Master’s in Nursing Schools in Idaho

If you currently have an Associate’s in Nursing, a Bachelor’s in Nursing, or a Bachelor’s degree in another field, there may be a Master’s in Nursing program for you in Idaho. Higher-level nursing programs focus on a variety of specialties, including nurse midwifery, research, education, and leadership. Nursing schools in Idaho offer many routes, and you can find and compare them all here.

Thanks to the expanding role of certified nurse midwives in Idaho, there may be many career opportunities if you go down this path. Since CNMs are independent practitioners in Idaho, you can care directly for low-risk pregnant women without the oversight of a physician.

Nursing Programs in Idaho

When you enroll in one of the MSN programs in Idaho, there are several learning objectives your instructors will expect you to meet. Common objectives include the development of enhanced critical thinking skills, a deep knowledge of health care systems, the ability to collaborate with other medical professionals, and the provision of culturally appropriate care.

The MSN curriculum at Idaho nursing schools is crafted to help you attain these goals. All incoming MSN students must take core classes like Human Pathophysiology, Advanced Evidence Application, and Health Assessment for Clinical Practice.
Nursing education courses may include Teaching and Learning Strategies, Curriculum Development, and Assessment/Evaluation Strategies. Courses in the leadership track include Leadership in Nursing Administration and Organizational Behavior in Changing Health Care Systems.

If you already have a Bachelor’s in Nursing, you may be able to graduate in two to three years. If you’re jumping straight from an Associate’s degree in nursing or another Bachelor’s degree to an MSN, your degree may take four to five years. Bridge programs like the RN to MSN and the Direct Entry MSN programs may facilitate completion of your Master’s degree, as they incorporate previous knowledge into course design.

Your scholarship search should include a variety of sources, including schoolwide scholarships, statewide scholarships, and national scholarships. For example, Northwest Nazarene University awards the H.E.L.P. Scholarship. The Idaho Area Health Education Center has multiple scholarships they award to Idaho students. Students that are going through nurse midwifery programs can apply for the March of Dimes Scholarship.

Working With Your MSN in Idaho

Idaho is a western state known for its beautiful scenery and friendly people. Regardless of which type of career you want to begin, the Nurse Leaders of Idaho indicate a growing need for Master’s-level nurses. They want to increase the amount of nursing faculty in the area, help more students earn their Master’s degrees, and keep the nursing workforce in Idaho strong.

The Idaho Nursing Action Coalition has many of the same goals. The organization recently received a $238,000 grant to retain more Master’s-level nurses in Idaho. They support both the practice of direct care nurses, like certified nurse midwives and nurse practitioners, and those in administrative positions, like nurse leaders and nursing research faculty. Earning your MSN in Idaho now is a great idea, and aligns you with the long-term goals of the profession.

Not only do certified nurse midwives have full freedom to practice in Idaho, so do nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists. Because of the local primary care physician shortage in the state, family nurse practitioners are in high demand.

There are many opportunities for nurses who have obtained their MSN degree in the state of Idaho. Careers as a nurse administrator or a nurse anesthetist are just two of these opportunities.

Working as a nurse administrator allows you to relinquish daily contact with patients and to focus more on hospital and employee management as an administrator or manager. Nurse administrators can also work in clinics and private doctor’s offices. Nurse administrators in Idaho with a MSN degree make a median annually salary of $72,800, according to 2014 figures (O*net, 2015). The job outlook for nurse administrators is bright, with an expected growth for the state of Idaho at 25 percent between 2012 and 2022 (O*net, 2015).

As a nurse anesthetist you can work alongside anesthesiologists and help patients be safely sedated and comfortable for medical procedures and surgeries.

To get more information on MSN programs in Idaho, contact the schools here to request more information about costs and curriculum.

What You Can Expect From Your MSN Program

The Governor of Idaho developed a task force based on the Idaho Nursing Workforce Advisory Council’s “Summary of Findings and Recommendations” in hopes of preventing a nursing shortage in the state. Some of their recommendations included increasing the salaries of nursing faculty, as well as increasing funding to state colleges and universities. They are also working to gain the interest of more individuals in the nursing profession, and have increased funding for nursing school with scholarships and loans for students at all college levels. If you are considering returning to nursing school for your graduate degree in Idaho, you can benefit in numerous ways, while simultaneously helping the nursing profession as a whole. You will also be positioning yourself for an expanded career that may hold room for salary growth.

Idaho has several accredited graduate nursing programs on campus and online, and you can learn about program specifics by contacting the schools directly from our site.

Idaho offers graduate nursing programs in several areas including those for Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership, two very important high level nursing careers. A typical Nursing Leadership program requires completion of approximately 40 credit hours, including 200+ on-site/practicum hours in various settings. A Nursing Education program usually requires the completion of 40+ credit hours and 300+ lab/practicum hours in varied settings.

The admission requirements for most Master’s in Nursing programs in Idaho require most, if not all of the following criteria be met with your application.

  • Earned Bachelor of Science degree in accredited nursing program by the CCNE or ACEN
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Verification of valid and current unencumbered Registered Nursing license
  • English Proficiency Exams: Students whose native language is not English must provide evidence of satisfactory scores on the English Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • Completed application with payment of appropriate fees
  • Official transcripts sent directly to the Graduate School from the Registrar’s Office of the applicants previous institution(s) of study
  • Evidence of completion of inferential statistics course with the 2.0 grade or higher
  • Submission of a professional essay (2-3 pages)
  • Three professional references attesting to the applicants capacity and potential for master study, and it is recommended that two references be from academic sources and one from recent employer
  • Submission of professional Vitae or resume

While a graduate degree in Nursing Education is not the only route to getting your Master’s in Nursing in Idaho, the state is aligned with increasing the numbers of nursing faculty. If you think that this is a route you would enjoy, you can read about the curriculum for a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education below. Keep in mind that there are other routes, and that individual master’s programs will have their own course curriculum, which may vary slightly from school to school.

Regardless of the type of MSN degree in Idaho that you are looking into, you may also find that several of the core courses below are included. Take some time to review them, and be sure to request information directly from schools to get detailed program information about the routes you are looking into.

  • Practicum Foundations for Nursing Practice
  • Rethinking Nursing Education
  • Human Pathophysiology
  • Advanced Evidence Application
  • Health Assessment for Clinical Practice
  • Health Assessment for Clinical Practice Lab
  • Health Policy
  • Health Care of Rural Communities
  • Teaching and Learning Strategies
  • Curriculum Issues and Development
  • Graduate Level Electives (3 credits) Interprofessional Leadership course
  • Advanced Nursing Roles
  • Advance Practicum Nursing Education (228 practicum hours)
  • Evaluation Issues and Strategies

The National League for Nursing offers you a certification examination after graduation, which is a mark of competency. This certification is also a mark of professionalism as Nurse Educators serve as leaders and role models. If you are a member of this professional organization, the cost of your initial test is $375, and the cost for non-members it is $475.

Be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application, which is the application for income based financial aid. The Health Resources and Services Administration offer a variety of loans and scholarships. The loans have low interest and are long-term. You may also check the website for the American Nurses Association as they have a list of loan and scholarship sources.

When you have an advanced nursing degree you may be able to position yourself in an expanded role with a very satisfying career, regardless of whether you choose to become a nurse educator in Idaho or if you choose a direct patient care route. You can find out more about several different specialties and MSN degree options simply by exploring RNtoMSN.com further.

Idaho RN to MSN Bridge Programs

As a registered nurse, you have special insight into the health care field that most do not have. You know what patients need, what facilities need to run smoothly, and what can make nursing a more effective and far-reaching field. This is particularly important in Idaho, where health care facilities are few and far between. An advanced nursing degree can expand your career in many ways, as seen by the recent hiring of a chief nursing officer.

If you have ever wanted to use your nursing education and experience to have a more powerful impact on the medical field, consider attending an RN-to-MSN bridge program in Idaho. These programs are designed for students with an Associate’s degree or diploma in nursing. Take a look at the programs on our site and contact the schools you’d like to learn more about.

Are you a good fit for an RN-to-MSN program? To start, you need a diploma or an Associate’s degree in nursing. Some schools have academic requirements, so you may need a high GPA from your previous program. You also need a valid RN license, as this is a requirement for the clinical portion of your MSN. Depending on the school you attend, you may need recent nursing experience. One year is a fairly standard requirement in Idaho.

When you look at the curriculum for your graduate nursing degree, you can see that you learn about many different aspects of advanced nursing. However, you do need to choose one path and dedicate yourself to it. Your curriculum may include classes like Theoretical Foundations for Nursing Practice, Human Pathophysiology, Health Assessment for Clinical Practice, and Application of Nursing Evidence. Nursing education students may take courses like Curriculum Issues and Development, Rethinking Nursing Education, and Evaluation Issues & Strategies. In clinical roles, your curriculum may focus more on practical care skills and extensive knowledge of the human body.

Clinical requirements vary between schools and even between specialties. However, requirements tend to range from 400 to 800 hours. If you’re studying a clinical specialty, you may be able to complete your clinical hours at your current place of employment.

In Idaho, you may be able to apply for a variety of nursing scholarships and grants to help you offset the costs of your education. The Idaho Community Foundation has over 60 different scholarships, several of which are specifically intended for nursing students. Some scholarships are unique to a school, like the Helen V. and Robert L. Beckley Scholarship, the Barbara B. Harman Scholarship, and the Ruby G. McKinnon Memorial Scholarship. You may also be able to apply for scholarships through the Idaho Area Health Education Center.

You can consult the Idaho Board of Nursing to find out whether or not you need an advanced nursing license for your new career. Typically, only clinical specialists must get an advanced license. This includes nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives.

Getting a Master’s degree in Nursing in Idaho can significantly expand your career opportunities and your job satisfaction. Furthermore, it may help you contribute even more to your local nursing community. To find out more about options in your area, contact the nursing schools in Idaho that offer RNtoMSN bridge programs today.

Idaho Direct Entry MSN

There are many nursing career routes you can choose that will help Idaho’s hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes run smoothly. Many of these high level nursing careers require Master’s degrees in nursing. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, you can still look into getting an MSN and taking on the duties of an advanced practice nurse.

There are several nursing schools in Idaho and beyond that offer Direct Entry MSN programs, allowing you to apply previous credits from your Bachelor’s program to an advanced nursing degree. Take some time to request additional materials from schools to learn more.

You’ll likely find that direct entry MSN programs in Idaho are divided into two parts. The first part of a direct entry MSN program brings you up to the level of a BSN. Though this is typically a four-year program, you learn everything in about one year or less. This part of your training includes courses like Nursing Pharmacology, Nursing Pathophysiology, Nursing Fundamentals, Medical/Surgical Nursing, Nursing Care of Families and Children, and Nursing Terminology. Once you’ve completed this part of the program and completed several hundred clinical hours, you can take the NCLEX-RN, which is required to become licensed as a registered nurse (RN).

As an MSN student, you must decide what type of nursing job you want. Clinical specialties include nurse anesthesia, nurse midwifery, nurse practitioner, and clinical specialist. Other specialties include nursing administration, nurse research, nurse education, and nurse leadership. Each of these programs has their own clinical requirements, so you may have to complete up to 800 clinical hours in certain specialties.

The curriculum differs for each specialty, so you must look at your program of choice to find out what courses are required of you. Those who go into nursing education may take classes like Evaluation Issues and Strategies, Curriculum Development in Nursing Education, and Teaching & Learning Strategies. Nurse leadership programs may includes courses like Advanced Nursing Roles, Organizational Behavior in Health Care, and Administrative Approaches to Nursing Leadership. Clinical courses may have more medical courses like Primary Care of Adults, Advanced Nursing Skills, and Applications of Evidence-Based Practice.

Financial aid is a significant part of the education process for most students, particularly those who don’t want to take on student debt to earn a second degree. One major benefit of living in Idaho is the selection of grants, scholarships, and loan repayment programs. The Idaho State Board of Education has a State Loan Forgiveness Program that is designed for nurse instructors and professional nurses that stay in Idaho to work. Another major source of graduate school funding is the Idaho Nurses Foundation, which awards the Florence Whipple Scholarship. The Idaho Community Foundation awards the Idaho Nursing and Health Professionals Scholarship and the Caldwell Memorial Hospital Employee and Friends Health Services Scholarship.

Whichever nursing specialty you decide to pursue, you’ll need a license from the State of Idaho Board of Nursing. They administer registered nursing licenses, which you’ll need to work as a nurse educator, nurse researcher, or nurse administrator. However, you will need to go through the testing and application process for an advanced practice license if you want to work as a nurse practitioner, midwife, anesthetists, or specialist.

In Idaho, nursing salaries vary widely based on experience, education level, and other factors. Looking at average salaries for different professions can help you determine how much you may earn.

If you’re looking for a career that puts you at the center of a fast-growing industry and gives you the chance to improve people’s lives, this may be the degree choice for you. With an MSN, you can explore your abilities and serve as a leader in the nursing community. Contact the schools on this site to get detailed program information.

Idaho CRNA Programs

In a rural state like Idaho, health care is a major concern and priority. This is because the sparsely populated layout of the state means that some communities do not have access to the advanced health care providers they need. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in nursing and you’re interested in using your expertise in a new way, you may wish to look into becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and serving the people of Idaho.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists are an incredibly important part of health care teams around the state. Per the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, CRNAs provide the majority of anesthesia care in rural areas. As a trained nurse anesthetist, you can provide affordable and safe access to pain relief for labor and delivery, pain, emergency care, and surgical operations.

Teamwork is an important part of this field, though you must also be able to work independently. You may consult with anesthesiologists, surgeons, general practitioners, and nurse practitioners to determine the proper course of care for a patient. This job doesn’t simply require you to administer anesthesia and move on to the next patient. Rather, you may stay with a patient prior to, during, and after the administration of anesthesia to ensure that their pain relief works effectively and safely.

Your journey to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist begins with the proper education. Learn more about CRNA schools in Idaho to find out if this is the right path for you.

Admissions and Curriculum for CRNA Programs in Idaho

Are you wondering if a CRNA degree is in your future? Take a look at your previous academic performance and your current work experience to find out how to meet admissions requirements for CRNA programs in Idaho. Any nursing experience can be beneficial, but in particular, many schools prefer emergency care experience, trauma experience, or acute care experience. On the low end, some schools only require one year of full-time experience. Others may require as much as three years. Your performance at the BSN level is also important; a GPA of at least 3.0 is required.

When you enroll in a nurse anesthesia program, you may join a cohort of students that takes the same classes at the same time for two to three years. As a result, most programs do not admit part-time students. Over the course of two to three years, you may complete up to 60 credits in advanced nursing and nurse anesthesia. Amongst your courses you may find Advanced Physiology, Advanced Pharmacology, Applied Epidemiology & Biostatistics, and Anesthesia Principles. Some of the more advanced courses you may take include Immersion Residency in Nurse Anesthesia, Specialty Practicum, and Advanced Anesthesia Principles.

While you may spend quite a bit of time getting theoretical training in the classroom, you can also plan on spending many hours in a clinical setting. Programs in Idaho require you to work with no fewer than 550 patients, although you’ll likely work with more throughout your residency experience.

Since Idaho has such a significant shortage of advanced nursing professionals, you should not be surprised that there are quite a few scholarship programs for MSN students. The Idaho Community Foundation is a great resource for students in all specialties, including those going into graduate-level nursing. The Idaho Area Health Education Center funds numerous scholarships for area students. Through the Idaho State Board of Education, you may be able to apply for loan forgiveness programs if you’re willing to work in a rural area of Idaho.

Working as a Nurse Anesthetist in Idaho

Whether you want to work in one of Idaho’s main cities or one of its numerous rural communities, you must get licensed to work in the state of Idaho before you start working as a nurse anesthetist. The Idaho Board of Nursing requires you to be certified before you can apply for licensure. The National Board of Certification & Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists administers the national certifying exam, so you must register with them when you get close to graduation. Once you pass this exam, you can submit your scores, application, and transcript to the Idaho Board of Nursing for consideration.

Becoming a CRNA in Idaho may allow you to benefit from the state’s positive job outlook. You may find that becoming a nurse anesthetist can significantly increase your earning potential over the life of your career. Keep in mind that with this higher salary comes the requirement for professional liability insurance. You should already have this insurance, but requirements tend to be stricter for CRNAs. Most employers require you to be covered before you begin working.

Nurse anesthesia is a field that allows you to provide people with the care they need on a safe and affordable basis. Your nursing skills are valuable, so why not build on them with a CRNA degree? To find out what your options are in Idaho, use our comprehensive school listings to contact schools near you.

Forensic Nursing in Idaho

Crime is an unfortunate part of life. No matter the strength of the criminal justice system, there will always be victims of crime who need to be treated with respect and proper medical care. As a forensic nurse, you may develop the skills needed to address the needs of victims while gathering evidence that can be used in a court case.

Idaho has a growing community of nursing professionals who strive to provide evidence-based care and support to victims of violent and sexual crime. The Idaho Hospital Association is home to a group called STOP Violence Against Women. This group aims to strengthen SARTs (Sexual Assault Response Teams) and SANEs (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners) across Idaho. They provide in-person training and webinar training to professionals across the state.

This field is extremely complex, so it requires extensive training. To learn how to become a forensic nurse, keep reading and request information from Idaho nursing schools.

Master’s Degree Programs in Forensic Nursing in Idaho

Before you begin a forensic nursing program, you should have a Bachelor’s degree in nursing and at least one year of full-time nursing experience. Keep in mind that each school sets its own admissions requirements, so some schools require far more than one year of work experience. Although some schools do accept Associate’s degree students for RN-to-MSN programs, you may find that the majority of programs in this area are designed for Bachelor’s degree graduates.

There are several areas of advanced study in this specialty. A general Master’s degree in forensic nursing explores crime, victimology, psychology of crime, legal standards for evidence collection, evidence-based care for crime victims, and medical procedures used for victims. If you foresee a future in the courtroom, you may complete a legal nurse consulting program. This type of forensic nurse degree covers federal and state laws, professional expectations in legal settings, the burden of proof in court cases, and providing clear, unbiased testimony. SANE training is a specifically geared to those who want to help victims of sexual assault. These programs cover examination procedures, support and counseling techniques, and collaboration with law enforcement professionals.

With the right training and experience, you may qualify for various certification programs. The American College of Forensic Examiners Institute is the licensing agency for Certified Forensic Nurses. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners and Advanced Forensic Nurses are licensed by the Commission for Forensic Nursing Certification. Those who study nurse consulting may explore Legal Nurse Consultant Certification through the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants.

The Role of Forensic Nurses in Idaho

By studying forensic nursing in Idaho, you can become part of an exciting movement taking part in this state. This movement may empower victims and help them heal after trauma. Idaho Falls is just one city in Idaho to hire a victim coordinator (Idaho Falls). By expanding their Sexual Assault Response Team in this way, the city hopes to make care more accessible.

Forensic nurses and SANEs may also work with domestic violence victims. The state of Idaho recently established a Domestic Violence Court with the help of a service expansion grant (Idaho State Journal). Through programs like this one, forensic nurses assess patients, direct them to relevant services, and document evidence as needed.

This area of study blends criminal justice and healthcare, filling an important gap in the healthcare industry. If you are ready to step up and help victims of crime, request information from Idaho forensic nurse programs here.

Clinical Nurse Leader Degrees in Idaho

When you work as a registered nurse, do you find yourself naturally taking on a leadership role? Do other nurses listen to your intuition and turn to you for guidance when seconds count?

If you would like to build on your inherent leadership abilities and take on a more expansive role in patient care, you may be a great fit for a nurse leader position.

The nursing community in Idaho, in many ways, is stronger than it has ever been. A national study recently ranked Idaho as the best state to be a nurse (Local News 8). Idaho earned this ranking because of its salary range, job openings, and job growth opportunities. State experts note that this is great news for the nursing community of Idaho, but reports that the state still needs experienced nurses who are willing to take on leadership responsibilities and oversee industrywide change.

Just a few years ago, Idaho had one of the worst nursing shortages in the country. This shortage has been largely resolved throughout the state (Idaho Statesman). However, this means that facilities all over Idaho are primarily staffed by new and inexperienced nurses. Administrators and executives claim a growing need for experienced nurse leaders who are willing to lead new nurses and oversee complex care needs.

Leadership is one of the most in-demand ways to use your nursing experience and knowledge.

Find out which program is a good fit for you with our list of clinical nurse leader graduate programs in Idaho.

How Can I Become a Clinical Nurse Leader in Idaho?

In many ways, nurse leadership graduate programs are similar to other nursing Master’s degrees in Idaho. On average, you must earn 36 credits. This can generally be completed in two calendar years. Since this career requires you to be accountable for your work and the work of other nurses, you may have to meet strict admissions standards to be accepted. Idaho schools often require a certain amount of nursing experience and a history of strong academic performance at the undergraduate level.

Once you are accepted to the program of your choice, you may start exploring the curriculum of your chosen school. This curriculum should give you plenty of experience in research, advanced patient care, management and leadership, and health outcomes.

These goals may be met with the following courses:

  • Research for Graduate Nursing
  • Population Health and Interprofessional Collaboration
  • Advanced Health Assessment
  • vidence-Based Practice for Graduate Nursing
  • Nursing Leadership Internship
  • Organization Leadership for Improving Health Outcomes
  • Leadership Perspectives for Advancing the Profession of Nursing

Many graduate programs in nursing leadership require clinical work. This means that you must keep your registered nursing license valid at all times. Since this is a clinical career, you must also maintain your registered nursing license throughout your career. The Idaho Nursing Board requires renewal by August 31 every other year.

Completing your education and providing proof of your RN license may allow you to get your Clinical Nurse Leader license through the AACN. They administer a three-hour nurse leadership exam. Once you have your license, you have officially earned the title of Clinical Nurse Leader. Every five years, you must complete 50 hours of continuing education and renew your license.

What Does a Clinical Nurse Leader Do?

One benefit of taking on a leadership role in health care is the fact that you get to explore different responsibilities and aspects of care every day. The AACN notes that clinical care is the single largest part of this credential, so you can look forward to spending most of your time working with patients and doing administrative work for their benefit.

However, rather than working as part of a registered nursing team, you may be a team leader and direct patient care. Patient care plans are typically the responsibility of a CNL. Succeeding in this role requires a comprehensive understanding of evidence-based care, the ability to adjust policies and standards based on evidence, and leadership skills.

Getting involved in the local nursing leadership community is a great way to learn more about what it means to work in this field. The Nurse Leaders of Idaho is an organization that works closely with the Nursing Action Coalition to support nursing legislation, address concerns within the nursing community, and improve the field as a whole.

Nurse leaders become a more important part of patient care every year. If you are ready for the next challenge in your nursing career, request information from Idaho nurse leadership graduate programs today.

Idaho Research Nursing Graduate Programs

One of the main goals of the health care industry is to do more with less time and money. Of course, executives in this field also hope to attract talent to the industry, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen the reputation of different health care facilities. If you are a registered nurse and you’re looking to expand your career into the academic side of health care, research nursing may be the field for you.

Nursing research is responsible for all sorts of exciting advances and changes in Idaho’s nursing community. A recent grant awarded in Idaho aims to teach nurses how to work with refugees settling in the state. Researchers are responsible for coming up with the statistics that lead to successes like this one. Though nursing research may focus heavily on the medicine and technology aspects of health care, it is also unique in that it looks at the patient experience side of this field.

Take the first step in this new career path by requesting information from research nursing graduate programs in Idaho.

Idaho Graduate Degree Programs in Nursing Research

As a registered nurse, you should have quite a bit of valuable experience and insight that can prepare you for a nursing research degree. However, you still must take your education to the graduate level. Different schools have Master’s degree and PhD options, so may want to consider how much time you want to spend on your degree when choosing a school. Programs in this field typically range from two to seven years.

A rich, diverse curriculum awaits you as a nursing research student. Some of the courses you may take in this field include Contemporary Design and Methods, Knowledge Appraisal and Development, Theoretical Perspectives of Nursing, Philosophical Perspectives of Nursing, and Biostatistics.

Depending on the school you choose, you may get research experience in several different settings. Some schools require you to gain teaching experience at the undergraduate level, particularly if you want to earn a PhD. You should also spend a considerable amount of time in the lab, in the community, and in various research facilities. At minimum, plan on spending a few hundred hours doing clinical work as a graduate student.

It is likely that your school will have some type of funding that is available to graduate students. A research assistantship or teaching assistantship can help you put your new skills to work while you earn money for your educational expenses. Health care and nursing scholarships are also available through the Idaho Community Foundation.

The Role of Clinical Nurse Researchers in Idaho

As you begin establishing yourself as a clinical nurse researcher, you may be shocked by the amount of studies that take place in Idaho. A recent study uncovered the growing need for travel nurses. Nurse researchers who study the industry and its needs can help schools and hiring managers make educated decisions with regards to training and education.

As Idaho’s health care industry grows, clinical researchers will fuel its improvement. Get involved in this field today by contacting nurse research programs in Idaho.

Idaho Certified Nurse Midwife Programs

A certified nurse midwife is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has special training and education in women’s health nursing and midwifery. Nurse midwives usually care for women who have a low risk pregnancies, as well as during the lifespan.

Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) have a graduate degree, and they get certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board. They are well-educated and care for women from puberty through menopause.

If you are interested in caring for women in this capacity, as well as for their children in the pre, intra and post-partum stages, contact the Idaho schools listed below for more information on CNM programs.

Becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife in Idaho

In Idaho, an advanced practice nurse specifically means a nurse that has gained additional specialized knowledge, skills and experience through a program of study that is recognized or defined by the possibility of advancement and an expanded scope of practice.

There are two accredited online programs in Idaho that have Nurse Midwifery programs, which are Frontier Nursing University and Georgetown University. While the courses are taught online, the clinical training will likely occur at various healthcare facilities that are located a reasonable distance from your home.

The Idaho Board of Nursing states that as an advanced practice nurse, you are authorized to perform advanced nursing practice, which may include the prescribing and administering therapeutic pharmacological agents.

This is an exciting career that is constantly growing in numbers, and you may want to consider returning to get your graduate degree in nurse midwifery if you are looking for a way to expand your reach within the nursing profession.

The admission requirements for a graduate nurse midwife program typically include:

  • A current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Sealed Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • A 1 to 2 page personal statement addressing your intellectual interests, relevant clinical experiences and reasons for pursuing the specific nursing specialty
  • Three letters of recommendation from an clinical supervisor or nurse manager, a professor, faculty member or academic advisor or a practicing advanced practice nurse.
  • The TOEFL exam is required if your native language is not English.

A certified nurse midwife program usually takes anywhere from 24-36 months to complete and requires 45-65 credits, along with 1000+ clinical hours. You should be ready to take the board certification upon graduation.

The curriculum for a graduate midwifery program can include and of the following courses:

  • Advance Concepts in Physiology & Pathophysiology
  • Research Methods & Biostats for Health Care Providers
  • Advance Concepts in Pharmacology
  • Healthcare Care Ethics
  • Research Evidence & Best Practices in Help Care
  • Advance Help Assessment
  • Health Assessments On–Campus Intensive
  • Professional Aspects of Advance Practice Nursing
  • Intro to Reproductive Health Care of Women
  • Primary Care of Women
  • Foundations of Health Systems and Policy
  • Reproductive Healthcare Of Women
  • Nurse Midwifery/ Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner On–Campus Intensive
  • Integrated Reproductive Health Care of Women
  • Seminars in Advanced Women’s Health Care

Board certifications are available through different agencies, but the American Midwifery Certification Board is commonly chosen and is recognized in all 50 states. This national certifying body protects and serves the public as their certification of individual midwives is considered the gold standard across the nation. The cost of the test $500.

If you need financial assistance, complete the FAFSA application, which is a federal grant that is based on your income. The Office of Financial Assistance at the university you choose can help you apply for a federal loan at a lower interest rate. In addition, Nurse Corps has a loan repayments program that pays 60 percent of your outstanding loan if your work in one of their facilities for two years. If you choose to get your graduate degree as a nurse midwife, there are numerous programs that may help you with the expenses.

Working as a Certified Nurse Midwife in Idaho

Job security is a real plus for this career. There are several top opportunities in private practices, hospitals, birth centers, health centers and home birth services. All of the accredited programs teach the conduct of birth outside the hospital setting.

There are many reasons to become a nurse midwife, and if you think this is a career that will meet your career goals, now it the time to enter a nurse midwifery program. This a career where you can work in an independent fashion, but you may also work in a team setting. Becoming a nurse midwife can not only open the door to exciting opportunities for you, but it can also help nursing profession as a whole.

Contact the midwife schools in Idaho to learn more about entering this rewarding and fulfilling profession.

Idaho Clinical Nurse Specialist Degrees

Nurses have always been an important part of health care—as a registered nurse, you likely already know that. However, the role of nurses is changing every day. New health care legislature has made it difficult for patients to get timely access to the care they need. As a result, many clinics and individual patients are turning to advanced nursing professionals.

In Idaho, this is especially true. The state’s rural layout makes it hard for clinics to find or even be able to afford doctors. If you want to advance your career and expand your scope of practice, you may want to look into clinical nurse specialist programs in Idaho.

Contact the schools listed below that offer CNS programs in Idaho to learn more about your options.

Clinical nurse specialists are some of the most diverse nursing professionals in this field. In addition to playing a major role in patient care, clinical nurse specialists may contribute to care plans and research that drive the nursing field forward. In fact, clinical nurse specialists may use their expertise to solve major health care problems like the spread of infection in close quarters.

Becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Idaho

Are you ready to explore a new specialty field and take on the role of clinical nurse specialist? First, you may want to decide which field you want to concentrate on. Clinical nurse specialists may tailor their education in a number of ways. Choices available at Idaho schools may include gerontology, pediatrics, acute care, and community nursing. Look back at your nursing experience and think about which populations and health problems you feel most passionately about.

You also want to make sure you fit the requirements for a CNS program. Strong academic performance is incredibly important, as many schools require an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. In addition, you should have at least one year of experience working as a nurse with adults or children.

While spending two to three years in school earning a Master’s degree in nursing, you may take a wide variety of courses. These courses serve many purposes, but they have the long-term goal of creating clinical nurse specialists who are well-versed in research, skilled at working with patients, and dedicated to becoming strong leaders in their field.

Some of the courses you may take as a CNS student include Statistics for Healthcare Professionals, Role Development for Advanced Practice Nurses, Research for Advanced Practice Nurses, and Clinical Decision Making. High-level courses in your curriculum may include Health Care Policy and Politics, Clinical Nurse Specialist Role Immersion, and Care Across the Healthcare Continuum.

Idaho has a wide variety of employers and companies that provide nursing scholarships to promising students. The Idaho Community Foundation is responsible for dozens of scholarships. Through the Idaho Board of Education, you may have the opportunity to apply for dedicated nursing scholarships. Grants are also awarded by the Idaho Area Health Education Center.

Working as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Idaho

In Idaho, the licensure of clinical nurse specialists is overseen by the Idaho Board of Nursing. They administer a comprehensive advanced nursing exam and verify that you meet their strict educational credentials before administering your advanced practice license.

If you want to use your nursing experience to positively impact your community and the field of nursing, you may make a great CNS. Learn more by contacting clinical nurse specialist programs in Idaho today.

Idaho Public Health Nursing Graduate Programs

The Idaho Public Health Association reports on bills that are currently in the legislature that may impact nursing and public health. For instance, a recently passed bill allows Public Health Nurses to refill certain prescriptions. Another bill established the Idaho Childhood Immunization Policy Commission, which was designed to create a commission that increased the percentage of children who receive childhood immunizations, as Idaho is 20 percent below the national average, with nurses leading the effort.

The Idaho Public Health Association is a non-profit organization that depends upon nurses and has three primary objectives, which include:

  • Enhance the public health workforce
  • Strengthen partnerships with organizations and professionals
  • Assure the organizational capacity needed to serve the public

Public health nurses work in the community to improve the health of the area, promote wellness, track diseases and work to prevent injuries. They commonly work in a county or state departments of health.

Getting your graduate degree in public health nursing can provide you with an exciting new career that serves the community, and it may give you more job opportunities.

Master’s Degree Programs in Public Health Nursing in Idaho

If you are ready to enter a graduate program make sure the program is accredited, and compare programs to make sure you are entering a program that will meet your career goals.

Idaho Public Health Nursing school admissions criteria may include:

  • GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 hours of under-graduate work
  • Official college transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • GRE minimum score of at least the 40th percentile
  • Two years of clinical experience as a RN
  • Essay of career goals

There is an online Public Health nursing program in Idaho that requires 48 credit hours, which has the goals of improving the health of populations through planning, implementation and evaluating health promotion and disease prevention programs. Some of the required courses may include:

  • Applications in Epidemiology
  • Biostatistics
  • Social & Cultural Perspectives in Public Health
  • Leadership and Administration
  • Environmental & Occupational Health
  • US & Global Health Systems
  • Technological Application in Public Health
  • Health Program Planning
  • Research and Writing
  • Internship
  • Health Behavior Change Theory and Application
  • Theses Option or Project Option as approved electives

Idaho has Opportunity scholarships that are need-based, and they offer scholarships for under-served vocations, which includes medical careers. The university financial aid office has the FAFSA application available, which is a federal funding program based on your income. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has a webpage with a list of financial aid that include low interest loans, numerous types of scholarships and grants.

The Role of Public Health Nurses in Idaho

Public health nurses work in multiple types of job settings , which includes state and county health clinics, schools, occupational positions in industry and correctional facilities. These nurses put plans together to alleviate and eliminate disease or health and safety issues in communities, such as immunizations, STDs and obesity. They sometimes help communities prepare for natural distress, or they may assist in disaster relief.

This occupation is one that is challenging, yet satisfying. You have the advantage of job security, a chance for advancement in a variety of healthcare settings, and it also helps the nursing profession as a whole.

Graduate Nursing Programs in Healthcare Policy in Idaho

It doesn’t matter if you’re a registered nurse at a clinic, hospital, nursing home, or other care setting—the work you do and the clinical decisions you are allowed to make are heavily influenced by laws and policies. At times, these policies may seem unfair, impractical, or unrealistic for those who work in the medical industry.

If you’ve ever wanted to change that, a career in healthcare policy may be within your reach. With a background in nursing and graduate-level education in health policy, you can use your education to develop and support policies that are truly beneficial to the medical industry of Idaho.

With training from an Idaho graduate nursing school, you can get the knowledge needed to combat Idaho-specific problems. Opioid addiction has become an increasingly severe problem in Idaho, particularly among teenagers (Miami Herald). Policymakers with a background in nursing may implement policies that get to the root causes of this problem.

One of the advantages of becoming a nurse is the flexibility of your long-term career options. Explore a growing area of nursing by checking out options at health policy graduate programs in Idaho.

Master’s Degree Programs in Healthcare Policy in Idaho

Unless you have spent an extensive amount of time learning about health policy and the legislative process in Idaho, you may be surprised by how much you have to learn to have any pull in legislative circles. Since this is such a rigorous area of study, plan on completing over 40 credits to earn your Master’s degree in health policy.

As you work toward graduation from a healthcare policy program, the following courses may be part of your curriculum:

  • Leadership and Administration
  • Social and Cultural Perspectives in Public Health
  • Health Program Planning
  • Biostatistics
  • US and Global Health Systems
  • Technology Use in Healthcare

No matter which school you choose, you can feel confident that your instructors and advisors want you to succeed. Programs often develop their curricula and experience requirements by pursuing the following goals:

  • Evidence-based program instruction
  • Promote leadership in public health positions
  • Contribute to public health efforts in various ways
  • Understand importance of ongoing education and training

Throughout and after your graduate education, your nursing degree is a big part of what gives credibility to your opinions. Keep it valid by renewing your license through the Idaho Board of Nursing by August 31 every other year.

How Do Nurses Impact Healthcare Policy in Idaho?

As you work in different settings while earning your degree, you should develop a complete picture of long-term healthcare goals in Idaho, the needs of Idaho patients, and what care providers need to meet those expectations. This may give you a strong foundation on which to start your career in health policy.

Nurses who specialize in healthcare policy may work in many different health environments. In a clinic or hospital, you may be responsible for developing policies and procedures that utilize evidence-based standards and fall in line with state laws. As you move on to state and federal policy work, you may get involved with groups like the Idaho National Academy for State Health Policy.

Developing strong working relationships with a variety of nursing associations is an excellent way to advocate for nurses in your work. Furthermore, many nursing groups maintain strong positions on current legislature. The Nurse Leaders of Idaho recently focused on minimizing uncompensated care costs, establishing a statewide system of care management and private market solutions, and promoting the importance of preventative care to Idaho residents.

By building connections in nursing and healthcare policy, staying active in the nursing community, and understanding the legislative process, you can make the most of your healthcare policy career.

Take the first step now and reach out to Master’s in healthcare policy programs in Idaho.

Hospice Nursing in Idaho

Nurses in Idaho improve the lives of their patients in many ways, and in the case of hospice nurses, they make patients’ final days as pain-free and enjoyable as possible. Hospice and palliative nurses help patients with terminal diagnoses, regardless of how long they may have to live.

Groups like the Idaho Quality of Life Coalition support and promote palliative care in Idaho, noting that dying patients deserve to keep their dignity and faculties intact.

If you’re interested in becoming a primary care practitioner and managing care for hospice patients, find out how you can earn a Master’s degree and secure hospice nurse certification.

Master’s Degree Programs in Hospice/Palliative Care Nursing in Idaho

To become a Master’s-level hospice nurse, you have to go through an extensive curriculum that builds on your nursing skills and prepares you to serve as a primary care provider. You may choose to become a clinical nurse specialist or a nurse practitioner. Both types of programs typically last between two and three years, requiring at least 500 hours of clinical work. However, in addition to your core Master’s courses, you must take additional specialized coursework in hospice care. This may add to the total amount of clinical hours you complete.

Commonly Required Palliative Care Certification Courses

  • Advanced Communication Strategies for Healthcare Professionals
  • Palliative Care in Specialized Populations
  • Advanced Symptom Management
  • Advanced Pain Management
  • Foundations of Palliative Care

When you decide to devote your career to hospice nursing, you may be able to apply for national and local scholarships. The Hospice & Palliative Nurses Foundation awards $2,000 scholarships to Master’s degree students all over the country.

After finishing your hospice nursing education, you may start working toward palliative care certification. You get your nurse practitioner license in Idaho and gain experience as a hospice nurse. To become an Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse through the Hospice & Palliative Credentialing Center, you need a Master’s degree and at least 500 hours of experience over the preceding 12 months.

The Role of Hospice/Palliative Care Nurses in Idaho

By the time you’re ready to start your career in hospice, you should have a thorough understanding of what role you play in patients’ lives. Not only are you an important part of their care team, you are an important resource to family members. Hospice nurses often provide emotional support to family members, particularly those who take on a caretaking role. Hospice nurse staffing may be provided around-the-clock, so you should anticipate working a wide variety of hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. In particular, you may need to remain on call to respond to patient calls regarding pain or family calls when patients are close to passing.

Numerous healthcare facilities provide hospice care in Idaho. While some patients may choose to spend their remaining time in a healthcare institution, many prefer in-home care. Some of the largest hospice facilities in Idaho include Hospice of Eastern Idaho, Hands of Hope Hospice, Treasure Valley Hospice, and Hospice Visions. To meet the needs of your patients and your employer, you may travel within your local area or cover a larger part of Idaho. Travel is often a big part of a hospice nurse’s day.

Hospice/palliative care certification can help you take your education to the next level and serve an entirely new patient population.

Discover how you can get hospice nursing certification. Idaho schools are listed here, so contact programs near you today.