Master Of Science In Nursing Entry
Please note that many of our programs have made exceptions to the application process and admissions requirements due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic response. Additionally, references to in-person campus visits, events, lab work, or classroom interactions should be read in light of current campus health and safety guidelines, which continue to evolve in response to changing conditions. More information can be found on WesternUs COVID-19 Information page. Please contact us if you have any questions or need further information.
Re-designed MSN-Entry Program
Our MSN-Entry program offers a path for graduates from non-nursing fields to obtain a MSN and RN license in 2 years. The curriculum is delivered in 6 semesters with a full time unit load, all campus-based. Upon successful completion of the program, students will be eligible to take the NCLEX licensing examination and receive a MSN degree.
The MSN-Entry program adheres to the nursing education standards from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Masters Essentials and Quality and Safety in Nursing Education . Graduates of the program are prepared to lead patient quality and safety initiatives, apply evidence based practice with interprofessional teams, and lead systems of care delivery.
We have a nationally recognized program and offer:
Best Master Of Science In Nursing Programs In California
A master of science in nursing is the best degree option for professional nurses looking to advance their careers. While a bachelor of science in nursing can lead to advancement opportunities as well, an MSN or higher is highly desired by hospitals, universities, and other medical facilities seeking skilled administrators, educators, and managers. Most MSN programs require 18-24 months to complete. An entry-level masters in nursing is the best masters degree route for non-nurses. The ELM program is designed for individuals holding a bachelors degree or higher in another field, and it usually takes 1-2 years to complete .
National University Los Angeles Fresno & San Diego
Founded in 1971, National University is the largest non-profit private university in San Diego. It has till date, an alumnus of 150,000 across the globe, successfully creating strides in their chosen careers. With nursing as a career having a promising employment outlook in California as well across the nation, the university offers several program options that are much in demand and its Bachelor of Science in Nursing Second-Bachelors Degree is one of them.
This accelerated nursing course is offered at 3 locations in California. The program which takes a year to complete, prepares students to develop a patient-centered attitude. Graduates equipped with all the knowledge and skills, demonstrate outstanding capabilities to fulfill their nursing duties in a professional and ethical manner. To earn this degree, you must complete 19 Preparation for the Major courses and 16 Core Nursing Courses.
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Why Choose Elmhurst University
As the only distance direct-entry MSN in the country, Elmhurst University provides an immersive educational experience that emphasizes hands-on experience and exceptional clinical skills.
Students develop competence in:
- General Nursing Knowledge: Learn the necessary skills and theories to pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Clinical Nurse Leadership: Prepare for Clinical Nurse Leader certification to validate your comprehensive skills and knowledge.
- Evidence-Based Nursing Practice: Develop clinical and decision-making skills to manage care for patients across the lifespan.
- Quality Improvement and Research Methods: Build competencies in research, health care systems, and information technology to foster change and improve outcomes.
- Advocacy, Ethics and Accountability: Integrate professional values and standards to advocate for individuals and populations and advance the nursing profession.
Students love our Accelerated Nursing Programs:
Elmhurst has a really solid nursing program, and I like the small-school environment that it offers. I chose nursing because I really enjoy helping people. I think that’s my purpose in life, to serve others. – Dennis Arreaza
It’s a lot of work, but you will succeed if you put in the time and effort. It’s a great program. The instructors have all been amazing. I would recommend Elmhurst to anyone. – Elysa Katz
University Of California Los Angeles School Of Nursing
Two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree are offered by the University of California, Los Angeles School of Nursing. They include a Direct Entry MSN pathway and a BSN to MSN pathway
UCLAs Direct Entry pathway is called the Masters Entry Clinical Nurse. Its designed for individuals who hold a Bachelors degree in a field other than nursing and are seeking to begin a career in nursing. In addition to awarding an MSN degree, the program prepares students to take the national RN licensing exam , the Clinical Nurse Leader certification exam, and the California Public Health Nursing certification.
Those RNs entering via the BSN to MSN pathway have many more options for specializing including the following:
- Nursing Administration
- Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist
Applicants entering via the Direct Entry pathway are required to hold a Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university approved by the School of Nursing and UCLA Graduate Division. The student must have completed a series of prerequisite courses.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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Accelerated Bsn Vs Msn: Which Is Right For Me
The extraordinary shortage of nurses will likely intensify through 2030, making now an ideal time to begin a new career in nursing.
Second-career registered nurses have many nursing education l program options. Those who have a bachelors degree in a non-nursing discipline can complete an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing or a Masters Entry in Nursing Practice program to prepare to become a nurse. MENP programs are also known as an accelerated MSN or direct-entry MSN programs.
But how do the programs compare? Lets discuss the differences between the degrees and how they prepare aspiring nurses to transition into their new career.
In this blog, learn:
Womens Health Nurse Practitioner
A womens health nurse practitioner has similar responsibilities to a FNP, but they provide primary care to women. Their youngest patients are usually women who are in adolescence. WHNPs specialize in obstetrics and gynecology. Nurse practitioners in womens health provide reproductive health care, health screenings, menopause care, preventive care and more. They usually work in a doctors office to provide womens health care services throughout the lifespan.
Learn about programs and coursework needed for a career as a womens health nurse practitioner with an online WHNP program.
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Courses Required For Rn Licensure In California
The California Board of Registered Nursing requires pre-licensure students to have completed a minimum of 16 semester units comprising natural sciences, behavioral and social sciences. To complement the anatomy, physiology, and microbiology natural science prerequisites, it is highly recommended that students complete a general psychology or developmental psychology course prior to taking NURS 328 Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Theory and Practicum, and any additional behavioral or social science course as needed to fulfill the BRN’s natural, behavioral, and social science unit requirement.
Take The Next Step Toward Living Your Purpose
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you’ll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadline |
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One: Submit Application To San Francisco State University Via Call State Apply
- The essay and references can be omitted as references and an essay must be submitted via the School of Nursing supplemental application.
- It is recommended that applicants complete the Cal State Apply application early in the application period. The Division of Graduate Studies will assign applicants an SF State ID# and it must subsequently be included on the School of Nursing supplemental application.
For detailed information on admission and transcript submission to San Francisco State University, please go to Division of Graduate Studies.
About The Accelerated Entry Level Msn Program
This program is designed for individuals who possess a non-nursing bachelorâs degree and are seeking to enter the nursing profession. The two year full-time cohort-based program, which includes summer sessions, prepares students to become eligible for the national RN licensing exam after completion of one and a half years of study and it culminates with a nursing applied research course or a masterâs thesis. Graduates will earn a BSN and MSN degree. The cost is $700.00 per unit for the 97 unit program. Students register and pay for classes via the College of Extended Learning.
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What Is A Direct
A direct-entry masters in nursing program is for students with a non-nursing degree who would like to pursue a career as a registered nurse or advanced practice nurse . APRNs are nurses that have earned their masters degree. APRNs include nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists and clinical nurse specialists.
Loma Linda University Loma Linda
Loma Linda University is a Seventh-day Adventist organization that comprises of eight schools offering more than 100 programs. Nurturing the nursing aspirations of students, its School of Nursing came into existence in 1905 and since then, has been instrumental in the education of professional nurses, who are dedicated to excellence in nursing science.
The 21 months fast-track BA/BS to BS Nursing program comes with an option to apply for MS or BS to DNP upon completion of your degree. Students are well taught by an expert and friendly faculty to perform nursing duties in a variety of clinical settings. The well-trained graduates have employment options galore when it comes to areas of nursing to choose from, such as Administration, Cardiology, Public Health, Critical Health Care, Mental Health Centers, Oncology, Neurology, Rehab Centers and many others.
Getting the best of professional as well as Christian education is what LLU truly offers to its students.
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University Of California Davis Betty Irene Moore School Of Nursing
The Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at University of California, Davis offers Master of Science in Nursing degree programs in two specialty areas:
- Leadership
- Nurse Practitioner
The MSN in Leadership is a full-time program. It is designed to be completed in five quarters and requires a thesis.
The Nurse Practitioner program is a full-time program designed to be completed in 24 months. It requires a thesis as well as 720 hours of clinical practice.
Applicants to the program must hold a Bachelors degree in nursing or a related field with at least a 3.0 GPA. They must hold a license as a Registered Nurse. The GRE is not required.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
California State University Bakersfield
Annual In-State Tuition: $7,498 | NCLEX Pass Rate: 97.92%
Traditional: Yes
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Online: No
Accelerated: Yes
Bridge: Yes
California has a plethora of incredible state schools, and residents can take advantage of low in-state tuition. California State University, Bakersfield is no exception. Located roughly midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Cal State Bakersfield has the feel of a college town. The nursing program offers plenty of options for undergraduate students, from a traditional BSN to a 15-month RN-to-BSN. Like most California schools, Cal State Bakersfield has a high NCLEX pass rate and is a nationally recognized university.
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Two: Submit School Of Nursing Supplemental Application Via Nursingcas
- A personal statement, 250-500 words and must address the following:
- Describe the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Program of study you are interested in as it relates to your career goals
- Explain why you are seeking a degree from SF State
- How do you anticipate this program will assist your goals
- What contributions do you foresee adding to the field of nursing?
- What special attributes will you bring to the nursing profession?
For NursingCAS supplemental application guidance and instructions, please visit NursingCAS Applicant Help Center.
For frequently asked questions about application cycle, including the Re-applicant feature, please visit NursingCAS Application FAQs page.
Choosing A Master’s Entry To Nursing Practice Program
With a large number of direct entry MSN programs to choose from, selecting the right school can be a challenge. In order to make that decision easier, we have outlined a few factors to consider when researching schools. Keep these program elements in mind to make choosing the right school a simpler decision.
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Lvn Reciprocity And Nlc
California is currently pending legislation for participation as a Nurse Licensure Compact state. Under the NLC, nurses can practice in other NLC states, without having to obtain additional licenses. An individual can also become an LVN in the state of California by endorsement , in which he or she must have completed one of the following:
- Graduated from an approved LVN program
- Graduated from another states approved LVN/LPN program
- Completed and education and experience equivalent
- Completed the education and experience equivalent in the US military
And:
- The applicant applying for endorsement must have received a passing score on either the NCLEX or SBTPE and submit verification of current licensure.
Check out more detailed information about LVN endorsement by application in California. Learn more about an alternative way to gain LVN licensure in California.
California State University San Bernardino Department Of Nursing
California State University, San Bernardinos Department of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree program not only to RNs with a BSN, but also to those RNs with a Bachelors degree in a related field.
MSN students may choose from three areas of specialization:
- Population Based MSN
- Nurse Educator
- Advanced Public/Community Health
Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Those entering via the RN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelors degree in a related field plus demonstrate specific nursing competencies. Both must have at least a 3.0 GPA in the last 90 quarter hours of course work attempted. They must also have completed an upper division Statistics course as well as NURS 601: Prep for MSN Learning with Technology. Candidates must hold a current California license as an RN.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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Menp Vs Traditional Master’s Degree Route
Students pursuing an MSN through a master’s entry nursing program are able to complete their studies at an accelerated rate by building on the foundation of their previous education and work experience. Schools know that a student who has already completed a bachelor’s degree in another field is able to handle the rigorous coursework and accelerated pacing of a direct entry program. In addition, students have the benefit of completing their studies and beginning a new career faster than if they were to take a BSN and MSN program separately. In addition to a shorter completion time, these programs can also be more cost-effective than two separate degree programs. Upon graduation, these nurses are ready for higher paying and more advanced nursing positions than those who have not completed their master’s degree.
There are a couple of caveats to a direct entry nursing program that prospective students should be aware of. First, accelerated nursing programs are very challenging and academically rigorous. Students need to be committed to becoming a nurse and disciplined enough to complete challenging coursework and long practice hours. In addition, any master’s level education is a significant cost investment in your future. While many schools offer financial assistance to those who qualify, it can be a financial hurdle to pay for a master’s degree in nursing.
San Diego State University School Of Nursing
San Diego State Universitys School of Nursing offers Master of Science in Nursing programs in a variety of specializations/roles including:
- Nurse-Midwifery
- Womens Health Nurse Practitioner
- Dual Nurse-Midwifery and Womens Health Nurse Practitioner
- Dual Acute/Critical Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and Acute/Critical Care Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Dual Acute/Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist and Nurse Educator
- Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
Applicants to the MSN program should hold a Bachelors degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program. RNs without a BSN who hold a Bachelors or Masters in a non-nursing major can enter the program but may be required to take additional undergraduate and/or graduate bridge courses based on individual assessments. They must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale on all upper division undergraduate courses. They must also have completed a course in Statistics with a grade of C or better. A satisfactory score on the GRE General Test is required. Candidates must hold a license as an RN in California.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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San Diego State University
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,136 | NCLEX Pass Rate: 93.91%
Traditional: Yes
Accelerated: Yes
Bridge: Yes
San Diego State University, home of the Aztecs, has been educating students since 1897. Now home to more than 36,000 students, SDSU has entrenched itself as one of the top public schools in California. The nursing school at SDSU has four main programs: BSN, RN-BSN, a masters in nursing , and an LVN-RN. Nursing students at SDSU also have the rare option of studying abroad! With the low in-state cost, high NCLEX pass rate, option to study abroad, and the chance to live in San Diego, this is a school that will be on most students lists.