Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Graduate Program Description

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Graduate Program offers specialty tracks to cater to the diverse interests and career goals of nursing professionals. Each track focuses on a specific area of expertise and provides specialized knowledge and skills. While the program shares a common MSN Core to ensure a strong foundation in nursing principles, it also includes a specialty track core with courses tailored to each track.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Graduate Program Admissions and Course Offerings

All graduate programs operate on a yearly admissions calendar, with graduate learners matriculating in the Fall Semester of each academic year. The frequency of graduate course offerings varies by individual program; not every class is offered every year or every semester. The respective program plans for each graduate track outline the sequencing and timing of individual courses, and the course descriptions within the Catalog indicate the semester during which the course is typically offered. If a learner does not complete a given course because of drop, withdrawal, or failure, the learner must wait to re-enroll in the course when it is offered again, resulting in a potential delay in program progression. In addition, the learner may be able to enroll in core courses but will not be able to progress in the program-specific specialty courses until the course is offered again.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Graduate Program Competencies

Overarching Program competencies are specific statements that describe the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that learners are expected to achieve upon completion of the MSN Graduate Program. These competencies are used as the foundation for building the specialty track program outcomes. These competencies align with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) New Essentials and Competencies.

1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge and expertise in nursing theory, research, and evidence-based practice to inform clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.
2. Apply advanced assessment and diagnostic skills to provide comprehensive and culturally competent care to individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan.
3. Utilize innovative educational strategies and technologies to design and deliver effective nursing education in academic and clinical settings.
4. Analyze healthcare policy and ethical considerations to advocate for equitable and patient-centered healthcare delivery.
5. Demonstrate proficiency in evidence-based practices and use research to inform nursing interventions and improve patient outcomes.
6. Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams and communicate clearly to promote patient safety and quality care.
7. Apply principles of leadership and management to advance nursing practice, improve healthcare systems, and influence policy decisions.
8. Implement patient-centered care plans that incorporate health promotion, disease prevention, and evidence-based interventions for individuals and families.
9. Evaluate and address healthcare disparities to ensure equitable access to healthcare services for diverse populations.

Overarching Programmatic Competencies and Program Specialty Tracks’ Outcomes Alignment

 

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Graduate Program Shared Core

The shared MSN Core provides fundamental knowledge in areas such as advanced nursing practice, healthcare policy and ethics, research methods, evidence-based practice, and leadership and management. It ensures that graduates from all specialty tracks have a strong understanding of the nursing profession's core principles and are well-prepared for leadership roles in the healthcare system.