The program leading to a Master of Science degree in nursing is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Education. It is designed to prepare the graduate for advanced practice nursing roles as a nurse administrator or a nurse educator and serves as a foundation for doctoral study.
The outcomes of the graduate program are:
- Provide leadership that influences and contributes to the advancement of the nursing profession
- Synthesize advanced skills and scientific knowledge into advanced nursing practice roles
- Utilize new knowledge to provide high-quality health care, initiate change, and improve the practice of nursing
- Evaluate the effectiveness of advanced nursing practice initiatives
Course work builds on the knowledge and skills gained in a basic nursing education program. It provides the theoretical and practical knowledge required for advanced nursing practice in diverse settings within a rapidly changing health care system. Nurse administrators assume leadership roles in planning, organizing, and implementing care across the spectrum of health care settings. Nurse educators assume the responsibility as nurse educator, patient educator, or nursing staff development in a variety of academic and health care settings.
The Master of Science in nursing program offers two 36-credit tracks—the Nursing Administration track and the Nursing Education track for baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses.
The curriculum includes 24 credits in graduate nursing core courses which students in both tracks will complete. Students will also complete an additional 12 credits in specialty courses related to their specific track.
