FNP or Management!???

Hi everyone!! I am so unbelievably torn between which way to go!!!! I have always been kind of on the fence between which career path to pursue. The patient care of the FNP is so interesting to me but the leadership/management attracts me too! I was all set to go with an FNP program and then my school launched a new MSN- Nurse and Health Systems in Executive Management program that is mostly on-line and I can finish in 1 year! I switched over to that program and I'm suppose to start this Fall. I am now having second thoughts. I'm worried I jumped the gun and made the wrong decision. Can anyone share with me the pros and cons of pursuing the Management/Leadership career path and their experience? I also have 3 small kids work part-time currently. These two pathways are obviously completely different. I am just so confused. ANY advice would be appreciated!!

Thank you!!
Hello,Just wanted to let you know we moved your thread to Nursing Career Advice forum.You have some serious decisions to make. Good luck.

We certainly need more qualified, talented and committed leaders in nursing.But moving into nursing leadership is a step-wise process, involving progressive advancement to higher levels. An MSN is essential, but not sufficient requirement. Make sure your MSN program includes an internship. Without a practicum, it will not really provide you with much of a skill set. As we all know from nursing school, learning the underlying theory does not ensure one's ability to actually fulfill all the job requirements. FWIW, most non-clinical MSN programs are only ~36 semester hours.... so it's very do-able to complete in a 12-18 month time period. I went to worked full-time in a management role & managed to complete my MSN (Edu & CC Clin Spec) in that time frame (including thesis) but my kids were in school & I was encouraged/supported by my wonderful hubs. Nursing management is a very hard job that requires enormous diplomacy and finesse as well as expertise in all areas of healthcare operations. It is not unusual for Middle managers to earn > 100k. Higher-level positions earn more for those intense 'pressure-cooker' jobs.... and IMO, deserve every penny.

Thank you HouTx - the program I have been accepted into does have a practicum. The program itself is great. I just can't decide if I want to go that route or FNP as that I have been accepted into both programs and need to make a choice asap. Thanks for your input.