You will also generally be expected to choose a specialization within your MSN degree. One degree is the Master in Public Health (MPH), but you could also opt to advance your nursing career and complete the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). An MPH is a graduate level public health degree that stresses the practical parts of public health, the practice of which can lead to the prevention and/or the eradication of various illnesses and diseases in communities. Some areas that you may focus on include obesity, sexually transmitted diseases, and immunizations. We strive to provide information on this website that is accurate, complete and timely, but we make no guarantees If were doing our jobs right, the water is clean, the air is breathable, the factories and the food supply are safe. Professionals who desire a career in healthcare and related fields frequently consider a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Master of Public Health (MPH). List of Top CRNA Programs Online + No GRE Options! (2015, Dec. 17). Masters in Environmental Science & Policy + No GRE Options! With an MSN degree, you will be able to continue to serve as a nurse in the community, although some end up moving outside of the actual practice, focusing instead on management. For a nurse or a professional who aspires to be one, earning your MSN degree is the entry into a very rewarding and high paying healthcare career. Ive been immersed in the public health world for so long, sometimes I forget that many people dont know the answer to this question. In general, it will take you two years to complete your MPH degree, although some schools now offer accelerated programs, enabling you to complete it within 12 to 18 months. If your career goal is to take on a top level position within public health, working for local, state, federal, or even international governments or within health organizations, this is the degree for you. Which is best hinges upon your passions and career goals. There is little to no emphasis on research or teaching. Jump to 30+ Masters in Nursing Degrees. Helpful Organizations, Societies, & Agencies During the last year of the program, you will be required to complete several hundred supervised clinical hours, followed by passing your national certification exam for your nursing specialty. Let’s examine each graduate degree more closely so that you can decide the best option for your healthcare career. You will be trained to become a researcher in nursing theory, nursing practice, and their applications. An MSN degree can be obtained after you earn your associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree. One of the interesting and beneficial aspects of a nursing career is that one may take several educational paths as your career advances. At that point, they may then earn their MSN degree so that they can work at some of the highest paying, most in demand nursing occupations. However, your role will be more to lead and manage within professional nursing practice in medical centers, hospitals, community clinics, and so on. A MSN degree wi… The MPH degree has a very strong focus on public health in practice, emphasizing improved health outcomes across entire populations through education and disease prevention. Because schools recognize that many of those interested in this degree are working professionals, some now also offer the program part time, through distance learning, or online. As you can see, the MSN and the MPH are two different degrees but they often have a strong overlap. Then they work in the field as a bedside RN for a few years to gain vital experience. As a public health nurse, you will work directly in the community with the aim to improve the overall health of that community. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t keep numbers on the public health nurse specialty, but registered nurses earned an average of $73,300 a year as of May 2019. The MPH is the standard professional credential for professionals who work in public health. Professionals with an MPH are able to provide care and improvement in health for at-risk communities. An MPH gives you the chance to make a major impact on many communities around the country and world by working to reduce or eliminate the spread of many illnesses and diseases. Sady Brown is Editorial Strategist for Nogre.com, MSN Nursing vs Public Health MPH Degree + Salary Differences. The MSN degree is a very different degree, but there is some overlap with the MPH because you can also start a career in public health if you hold an MSN. As part of your curriculum, you will usually have to complete a number of core courses, such as: Many schools now also offer MPH degrees with certain specialization areas. A MSN degree will provide you with the skills and knowledge required to work in what are known as advanced nursing practice positions. for financial aid, employment opportunities or education or salary outcomes. CareersinPublicHealth.net proudly features 173 career & salary comparisons, 188 schools & programs with 734 masters, 147 doctorate's, 148 certificates and 128 distance learning options.