Nursing is one of the well-paid healthcare fields, and most professionals enter the workforce after becoming an RN and getting an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing. So how useful is a master's degree? For someone with a BS in nursing, a master's degree can open up several new career opportunities. Apart from the possible financial incentives, getting a master's can give you a chance to advance higher in your chosen career path. Here are some ways an MS in nursing can prove useful to certain professionals.

How an MS in Nursing can prove useful

• A nursing professional, who is keen on building a career as a clinical nurse specialist, nurse administrator, or even a health policy expert, must complete his or her master's in nursing.

• For those who seek a doctorate-level education in nursing, an MS in nursing is mandatory.

• An MS in nursing equips students with expert theoretical and practical clinical knowledge that can prove immensely helpful to patients and the overall healthcare system.

• If you are interested in the managerial and administrative aspect of the nursing industry, an MS in nursing can bring you nearer to your goal of becoming a nurse supervisor, nursing officer, or a nurse manager.

• If you are keen on focusing on a particular nursing specialty, such as geriatrics, acute care, family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, neonatal, mental health, community health, etc., you can pursue an MS in nursing with a concentration in your chosen specialty.

• Individuals eager to build a career as a nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, or a nurse practitioner typically opt for a master's in nursing to advance their career.

• Nursing students who have a passion for computers can aspire to be a nursing professional with a specialization in health informatics. Such a master's degree focuses on how to integrate information technology and nursing and healthcare systems to facilitate the workflow in any healthcare facility.

There are several colleges offering master's level nursing programs that allow professionals to choose a career based on their individual goals. One such college is Independence University, which offers an MS in nursing administration. This program is perfect for students who want to take up leadership and managerial roles in the nursing field. It is important is to choose a college that is accredited by a well-established body, and you may wonder whether Independence University is accredited. Graduating from an accredited college speaks volumes of the degree you have earned. You can check out Independence University accreditationon their website. It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Nursing is a profession that's rewarding yet equally demanding. In short, if caring for the sick and elderly comes naturally to you, and you are keen on focusing and developing your skills in patient care, or want to be more useful to the healthcare system and your community's needs, a master's in nursing is the perfect choice for you!