How Long Does It Take To Earn A Msn In A Direct Entry Program
Typically, BSN to MSN programs range from three to four years, but the specific length may depend on the school. It may also take longer if you enroll as a full-time or part-time student.
Keep in mind that some programs are only available to full-time students because of the accelerated nature of the degree, at least for the first portion.
For instance, some direct entry MSN programs may confer a BSN when you complete that portion of the program, which usually takes about four semesters, or 16 months full time. This may allow you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to pursue a career as a licensed RN before earning your MSN.
Once licensed, you could pursue an entry-level nursing position. Some students may find this is an especially valuable benefit of direct entry programs. You could gain valuable experience in the field while still working towards your graduate degree part-time.
Other students find it a better option to go through these accelerated programs as a full-time student to earn their degree in less time. Research a variety of programs and the different structures available to help make your decision.
Public Notice Of Ccne Accreditation Visit
Invitation for Third-Party Comments
Provo College in Provo, UT, and Eagle Gate College in Idaho Falls, ID, will host an initial accreditation site visit by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education for initial accreditation of our Masters Entry Program in Nursing January 30-February 1, 2023.
In accordance with CCNEs procedures, the Commission provides the opportunity for program constituents and other interested parties to submit, in writing, comments concerning the programs qualifications for initial accreditation.
You are invited to share your comments regarding the Colleges MEPN Program in Provo, UT and Idaho Falls, ID to CCNE by January 9, 2023. All third-party comments must be written in English. CCNE shares third-party comments only with the evaluation team. At no time during the review process are these comments shared with the hosting program. However, all compliance concerns related to the accreditation standards will be identified in the accreditation report, and the program will have an opportunity to respond to those concerns as part of its response to that report.
If you would like to submit a third-party comment regarding the Masters Entry Program in Nursing, please submit to CCNE at
Or, if you prefer, comments can be mailed to: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education Attn: Third-Party Comments 655 K St., NW, Suite 750 Washington, DC 20001
Is A Direct Entry Masters In Nursing Right For Me
Here are some factors to consider:
- No prior nursing experience. A direct entry MSN program allows you to enroll without having any previous nursing education or experience.
- Promising job outlook. Advanced practice nursing careers generally have promising outlooks and higher than average annual salaries.
- Career advancement. A direct entry masters in nursing can qualify you for advanced positions in the nursing field, allowing you to benefit from faster than average career advancement.
Another key consideration is whether the profession of nursing is in line with your career-related interests and goals.
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Direct Entry Msn Programs: Connecticut
Yale University Graduate Entry Pre-specialty in Nursing
Degree Requirements: Non-nursing baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA required: Not listed
Standardized exam required:
- TOEFL or IELTS for international students
Prerequisite courses: There are no mandatory prerequisites for the graduate entry pre-specialty in nursing program, however, the committee on admissions strongly recommend taking courses in:
Prerequisite courses: Complete with a grade of B or better of the following:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab
- Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab
- Microbiology with Lab
- Human Nutrition
- Human Growth and Development/Lifespan Developmental Psychology
Nurs 460 Mental Health Nursing3 Credits
This course focuses on the holistic care of clients experiencing mental health challenges. Psychiatric disorders, populations at risk, and the continuum of care delivery are addressed. Emphasis will be placed on the application of assessment skills and nursing interventions relating to psychiatric clinical conditions through didactic and simulation experiences. The effects of ethical, legal, cultural, and political factors on care of the mentally ill are examined. The Healing through Caring theoretical model is used as the basis for planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care.
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What Can You Do With A Degree From A Direct
Direct-entry MSN and MSN bridge programs offer an accelerated path to advanced nursing careers. Students complete a demanding curriculum that quickly moves from basic undergraduate courses to higher-level graduate courses geared toward certification in an advanced practice registered nurse specialty.
Direct-entry MSM programs do not offer the same specializations and some limit their focus areas. For example, some programs may not offer the coursework and clinical requirements for CRNA/nurse anesthetist or nurse midwife certification.
The U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the employment of APRNs to grow by 40% between 2021 and 2031, well above the average for all occupations, including general RNs. The median annual salary of $123,780 for APRNs is also well above the national average.
Some of the most in-demand specialty tracks for MEPN graduates include:
Meet Our Students & Graduates
Nursings really special because there are a lot of cool things you can study. Where else can you go to school and see a baby born or view an open-heart surgery? As a nursing student at the UA, you get these wonderful once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
Melanie Begaye
I was drawn to the UA College of Nursing through the University of Arizona Cancer Center Native American Cancer Prevention undergraduate research program. I realized that being a nurse would help me achieve my goal of returning to the Navajo Nation and promoting wellness and traditional healing.
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Your Nursing Education Is An Important Investment Financial Aid And Scholarships Can Help Make Your Goals A Reality
UMSON offers multiple opportunities to help you afford your graduate education.
| Type of Aid | |
|---|---|
| Merit Scholarships | $3,000 per semester, or $12,000 total |
| Conway Scholarship | full scholarship: tuition and fees |
All students receiving funds through the University must:
- be enrolled at least half-time in a degree-seeking program
- complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid each year by UMB’s award priority deadline
- FAFSA Submission period: Oct. 1 through Feb. 28
- FAFSA School code: 002104
The UMB Office of Student Financial Assistance & Education is available to guide prospective and current students through the FAFSA application process and the financial aid award package.
Contact Us:
| Priority Deadline | Dec. 15, 2022If your online application and all supplemental application materials are received by this date, your application will be reviewed immediately for priority consideration for admission decisions and scholarships. |
| Deadline | Feb. 1, 2023Completed applications received after the deadline are reviewed solely on a space-available basis. Only those who apply by this deadline will be eligible for consideration for merit scholarships . This deadline does not impact eligiblity for federal financial aid. |
| Application Review | Rolling basis beginning in February |
| Admissions Decisions Announced | Rolling basis beginning in February |
Competitive applicants will be offered admission first. Space is limited so applicants are encouraged to apply early.
School Of Nursing Accreditation
The baccalaureate degree in nursing, masters degree in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice at Azusa Pacific University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The traditional baccalaureate nursing program, upper-division transfer programs, entry-level masters program, and the nurse practitioner program are approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing. Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission .
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Healthcare Administration Master’s Degrees For Nurses
In addition to a Master of Science in Nursing degree, nurses looking to pursue a master’s degree also have the option of going the healthcare administration route. For nurses looking to move beyond the bedside or go into an administration or leadership role, this can be an excellent path to take.
The two primary healthcare administration master’s degrees are:
An MBA in Healthcare Management focuses on general business leadership as well as healthcare administration while a Master’s in Healthcare Administration focuses on topics specific to healthcare like understanding healthcare operations and functioning in a leadership role at an executive level.
Earning an MBA or MHA are both excellent options however, an MBA has a broader focus in the curriculum. An MBA in Healthcare Administration allows individuals to gain a better understanding of general business and financial practices rather than those specific to healthcare.
The Path To Your Destination
- Graduates will receive enhanced bedside nursing education and training and the necessary tools to advance into a leadership role or continue toward a doctoral degree.
- Students will have opportunities to explore their areas of interest, including global health, research, quality and safety, and practice in many specialty areas.
- Graduates of the MSN Program will be prepared to take the nursing licensure exam, NCLEX, and be licensed as an RN.
- Post-graduation, students can choose to enter the nursing workforce immediately or continue their studies toward an advanced practice nursing specialty or doctoral degree.
- Scholarships and financial aid are available.
MSN Entry Virtual Information Session August 2022
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Courses You’ll Take: Spring Admission Plan Of Study
For financial aid purposes, there are credit minimums for full-time status that may differ from the plans of study. See details.
Students admitted in the spring semester may enroll in classes for:
- four semesters and one summer or
- four semesters and two summers.
Students choosing to enroll in both summer courses in the first summer may have the opportunity to apply for a residency or certified nursing assistant position at a health care facility for their second summer in the program.
This plan of study is for students entering the CNL program in spring 2017 and subsequent spring semesters. This option is four semesters and one summer session.
Direct Entry Msn Programs: Washington
Pacific Lutheran University Entry-Level MSN Program
Degree Requirements: Non-nursing baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA required: 3.0
Standardized exam required:
- GRE scores from within five years
- TOEFL and IELTS for international students
Prerequisite courses: Complete with a grade of B or better of the following:
- College-level Statistics
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I
- Human Anatomy and Physiology II
- Developmental PsychologyLifespan
- Intro to Microbiology
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Direct Entry Msn Programs: Virginia
University of Virginia CNL
Degree Requirements: Non-nursing baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA required: 3.0
- TOEFL or IELTS for international students
Prerequisite courses: Complete with a grade of B or better of the following:
- Human anatomy and physiology within five years of the program start
- Microbiology within five years of the program start
- Life span development
- Statistics at the graduate or undergraduate level within five years of the program start
Sentara College of Health Sciences Masters Entry to Nursing Practice
Degree Requirements: Non-nursing baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA required: 3.0
How Earning An Msn Advanced My Career
“Completing my master’s degree opened up more job opportunities to advance my nursing career and also provided me with leadership skills I’ve leveraged to excel as a nurse entrepreneur.”
One of the major benefits of an MSN degree is that not only does it offer more advancement opportunities and earning potential, but it also allows you to specialize in a role and/or patient population that interests you the most.
For instance, you can choose to specialize in a clinical specialty track as a Nurse Practitioner or choose a more administrative role, such as a Nurse Educator or Nurse Researcher.
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Direct Entry Msn Programs: Texas
University of Texas Austin Alternate Entry Master of Science in Nursing
Degree Requirements: Non-nursing baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA required: 3.0
- GRE within the past five years
- TOEFL taken within the past two years
Prerequisite courses: Complete with a grade of C or better of the following:
- Anatomy or A& P I
- Physiology or A& P II
Whats The Difference Between A Direct Entry Msn And Mepn Programs
A direct entry MSN and a MEPN degree are often considered academically equivalent and may both be great options for non-nursing students looking to pursue a career in the field. However, there are some differences. For some, MEPN programs may be more desirable.
For instance, many entry level masters in nursing program may not award a BSN. On the other hand, while not always the case, many direct entry MSN programs may.
Additionally, some MEPN programs may be completed in 15 months, making them more even more accelerated than direct entry programs. However this accelerated format often means MEPN programs are for full-time students only.
Keep in mind that schools each often design their programs differently. Therefore, while both of these direct entry nursing degrees are academically equivalent, there may be variations in perquisite courses, program length, and structure. Contact an advisor to learn more.
Fun Fact: There are currently over 2.9 million nurses in the United States and only three of five work in hospitals.
Check out sponsored Direct Entry MSN Programs in the table below.
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Master Of Science In Nursing Entry
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.
WesternU College of Graduate Nursing graduates will be given first consideration when applying to the FNP program. Applicants will be required to have completed one year, full-time RN work experience. For more information regarding program requirements, please visit the Post-Masters FNP Requirements web page.
We have a nationally recognized program and offer:
Nurs 414 Geriatric Nursing2 Credits
This course focuses on issues related to the provision of holistic nursing care to the aging population. Emphasis is placed on health promotion, chronicity and cultural aspects of aging. Additional focus is on end-of-life care and ethical dilemmas related to the aged population. Current theories of aging are examined.Competence Statement:Knows theories of aging and concepts of health promotion, illness prevention, chronicity, culture and end-of-life well enough to identify the specialized care needs for aging clients.
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Menp Vs Traditional Masters 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.
Direct Entry / Accelerated Msn Programs
Direct entry or accelerated MSN programs as they are often called are designed for those individuals who hold a non-nursing Bachelors degree who have a desire to enter the field of nursing. If you are already a Registered Nurse then this is NOT the program for which you are searching.
If you are an RN holding a BSN degree then you are likely seeking a BSN to MSN program. If you are an RN holding either a nursing diploma, an Associates Degree in Nursing, or a non-nursing Bachelors degree then you are likely seeking a RN to MSN program. If you are still reading then you must have a non-nursing Bachelors and are not currently a Registered Nurse.
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Direct Entry Msn Programs: Illinois
DePaul University Masters Entry to Nursing Practice Program
Degree Requirements: Non-nursing baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA required: Minimum 3.2 GPA recommended
Standardized exam required:
- GRE scores if undergraduate cumulative GPA is below 3.2 on a 4.0 scale
- TOEFL or IELTS for international students
Prerequisite courses: Complete with a grade of C or better of the following :
- Two courses of human anatomy/physiology with labs
- One course of inorganic with lab
- One course in organic chemistry with lab OR biochemistry with lab OR microbiology with lab
Elmhurst College Masters Entry in Nursing Practice
Degree Requirements: Non-nursing baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA required: 3.2
- TOEFL or IELTS for international students
Prerequisite courses: Complete with a grade of C or better of the following:
- Social Science Example: Introduction to Psychology or Introduction to Sociology
- College-level oral and written communication skills
- Computer literacy Example: Microsoft Word, email and internet skills
- General Chemistry with lab
- Microbiology with lab
- Human Anatomy and Human Physiology with labs 2 semesters
Millikin University MSN: Masters Entry into Nursing Practice
Degree Requirements: Non-nursing baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum GPA required: 3.0 minimum
Standardized exam required:
Prerequisite courses: Complete with a grade of C or better of the following: