Welcome to our e-newsletter from the University of Kansas School of Nursing, “Career Ladder Conversations.” This letter encourages you to consider continuing your nursing education and to think about ways to use education as clinical leaders and educators. Our fourth e-newsletter for the year follows. Thanks for your interest!
Here is an interview with Dana Cunningham,RN, MS. Dana graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing from KU in May, 2002.
Why did you decide to return to school to get your Master of Science in Nursing degree?
After receiving my BSN I promised myself I would take 5 years to get a good foundation of clinical experience and then seek a master’s degree.
What was your clinical job before you started the Master’s program?
My job when I entered graduate school was as a Patient Care Coordinator. So my hours were flexible and allowed me to attend classes.
Your major tract in the Master’s program was Adult/Gerontological Health Care/Clinical Nurse Specialist. Why did you select this tract?
Many of the patients that I cared for were older adults. I knew I did not want to be in a track that included Pediatrics so the Adult/Gerontological Track best met my needs.
What advice would give a nurse as far as how to balance working and continuing their education?
Never give up!! Keep taking classes each semester so you can finish the program in a reasonable time period.
Did you worked full-time while pursuing your Master’s degree?
I worked full-time.
Did your employer provide tuition support for your Master’s education?
Yes, my employer provided funding for my graduate study for all my tuition costs. My expense was for payment of books.
How are the courses you took helpful in your clinical job?
Content related to theory and research gives me a broader view of nursing and enables me to see the bigger picture when analyzing a clinical problem. As far as evidenced-based practice, I am presently assisting clinical nurses in seeking research and other evidence for the best practice for treatment of chemotherapy induced mucositis. We will revise the treatment protocol based on evidence.
Has your job changed since you have received your Master’s degree?
After I received my Master’s degree I was appointed as the Unit Manager of the oncology unit, a position I held for 4 years. I have recently accepted a position as the Program Clinical Specialist for cancer care. I now do more educational programs with staff, patients, families, and in the community.
Has your salary or other benefits increased as a result of your advanced degree?
Yes, I feel that my salary & benefits are appropriate for my advanced education and clinical responsibilities.
DO YOU HAVE ANY FINAL WORDS FOR NURSES THINKING ABOUT GOING BACK TO SCHOOL?
Never shut the door and limit yourself! Always seek more education.
For questions about how master's preparation can advance your career contact:
Anita Wingate, RN, PhD
(913) 588-1634
awingate@kumc.edu
For questions about admission to the KU Master of Science in Nursing program contact:
Deborah (Debbie) Stratton, MS
Graduate & RN Recruiter, Student Affairs
(913) 588-1623
dstratton@kumc.edu
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The University of Kansas Medical Center