What is Masters of Advanced Nursing Practice?
A Master of Advanced Nursing Practice is a program to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles. It enhances a nurse's ability to work autonomously, lead others, manage complex cases, integrate research into their practice, make complex decisions, and ensure effectiveness and safety.
The course is ideal for nurses aiming for advanced practice jobs such as Grade 2 Clinical Nurse Specialist and Clinical Nurse Consultant. It applies to both general and specialised nursing careers. The specific name of the degree matters less than the program's overall goal.
Advanced nursing practice masters are open to registered nurses seeking to enhance their clinical skills. However, nurses looking to become Nurse Practitioners must ultimately pursue a Master of Nurse Practitioner degree, which is distinct and falls into its own category.
Related: NMBA Approved Master of Nurse Practitioner Programs
Benefits of this Degree
Studying advanced nursing practice creates career opportunities that can lead to greater job satisfaction and higher pay. Let's explore the key advantages from the master's degree.
1. Qualify for advanced nursing roles
A Masters in Advanced Nursing Practice is ideal preparation for jobs such as as Clinical Nurse Specialist Grade 2 and Clinical Nurse Consultant. The degree is also highly beneficial in management and education career streams.
In nursing, postgraduate education is essential for career progression. Without advanced qualifications, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to be promoted to senior roles.
Related: Advanced Practice Nurse: Meaning and Examples
2. Expand your clinical capabilities
Don't be frustrated by an inability or lack of confidence to perform difficult tasks yourself. With this training, you are better prepared to handle complex health issues directly.
You'll build skills in advanced assessments, pharmacology, and diagnostics. This not only boosts your confidence but also your decision-making in clinical settings. You become more valuable in healthcare teams, ready for specialised roles.
Related: NMBA Fact Sheet - Nurse Scope of Practice and Capabilities
3. Produce better patient outcomes
Gain satisfaction from delivering higher-standard care and seeing improved patient outcomes. Your enhanced skills directly benefit patient health and satisfaction.
With advanced training, you adjust care more effectively, leading to better recovery rates and experiences. Your autonomy and expertise raise care quality, positively impacting healthcare standards.
Related: What Is a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Australia?
4. Achieve an impressive qualification
Your expertise and dedication shine through when you earn a Master's degree in Nursing with an Advanced Practice specialisation. This qualification marks you as a leader in adapting to emerging healthcare needs and technologies. It prepares you for an important role in healthcare.
Graduates influence patient care, outcomes, and policy using current evidence and innovations. This degree is a career milestone, distinguishing you in the field.
Related: Is a Masters in Nursing Worth It in Australia?
5. Receive qualification pay allowances
Along with the salary increases that come from any resultant promotions, a nursing master's offers education-based pay benefits. Many nurses are eligible for qualification allowances if they hold a postgraduate qualification related to their work.
The average rate in Australia for a master's degree is $5,331 per year. These allowances vary by state and are added to your regular pay. For instance, Victoria pays up to $6,266 annually for a masters, while New South Wales offers up to $4,211.
Related: Master of Nursing Salary in Australia
Online Programs in Australia
No matter where you live in Australia, you can study online to be an advanced practice nurse. These degrees are designed for part-time study by nurses working full-time.
