Earn A Masters In Nursing
For non-nursing bachelors degree-holders, the first step toward becoming a nurse practitioner is to get a masters degree in nursing. Of course, you could go the traditional route of getting your Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and then an MSN degree, but why do that when theres an easier way?
Enter Marquette Universitys Direct Entry MSN program in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. Located at Marquettes satellite learning site midway between Milwaukee and Chicago, our accredited program lets you leverage your previous, non-nursing bachelors degree to earn an MSN in as few as 18 months.
Because you already have a bachelors degree, you likely have many of the non-nursing liberal arts credits required for a nursing degree. Sure, you may need to take a few additional courses to fulfill the prerequisite requirements typically students with Bachelor of Arts degrees need to take a few science courses, such as anatomy but, once in the program, you will focus exclusively on nursing theory coursework. This singular focus on nursing is what allows us to provide a comprehensive masters-level nursing education in just 1821 months.
During this time, youll:
What Is An Adn
ADN-to-MSN bridge programs are an option for nurses with an ADN who want to enter a master’s program. Most of these are RN-to-NP programs, though there are also bridge programs for other master’s degrees. These programs take longer than traditional MSN programs, but typically less time than ADN-to-BSN-to-MSN options, which is why they’re called accelerated NP programs.
How To Check Accreditation For Direct Entry Msn Programs For Non
Accreditation ensures that colleges, universities, and other institutions of higher education all meet the same standard of academic quality and integrity. This is especially important for online direct-entry MSN programs to ensure that graduates will obtain a regionally and nationally recognized degree ultimately securing your eligibility to become a professional nurse.
There are two general categories of accreditation: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation comes through multiple agencies, both at the national and regional levels, that are associated with the U.S. Department of Education. Programmatic accreditation is administered in the U.S. by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing .
It is important to confirm that the program you are considering have both institutional and programmatic accreditation. To find this information, you can check the program or institution websites. Additionally, you can check the CCNE and ACEN websites for this info or visit DOEs Database of Accredited Institutions and Programs .
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Credentialing Process For Nurse Practitioners
After completing the degree program, NPs will want to get certified in their specialty. The American Nurses Credentialing Center offers a wide variety of nurse practitioner certifications. Not only do they need to be licensed in the state in which they practice, but they must also undergo credentialing as well.
The credentialing process is rather complex. It involves verifying education, licensure, and certifications. It’s important that organizations move through the credentialing process to ensure the nurse practitioner is qualified to provide care. It also allows the organization to bill insurance companies and government agencies . Credentialing is required for nurse practitioners to be reimbursed for healthcare service.
How Much Does An Online Direct

Yet again, this varies based on the program. The cost can be tricky to calculate, as the pricing figures are not always presented in the same way. However, most programs show the cost as a dollar amount per credit. The total credits for most online direct-entry MSN programs typically average between 80 to 100.
One advantage of online programs, including direct-entry MSN degrees, is that they are relatively inexpensive. You dont need to worry about the additional costs of brick-and-mortar institutions, such as housing. While a few extra expenses are usually involved, the only dominant factor to consider is tuition.
Also, keep in mind that private institutions are generally more expensive than public ones. However, be sure to weigh both the cost and the total amount of credits to accurately compare program prices.
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Msn Degree Program Considerations If You Are Currently An Rn With An Associates Degree Or Diploma
If you are currently an RN and have a diploma or an associates degree, there are bridge programs offered by online schools to allow you to earn a masters in nursing without having a bachelors degree in nursing. Basically, the bridge program does just what the name suggests. It fills the gap, so to speak, with the necessary schooling you would have received when earning the bachelor of science in nursing degree. Most online programs refer to these programs as RN to MSN and/or RN to BSN to MSN.
Who would choose to pursue this type of program? This is normally someone who is a registered nurse with years of experience and would like to become a nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, or clinical nurse specialist of some type. Most people who are RNs are currently working and have families, so going back to traditional college to earn a BSN, and then an MSN may not be an option for him/her because of the time and money that would be required. An online bridge program may be a better consideration.
Following Are The 16 Best Direct
Concentrations Offered:Adult/Gerontology Acute CareAdult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerEmergency Nurse PractitionerFamily Nurse PractitionerNeonatal Nurse PractitionerPediatric Acute CarePediatric Primary CareWomen’s HealthAbout the School:Program Details:Admission Requirements:Concentrations Offered:Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerPrimary Care Pediatric Nurse PractitionerFamily Nurse PractitionerPsychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerNeonatal Nurse PractitionerWomen’s Health Nurse PractitionerAbout the School:Program Details:Admission Requirements:Concentrations Offered:Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerAdult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerFamily Nurse PractitionerNeonatal Nurse PractitionerWomen’s Health Nurse PractitionerAbout the School:Program Details:Admission Requirements:
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Take A Certification Exam In Your Specialty
All NPs have a specialty. The exam you take will depend on your area of focus. Certification organizations for NPs include the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program, the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the National Certification Corporation, and the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
How Can I Tell If My Nursing Bridge Program Is Accredited
Most schools will post that information on their website and include it in brochures. They want potential students to know they are accredited.
The major national accreditation bodies are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing . Before deciding on a nursing school program, confirm with your State Board of Nursing that graduates of the school youre interested in are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
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Can I Become A Nurse Practitioner Without Nursing Experience
Nursing experience is required to become a nurse practitioner, but there are MSN options that do not require a BSN or prior nursing experience.Direct-entry MSN programs, sometimes referred to as accelerated nursing programs, are nursing programs for those without prior nursing experience or education. They enable career changers who have a bachelors degree or masters degree in another subject to pursue a career in nursing. These programs typically take around two to four years to complete and include general prerequisite nursing courses.
During an MSN program, youll gain hundreds of hours of clinical experience. Direct-entry MSN programs specifically provide coursework for you to first become a RN and earn licensure and then pursue coursework to help fulfill your career as an advanced practice registered nurse .
Youll likely be required to earn clinical experience post-graduation to earn your certification as a nurse practitioner and subsequently pursue state licensure. Be sure to check with your states nursing licensure requirements before applying to MSN programs.
How Long Could It Take To Earn My Msn Degree In A Direct Entry Program
Direct entry MSN programs for non nursing majors online typically vary. Some may take 15 months to complete. Others could take two years. Part time and full time options usually exist. Accelerated MSN programs may be available. Some programs may need 30 credits. Many typically need 70 to 80. Previous education may play a role in what you take.
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Bridge Programs For Nurse Practitioners
Bridge programs for NPs offer RNs without a BSN, or with a bachelors in a different field, a pathway to earning their MSN. Ideal for RNs or LPNs with an associate degree, bridge programs connect these learners current academic background with the necessary requirements for becoming an NP.
Generally, these programs require some prior nursing education for admission, like a diploma or associate degree in nursing from an accredited institution. Applicants must also hold an active RN license for admission. Each program may hold different cumulative GPA requirements, but programs often seek out applicants with at least a 3.0 average.
Bridge programs typically require between 45 and 52 credit hours, allowing students to complete coursework in about two years of study.
Paying For Rn To Np Bridge Programs

Tuition is the most expensive part of an RN-to-MSN program, but as you consider your budget, be sure to include whether you can work while attending school, whether there are any travel expenses for on-campus programs or clinical hours, and your future earning ability with your degree.
Options for financial aid include scholarships, grants, or loans from the school, foundations, banks, or the government. You can also explore work-study programs and tuition assistance from some healthcare employers.
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Master Of Science For Non
This graduate-entry program is for non-nurses who have a bachelors degree in another eld and now wish to enter the nursing profession at an advanced level.
Admission: Fall only
The Advanced Generalist Master of Science /graduate-entry program prepares non-nurses to sit for the RN licensure exam, then go on to work as advanced generalist nurses who act as care coordinators for a group of patients while providing direct care in complex cases. They are able to synthesize knowledge from nursing and related disciplines, to improve healthcare by assuming leadership roles, and to contribute to the advancement of the profession.
Application deadline is January 15. Learn about applying
Public Comment Invited By Commission Of Collegiate Nursing Education
On April 11 13, 2022, the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education will conduct a virtual site visit for consideration of continuing accreditation of the Seattle University, College of Nursing BSN program and the APNI/BSN component of the APNI to DNP program. CCNE invites anyone who wishes to submit comments about any of the programs to . All feedback to CCNE is confidential and must be received by March 18, 2022.
Or, if you prefer, mail comments to:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing EducationAttn: Third-Party Comments655 K Street, NW, Suite 750Washington, DC 20001
If you have any questions about this process, please contact CCNE staff at 202-887-6791 x268.
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A Few More Things To Examine When Choosing The Best Online Masters In Nursing Program For You
Many online education experts mention the following things to keep in mind when choosing an online program.
Make sure the program is accredited. One of the first things healthcare employers look for is if you graduated from an accredited program. The following national accreditation organizations are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Research state licensing requirements in the state you plan to practice. Its important to know if the state you plan to reside and practice in will accept the program/degree you work so hard to earn. Its also important to know ahead of time what the state licensing requirements are for you. The National Council of State Board of Nursing has extensive, useful information and a state search tool. This organization also has information on their site about the APRN Consensus Model .
Determine how much it will cost. Research your options. Each school and program varies. Do the math now. You will thank yourself later.
Look into financial aid. Speak to a school representative about financial aid options. Some schools offer government-funded financial aid. Some nursing organizations also offer grants, scholarships and other programs. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners is an example of such organizations.
Benefits Of Getting Msn
Opens New door for Opportunities
As some of the nursing specializations required master’s degree, there are certain prestigious positions in healthcare organizations and hospitals that give preference to students with MSN. If you are willing to get into any managerial role in hospitals, then MSN will be the right option.
Possibility of good Earning
The nurses who want to pursue advanced nursing must need to get MSN first. They get more salary compared to Registered Nurses. According to the Bureau of Labor, the salary of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists is double of the RN’s average salary.
Availability of More Options
Even the online MSN degree offers numerous choices for which students can go at their own pace and schedule their learning in flexible timing. The individual can continue their education with distance learning.
Acquire in-depth Knowledge of Nursing
The students are exposed to advanced nursing practices. The MSN programs allow the students to opt any favorable specialty track and get into in-depth nursing studies and become experts in the particular field.
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Could I Earn Both A Bsn And Msn Degree As Part Of This Program
Some programs may offer a BSN degree program. This may be available after pre-licensure is met. That happens after the curriculum is complete. Other programs typically do not do this. They likely only provide an MSN. That may be available after completing the whole program. Compare schools. Some may allow for BSN and MSN at the same time. It may be possible to find what you need.
Whats The Difference Between A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner And A Psychiatrist
The American Psychiatric Nurse Association provides helpful details about what exactly a PMHNP does, and how the role may differ from a traditional physician role as a psychiatric or psychologist. Although many of the duties of a PMHNP and psychiatrists may be very similar , the primary differences will be in the educational pathway and some of the state limitations that a PMHNP may have.
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Cost And Financial Aid
As a public university, Montclair State is among the most affordable options in the state.
To further assist you in meeting your goals, our Office of Student Financial Aid works with you to identify scholarships, grants and loans from federal, state and institutional sources.
Select employer discount programs and tuition deferment options make it easier to pay for your degree please for additional information.
How To Become A Nurse Practitioner Without A Nursing Degree

Although some schools might label these programs differently, the concept is the same. Many colleges and universities have started to offer programs for those who have obtained a bachelor’s degree in another field of study but want to become a nurse practitioner.
Since some schools use Accelerated and Direct Entry interchangeably to describe a bridge program, you’ll need to do some research to make sure you are entering the correct program. An Accelerated nursing program could assume you already have an RN license whereas a Direct Entry program may not.
These learning institutions generally offer a pathway that allows students to obtain their BSN, typically in three semesters, then pursue an MSN, which generally takes another three semesters. This allows students who have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, to become an NP in only two years when attending on a full-time basis.
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Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
The women’s health NP program prepares nurses to provide advanced care to women throughout the lifespan. They educate women on reproductive health and prevention techniques, and also provide primary care through chronic or acute illnesses. Women’s health NPs provide a variety of gynecological health services, and may assist with prenatal and postpartum care. They can be found in hospitals, outpatient care facilities, community-based settings, and other types of healthcare centers.
Find out more about women’s health nurse practitioner programs.
Accelerated Nursing Program Vs Direct Entry
While researching MSN programs, you may come across accelerated and direct-entry MSN programs. Both are designed for professionals looking to change or advance their nursing career. Accelerated programs may award a BSN and MSN to graduates, or they may just award an MSN. Its important to research programs carefully and find one tailored to your educational background.
Typically, those pursuing a direct-entry nursing program do not have a bachelors degree in nursing or a related field. Those pursuing an accelerated MSN may already have their BSN.
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Msn Degree Program Considerations If You Are Not A Registered Nurse And Hold A Bachelors Degree In A Related Health/science Field
If you are currently not a registered nurse, but would like to pursue a career as an APRN , there are online programs available for you, also. These are called BSN to MSN programs. Typically, these programs first focus on the BSN portion and are normally 18 months. After completing this part of the program, the student will take the NCLEX exam . Following taking and passing this exam, the remainder of the program focuses on the MSN degree, which also takes about another 18 months. The total time depends on how long it takes the student to pass the NCLEX exam between the two portions of the program.
Who would choose to do this? This is normally someone who has a bachelors degree with experience in the work force, but decides after a number of years that they are drawn to a career in nursing. Some people also find that the field in which they got their degree is very limited with a lack of employment opportunities. They would like to become a nurse , but arent interested in starting all over with a traditional college education to earn a BSN, and then an MSN. People such as these can complete an online BSN to MSN program and have better employment opportunities and earning capacity.