The demand for skilled and adaptable nursing professionals continues to grow. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate for registered nurses (RNs) is expected to grow six percent by 2032, resulting in an average of about 193,100 new openings each year. This surge presents a golden opportunity for those passionate about healthcare to make a difference and secure rewarding careers.
For many aspiring and current registered nurses, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is the key to unlocking their full potential and reaching the pinnacle of their nursing journey. Yet, what happens if you do not already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)? Can you get an MSN without a BSN, or even without an RN license?
Let’s answer these questions below, further explore the Master of Science in Nursing degree, and unpack the pathways available for holders of both BSN and non-BSN degrees, to navigate their journey to advanced nursing roles and practice.
What is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)?
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a two-year postgraduate degree explicitly designed for registered nurses who seek to advance their theoretical and practical knowledge, skills, and leadership capabilities.
Graduates with this degree go on to personally and financially rewarding career paths by honing skills and developing expertise in areas like healthcare policy, informatics, and leadership.
Furthermore, MSN programs enable candidates to become front-runners in the healthcare field with the following:
- Advanced clinical skills: Depending on your chosen specialization, you’ll delve deeper into family nurse practice, mental health nursing, or leadership and administration.
- Communication and collaboration: Hone your communication skills to effectively advocate for patients, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and lead with confidence.
- Leadership and management acumen: Students develop the skills to navigate complex healthcare systems, manage teams, and drive positive change.
- Research and analytical abilities: Learn to critically evaluate evidence, conduct research, and translate findings into improved patient care.
How do you earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)?
While the traditional path to an MSN degree requires an RN license and BSN degree, there are options for those with a non-nursing background who are equally driven to pursue this fulfilling career path.
Every college, university, and graduate program will differ, so students should research to understand the requirements and expectations of their chosen program.
The BSN to MSN pathway for RNs
For BSN-educated and licensed registered nurses, the transition to a master’s program is typically straightforward. Most programs require a current registered nurse license, a BSN degree with a minimum GPA, and proof of hands-on clinical experience in patient care.
At Goodwin University, for example, our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program requires the following:
- A current and unencumbered RN license
- A graduate application for admission and application fee
- Submission of your transcript, proving receipt of your bachelor’s degree (as well as most recent degree earned, if applicable) with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
- Professional resume submission
- Personal statement of applicant’s nursing career goals
- Proof of immunizations
- A background check and drug screening
- Telephone interview with the nursing program director
- $50 non-refundable application fee
Additionally, applicants are highly recommended to have two years of working experience or the equivalent in the registered nurse role and have successfully completed a college-level statistics (C) course and an upper-division research course (C+).
Our program can also be completed part-time in as little as 20 months.
An MSN pathway for non-nurses
Students looking to make a career change, or who have discovered their passion for nursing later in their academic journeys, can rest easy knowing that a non-nursing bachelor’s degree does not prevent them from pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
Many universities offer RN-to-MSN bridge programs specifically designed for these individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a different field but have obtained their RN license. These bridge programs fill in the gaps in a candidate’s nursing knowledge and equip you with the foundation for success in an MSN program. You can expect to take courses in subjects like:
- Health Assessment: Mastering physical examination skills and utilizing digital tools.
- Introduction to Nursing Research: Developing critical thinking and evidence-based practice skills.
- Public and Community Health: Understanding the broader healthcare landscape and your role within it.
- Seminar in Professional Nursing Leadership: Building self-awareness, exploring ethics, and honing advocacy skills.
- Biostatistics: Connecting statistical methodologies with public health research and patient analysis.
At Goodwin University, students must hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline and an RN license to enroll in the Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing (RN-to-MSN) program. Students may take up to two semesters to complete our bridge program.
Upon completion, the MSN application requirement of a Bachelor in Nursing (BSN) is usurped, and candidates proceed to complete their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.
What can you do with an MSN degree?
Earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) opens doors to many fulfilling and advanced career options, such as:
- Healthcare Administrator: Lead and manage healthcare facilities, influencing patient care and organizational strategy.
- Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN): Provide specialized care in areas like family practice, pediatrics, or mental health.
- Medical and Health Services Manager: Oversee the delivery of healthcare services in clinics, hospitals, or other settings.
- Human Resource Manager: Attract and retain top talent within healthcare organizations.
- Nurse Educator: Share your knowledge and passion for nursing with the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Whether you’re a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) holding registered nurse or a non-nursing professional with a registered nurse license, Goodwin University is here to support you.
Our flexible and accessible Nursing degree programs, including the Registered Nurse-to-Master of Science in Nursing bridge program, cater to diverse needs and schedules. We offer online and blended learning options, allowing students to pursue their education while juggling work and family commitments.
Apply today or contact us for more information.
Together, let’s turn your nursing aspirations and goals into a reality.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.