Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at PLU
PLU’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program prepares nurses to lead with purpose, innovation, and compassion. Whether you’re just beginning your path in nursing, preparing for advanced practice as a nurse practitioner or seeking to expand your expertise in leadership and nursing education, you’ll find the support and challenge you need to grow — and to make a meaningful difference.
PLU offers two MSN program pathways and three program tracks:
Program Pathways
- The Entry-Level MSN (ELMSN) is for students who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and are ready to transition into nursing.
- The BSN to MSN is for registered nurses seeking to advance their knowledge and skills, and/or pursue nurse practitioner certification and licensure.
Program Tracks
- MSN Generalist (ELMSN and BSN-MSN pathways) – prepares registered nurses for advance practice in leadership, quality improvement, care coordination, population health, healthcare innovation, and nursing education.
- MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN-MSN pathway) – prepares nurses for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles as Family Nurse Practitioners to provide comprehensive primary care across the lifespan, and eligibility for national certification.
- MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-MSN pathway) – prepares nurses for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners to provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan, and eligibility for national certification.
Graduates of PLU’s MSN program are nurse leaders, educators, and change agents across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. They are well-prepared to step into roles as family nurse practitioners, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, clinical and nursing educators, care coordinators, population health leaders, and more. PLU School of Nursing graduates help shape the future of healthcare — one patient, one classroom, and one system at a time.
Why choose the MSN at PLU?
Hybrid Learning
The PLU MSN programs are delivered in a hybrid format that combines online learning with regular in-person instruction on PLU’s campus to ensure meaningful in-person interaction while providing flexibility for your graduate study.
Full-time & Part-time Options
You’ll be able to choose either a full-time or part-time plan of study, allowing you to balance working toward your educational goals with your existing professional and personal responsibilities.
Cohort Model & Personalized Faculty Mentorship
PLU MSN cohorts are intentionally sized to foster strong relationships with your faculty and fellow students, while receiving individualized mentorship and support. You’ll benefit from a collaborative learning environment that encourages professional growth, networking, and leadership development.
Hands-On & Experiential Learning
You’ll benefit from our state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab, extensive clinical experiences in a variety of settings, and applied practice experiences. In the nurse practitioner pathways, your clinical and project placements are coordinated by PLU – you do not have to find your own.
Strong Emphasis on Health Equity, Leadership, & Compassionate Care
Grounded in PLU’s commitment to service, equity, and social justice, the PLU School of Nursing supports and develops nurses who are prepared to address the complex healthcare needs of individuals, families, communities, and populations, and who boldly commit to expanding wellbeing, opportunity and justice.
