Furthering my degree at 45 years old

United States
April 6, 2008 1:37pm CST
I am a Registered Nurse. Lately I have been looking in to furthering my education; obtaining a Masters so I can teach in the future. However, when I checked in to some online programs; the cost was around $25,000. I don't think it would increase my wages that much and don't know if it is worth it. What is your advice? Thanks for reading and responding.
1 person likes this
4 responses
cher913
@cher913 (25782)
• Canada
6 Apr 08
in some cases, if a nurse wants to upgrade, the hopsital will chip in some of the money towards the upgrading. have you checked into anything like that? nurses are so few and far between where i live (in canada) that the hospitals do almost anything for them so that they will stay working...
lolalolacherrycola
@lolalolacherrycola (899)
• United States
6 Apr 08
Unfortunately I work on a PRN (as needed basis) at a local hospital. I love it there but by working PRN I do not get benefits, just a higher rate of pay. Thanks for responding. I do know there is a shortage of nursing instructors as well; so perhaps there would be a scholarship or grant I could apply for.
cher913
@cher913 (25782)
• Canada
6 Apr 08
ok, well do some internet searches as well as contacting (i am guessing) your state boards - they may be able to help you! best of luck!
aseretdd
@aseretdd (13730)
• Philippines
8 Apr 08
Oh my... it cost that much just to get a Master's degree... that is way too expensive... in my country... that amount is enough to have a person study for 5 years... But if you think it is worth it... then there is no reason for you not to take that online program... but if you can find a program that is cheaper... but with good quality... then go for that one...
winterose
@winterose (39887)
• Canada
7 Apr 08
check out scholarship programs on the net and at the nursing school you will be attending, that might help out on the cost of the program, or just see if you can take part time courses one or two a semester and still work in the meantime.
youdontsay
@youdontsay (3497)
• United States
6 Apr 08
I think if it matters to you then you should do it! I left college as a freshman and got married. I returned to college when I was 34 years old using financial aid and loans. Then I went to graduate school for two years almost entirely on student loans. I was 40 when I finished. It took we years to pay back the loans. But I've never regretted any of it. I say, go for it!