Master of Science in Nursing
Ranked as one of the top 100 graduate nursing programs in the US by US News and World Report, the MSN program is designed to equip nurses with the knowledge and skills to educate, lead change, promote health, and elevate care in various roles and settings.
There are two entry points into the MSN curriculum:
- Entry-Level Master’s – for non-nurses with a degree in another field who want to complete the RN and MSN in 27 months
- BSN to MSN – for nurses with a BSN
The core MSN curriculum prepares nurses with the knowledge and skills required of all master’s‐prepared nurses as determined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education (2021). The MSN student will also choose an area of specialization.
Two areas of role specialization are available:
- Certified Nurse Educator®
- Clinical Nurse Leader®
PLU MSN graduates are nursing leaders and educators throughout the Puget Sound area, Washington and across the US. The MSN Care and Outcomes curriculum also prepares the graduate for PhD or DNP doctoral study.
Accreditation
The School of Nursing is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and is approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing Commission. The Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Pacific Lutheran University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).