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RN to Master of Science in Nursing Program

photoThe RN to Master of Science program 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. A BS in nursing is not required.

This program is designed so that students may complete the required junior an senior undergraduate nursing courses in one full-time year, beginning in May and ending the following May. Part-time study is also possible. The RN completes courses in new areas of content. In addition, there is assessment of and credit for previously attained knowledge and skill. The RN to master's program is built upon prerequisites to the nursing major that include courses in the natural and behavioral sciences, humanities, fine arts, and core courses required of all undergraduate students at USM.

The following areas of specialization are offered in the graduate program, preparing nurses for advanced nursing practice in:

Credits-by-Examination

Credits-by-examination may be earned in both undergraduate nursing and 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 Joyce Lapping, Director of Prior Learning Assessment, 207-780-4663, for an appointment or information.

Sequencing of Courses

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

Upon completion of undergraduate courses, the RN to Master of Science student enrolls in graduate courses. All graduate courses are required and concentrations total 31-54 credits depending on specialty chosen.

Graduates who complete this program are eligible to sit for national certification in the nursing practice specialty completed.

For more information on this program of study and courses, go to the CONHP area of the USM graduate catalog.

Application:

Application forms may be obtained from:
Office of Graduate Studies & Research
University of Southern Maine
96 Falmouth Street
PO Box 9300
Portland, ME 04104-9300
Phone: (207) 780-4386

Admission Requirements:

See CONHP area of the USM Graduate Catalog for Nursing specific admission requirements.
See Graduate Admissions for general graduate admission requirements.

Undergraduate Requirements:
Click here to review undergraduate requirements

Basic Nursing Credits:
Click here to review basic nursing credits.


Graduate Requirements:
(See sample MS courses of study).

The graduate program in nursing is four academic semesters in length for students taking an average of ten to twelve (10-12) credits per semester. Both full-time and part-time study options are available. Students must complete the program within six years.

For questions or comments, please contact us.

Last updated - 07-09-08


 

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