Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program is for baccalaureate-prepared nurses. In keeping with the standards for graduate education for advanced practice nursing delineated by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing in the Essentials of Master’s Education for Advanced Practice Nurses, the purpose of the MSN program is to prepare students to assume leadership roles in their particular specialization. Master’s-level nursing education is the appropriate level of education for nursing professionals who are seeking roles that require advanced practice skills in order to function as providers and organizers of the health care delivery process. Students must complete one of the specializations listed in the University catalog.

Degree Requirements

To receive a Master of Science in Nursing degree, students must complete 87-89 quarter units of graduate credit. A maximum 13.5 quarter units of graduate credit may be transferred to meet program requirements. Refer to the General Catalog section on graduate admission requirements for specific information regarding admission and evaluation. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and must maintain a B (84%) in all core and specialization courses.

FNP and PMHNP Area of Specializations carry additional program fees. See General Information section of catalog for course fees.

CORE Requirements

6 Courses

4.5 Quarter Units

This course explores the role of the Advanced Practice Nurse within a changing health care environment, focusing on role theory and role development related to advanced practice. Leadership skills are developed for independent practice and collaboration within multidisciplinary professional and organizational frameworks.

4.5 Quarter Units

This course develops critical thinking skills to support advancement of nursing knowledge through theory development, analysis, and application of advanced nursing practice in diverse settings. Students explore the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing practice and develop skill in analysis of nursing and related theories.

4.5 Quarter Units

This course explores fundamental concepts and methods of statistics as applied to health related fields. The topics of this course include: introduction to basic concepts of descriptive and inferential statistics as they apply to health research; basic and intermediate concepts for testing, statistical hypotheses, construction and interpretation of confidence intervals; applying selected parametric and nonparametric techniques; regression and multiple regression; analysis of covariance, multivariate ANOVA, and related multivariate analyses. Computer software will be used to illustrate statistical procedures.

4.5 Quarter Units

Addresses the acquisition of knowledge and skills to promote health, help shape the health delivery system, and advance values through policy processes and advocacy. The intricacies of the organization and financing of healthcare delivery systems and the effect of health policies on healthcare delivery are the foci.

4.5 Quarter Units

Exploration of types and quality of evidence used to support nursing practice. Study of research designs, measurement tools, and other methods for the safe application of evidence to development of improved care and care systems are emphasized. Identification of an evidence-based scholarly question pertinent to advanced practice nursing.

4.5 Quarter Units

Centers on identifying and developing the skills needed by leaders in today’s healthcare arena. Students will employ the concept of leadership in the four key domains of advanced practice: clinical practice environments, the nursing profession, at the systems level, and in the health policy arena.

Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner

Preparation for FNP Specialization

3 Courses

4.5 Quarter Units

Presents information expanding the student’s knowledge base related to current health patterns across the lifespan. Faculty will facilitate the students’ acquisition of advanced skills in collecting subjective data and performing an adult physical and mental status examination. Students interpret data acquired through assessment and results of diagnostic studies.

4.5 Quarter Units

Provides pathophysiological principles and concepts essential for performing advanced clinical assessments, differential diagnoses, and therapeutic decision-making. Describes disordered physiology and clinical consequences of common disease processes. Analyses of the biophysical rationale are used during seminar, problem-solving exercises and case studies to recognize the pathophysiologic bases of clinical findings.

Specialization Requirements

9 Courses

Students must pass all Preparation for FNP Specialization courses before beginning any specialization courses

4.5 Quarter Units

Provides a knowledge base for applying, analyzing and evaluating the culturally competent provision of patient-centered care. Diversity in the global healthcare delivery systems is addressed. Allows the graduate nursing students to explore various models and theories which guide the development of culturally competent nursing practice.

4.5 Quarter Units

Second course of a two course series. Within each class of therapeutic drugs, the course examines clinical application, drug actions, interactions, reactions, and contraindications. The course will also include principles of prescribing and patient compliance.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: FNP 683C

Development of clinical decision-making skills. Focus is the delivery of comprehensive health care, including health promotion, health maintenance, and the diagnosis and treatment of common acute and chronic illnesses. Assigned readings, lectures, class discussion, and case studies are used as well as supervised practicum in multicultural practice settings. FNP 683A and FNP 683C must be taken concurrently and both completed satisfactorily to progress.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: FNP 683A

Application of theoretical knowledge in supervised clinical settings in the practice of caring for the adult and aged. The role of the family nurse practitioner in health promotion and disease prevention is emphasized. Required 180 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. FNP 683A and FNP 683C must be taken concurrently. Grading is S/U only.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: FNP 684C

Focus on methods of health promotion/disease prevention, and assessment and management of common health problems in infants, toddlers, school age children, adolescents, and women from menarche through to the climacteric. FNP 684A and FNP 684C must be taken concurrently and both completed satisfactorily to progress.

6.0 Quarter Units

Corequisite: FNP 684A

Application of theoretical knowledge in supervised clinical settings in the practice of caring for women and children. The role of the Family Nurse Practitioner in health promotion and disease prevention is emphasized. Required 180 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. FNP 684A and FNP 684C must be taken concurrently. Grading is S/U only.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: FNP 685C

Prepare students to perform the advanced practice roles of manager, clinician, educator, researcher and consultant in the provision of primary care services across the lifespan to under-served populations. FNP 685A and FNP 685C must be taken concurrently and both completed satisfactorily to progress.

8.0 Quarter Units

Corequisite: FNP 685A

Concentrated residency experience in which the student will critically and accurately assess, plan intervene and evaluate nursing experiences related to the care of individuals, aggregates, and nursing systems. Required 240 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. FNP 685A and FNP 685C must be taken concurrently. Grading is S/U only.

4.5 Quarter Units

Students demonstrate integration of knowledge from the core, core clinical, and clinical coursework in the MSN-FNP Program. The compilation and interpretation of information from previous courses is demonstrated in a scholarly paper and successfully passing an exam which mirrors the national board certification examination for Family Nurse Practitioners.

Specialization in Psychiatric – Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Lifespan

Academic Program Director: Susan Drummond; sdrummond@nu.edu

The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse practitioner- Lifespan (PMHNP) is registered nurse prepared at the master’s degree level and specializes in primary mental health care for individuals, groups and populations across the lifespan. The PMHNP Program is designed for nurses who hold a nursing diploma, or an associate nursing degree, or a Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN), who wish to advance their knowledge, education and skills to practice in an advanced practice role as a PMHNP. This advanced practice nurse maintains a critical role in the health care team and ensures collaboration and the provision of safe, effective, coordinated care. As an independent member of the health care team, and in partnership with patients, the PMHNP provides a variety of evidence-based services and therapies. The PMHNP assesses, makes diagnoses and plans care for complex psychiatric and concomitant medical issues, including the prescription and management of psychopharmacologic agents. The PMHNP advocates for patients and their families within a recovery and trauma-informed paradigm. The PMHNP ensures that patients and their families are engaged and actively participate in their behavioral health (mental health and substance use) care as they respond to the illness experience. The PMHNP continuously enhances their care through quality improvement and safety efforts and influences policy at the local, regional and national levels. The PMHNP melds the art and science of professional nursing and skillfully manages the acute and enduring issues posed by people with behavioral health issues across the lifespan. Graduates of this PMHNP Program are eligible to sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Lifespan competency-based examination.

Admission Requirements

Students applying for the PMHNP area of specialization must be accepted to the MSN program.

NOTE: Additional course fees apply. Course fees can be referenced in the general information section of this catalog.

Preparation for PMHNP Specialization Courses

3 Course

4.5 Quarter Units

6.0 Quarter Units

4.5 Quarter Units

*Students have the option of taking the preparation for MNP specialization concurrently with the 6 MSN core courses.

Specialization Requirements

9 Course

Students must pass all Preparation for PMH

4.5 Quarter Units

8.0 Quarter Units

Corequisite: FNP 685A

Advanced concepts in pharmacogenomics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics for targeted symptoms in the management of various psychiatric disorders. Management of symptoms for various populations and risk-mitigation strategies are presented for clinical problems in primary mental health settings. Use of psychopharmacologic agents with medical comorbidities. Patient adherence strategies examined

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: MNP 694C

Evidence-based assessment, diagnosis and treatment/management approaches to various psychiatric symptoms and disorders are explored. Analyze concepts of neurophysiology and neuropathophysiology of adult/aging adults with psychiatric disorders. Examine the professional, policy and practice issues influencing the nurse practitioner’s role as a mental health provider for adult/aging adults with psychiatric disorders.

8.0 Quarter Units

Corequisite: MNP 694

Facilitate practicum experience of the PMHNP student with adults/aging adults in mental health care settings. Accurately assess, plan, intervene, and evaluate the care of adults/aging adults with mental illness. Perform the advance practice role of manager, clinician, educator, researcher, and consultant in the provision of mental health services. Required 240 preceptored/field experience clinical hours Grading is S/U only.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: MNP 687C

Evidence-based biopsychosocial assessment, diagnosis and treatment of children and adolescents with mental illness and/or developmental disorders are explored. Facilitate the knowledge of professional, policy and practice issues influencing the nurse practitioner’s role as mental health provider of children and adolescents with mental illness and/or developmental disorders.

6.0 Quarter Units

Corequisite: MNP 687

Facilitate Practicum experience of the PMHNP student with children/adolescents in mental health care settings. Accurately assess, plan, intervene, and evaluate the care of children/adolescents with developmental, behavioral or psychiatric disorder. Perform the advance practice role of manager, clinician, educator, researcher, and consultant in the provision of mental health services. Required 180 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. Grading is S/U only.

4.5 Quarter Units

Corequisite: MNP 688C

Provides a comprehensive review of psychotherapy principles and treatment approaches commonly used in primary mental health care services. Explores ways of developing effective therapeutic relationships with an emphasis on therapeutic communication. Individual, group and family psychotherapy across the lifespan are analyzed. MNP688A and MNP688C are taken concurrently.

4.0 Quarter Units

Corequisite: MNP 688A

Learner applies theories and principles of psychotherapy learned in MNP688A. Assesses motivation and readiness for treatment. Applies various theories of behavior patterns, belief systems, therapeutic relationship strategies based on evidence to reduce emotional stress, facilitate cognitive and behavior change, and foster growth. Required 120 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. MNP688A and MNP688C are taken concurrently. Grading is S/U only.

4.5 Quarter Units

Students demonstrate integration of knowledge from the core, core clinical and clinical coursework in the MSN-PMHNP Program. The compilation and interpretation of information from previous courses is demonstrated in a scholarly paper and successfully passing an exam which mirrors the national board certification examination for PMHNPs

Specializations

Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization prepares advanced practice nurses to manage the care of individuals and families across a lifespan. The program develops your ability to think critically; make differential diagnoses; use evidence-based findings to improve healthcare outcomes; and provide diverse individuals and families with healthcare that includes health promotion, disease prevention, management of acute and chronic health conditions, and primary care. Graduates are eligible to sit for the FNP national certification examinations offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Learn More

Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Lifespan

The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Lifespan (PMHNP) specialization prepares nursing professionals for advanced practice roles in providing primary mental healthcare to individuals, groups, and populations across a lifespan. As an independent member of the healthcare team, and in partnership with patients and their families, PMHNPs provide a variety of evidence-based services and therapies. They assess, diagnose, and plan care for complex psychiatric and concomitant medical issues, including the prescription and management of psychopharmacologic agents.

Learn More

Career Outlook

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree will prepare you for careers such as:

Diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a healthcare team. May focus on health promotion and disease prevention. May order, perform, or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x rays. May prescribe medication. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.

Median Salary:

$125,322 annual +160% above US average

Job Openings:

31,425 past year

Salary Range:

Low
$93,051
Medium
$125,322
High
$170,373

Most desired skills

Nursing
Primary Care
Medical Records
Patient Education And Counseling
Treatment Planning
Electronic Medical Record
Geriatrics

Top companies hiring for this role

Unclassified
UnitedHealth Group
Optum
Matrix Medical Network
Geisinger Health System
Hartford HealthCare
BrightSpring Health Services

Assess patient health problems and needs, develop and implement nursing care plans, and maintain medical records. Administer nursing care to ill, injured, convalescent, or disabled patients. May advise patients on health maintenance and disease prevention or provide case management. Licensing or registration required.

Median Salary:

$85,887 annual +78% above US average

Job Openings:

250,561 past year

Salary Range:

Low
$63,348
Medium
$85,887
High
$133,152

Most desired skills

Nursing
Nursing Care
Medication Administration
Nursing Process
Home Health Care
Nursing Practices
Care Coordination

Top companies hiring for this role

Unclassified
HCA Healthcare
Fresenius
Hartford HealthCare
Ascension
Aveanna Healthcare
Kaiser Permanente

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

Implement appropriate theories, models, frameworks, and concepts from nursing and non-nursing disciplines when designing interventions that influence healthcare outcomes for diverse populations in a variety of settings.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, to evaluate fiscally appropriate healthcare delivery systems that integrate research and clinical expertise to provide evidence-based, patient-centered care.
Evaluate economic, policy, environmental, and social forces that impact nursing practice, health care delivery and quality of health care.
Participate in the analysis, implementation and evaluation of strategies for improving nursing practice through the implementation of health information systems and technologies.
Demonstrate a professional commitment to creating an environment of lifelong learning for patients, families, communities, and other healthcare practitioners.

Admissions

Next start date: January

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Accreditations

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization, and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialization programs at National University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialization programs at National University are approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Why National University?

We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.

Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.

“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”

Francisco R.,

Class of 2016

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Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.

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NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.

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Our network of 240,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.

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FAQs

Yes, an MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) is a higher level degree than an RN (Registered Nurse). An RN is a licensed nurse who has completed a diploma program, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in nursing, while an MSN is a graduate-level degree that prepares nurses for advanced roles in the field of nursing.

What degree you earn depends on your career aspirations. A BSN is typically considered the minimum requirement for many nursing positions, while an MSN provides advanced education and training for nurses seeking higher-level roles such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator. Ultimately, the decision of which degree to pursue depends on your career goals.

No, an MSN is not the same as an NP. An MSN is a graduate-level degree program that provides advanced education and training in a variety of areas, while an NP is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed specialized training and holds a master’s or doctoral degree.

An MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) is a graduate-level degree program that prepares nurses for advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and research opportunities. It typically includes specialized coursework and clinical training in areas such as nursing education, administration, informatics, and advanced practice nursing. An MS (Master of Science) in nursing, on the other hand, provides students with an in-depth understanding of the nursing profession and helps them prepare for a variety of nursing roles.

Monthly online meetings
Minimal on-campus requirements
Degree can be completed in as little as 12-18 months*
12-week courses
Specializations include Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Board certification review course for nurse practitioner specialties
Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificates available to students who already hold an MSN

*For post-BSN students, the program time to completion is 19 months; for incoming transfer students from another institution, program length depends on the program credits accepted.

Additional Resources

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)