Nurses have a variety of MSN programs to choose from in Arizona, with a number of online options. With an MSN, you can be an advanced practice nurse, or choose form a number of specialties such as education, leadership, or research. The metropolitan areas of Arizona have the highest variety of opportunities, and there is a high demand for nurse educators according to the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association.
There is also room for advanced practice nurses. The number of clinical nurse specialists in the state is far below the national average, and the number of certified nurse midwives is declining. Certified nurse anesthetists are becoming more in demand. The nurse practitioner workforce is the most robust and stable according to the Center for Health Information and Research, but the demand will rise in the near future.
Arizona recognizes that NPs are crucial to improved productivity with regard to direct patient care in the state, and has called for more study to ensure an adequate supply. The California HealthCare Foundation reports that Arizona is one of about half a dozen states that allows the most comprehensive scope of practice for NPs. Check out the Arizona Board of Nursing, Arizona Nurses Association, and the Arizona Nurse Practitioner Council for more information.
Programs to consider:
Arizona State University (Phoenix, AZ). ASU's College of Nursing and Health Innovation was founded in 1957. MSN candidates can choose from concentrations such as research, community health, and education.
Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff, AZ). NAU's MSN program is geared toward meeting the need for nurses in various roles in rural areas, such as family nurse practitioners.
