice and build leadership and management skills. Many programs offer specialized healthcare courses in the MBA program, preparing graduates for leadership positions within healthcare organizations. While courses vary by program, the following list includes common MSN-MBA courses.
Online MSN Courses:
- Advanced Health Assessment: Nursing students explore best practices in conducting comprehensive health assessments. The course may provide tools for assessing patients of all ages and conditions or focus on populations within the student’s concentration. Students use simulations and clinical experience to build health assessment skills.
- Health Informatics: MSN students learn how to collect and use health informatics, including conceptual training on informatics. Topics may include healthcare information systems training, theoretical models for informatics, healthcare computing, and data management. The course may also cover ethical issues in healthcare informatics.
- Evidence-Based Nursing: Nursing students study how to apply theoretical knowledge to practice. The class may incorporate clinical experience with research-based studies on healthcare practice. Students build research skills, expand knowledge of patient care methods, and learn about the needs of vulnerable populations.
Online MBA Courses:
- Healthcare Management: MBA students study how to manage healthcare facilities, including the organizational structures of healthcare systems, governance issues, and management practices. The course may cover trends in healthcare management, effective management skills, and directing and staffing medical facilities.
- Health Economics: Classes on health economics introduce master’s students to supply, cost, and demand determination in healthcare systems. Students study economic decision making, economic issues that affect healthcare, and behavioral models that influence health economics. After completing the class, students understand health economics from conceptual and analytical perspectives.
- Financial Management for Healthcare Organizations: MBA students study strategic finance topics that affect healthcare organizations, such as cost concepts, costing systems, and budgeting. The course may also cover cost and revenue predictions for healthcare organizations, inventory management, and performance evaluation. Students build business and management skills relevant to healthcare management careers.
Internship Component
MSN-MBA online programs incorporate internships and clinical experiences to build hands-on experience. As part of the MSN requirements, nursing students typically complete clinical hours in their specialization under the supervision of a preceptor. To meet the MBA requirements, students usually complete an internship. The required number of hours vary by program. Working nurses may be able to meet both requirements at their current place of employment. Online programs work with students to find local internships and clinical experiences.
Certifications and Licenses This Program Prepares For
- Board Certified in Healthcare Management: The American College of Healthcare Executives offers board certification for candidates who have been members for a minimum of three years, hold a master’s degree, and boast five years of executive healthcare management experience. Applicants must also show 36 hours of continuing education; demonstrate community, civic, and healthcare engagement; and provide two references.
- Licensed Healthcare Administrator: Graduates interested in managerial positions can pursue a healthcare administrator license. In most states, candidates must hold an accredited degree with coursework in healthcare administration or management, plus pass an exam. Some states also require work experience. An MSN-MBA degree meets the educational requirements.
- Board Certified Registered Nurse (RN-BC): RNs can pursue board certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The process includes a clinical knowledge exam; candidates can choose a specialized exam based on their field. Once nurses earn the RN-BC designation, they must complete continuing education credits to keep the credential.
Accreditation for Online MSN-MBA Programs
Colleges, universities, and programs undergo independent accreditation reviews to measure their effectiveness and quality standards. Regional and national accreditation evaluates an entire college or university; the Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation list accredited institutions.
In addition to institutional accreditation, nursing programs also undergo specialized reviews from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. These nonprofit, independent agencies assess student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and graduation requirements.
Students considering an MSN-MBA program should choose an accredited university and nursing program. Many licenses and certifications require an accredited degree, and many employers only hire graduates from accredited programs. Accreditation ensures that nursing students receive high-quality training.
Job and Salary Outlook
Job Opportunities for MSN-MBA Graduates
By earning a graduate degree in nursing and business, graduates are prepared to work in top healthcare positions. MSN-MBA graduates can become healthcare administrators or healthcare executives, leading hospitals or other medical facilities. These positions often offer six-figure salary opportunities. Graduates can also become nurse consultants or program directors.
Healthcare Administrator
Median Annual Salary: $98,350
Healthcare administrators manage a facility, including its budget, staff, and resources. They ensure that facilities follow applicable laws and regulations.
Healthcare Executive
Median Annual Salary: $104,700
Healthcare executives manage hospitals and other facilities. They blend business knowledge with healthcare experience to improve their facility.
Nursing Consultant
Median Annual Salary: $86,747
Nurse consultants work for medical facilities to identify problems and propose solutions. They need a background in healthcare and business.
Nurse Practitioner
Median Annual Salary: $110,930
Nurse practitioners act as advanced practice registered nurses, offering primary care in a variety of specialties. In some states, nurse practitioners can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication.
Program Director
Median Annual Salary: $80,115
Healthcare program directors lead a department or program related to health or medical care. They oversee the budget, manage staff, and develop program goals.
Source: PayScale, BLS, Nov. 2018
How Much Do MSN-MBA Graduates Make?
With master’s degrees in nursing and business, graduates can pursue lucrative careers in healthcare administration, management, and other leadership roles. Salaries vary by professional experience and title. Hospital administrators with experience can earn six-figure salaries. The following table lists the median salaries for five MSN-MBA careers by experience level.
| JOB TITLE | OVERALL MEDIAN SALARY | MEDIAN SALARY FOR ENTRY-LEVEL EMPLOYEES (0-5 YEARS) | MEDIAN SALARY FOR MID-CAREER EMPLOYEES (5-10 YEARS) | MEDIAN SALARY FOR LATE-CAREER EMPLOYEES (20+ YEARS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Program Director | $80,115 | $62,000 | $74,000 | $88,000 |
| Hospital Administrator | $89,236 | $71,000 | $94,000 | $123,000 |
| Healthcare Administrator | $64,332 | $50,000 | $63,000 | $87,000 |
| Nurse Practitioner | $92,306 | $90,000 | $97,000 | $105,000 |
| Nursing Manager | $83,011 | $74,000 | $80,000 | $90,000 |
Source: Payscale
Professional Organizations
Joining professional organizations helps nursing students network with other nurses, pursue certifications, and complete continuing education requirements. Members also benefit from professional development resources. Many organizations offer scholarships, publish research, and provide clinical practice guidelines. Professional organizations may also offer career services and job boards.
American Nurses Association: The largest professional organization of nurses in the country, the ANA dates back to 1896. The association provides publications, certifications, and professional development resources for nurses and nursing students.
: Emergency nurses benefit from the education resources, scholarships, and clinical practice resources offered by the ENA. The association also supports policies designed to improve emergency healthcare.
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
: The AACN organizes annual conferences, events, and other networking opportunities for critical care nurses. The association also offers certifications, confers awards, and provides continuing education programs for members.
Financing Your Online MSN-MBA Program
Nursing students can pay for their degrees with savings, loans, and scholarships. Some students work during the program and use their income to cover tuition and other expenses. Master’s students can submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to qualify for federal financial aid opportunities, which include loans, grants, and work-study programs. State programs may also provide financial support for nursing students, particularly those planning careers in high-demand fields. Nursing students also benefit from scholarship opportunities offered by private organizations and foundations.
