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 MSN Entry Level Program FAQs - General
In addition to the following general questions about WesternU's entry level Master of Science in Nursing, questions that are frequently asked about prerequisites, the application and interview process, and the curriculum can be found by selecting the menu options on the left.
A master's entry program is an accelerated program of study that meets the same educational requirements for a BSN in Nursing. The difference is that the student cohort all have a baccalaureate degree in a non-nursing field. Therefore, the program of study is tailored to the needs of an adult learner who desires a master's degree as a terminal degree. In addition, the profession is in need of diverse students who have broader skills to bring to the discipline of nursing. How do Master's Entry graduates compare to traditional RNs on the NCLEX exam? Current data verifies that MSN-E students score higher on the NCLEX exam. In California, the NCLEX pass rate ranges from 90% to 100%. Since MSN-E students are admitted with a higher GPA, it is thought that these students are academically proven by their BA or BS degree and are highly motivated to achieve an RN and MSN degree. Who should apply to WesternU's College of Graduate Nursing? Students that seek a higher degree in nursing and who are motivated to become respected leaders of the profession. It is a rigorous program of study and graduates are highly respected in all service settings. Are the College of Graduate Nursing programs accredited? Yes, CGN has the highest level of accreditation. A ten year re-accreditation with the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education and re-approval by the Board of Registered Nursing was granted in October 2006. In the past three years the College has had two external reviews with no recommendations for improvement other than expanded physical space for the clinical skills lab. Accreditation of nursing programs assures you as a consumer that the program meets professional educational standards of excellence. What does WesternU offer that other institutions do not offer? What sets WesternU apart? The advanced use of clinical simulation in the pre-licensure phase of the curriculum and a dedicated faculty team that is committed to the MSN-E model of education, sets WesternU apart from other institutions. In addition, CGN has clinical partnerships in premier clinical facilities in southern California. What benefits are there to obtaining an MSN rather than a BSN? The advantages are numerous. These include career advancement, a higher level of educational preparation, and a shortened program of study. Many students who obtain a second bachelor's degree or an associates degree in nursing, later need to spend many more years of education to eventually achieve an MSN. How do I find out more information about the program? Contact our Office of Admissions at 909-469-5335 or University Recruiter, Sherry Ruffin at sruffin@westernu.edu. You may also register for one of our monthly Information Sessions, where you will have the opportunity to meet current students and a faculty member from the College of Graduate Nursing. Tours of the campus and clinical skills lab are conducted during these sessions. How do I apply? Applications can be downloaded from the website by completing the application request form. The new extended application deadline for the MSN-E class entering Fall 2008 is December 1, 2007. | |
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