Top RN to MSN Programs in Alabama

If you are looking into achieving your MSN degree in Alabama, it is very important to choose the right school for this. What is also important is that you fully understand whether or not the investment you will have to make in obtaining your MSN degree, both in terms of time and money, will be worth it. Hence, before looking at the different MSN programs that are out there, let’s take a look at the salary and job prospects for those with an MSN degree in Alabama.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Alabama counted some 44,300 registered nurses (RNs) in 2010. There are substantial differences in the salaries that they earn throughout the state, and the average is slightly below the national average. However, the cost of living in Alabama is also slightly lower. The largest number of RNs work in the Birmingham-Hoover area and the average annual wage there is $60,440. The top 10% of earners had a median annual wage of $81,930 and the bottom 10% earned $41,900. Further data has demonstrated that salaries in this area have risen since the last BLS count.

The highest salary for RNs in Alabama can be enjoyed in Columbus. The average is $61,310. The top 10% earned a median of $77,240 and the bottom 10% earned a median of $46,670. This is very similar to the earnings in Montgomery, with the average being $61,180, the top 10% being $82,600 and the bottom 10% being $41,670.

So why is there such a big difference between the top 10% and the bottom 10%? Although geographical location and job demand are important, it seems the key factor is education. Those in the bottom 10% are generally those with an associate’s degrees and those in the top 10% usually hold an MSN or even a doctorate degree. This really demonstrates how important it is to gain the highest degree possible, as it leads to the highest salaries. Additionally, the demand for nurses is increasing well above the national average but most medical employers now want to employ those with a BSN at the very least, and prefer those with an MSN, which is another great reason to get your MSN degree.

In order to complete an MSN program, you will need around five to seven years, if you start with no previous education other than your high school diploma. You will need to complete your BSN first, at which point you can become a registered nurse. Once you have achieved this, you will be able to move on to your master’s degree. There are also numerous accelerated programs for those who already have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing related field.

Let’s take a look at the best schools in Alabama that offer MSN programs.