What is an MSN? What You Need to Know About NU’s MS in Nursing

Topics: Nursing & Health Professions, Graduate Programs

Published on: 4/25/18 7:06 AM

What is an MSN? What You Need to Know About NU’s MS in Nursing

As a nurse eager to address healthcare's challenges, you're looking to step up and make a difference. An MSN from Neumann University is designed for nurses who want more: to lead, to specialize, and to change healthcare for the better, especially for those aiming to become sought-after nurse practitioners — the top job for 2024 according to U.S. News & World Report. 

With our online MSN program, we've been empowering nurses like you for nearly 60 years to reach for leadership roles and excel. At Neumann University, we're not just offering an advanced degree; we're offering a partnership to help you unlock a future filled with opportunities. Discover how to pursue an MSN, how to become an NP, and what our MS in Nursing program can offer you.

WHAT IS AN MSN?

An MSN, or Master of Science in Nursing, is an advanced-level degree for registered nurses seeking to deepen their clinical expertise, advance their careers, and possibly take on roles with greater responsibility and autonomy, such as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or nurse administrators. 

This graduate program focuses on enhancing clinical skills, understanding complex healthcare systems, and applying research to improve patient outcomes. It prepares nurses for leadership positions in various settings and specialties, expanding their scope of practice and opening doors to significant opportunities in the healthcare field.

GETTING AN MSN: HOW TO BECOME AN NP

An MSN is a critical stepping stone for registered nurses aiming to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs). Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who manage patient care directly, diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medication, and developing treatment plans—responsibilities traditionally reserved for physicians. 

By getting an MSN focusing on a Nurse Practitioner specialty, nurses can specialize in areas such as Family Practice or Gerontology.

What can you expect from graduating with an M.S. in Nursing from NU?

Students may choose from the following options:

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner- Acute Care, M.S.

MSN FNP- Family/Individual Across the Lifespan, M.S.

Post-Masters Certificate

  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Acute Care Post-Master’s Certificate
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Post-Master’s Certificate
  • Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate

With your M.S. in Nursing from Neumann, you will be prepared to provide comprehensive primary care to adolescents and adults across their lifespan.

Program graduates and Post-Master’s Certificate-earners alike may apply to sit for the national certification examination and apply for state licensure.

Facts about our MSN Program:

  • 100% pass rate — National Certification examination
  • All graduates rated their overall satisfaction with NU’s program with the highest rating possible and would recommend the program to others.
  • NU graduates surpass the national average for first-time pass rates on American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) national certification boards.
  • Average time for program completion is 3 years, and ALL students complete the program within 5 years.
  • Salaries for graduates range between $85,000 - $110,000.
  • Fully-online program with hands-on clinical experiences with experienced preceptors located in PA, NJ, and DE.

MS IN NURSING CURRICULUM

Although just a few, below are examples of the kinds of courses you'll have the opportunity to take while enrolled in NU’s program.

  • NUR 601 – Conceptual Models and Theories of Advanced Practice Nursing
  • NUR 606 – Health Policy, Legal and Ethical Issues in Advanced Practice Nursing
  • NUR 607 – Advanced Pharmacology
  • NUR 611 – Advanced Pathophysiology
  • NUR 612 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning
  • NUR 626 – Special Topics in Graduate Nursing
  • NUR 630 – Health Promotion and Disease Prevention for the Advanced Practice Nurse
  • NUR 632 – Nursing Research: Linking Evidence to Practice

What are Neumann’s MSN admissions requirements?

Our nursing programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (formerly the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission).

View a list of Neumann’s supplemental application items

Visit our website to learn more about the advanced nursing programs at Neumann University and let us help you make an informed decision regarding your future as a nursing leader.

The role of Nurse Practitioner has clinched the top spot as the #1 job for 2024. By pursuing an MSN, you’re not just advancing your career; you're stepping into a fulfilling, impactful, and esteemed leadership position.

Imagine the doors that will open for you with an online MSN from Neumann University. For nearly sixty years, our commitment has been to nurture the next generation of leaders, and we see great potential in you to be part of this legacy. Download our comprehensive guide to discover what awaits you in this highly sought-after profession. 

WRITTEN BY:
Bettsy McKlaine

 Bettsy McKlaine

About The Author: Bettsy McKlaine is the Executive Director of Enrollment Management, Degree Completion & Graduate Programs at Neumann University and a proud Alumna. The Neumann Community has become her second family and she loves to interact with students, both from the undergraduate and graduate population. Her favorite time of year is at the start of each semester as students begin classes!

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