Master of Science in Nursing
The School of Nursing at the University of West Georgia offers a Master of Science degree with role options in either education or health systems leadership and a post-master's certificate program in education and health systems leadership. The nursing education track is a program of study that addresses innovations in curriculum, instructional skills and strategies, the development and use of educational technology, and educational assessment and evaluation. Students develop expertise in health education and promotion, patient education, professional development, or college/university teaching. The health systems leadership track is a program of study designed to prepare nurse managers/leaders and clinical nurse leaders (CNLs). The CNL is a role designed by American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN, 2003) to prepare a leader who is accountable for management of care and the care environment.
Courses in the curriculum build upon courses in the baccalaureate program in nursing. Students apply research concepts, theories, and skills in the development of the role components of the program. The Master of Science in Nursing Program is designed to meet the need for nurse educators, and leaders/managers, and clinical nurse leaders in a variety of health care settings. Students may complete the course of study in four semesters of full-time course work, or students may pursue the degree on a part-time basis. Course work is provided using face-to-face and online instruction.
MSN Program Objectives
The purpose of the MSN program is to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice in the areas of health systems leadership and nursing education. Students in the nursing education track will identify one of four clinical specialty areas for focus: adult health, family health, mental health, or community health. Graduates of the program will be able to:
- Utilize theoretical models, information systems and technology to perform effectively in a variety of nursing practice, leadership, and educational roles (competence and critical thinking).
- Critically appraise original research for practice implications in the context of evidence-based practice (critical thinking).
- Examine influences on nursing practice and education, including social, economic, ethical, legal, and cultural diversity issues (conscience and critical thinking).
- Implement evidence-based practice competencies to achieve quality outcomes and enhance nursing care delivery, leadership and education (critical thinking).
- Demonstrate critical thinking skills in implementing changes and making decisions in the delivery of healthcare or in nursing education (change and critical thinking).
- Develop and implement practice, leadership, management, and teaching strategies for the improvement of healthcare or nursing education (commitment).
- Communicate effectively using a collaborative approach to improve nursing education, the quality of professional nursing practice and the healthcare system (collaboration and communication).
- Attain a level of scholarship congruent with preparation for doctoral study (commitment).
- Practice nursing in leadership and education roles in a manner that reflects caring as the essence of nursing (caring).
- Engage in advanced nursing practice that reflects a holistic view of self and others and respect for diverse cultures (holism).
Admission Requirements for the MSN Program
Admission is based on several criteria including the following:
- Completion of a basic undergraduate statistics course with a grade of C or higher prior to enrollment or during the first semester of the program
- Evidence of current licensure as a registered nurse (RN) in the United States and eligibility for licensure in the state of Georgia
- Earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an NLNAC or CCNE accredited program
- Official transcript from each college or university attended
- Satisfactory certificate of immunization (for a new student)
- GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) for all upper division nursing courses
- Professional resume
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals who are knowledgeable of the applicant's professional and academic abilities
Accreditation
The MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Information about accreditation may be obtained from the following:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
One Dupont Circle, NW
Washington, DC 20036-112
202-887-6791
Academic Standards
A minimum grade of B is required in all courses in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctorate in Nursing Education programs. Students who earn a grade of C, WF, or U in any two courses, or who earn an F in any one course, will be dismissed from the program. Students who earn a C, WF, or U may repeat that course one time only.
Early/Special Admission for MSN Program
Undergraduate students who complete BSN requirements with a 3.0 or greater GPA in upper division nursing courses taken at the University of West Georgia will be automatically admitted to the Graduate Program pending submission of the application and admission requirements. This admission would be active for a period of 5 years after graduation.
Provisional Admission
Students with less than the required GPA may be considered for provisional admission. In no event may the upper division nursing grade point average be less than 2.5. Provisional admission is ultimately subject to departmental approval and the Director of Graduate Studies.
Important Notice
Non-degree and personal enrichment students may be admitted to select nursing courses on a space available basis only. Please be aware that no more than 9 hours taken as a post baccalaureate or non-degree student may subsequently be applied to a degree.
Expenses For The MSN Program
Participation in the MSN program will incur expenses such as the following, and are also in the MSN Student Handbook at www.westga.edu/~nurs/msn/msnprog.html
- Travel to clinical activities – Students are individually responsible for obtaining transportation to and from clinical activities.
- Books – The cost of textbooks is variable.
- Professional liability insurance – The cost varies depending on the policy.
- Clinical/Skills Fees – A fee will be charged for all clinical courses. These fees are payable with tuition.
- Criminal Background Check & Drug Screen – Students must use preferred company for both parts, cost covers both parts.
Expenses are also in the Graduate Student Handbook at http://www.westga.edu/assetsNursing/msn/2012-2013_Final_Graduate_Handbook%282%29.pdf:
Criminal Background Check & Drug Screen
Healthcare facilities are requiring nursing students to have a certified criminal background check and drug screen for participation in clinical learning opportunities. Inability to complete the requirements may interfere with successful completion of degree requirements.
MSN Nursing Curriculum
The School of Nursing at the University of West Georgia offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree with role options in either education or health systems leadership and a post- masters certificate program in education and health systems leadership. The MSN program is a professional degree program requiring 36 semester hours of credit. The degree requires course work in two tracks: Nurse Educator and Health Systems Leadership.
