Fairfield University School Of Nursing
Fairfield Universitys School of Nursing offers Master of Science in Nursing degree programs in several specializations including the following:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Leadership
Applicants to the MSN program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a regionally accredited institution, preferably with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. All candidates must have a license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the state of Connecticut.
Associates and diploma prepared RNs who hold a Bachelors in a non-nursing field of study will be considered on an individual basis and may be required to complete prerequisite and/or bridge courses in order to be fully admitted to the MSN program.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
What Is The Job Outlook For Advanced Practice Nursing As A Nurse Practitioner Nurse Midwife Or Nurse Anesthetist
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections program, APRN employment is projected to grow 31% from 2016 to 2026. This is faster than the average growth of all occupations. There is currently, and is projected to be an increase in demand for healthcare services. Bloomberg Businessweek reported in 2013 that the U.S. has a shortage of 13,000 doctors and could grow to over 130,000 by the year 2025. Advanced practice nurses, especially nurse practitioners, could fill that gap.
*Quick facts chart is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
School Nclex Pass Rate
All nursing programs prepare nurses for the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure with varying degrees of success. The higher the pass rate, the better prepared students are to take the test and deliver high-quality patient care.
While the NCLEX-RN is most relevant to those pursuing an RN license, it remains a good indicator of the nursing program’s quality, even for advanced nursing programs.
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How To Become A Cna
To pursue a career as a CNA, you must complete a training program approved in your state. High schools, tech schools, hospitals, and community colleges commonly offer these programs. You generally dont need any previous training to enter a CNA program. Some CNA training programs may be available online, but all will have a hands on component that must be completed in person.
Prerequisites For Msn Or Dnp Programs

Would you like to advance your nursing career withan MSN or DNP degree, but do not have a bachelors degree in nursing? UCFCollege of Nursing has an option designed for you.
LicensedRNs who have completed an AS in Nursing or diploma nursing program and haveearned a bachelors degree in a discipline other than nursing may apply to anMSN or DNP program.
Students who plan on enrolling in a full-timegraduate program must complete the following prerequisite courses the semesterprior to beginning graduate coursework or progression in the program will bedelayed.
- NUR 3805 Dimensions of Professional Practice
- NUR 4637 Public Health Nursing
- NUR 3165 Nursing Research
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What Youll Learn In An Online Direct
Since direct-entry MSN programs are designed for individuals with no prior background in nursing, students in these programs receive a solid education in foundational nursing concepts and practices, as well as specialized knowledge and skills that prepare them for advanced practice and leadership roles in the profession. By the end of the program, students should be able to:
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of professional knowledge and the application of critical-thinking skills to improve healthcare outcomes throughout the nursing process.
Provide safe, efficient, and respectful patient-centered care through all levels of care across diverse patient populations.
Provide efficient, effective, and ethical management of healthcare resources across the spectrum of care settings.
Demonstrate the ability to assume leadership roles in a range of healthcare systems and settings.
Demonstrate comprehensive communication skills, both written and oral, in leading interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
Apply To Msn Degree Programs
Some MSN programs require you to take a GRE test and achieve a particular score. This is similar to the SAT you take to enroll in undergraduate school.
Most programs will waive GRE scores if your undergraduate GPA is above average. They may also waive them if you provide letters of recommendations speaking highly of your current nursing practice.
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Earn Your Masters Degree In Less Than 21 Months
If youre ready to make the switch to a career in nursing and have a non-nursing bachelors degree, Marquette Universitys Direct Entry MSN program can help you get there sooner. Our program offers the best aspects of online and on-campus learning, combining:
- The convenience of online learning
- Hands-on skills and simulation labs
- Clinical practice at some of the top local healthcare facilities
This means that in 1821 months, youll graduate ready to sit for the NCLEX-RN, the last step toward becoming a licensed registered nurse. To learn more, call to speak with an admissions adviser today, or fill out the form on the right to have someone call you.
My Bachelors Degree Is In A Non
It is okay. The direct-entry MSN program is for anyone who has a bachelors degree regardless of the students major. The bachelors degree can be a Bachelor of Art or a Bachelor of Science. Students who already have a Bachelor of Science might find it easier to keep up with the coursework of the MSN program. That is, they might find it more comfortable because there is going to be a heavy focus on science for the MSN program. If the student has a Bachelor of Science, they will already be used to a heavy load of science coursework.
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Is An Online Program For Rn To Msn Worth It
With an Associates Degree in Nursing, youre already qualified to become a floor nurse. However, if you want to advance your career, youll have to earn an additional degree. A BSN is definitely an option, but most RNs prefer an MSN.
An MSN can propel you to better positions, help you earn more money, make the transition to academia easy, and give you the chance to work in exclusive specialty departments. So yes, this expedited pathway is worth it.
Advanced Practice Nursing Certifications
After graduating from a direct entry MSN program, you may decide to pursue a career as a registered nurse or an advanced practice registered nurse . APRNs require a masters degree and special certification. APRN roles include nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, and clinical nurse specialist.
Here are some examples of APRN certifications that you may go on to earn, depending on your MSN specialization:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Certified Nurse Midwife
The advanced practice nursing certification thats right for you can depend on your educational background and professional goals.
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State University Of New York Upstate Medical University College Of Nursing
SUNY Upstate Medical Universitys College of Nursing offers a traditional BSN to MSN pathway and an RN to MSN pathway. MSN programs are offered by Upstate Medical University in the following specializations/roles:
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
Applicants to the RN to MSN program may enter with only a nursing diploma or Associates degree. They will be required to complete an additional 60 hours of course work prior to matriculation.
Applicants to the RN to MSN who have a Bachelors degree in a non-nursing field can be matriculated into the MSN program once they have completed five undergraduate bridge courses in Health Assessment, Statistics, Management in Nursing, Nursing Research, and Community Focused Nursing.
Applicants to the BSN to MSN programs are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale . They should also hold a current New York State license as an RN as well as current CPR certification. Work experience as an RN is not required. The GRE is not required.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
All programs are offered in a Distance Learning format with some on-site requirements. The Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner program can also be taken completely on-site.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
How To Become A Nurse Practitioner Without A Bsn/nursing Degree

Is it possible to earn a MSN degree without having a BSN ? Absolutely. You can also earn a MSN if you have a bachelors degree in a non-nursing field of study.
Most people interested in earning a masters degree in nursing pursue careers in a variety of healthcare work environments and are referred to as APRNs, or advanced practice registered nurses. In this area of patient care, a few career examples include nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and nurse anesthetists. Many people choose to complete an online MSN program because they are currently working registered nurses. This type of higher education normally requires less time and money while still maintaining all of the necessary learning that is included in a traditional MSN degree program.
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How Do I Know An Rn
You can confirm an RN-to-MSN program’s accreditation by checking with the specific accrediting organizations. All accrediting bodies listed above maintain up-to-date lists of approved programs.
Nursing programs also detail their accreditation status on their website or program information page.
Any program listed on this page, or any NurseJournal.org list or page, is accredited.
Best Direct Entry Msn Programs Without Gre
Home » 2022 Best Direct Entry MSN Programs Without GRE
Direct entry MSN programs without GRE requirements give you the opportunity to enter the nursing profession if you have an undergraduate degree in a different field.
Direct entry nursing programs can help you break into the rewarding field of nursing, even if your previous education and experience have been focused on different professional avenues.
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Whether your background is in business, arts, education, or another field, graduate entry nursing programs can help you redirect your career path. Holding an MSN can also be a qualification for obtaining an advanced practice nursing license, depending on your specialization.
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Saint Josephs College Of Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing degree programs available through Saint Josephs College of Nursing prepares graduates for advanced nursing careers in three specialty areas:
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
- Family Nurse Practitioner
They offer a traditional BSN to MSN pathway as well as an RN to MSN Bridge pathway.
The MSN in Nursing Administration is a 42 credit hour program. It can be combined with either a Master of Health Administration or a Leadership MBA degree in a dual degree program. Graduates are qualified to sit for the national Nurse Administration certification exam.
The MSN in Nursing Education is a 42 credit hour program. It can be combined with a Masters in Education to earn dual degrees. Graduates are qualified to sit for the national Nurse Educator certification exam.
The MSN Family Nurse Practitioner is a 48 hour program. It requires that the student also complete 600-720 supervised clinical hours. Students must receive a grade of B or higher in each FNP course in order to remain in the program.
Applicants to the BSN to MSN must hold a Bachelors degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. They must have completed an undergraduate Statistics course.
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Why Should You Get An Msn
MSN programs prepare a Registered Nurse to better serve their patients from a holistic perspective. Graduate-level nursing courses will cover topics such as ethics, public health, leadership, healthcare practice, and clinical skills.
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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Faqs About Online Direct
Got questions? Most students ask certain questions when considering an advanced degree, especially one with an online component. Here are six key questions you should ask before applying to online direct-entry MSN programs.
How long will it take to earn my MSN degree in a direct-entry program?
Program lengths vary, with most designed to be completed in approximately two to three years of full-time study. There are, however, programs available that can be completed in as little as 18 months of full-time work to four years or more for programs with part-time study options. Total credit requirements also vary, sometimes substantially 70 to 80 total credit hours is common, however, with the bulk earned on undergraduate-level courses.
How much does a direct-entry MSN online program cost?
Total costs can vary significantly from program to program. Generally speaking, programs offered by private institutions tend to be more expensive than those offered by public schools. Below are the current tuition costs for three online direct-entry MSN programs. Keep in mind, however, that total costs will likely include additional fees.
Sentara College of Health Sciences
$59,280
Will I earn both a BSN and MSN degree as part of this program?
When will I earn my nursing license in a direct-entry MSN program?
Does my bachelors degree need to be in a healthcare related field?
Are there any other prerequisites I need to complete before enrolling in this program?
What Does An Msn Nurse Do
Holding an MSN degree could open the door to positions as an RN as well as a nurse practitioner. Some common roles filled by MSN graduates include:
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Anesthetist
MSN nurses could pursue work in many concentration areas. They may also provide primary care to patients under the direction of a doctor.
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Nursing Careers & Salaries
While it is common to think of nurses as working within a hospital setting, there are a number of other workplaces and industries that may require nursing expertise. These can include outpatient health centers, physician offices, nonprofit agencies, and residential care facilities.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, direct admit nursing programs can help you qualify for licensure as well as a variety of opportunities in the field of nursing, depending on your specialization.
Careers | |
Nurse Practitioners, Outpatient Care Centers | $118,020 |
Nurse Practitioners, General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | $117,080 |
Nurse Practitioners, Offices of Other Health Practitioners | $109,200 |
Nurse Practitioners, Offices of Physicians | $108,430 |
Medical and Health Services Managers | $104,280 |
Nursing Instructors, Junior Colleges | $67,980 |
A number of positions in the field of nursing are predicted to experience significant job growth over the next several years . These positions include registered nurses , nurse midwives , nurse anesthetists , medical and health services managers , and nurse practitioners .
Get Your Nursing License

Upon graduation from our Direct Entry MSN program, the next step is to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination . This step is crucial, as you must pass the NCLEX to receive nursing licensure. To help students prepare for the NCLEX, we administer practice exams each semester. As a result, our students had a 2019 NCLEX pass rate of 98% for first time and repeat testers!
One of the great things about applying for a nursing license in the state of Wisconsin is that the state belongs to the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact . This means that nurses can apply for a mutli-state license, allowing them to practice in 27 states without the need to apply for a new license.
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What Exactly Is An Online Bridge Program
As discussed briefly above, an online bridge program is a unique higher education degree program created to help students advance their current education to the next level by providing the necessary information needed to connect the students knowledge from where they are to where they need to be academically. Many programs offered can be done in an accelerated amount of time and cost less than going back to a traditional college to earn the same degree.
How Long Does It Take To Earn An Online Msn Degree
There are many factors that affect how long program completion time will be for each individual. A few of these factors include program type, student academic progress, and credit transferability. See the Tracks image at the top of the page for an estimated program completion time. Programs range from 18 months up to 36 months. Again, these amounts of time all depend on the individual student and may include the influencing factors listed above.
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Is An Msn The Same As An Np
New York University College Of Nursing
New York Universitys College of Nursing offers two pathways to the Master of Science in Nursing degree: a traditional BSN to MSN pathway as well as an RN to MSN Bridge pathway.
Regardless of the pathway by which students enter, they are offered programs in the following areas of specialization:
- Advanced Practice Nursing: Adult Acute Care
- Advanced Practice Nursing: Adult Primary Care
- Advanced Practice Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
- Advanced Practice Nursing: Mental Health Nursing
- Advanced Practice Nursing: Pediatric Nursing
- Nurse-Midwifery
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Informatics
Applicants to all MSN programs are required to hold a Bachelors degree in nursing with a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. They must have a New York State nursing license prior to starting their course work. Before beginning their specialty courses, they must have at least one year of full-time clinical experience as an RN. They must also have completed undergraduate courses in both Statistics and Nursing Research.
Note that though they do not state it specifically, applicants with a non-nursing Bachelors degree entering the MSN program through their RN to MSN Bridge pathway will almost certainly be required to complete some set of undergraduate bridge courses as well as meeting all other MSN admission requirements prior to being fully matriculated into the graduate program.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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