Jan 28, 2026  
CURRENT 2025-2026 Graduate Catalog 
    
CURRENT 2025-2026 Graduate Catalog

Nursing, MSN - Prelicensure Nursing


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This program is not effective until approval is received from the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Program Description

The Master’s Entry Prelicensure Nursing (MEPN) program is a fast-track program of study that provides an alternative pathway for individuals who have a bachelor's or graduate degree in another field to become a registered nurse (RN) without having to obtain a second bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree at a community college. The MEPN is a generalist nursing degree; upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to take the NCLEX RN licensure exam. The MEPN program focuses on nursing in the rural healthcare environment, encompassing Appalachia and indigenous Cherokee Indian populations.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the admissions criteria established by the Graduate School, the program also requires the following:

Test Scores

If GPA is less than 3.0, a GRE score is required.

GPA and/or previous degree/coursework

Degree: Bachelor's degree from regionally accredited school or university

GPA: 2.8 minimum on last 60 hours completed. Recommended GPA is 3.0.

Coursework (must be completed with a C or higher, WCU equivalent courses listed for reference):

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II (BIOL 291 and 291)

  • Chemistry with lab (CHEM 132 or CHEM 139)

  • Microbiology with lab (ENVH 260 and 262)

  • Applied Biostatistics (MATH 170)

  • Human Nutrition (ND 330 or 338)

  • General Psychology (PSY 150)

Essay or Narrative Statement

Applicant will be notified if an essay is required. Essays will be constructed with questions directed at applicant’s ability and willingness to commit to an intensive program.

Letters of Recommendation

3 letters of recommendation (professional, work, or academic).

Additional Requirements

An interview is required.

Course Requirements (56 hours)


This program is taken over 4 semesters, including 660 clinical hours and a practice change/research project.

Third Semester (15 hours)


Fourth Semester (11 hours)


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