Minnesota needs more master's-prepared advanced practice nurses (APNs). Currently, less than six percent of the state's registered nurses are advanced practice nurses, compared to eight percent of RNs nationwide. Most concerning is the fact that many of Minnesota's APNs may be retiring in the near future. One-third of the state's APNs are age 55 or older, and a 2011 survey of Minnesota's hospitals listed 25 percent of hospital APNs at "high retirement risk."
Young Minnesota nurses who advance their education with a specialized MSN degree should have little problem finding a job in the future. Many MSN-educated nurses will be needed just to replace those who retire in the next few years. Still more will be needed to meet the state's high demand for primary care practitioners. Like many states, Minnesota is in the midst of a physician shortage, which makes it difficult for some residents, especially those in rural areas, to access primary care on a regular basis. Master's-educated nurse practitioners fill in the gaps, but more are needed to meet the strong demand for healthcare.
The Minnesota Board of Nursing requires all advanced practice nurses - nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists and leaders and certified registered nurse anesthetists - to have an MSN degree. APNs also must work in collaboration with a Minnesota physician.
Professional organizations for Minnesota advanced practice nurses include the Association of Southeastern Minnesota Nurse Practitioners, Minnesota Association of Nurse Anesthetists, Minnesota Nurses Association and Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing.
MSN programs for Minnesota nurses include:
- Minneapolis School of Anesthesia. Minneapolis School of Anesthesia offers a 27-month MSN nurse anesthetist program in conjunction with local hospitals and health systems, which serve as clinical sites for nurse anesthesia students. Prospective students should already have completed a BSN degree and at least a year of employment in a critical care setting.
- Winona State University. Located near the Mississippi River, Winona State offers a wide range of MSN programs, with concentrations in nursing and organizational leadership, nurse education, primary care (nurse practitioner) and acute care (clinical nurse specialist). The school also offers an RN-to-MS program for nurses who lack a Bachelor's degree.
