University of Southern Maine

Undergraduate Requirements

The R.N. to master of science option at the University of Southern Maine College of Nursing and Health Professions has been created specifically for registered nurses whose career goals will be enhanced through graduate study.

The program facilitates and supports educational mobility and strengthens the leadership abilities of nurses who already have a foundation of professional experience. When required undergraduate courses have been completed, students in this program proceed directly into the master's program, bypassing the baccalaureate degree. This option is designed so that students may complete the required junior and senior undergraduate nursing courses in one full-time year, beginning in May and ending the following May. Part-time study is also possible.

The R.N. is offered both courses in new areas of content and assessment of and credit for previously attained knowledge and skill. The R.N. to master's option is built upon prerequisites to the nursing major that include courses in the physical and behavioral sciences, humanities, fine arts, and core courses required of all undergraduate students at USM.

Credits-by-Examination

Credits-by-examination may be earned in selected non-nursing courses. Non-nursing undergraduate courses open to credit by examination include English composition, general psychology and sociology, growth and development, human anatomy and physiology, and pathophysiology.

Prior learning assessment examinations can earn credits for non-nursing required courses. Call Kathie Blinick, director of Prior Learning Assessment, (207) 780-4040, for an appointment or information.

Courses within the B.S. program that must be taken in required sequence

For more information on these courses, go to the USM Course Search.

*Not required if RN has completed a baccalaureate degree in another field.

**May not be taken unless RN credit options have been completed and posted.

Sequencing of Courses

Some courses and credits-by-examination have prerequisites which must be completed prior to enrollment or taking the challenge exam. Some prerequisites may transfer into USM from another accredited institution; others may be taken at USM.

Upon completion of undergraduate courses, the R.N. to master of science student enrolls in graduate courses. All graduate courses are required and students earn a total of 45 to 56 credits.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the R.N. to master of science option for registered nurses is on a competitive basis. Each student applying for full admission must meet the following requirements:

1. An associate degree or diploma in nursing.
2. Evidence (photocopy) of unencumbered current licensure as a registered professional nurse in Maine.
3. Two letters of reference reflecting professional practice and academic achievement.
4. A score of 45 points or above on the Miller Analogy Test, or combined aptitude scores of 1000 (V.Q.)/1500 (V.Q.A.) or above on the Graduate Record Examination taken within the past 5 years.
5. Transcripts from a diploma school or an associate degree program. A 3.0 GPA (B average) is required.
   

For questions or comments, please contact us.

Last updated - 07-09-08

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