Program Admission Requirements
In addition to the Graduate School Admission Requirements , applicants for the Master of Science degree in Nursing - Nursing must possess a B.S.N. from a regionally accredited college or university and a nationally accredited nursing program with at least a 3.00 on a 4.00 scale for in the nursing major. They must present a satisfactory score on the General Test of the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) and have completed an undergraduate or graduate level statistics course and a course in research methods. They must also submit three professional references (including one from a current or recent employer), a resume, and a professional statement (details at http://www.wcu.edu/academics/wcu-graduate-school/graduate-degree-programs/nursing-graduate-degree.asp).
Applicants must be a registered nurse eligible for licensure to practice in North Carolina and have a minimum of one year of clinical nursing experience within the past five years and may be required to participate in an interview session that includes a written exercise. Applicants who are admitted to the program must own or have access to a computer with Internet service. Computer literacy is a necessary prerequisite. Meeting minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee acceptance into a program.
Program Description
The Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Nursing - Nursing Leadership , prepares nurses in an advanced practice role with competencies in Health Systems Management, Nursing Leadership and Financial Management. The Master’s of Science in Nursing - Nursing Leadership track is a 2-year program consisting of 40-41 semester hours. The total number of hours depends on whether the thesis option is selected. This program prepares the nurse leader to address the health care disparities within diverse populations. All courses except practicums are taught online, and practicum courses are arranged with a preceptor in a medically underserved location or with a culturally diverse population.
In addition to the academic requirements, students are expected to adhere to the technical and professional standards of the program. For the most up to date information regarding these standards, program suspension, and termination refer to the program’s website linked from the College of Health and Human Sciences.