The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the world. According to statistics, jobs in healthcare are the most lucrative positions worldwide. In the past year, we learned the value of healthcare workers. These heroes were the first line of defense against the deadly virus. Therefore, everyone wants to join the ranks of these heroic individuals.
But, it is a common fallacy to think that only doctors and nurses work as medical professionals. There are medical leaders, medical -adjacent positions, and researchers. To reach the very pinnacle of the medical career, you should enroll in healthcare degree programs. Some of the most popular programs are the Master of Healthcare Administration and the Master of Science in Nursing. An advanced degree can help you take on more responsibility and improve your job prospects.
But, both of these degrees are very different. It is necessary to find out which one is right for you.
Master of Health Administration
MHA programs teach students how to manage health care institutions. Students can learn how to administer large organizations and know about the fundamentals of operating a business. They apply these skills in the healthcare environment. They work more on policy matters and management techniques. MHA graduates may also develop strategies to improve the professional competencies of healthcare organizations.
Master of Science of Nursing
Graduates of Science of Nursing are mainly patient-focused. They try to improve patient care through innovation and technology. With a degree from accredited online MSN programs, nurse practitioners can offer comprehensive primary care to patients. Students can work as mid-level practitioners. Nurse practitioners can also prescribe medication and diagnose patients. They may also work independently or with physicians. Furthermore, they earn a handsome amount.
Similarities between an MHA and an MSN degree
Demand
There is much demand for medical professionals. Therefore, whether you study for an MHA or graduate with an MSN degree, you will enter a lucrative sector. The options for medical health managers and other administrative positions are on the rise.
That is not all. Most administrative jobs in the medical sector have a starting salary of $40,000 per year. It is much higher than the national average. Healthcare professionals with an MHA degree often end up earning $96,000 per annum at the top of the career ladder.
With a master’s degree in nursing, nurse practitioners can earn more than $100,000 per year. Furthermore, the sector is going to increase by 31% in the coming years. So, there will be several openings for nurse practitioners.
The option to learn online
Fortunately, going to nursing school or graduate school is easier in the age of digitalization. Students can opt for online learning options. So they do not have to take any time off from work. They can take classes anywhere. The schedule is flexible, and the majority of the coursework is online.
Both the MHA programmes and MSN programs are available online. There are competency-based degree programs for those willing to master specific skills. Such programs make the process painless because the students can learn at their own pace. It is an excellent way to earn degrees in a fraction of the time it takes for traditional courses.
You can work in any position
Healthcare is a diverse sector, and there are many positions for new students. Currently, there are more than 60 different specializations. Nurse practitioners are in high demand compared to other nurses. More than half of the top nursing positions require MSN degrees.
Comparatively, MHA graduates get more administrative positions. They become Group practice administrators or Medical and health services managers. With more than sixty different specializations to offer, the world is your oyster. And getting a specialized degree will not limit your choices. Instead, it will make your future flexible.
Find work anywhere
Medical professionals can work anywhere in the world. Since medical knowledge is similar in every part of the world, you can work and study anywhere. Therefore, as an MSN or MHA graduate, you can relocate to any place in the world.
You can not get far without a graduate-level degree:
Another thing that is similar for both programs is that they make it possible for graduates to expand their professional goals. They can put employees on the corporate career path. The healthcare industry is an exciting sector. But without the correct educational foundation, your success will be limited.
You can make a difference:
Both degrees prepare students to become future leaders in the world of nursing. MSN and MHA graduates can make a difference in the lives of the people. They can become real-life heroes.
Differences between MHA and MSN
An MSN degree alone can not get you a management position. For a management role, MSN graduates have to add a DNP leadership degree.
Comparatively, MHA degrees can get you a job as an administrator of a medical institution. But, with an MSN degree, you have the option to choose a teaching position as well.
Takeaway
People who enrol in the medical professions have the same end goal; they are passionate about helping others. However, there are many different routes to healthcare leadership for a medical professional. They can opt for a management position or a patient-centric role. Both roles are lucrative options for future medical professionals. No matter what you choose, enjoy what you do.
Elena Deeley did her degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. She has an ongoing interest in mental health and well-being.
