Master of Science Degree Programs

Master of Science in Adult Health Nursing (MS)

Master of Science in Gerontological Nursing (MS)

The Department of Nursing offers programs leading to the Master of Science (MS) in Adult Health Nursing and the Master of Science (MS) in Gerontological Nursing. Students in the two degree programs take the same courses but focus their course assignments and clinical hours on the population of choice—adults across the life span (adult health nursing) or older adults (gerontological nursing). The MS degree programs have two options: Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Practitioner (CNS/NP).

These programs are designed to meet health care workforce needs and to provide opportunities for graduate-level education. The program requirements are consistent with the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) competencies published by the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists, and the Nurse Practitioner (NP) competencies published by the Division of Nursing, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Nurses who successfully complete the programs are prepared to meet the needs of culturally diverse individuals, families, and communities and will have a competitive edge in the changing environment of health care.

Restructuring of health organizations has created new roles for nurses, especially those with master's-level preparation. Graduates of the Master's programs are eligible for certification as specialists in adult health or gerontological nursing through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and other certifications offered by ANCC and nursing specialty organizations. Graduates of the CNS/NP option are also eligible for certification as Adult Nurse Practitioner or Gerontological Nurse Practitioner.