Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Practice Innovation

Welcome!

Thank you for taking a closer look at the Master of Science in Nursing degree. The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth online MSN in Nursing Practice Innovation is a five-semester, part-time course of study leading to an MSN degree.

 

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Practice Innovation Degree Program:

  • HSC’s online Master of Science in Nursing Practice Innovation is a first-of-its-kind program in Texas.
  • We’re developing nurse leaders and innovators who will be on the forefront of solving health care’s biggest challenges.
  • Incorporates five, 16-week-long semesters and condensed 12-week summer semesters.
  • Curriculum includes four specialized elective courses.
  • Part-time option extending the program into seven semesters.
  • Learners can pursue a certificate aligned with their chosen area of specialization.

MSN Application Closes July 1 for 2024!

The Admissions team is ready to help you learn more about the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Practice Innovation application process and answer your questions. Attend an upcoming admissions event, sign up for a campus tour or schedule a virtual advising session.

Important dates for applying to be a student in our inaugural entering Class of 2024:

  • Nursing CAS: Applications are now open. 
  • Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. ET (10:59 p.m. CTI) on July 1, 2024, for the fall semester. 

Admissions requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree in nursing from a regionally accredited institution with a nursing program accredited from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the American Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
  • Evidence of an active, unencumbered registered nurse license in a state or region that is approved through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
  • Out-of-state applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis and in accordance with the Board of Nursing regulations.
  • Favorable criminal background check.
  • Negative drug screening.
  • Out-of-state applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis and in accordance with the Board of Nursing regulations.
  • Holistic Admission Assessment completion. This is an online opportunity for students to showcase written skills.
  • All applicants are required to submit two former faculty or employer references (Submitted as part of NursingCAS).
  • Professional resume or curriculum vitae (CV) (Submitted as part of NursingCAS).
  • Official transcripts (Unofficial not accepted) uploaded to NursingCAS.
  • A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in the last 60 credit hours of the BSN program. Provisional admission can be offered to applicants with a GPA that falls between 2.85 and 2.99. Students admitted under provisional status must achieve a 3.0 GPA in the first three courses of the major to progress in the graduate program.
  • Completion of a college-level-statistics course (3 semester credit hours). The course may be taken in any academic discipline; course content should include descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, sampling techniques, measures of relationship, regression models and other tests for significance.

An admissions committee consisting of members of the nursing faculty will be appointed by the dean to review applications. A recommendation for admission will be made by the admissions committee.

You will receive an official admission decision from HSC. Once accepted, you will receive an acceptance letter outlining the next steps, including registration, orientation and any additional requirements.

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MSN in Practice Innovation Degree Plans

FAQs for Future Students

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can boost your nursing career by providing advanced knowledge and skills in various nursing specialties. It opens doors to leadership roles and specialized positions, increasing your earning potential and career opportunities.

MSN programs offer in-depth training and practical experience that can make you a more competent and confident nurse.

Here’s how an MSN can enhance your nursing career:

  • Specialties in Nursing: MSN programs allow you to specialize in areas like:
    • Family Nurse Practitioner.
    • Nurse-Midwifery.
    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
    • And also so much more.
    • Specialization can lead to higher-paying roles.
  • Leadership: Gain the skills needed to assume leadership roles in nursing practice, education or administration. This includes roles such as:
    • Nurse managers.
    • Clinical coordinators.
    • And also directors of nursing positions.

Is a master’s in nursing worth it for nurses? Of course.

  • Research: MSN programs often involve research components that enable you to contribute to evidence-based nursing practices. Therefore, you can become a valuable resource in improving patient care.
  • Advanced Clinical Knowledge: Develop advanced clinical skills that will enable you to provide a higher level of patient care. Certainly, you’ll be better equipped to diagnose and treat complex medical conditions.
  • Policy and Advocacy: Learn to develop health care policies and advocate for patients’ rights. This knowledge is crucial for making a positive impact on health care at a systemic level.
  • Teaching Opportunities: With a master’s in nursing, you can teach nursing students, therefore sharing your knowledge and experience with the next generation of nurses.
  • Expanded Career Options: MSN graduates can explore various career paths, including:
    • Nursing administration.
    • Education.
    • Research.
    • And also advanced clinical practice.

In summary, a master’s in nursing can enhance your nursing career by providing specialized knowledge, leadership skills and advanced clinical capabilities, thus opening up a world for you to excel in the field of nursing.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing degree today.

Yes, there are online master’s in nursing programs available. These programs offer flexibility and convenience for busy nursing professionals. Here are some key points about online Master of Science in Nursing (MNS) programs:

Benefits of the online master’s in nursing at HSC:

  • Flexibility: Online programs at HSC allow you to study at your own pace and on your schedule, making it easier to balance your studies with work and personal life.
  • Accessibility: You can access course materials and lectures from anywhere with an internet connection. This removes the need to commute to a campus.
  • Diverse Specializations: HSC’s online program offers a wide range of nursing specialties, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and more.
  • Accredited Program: HSC’s online master’s in nursing is accredited by reputable organizations, ensuring that you receive a quality education.
  • Career Advancement: Earning a master’s in nursing from HSC can open up a new career and increase your earning potential in the health care field.

What are some things I should consider for the online master’s in nursing at HSC?

  • Self-Motivation: Online learning at HSC requires self-discipline and motivation to stay on track with coursework and assignments.
  • Technical Requirements: Ensure you have access to a computer with internet access and any required software or tools for online classes.
  • Clinical Requirements: Some online programs at HSC may require you to complete clinical hours in-person, so be prepared for this aspect of your education.

If you’re interested in pursuing an online master’s in nursing at HSC, you can explore various options and find a program that aligns with your career goals and interests.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.

Absolutely! We understand that many aspiring nurses and health care professionals have busy lives and may need to work while pursuing their MSN degree. That’s why we offer part-time online MSN programs that allow you to balance your career, family and education effectively.

Here’s what you can expect from our online MSN program:

  • Flexible Scheduling: Our part-time programs are designed with your schedule in mind. You can typically choose from evening, weekend or online classes to fit your commitments.
  • Extended Timeline: Part-time master’s in science program offers a more extended timeline for degree completion compared to full-time programs. Therefore, this will allow you to spread your coursework over a longer duration.
  • Customizable Paths: We understand that each student’s journey is unique. Therefore, our admissions team can work with you to tailor a program that aligns with your specific goals and availability.
  • Supportive Environment: We provide the needed support and resources to help you succeed in your part-time MSN program. You’ll have access to:
    • Experienced faculty.
    • Academic advisors.
    • And also a strong community of peers.

If you’re interested in pursuing a part-time MSN with us, we encourage you to reach out to our admissions team. They can assist you in customizing a program that works for you, considering your career objectives, scheduling preferences and any prior education or experience you may have.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.

Of course! A master’s in nursing offers numerous specialization options that allow you to focus on a particular area of nursing practice. Specializing in a specific nursing role can open up exciting career advancements, thus enhancing your expertise in a particular field. Here are some common MSN specializations to consider:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs are trained to provide primary care to individuals of all ages, from infants to seniors. They can:
    • Diagnose illnesses.
    • Prescribe medications.
    • And also create treatment plans.
  • Nurse-Midwifery: Nurse midwives specialize in maternal and reproductive health, providing care to expectant mothers, assisting with childbirth and offering postpartum care.
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: PMHNPs focus on mental health care, assessing and treating patients with psychiatric disorders and prescribing psychiatric medications.
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner: AGNPs are experts in adult and geriatric care, often working in primary or acute care settings to manage chronic illnesses and promote health in older adults.
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: PNPs specialize in pediatric care, working with children from infancy through adolescence, diagnosing and treating illnesses and providing well-child care.
  • Nursing Administration: This specialty prepares you for leadership roles in health care organizations (i.e. nurse manager, director of nursing or health care administrator).

There is a huge demand for specialized nurses with an MSN degree!

  • Nursing Education: If you have a passion for teaching and mentoring future nurses, this specialty equips you with the skills to become a nurse educator in academic or clinical settings.
  • Nursing Informatics: Nursing informaticists use technology to improve health care delivery, manage data and information systems and enhance patient care.
  • Clinical Nurse Specialist: CNSs are clinical experts in a specialized area of nursing practice, such as oncology, critical care or cardiology. They provide advanced clinical care, education and leadership.
  • Or Public Health Nursing: Public health nurses work to improve the health of communities and populations, addressing community-related issues (i.e. disease prevention, health promotion and health care policy).

Choosing a specialization allows you to tailor your MSN program to your career goals and interests. Each specialty offers unique coursework and clinical experiences to help you become an expert in your chosen field. To explore the specific specialties available and determine which aligns best with your aspirations, please connect with our admissions team. Furthermore, they can provide guidance and information on the options within our MSN programs.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today. 

 

Upon completing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), you’ll find a wide range of promising job prospects in the health care field. Here are some of the job and career paths that await you:

  • Advanced Practice Nursing Roles: MSN graduates are prepared for advanced practice nursing roles, which often require certification in their chosen specialty. Some of the advanced practice roles include:
    • Nurse Practitioner (NP): NPs provide primary and specialty care, diagnose and treat illnesses and prescribe medications. They work in various settings, from clinics to hospitals.
    • Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM): CNMs specialize in maternal and reproductive health, offering care during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum, as well as family planning services.
    • Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): CNSs are clinical experts in a specific area, such as critical care, pediatrics or psychiatric-mental health. They provide advanced clinical care, education and leadership.
    • Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): CRNAs administer anesthesia during surgical procedures and are essential members of anesthesia care teams in hospitals and surgical centers.
  • Nursing Leadership and Administration: With an MSN, you can pursue leadership and administrative roles within health care organizations:
    • Nurse Manager: Overseeing a nursing unit or department, managing staff and ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care.
    • Director of Nursing (DON): Leading and coordinating nursing services within a health care facility.
    • Health Care Administrator: Managing the overall operations of health care organizations, such as hospitals, clinics or long-term care facilities.

In conclusion, the prospect for nursing looks favorable over the next 10 years.

  • Nursing Education: Instructing future nurses in academic or clinical settings, developing curricula and facilitating learning experiences.
  • Public Health and Policy: MSN graduates can contribute to public health initiatives and health care policy development. You may work for:
    • Government agencies.
    • Nonprofit organizations
    • Or health care institutions.
  • Research and Informatics: If you have an interest in health care research or informatics, you can pursue roles related to data analysis, research and informatics system management.
  • Specialized Nursing Roles: Depending on your chosen specialty, you can explore roles that align with your area of expertise. For example, pediatric nurse practitioners can work in pediatric clinics. Moreover, psychiatric or mental health nurse practitioners can provide mental health services.
  • Nursing Faculty: If you aspire to teach future nurses, you can pursue positions as faculty members in nursing schools and universities.
  • And also Global Health Opportunities: Some MSN graduates engage in global health initiatives, working in international settings to address health care disparities and provide care in underserved areas.

Job prospects for MSN graduates are generally favorable because of the increasing demand for skilled advanced practice nurses, nursing leaders and educators. Combined with a nursing shortage, the job and career growth remain extremely positive over the next 10 years.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.

 

Based on the information from ZipRecruiter and Fortune magazine, the typical salary for a nurse with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can vary based on several factors, including location, specialty and experience. Here’s a summary of the salary information:

  • Average Salary: As of December 2023, the average annual pay for a master’s in nursing in the United States is $108,675.
  • Hourly Wage: On average, this translates to an hourly wage of about $52.25.
  • Salary Range: Salaries can vary significantly, with the majority of master’s in nursing salaries ranging between $83,000 to as much as $151,000 annually.
  • Specialized Roles: Nurses who specialize in advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists and clinical nurse specialists, typically earn higher salaries. The median wage for these roles can be significantly higher than that of registered nurses (RNs) with bachelor’s degrees.

$108,675 is the average income for a master’s in nursing degree in 2023.

  • Job Growth: The demand for MSN-prepared nurses, particularly those in advanced practice roles, is driving higher salaries. Nurse practitioners, for example, are projected to experience a 52% growth rate, indicating a robust job market.
  • Additional Paths: An MSN can open doors to various career paths, including nurse consultants, nurse administrators, clinical nurse specialists and nurse educators. These roles often come with very competitive incomes.
  • And Also Educational Advancement: Pursuing an MSN can also lead to roles in nurse education. Nurse educators play a crucial role in training the next generation of nurses and may earn competitive salaries.

In summary, the typical salary for a nurse with a master’s in nursing can vary but tends to be higher than the salary of RNs with bachelor’s degrees. Specialization, location and experience play key roles in salary levels. However, pursuing a master’s in nursing can lead to a higher-paying career (personal and financial growth in the nursing field).

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.

The admission requirements for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at HSC can vary depending on the specific program and specialties you are interested in. However, here are some common requirements you may encounter when applying to an MSN program at HSC:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN): Typically, applicants are required to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited institution. This is a foundational requirement for admission to most MSN programs.
  • Current RN License: Applicants should hold a current and active registered nurse (RN) license in the state where they plan to complete their clinical practicum or coursework.
  • Minimum GPA: Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement for admission, often around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some programs may require a higher GPA for consideration.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Applicants may be asked to submit letters of recommendation, typically from academic or professional references who can speak to their qualifications and potential for success in an MSN program.
  • Personal Statement or Essay: A personal statement or essay is often required. Specifically, you can explain your motivations for pursuing an MSN, your career goals and why you are interested in the specific program.
  • Transcripts: You will need to provide official transcripts from all previous academic institutions you have attended, including your BSN program.

Admissions requirements for a master’s in nursing.

  • Resume or CV: Many programs request a current resume or curriculum vitae (CV) that outlines your nursing experience, certifications and any relevant professional activities.
  • Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the admission process as a way to assess your fit for the program and clarify any questions.
  • Prerequisite Courses: Depending on your chosen MSN specialty, you may need to complete specific required courses. For example, if you are pursuing a nurse practitioner track, you may need to have completed coursework in advanced health assessment.
  • Background Check and Health Requirements: Some programs may require background checks and proof of immunizations. In addition, some programs require health screenings before starting clinical rotations.

It’s important to note that admission can vary between MSN programs and may change over time, so it’s advisable to check the specific requirements for the HSC MSN program you are interested in by visiting the official website or contacting the admissions office directly. Additionally, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as MSN programs can be competitive. The selection is based on factors such as qualifications, experience and available program slots.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.

 

Indeed, scholarships can provide valuable financial support to students working toward their master’s in nursing. Some scholarships specifically target nursing students. Therefore, it is worth taking a look at all your options:

  • Financial Aid Office: Before getting confused about all of the scholarships available and which ones you qualify for, please don’t forget to consult HSC’s financial aid office for guidance on available scholarships and the application process.
  • Nursing Organizations: Professional nursing associations like the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) often provide scholarships to their members or students pursuing advanced nursing degrees.
  • HSC’s Internal Scholarships: HSC offers many scholarships for nursing students. These awards can be based on academic transcript, financial need or a combination of factors.
  • Government Programs: Government agencies, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), offer scholarships and loan repayment programs for nursing students in exchange for service commitments in underserved areas.
  • Private Foundations: Various private foundations and nonprofit organizations offer nursing scholarships. Examples include the Johnson & Johnson Foundation and the National Black Nurses Association.

Seeking Financial Aid for Your MSN? Then Contact the Financial Aid Office for Answers.

  • Employer Support: If you are currently employed in the health care field, check if your employer provides tuition assistance, scholarships or reimbursement for employees pursuing advanced nursing degrees.
  • Diversity Scholarships: Some scholarships are specifically aimed at promoting diversity in the nursing profession. These can be awarded to minority students or those from unique or underserved backgrounds.
  • State-Specific Scholarships: Certain states have their own scholarship programs for nursing students. Therefore, check with your state’s nursing board or education department.
  • Online Scholarship Websites: Use online search engines and databases like FastwebScholarships.com or NursingScholarship.us to discover a wide range of financial nursing assistance.
  • Also Fellowships and Grants: In addition to scholarships, consider fellowships and grants, which may cover tuition and offer stipends for living expenses.

In conclusion, there are numerous scholarship programs available to support students pursuing their master’s in nursing. To explore these options further and gain a better understanding of the financial aid landscape, we recommend reaching out to HSC’s financial aid office. Undoubtedly, those there can provide valuable guidance and assist you in finding financial aid that aligns with your goals.

 

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.

To discover financial aid programs for your MSN, we highly recommend getting in touch with HSC’s financial aid office. This experienced team is equipped to guide you through the process of identifying and applying for financial assistance. In addition, the team will look at your specific needs and qualifications. By reaching out to the financial aid office at HSC, you’ll gain access to valuable resources and tailored support. Don’t hesitate to contact this office for expert assistance on your financial journey.

 

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.

Yes, you can schedule a campus tour or virtual information session at HSC. To arrange a time and learn about these tours, please reach out to HSC’s admissions office. They will provide you with all the necessary details and help you schedule a tour or virtual information session that suits your needs. Therefore, contacting the admissions office is the first step toward becoming a student at HSC.

 

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.

Yes, there are advisors available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have about HSC’s MSN programs. These advisors are skilled and experienced in guiding students through their journey. Whether you need information about program requirements, course selection or any other aspect of your master’s in nursing, you can rely on the support and advice of these advisors. They are here to help you succeed in your goals. Therefore, they can help you make the most of your MSN experience at HSC. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for assistance.

 

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Then apply to our master’s in nursing today.


The RN to BSN and MSN in Nursing Practice Innovation at the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth is pursuing initial accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org). Applying for accreditation does not guarantee that accreditation will be granted.