Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Master of Science in Nursing Program
What is the application deadline? How often are students admitted?
Admission Deadlines
|
MSN Program Track |
Fall Admission |
Spring Admission |
|
Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist |
March 1 |
November 1 |
|
Adult Nurse Practitioner |
March 1 |
No Spring Admission |
|
Clinical Nursing |
March 1 |
November 1 |
|
Family Nurse Practitioner |
March 1 |
No Spring Admission |
|
Executive Nurse Leader |
March 1 |
November 1 |
|
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner |
March 1 |
No Spring Admission |
What are the program prerequisite courses? Can I complete the prerequisite courses at the community college?
The only prerequisite course requirement for the MSN program is Elementary Statistics. This course may be taken at a university or community college.
Applicants to the MSN program must have a BSN or an Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing with a bachelor’s degree in a related field from an approved, accredited program.
What is the GPA requirement?
The GPA requirement is 3.0. A cumulative GPA and a last 60 semester/90 quarter unit GPA is calculated using your undergraduate degree transcript(s). Course work completed after the degree is not included in this calculation.
Can I apply to the program during my senior year in college?
You may apply as long as the BSN degree is conferred before the first day of class. An official transcript with the degree posted is required along with proof of RN licensure prior to enrolling in nursing courses at USD.
Do I need to submit my Health Requirement Information and proof of Student Liability Insurance by the application deadline?
The Health Requirement Information along with the Student Liability Coverage does not need to be submitted by the application deadline. However, all information will be due by a specified date if accepted to the program. Failure to comply will void the admission offer.
How do I determine if my degree from another country is equivalent to a US Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree?
Applicants who have earned a degree outside the United States are required to have their transcripts evaluated by World Education Services. (A course-by-course evaluation is recommended.)
Is there a work experience requirement?
There is no work experience requirement. However, we encourage new graduates to attend part-time their first academic year while they gain work experience.
Can I attend the program on a part-time basis?
Full-time or part-time enrollment is available. Students who attend full time complete their MSN degree in two years. Students who attend part time usually complete the degree in three to four years.
Do I need to select a Master’s Specialty at the time of application?
Applicants are asked to select a specialty area at the time of application. The specialties offered included Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Executive Nurse Leader and Clinical Nursing.
Choosing a specialty area is an important decision and should be made with great care as you may NOT be allowed to change a given specialty once admitted. Applicants are expected to research the roles extensively before choosing an area of specialization. Speaking with or shadowing clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, and nursing administrators is a critical step in your research. Applicants are expected to articulate in writing and conversation why they are applying to a specific specialty.
Can I work while attending the program?
The majority of nurses in the MSN program work while in the program.
When are classes offered?
Each class meets one day a week for three hours. Most courses are scheduled in a one day a week format.
How many units is the program?
The MSN program requirements range from 30-42 units depending upon the specialty selected. The specialties offered include Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Executive Nurse Leader and Clinical Nursing. (Please click on the link to each specialty for specific admission requirements and course requirements.)
Where are the clinical placements? Are students responsible for finding their own clinical sites?
In the Master of Science in Nursing program, clinical experiences are tailored to meet the learning objectives of the program and of the individual student. Clinical Nurse Specialist students have clinical experiences with clinical nurse specialists and physicians, usually in hospital settings. Executive Nurse Leader students have preceptors who are in health care administration settings in hospitals and community agencies. Students in the Nurse Practitioner program have the majority of their clinical experiences with nurse practitioners and physicians in primary care settings. These preceptors work in a variety of settings including HMOs, Medical Centers, Community Clinics, and private practices. There are currently over 400 preceptors available to students in the various programs. The Clinical Placement Coordinator consults with each MSN student regarding placement requests and then arranges clinical placements.