by 
The Curious Bag
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In order to become licensed as a registered nurse (R.N.), ayou need to earn an associate degree in nursing (A.D.N.) or a bachelor's of science in nursing (B.S.N.) and pass a standardized national exam known as the NCLEX-RN. You may choose to attend graduate school for a master's degree in nursing (MSN).
Advanced Practice Roles
An R.N. does not need a master's degree to practice her profession, but the M.S.N. does allow her to assume an advanced practice role as a clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife or nurse anesthetist.
Scope of Practice
An advanced practice nurse is still an R.N., but he may earn certification and another license that expands his scope of practice. For example, a nurse midwife can oversee prenatal care and deliver babies.
Competency
A master's degree program provides structured classroom learning, supervised clinical instruction and independent study that help the nurse develop expert knowledge and skills in her area of interest.
Career Advancement
According to the University of Rochester School of Nursing, many upper level management roles, clinical positions and educator jobs require a master's degree.
Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurses with an advanced practice role will continue to be in high demand, especially in medically underserved areas.
Source:
All Nursing Schools: Types of Nursing Programs and Nursing Education Options
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Registered Nurses
University of Rochester: Why Pursue an Advanced Degree?
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