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The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a versatile degree that equips nurses for a wide range of career paths beyond bedside care. With an MSN, nurses can qualify for leadership roles, educational positions, advanced clinical practice, and health care administration. Graduates often experience expanded responsibilities, increased earning potential, and the ability to make a greater impact on patient care and health systems.

Explore some of the most promising types of nursing careers aligned with common MSN concentrations and how these roles shape the future of health care.

Overview of MSN Career Outcomes

An MSN prepares nurses to take on multifaceted roles that go beyond typical Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) careers to blend clinical expertise with leadership, education, and management opportunities. This advanced degree equips nurses with specialized skills in evidence-based practice, health policy, and patient advocacy, allowing them to influence health care delivery at multiple levels.

Job prospects for MSN-prepared nurses are strong across hospitals, clinics, academic institutions, and community health organizations, with salaries typically reflecting their higher level of training and responsibility. As health care continues to evolve, the demand for skilled nurse leaders who can navigate complex care environments and improve patient outcomes is only expected to grow.

What Types of Nursing Careers Are Available With an MSN?

With an MSN degree, professionals can pursue a variety of careers that go beyond traditional bedside roles to meet the evolving needs of today’s health care industry.

Some of the common types of nursing careers for MSN graduates fall into these categories: clinical leadership, education, public health, and administration. Explore some careers below in those categories.

Clinical Nurse Leader

Clinical nurse leaders (CNLs) focus on improving patient care quality and safety by coordinating health care teams and overseeing care plans.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading interdisciplinary care teams

• Monitoring patient outcomes and quality metrics

• Implementing evidence-based practices to improve care delivery

Essential Skills:

• Strong leadership and team collaboration

• Data analysis and evidence-based decision-making

• Effective communication across clinical teams

Salary and Job Outlook:

• Approximately $91,900 in 2025 (Payscale)

• A consistent and growing need for leaders in integrated and hybrid care models

Educational Background:

• MSN degree, preferably with a focus on clinical leadership

• Optional CNL certification to enhance credentials

Nurse Educator

Nurse educators prepare nursing students and current professionals through curriculum development and training.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designing and delivering nursing education programs to student nurses at different levels

• Assessing student learning and clinical competencies

• Providing continuing education to practicing nurses

Essential Skills:

• Strong teaching and presentation skills

• Curriculum development expertise

• Familiarity with instructional technology and virtual learning platforms

Salary and Job Outlook:

• For postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers, $79,940 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Increasing demand fueled by nursing faculty shortages

Educational Background:

• MSN focused on nursing education or equivalent experience; potential preference for a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Nurse Administrator

Nurse administrators oversee nursing departments and health care programs, ensuring operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Managing budgets and staffing

• Developing policies and ensuring regulatory compliance

• Leading strategic planning initiatives

Essential Skills:

• Leadership and organizational management

• Financial acumen and resource allocation

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Salary and Job Outlook:

• Approximately $96,540 in 2024, according to Payscale

• Steady demand for experienced nursing leaders in health care organizations is predicted

Educational Background:

• MSN with emphasis on leadership or administration

Infection Control Practitioner

Infection control practitioners ensure that health care facilities and professionals are following proper guidelines to mitigate the spread of infection.

Key Responsibilities:

• Studying and observing patterns of infections

• Collecting and analyzing health care data

• Advising health care leaders on ways to prevent infections from spreading

Essential Skills:

• Assessment and attention to detail

• Critical thinking and problem-solving

• Strong written and oral communication

Salary and Job Outlook:

• Approximately $85,950 as of July 2025, according to Payscale

• Strong growth expected, with increasing focus on evidence-based care

Educational Background:

• MSN with research experience; doctoral degree may be preferred for advanced roles

Exploring Types of Nursing Careers: Next Steps

MSN graduates can choose from various types of nursing careers that combine clinical care, leadership, education, and research. The University of Tulsa’s online MSN program is designed to equip nurses with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to excel in these impactful roles across broad health care settings. Whether pursuing administration, nursing leadership, education, or another specialty area, graduates are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the health care industry.

The flexible online format and experienced faculty provide personalized support to help students achieve their career goals while balancing professional and personal commitments. For nurses ready to take the next step, TU offers an advanced nursing education that prepares them for rewarding careers in specialized practice and leadership.

Learn more about how the online MSN program can open doors to exciting opportunities and transform your nursing career.

Recommended Readings

Chief Nursing Officer vs. Director of Nursing

Tips for Completing a Capstone in Nursing

What’s the Average MSN Salary in Texas?

Sources:

Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Who Are Infection Preventionists?

Indeed, 12 Master in Nursing Jobs You Can Pursue With an MSN Degree

Payscale, Average Clinical Nurse Leader Hourly Pay

Payscale, Average Nurse Administrator Salary

Payscale, Average Infection Control Practitioner (ICP) Salary

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical and Health Services Managers

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses