There are many Master’s in Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania, helping the state to respond to the increasing nursing shortage around the world. With so many options, nurses seeking to earn master’s degrees are sure to find an option that works well. While some of the following institutions focus on one or two traditional specializations, many of them offer a variety of options, including some unique programs, including medical-surgical, forensic nursing, nurse executive, clinical trials research, women’s health and oncology. The following Master’s in Nursing programs in Pennsylvania offer high-quality flexible options for busy professional nurses.
Alvernia University
Nursing Department
At Alvernia University, the Nursing Department strives to offer all students an academic environment rich in knowledge, collaboration, moral integrity and professionalism. All programs combine a liberal arts education with professional nursing training and the Franciscan Catholic values of humility, contemplation, service, collegiality and peacemaking. The department offers three programs for students interested in nursing: pre-licensure Baccalaureate in Nursing program, a RN-BSN program and a MSN program with a focus on nursing education. One of the main goals of Alvernia University is to offer the high-quality education of a large university, while maintaining small class sizes.
Master in Nursing Programs
The MSN program at Alvernia has a focus on nursing education. Students have the choice of two specializations: a MSN Nursing Education and a MSN Nursing Leadership and Healthcare Administration track. Both programs offer a flexible schedule that allows professional nurses to continue to work while attending a hybrid course schedule of web-based and campus-based classes. The program can be completed in three years for most students.
The Nursing Education track prepares nurses to work in colleges and universities, medical supply companies, healthcare settings and patient care settings. On the other hand, Nursing Leadership and Healthcare Administration students are prepared to work as department-level nurse managers and administrators in any healthcare setting.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Alvernia University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Contact
Alvernia University
400 Saint Bernardine Street
Reading, PA 19607
610.790.2853
[email protected]
http://www.alvernia.edu/nursing/msn/
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Department of Nursing
The Department of Nursing at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania recently partnered with Geisinger Medical Center in order to allow for an increased enrollment in BU’s nursing courses. In addition, additional master’s degree options are available due to the partnership, such as the nurse anesthesia and nurse practitioner programs. This partnership reflects a desire to increase the number of highly qualified nurses in the state.
Master in Nursing Programs
At Bloomsburg University, individuals interested in pursuing a MSN can enter the program through three ways: a traditional master’s degree program, a RN-MSN program, a MSN program for CRNA, CNRP or CNMs and a MSN program for certified school nurses. Regardless of the mode of entry, all students can choose from one of four specializations: nurse anesthesia, nurse practitioner, nursing administration and community health.
The nurse anesthesia program is a rigorous program with a strong scientific background and plenty of opportunities for practical experience. Students in the program learn to apply theory and research knowledge from the fields of nursing, humanities and science in order to provide optimum patient care.
The nurse practitioner program includes the sub=options of Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Both programs can be completed in approximately two years and emphasize social, ethical and political action in order to change the health care system, making it more effective and efficient.
The nurse administration program trains nurses in the skills of budgeting, accounting, assessment, management and information systems. There is also the option of earning a combined MSN/MBA, which can give nurses the training needed to operate or manage their own healthcare facility.
Finally, the community health specialization focuses on training nurses to assume leadership or management roles in the community in order to identify community health needs, problem solve and create innovate programs, and making positive changes.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Contact
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Department of Nursing
3211 McCormick Center
570-389-4609
[email protected]
https://www.bloomu.edu/gradschool/nursing
Carlow University
School of Nursing
The School of Nursing at Carlow University has been training nurses since 1948. The school takes a “high touch and high tech” approach, while integrating both art and science. Nurses are trained to use cutting-edge technology while also offering holistic and compassionate care. The core values of the School of Nursing are social justice, service to humanity, sacredness of creation and social learning, in addition to a passion for excellence and lifelong learning. The BSN, RN-BSN and graduate nursing programs are available on the university’s main campus, as well as the Greensburg and Cranberry campuses.
Master in Nursing Programs
Carlow University offers several specialization options for those seeking a Master of Science in Nursing degree: Family Nurse Practitioner, Education and Leadership and MSN-MBA dual degree. All three programs attempt to provide a strong foundation for future doctoral studies. In addition, all three programs combine collaboration, leadership, presentation skills, technology and the synthesis of nursing, medical information, genetics and genomics in order to provide evidence-based care. The FNP MSN program provides advanced practice knowledge in order to prepare nurses to work in local, regional, national and international healthcare settings. The NCEL MSN program provides advanced practice leadership and education knowledge necessary to prepare nurses to work in college and university settings, as well as in community agencies, clinics, hospitals and pharmaceutical companies. The MSN-MBA dual degree is for nurses that would like to operate or manage a healthcare organization.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Carlow University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Contact
Carlow University
3333 Fifth Avenue
Pittsburgh PA 15213
412.578.6059
[email protected]
http://www.carlow.edu/Nursing_Graduate_Offerings.aspx
Clarion University
Venago College of Clarion University School of Nursing and Allied Health
The Venago College of Clarion University houses the School of Humanities, Sciences and Technology, the School of Nursing and Allied Health, the Office of Continuing Education and all business, law and human services programs. The School of Nursing and Allied Health focuses on technical and hands-on professional training in the areas of allied health leadership, medical imaging sciences, respiratory care, allied health and nursing. The department offers programs ranging from an associate degree through a BSN, MSN and DNP. Students in the program have obtained positions as nurses, including nurse leaders and nurse educators, health care leaders, radiologic technologists, medical sonographers and respiratory therapists.
Master in Nursing Programs
The MSN program at Clarion University is highly flexible for busy professional nurses, with most classes being held online, with the exception of skill labs, clinical experiences and internships. Individuals in the MSN program specialize in the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. In this concentration, 100% of students have passed the FNP certifying exam, and many students have continued their education and have pursued a doctorate. The concentration is 45 semester hours with an additional 600 hours of supervised clinical practice. The focus of the program is to produce FNPs that are qualified to work in medically underserved areas.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Clarion University is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Contact
Clarion University
840 Wood Street
Clarion, PA 16214-1232
(412) 578-7277
[email protected]
http://www.clarion.edu/124588/
DeSales University
Department of Nursing and Health
The Department of Nursing and Health at DeSales University began offering nursing programs in 1974. Today, the department offers a traditional BSN, a RN-BSN, an accelerated BSN, an evening/weekend BSN, a MSN and a DNP degree option. Recently, the department’s new facility, the Gambet Center for Business and Health Care Education, was completed. The 77,000 square foot facility houses the Health Care Simulation Lab. The lab includes state-of-the-art technology, mannequin simulators, audio and video technology, skills-evaluations oft ware and integrated simulation management.
Master in Nursing Programs
The MSN program at DeSales University has a long history of success, with 100% of students passing national certification exams since the program’s inception in 1984. Students are offered small class sizes, highly individualized instruction and full or part time study options. In addition, the university has over 250 contracted clinical sites that provide opportunities for DeSales graduate students to train and practice. DeSales MSN students can specialize in several concentrations, including Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist, Family/Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery, Nurse Educator and a Nurse Executive MSN/MBA, in addition to the choice of an accelerated RN-MSN program.
Accreditations
The nursing program at DeSales University is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Contact
DeSales University
Gambet Hall 246
2755 Station Avenue
Center Valley, PA 18034
610.282.1100 x1768
[email protected]
http://www.desales.edu/home/academics/divisions-departments/department-of-nursing-and-health/graduate-programs/msn—master-of-science-in-nursing
Drexel University
College of Nursing and Health Professions
Drexel University offers an online nursing program, and in fact, the nursing program at Drexel is one of the ten largest online graduate nursing programs in the United States, offering online programs since 1996. It is also among the top 50 private, non-profit doctoral and research institutions in the United States. The college has over 128 full-time faculty members and is affiliated with several top-rated teaching hospitals in the country. This allows students to complete the Drexel University program, even while residing outside Pennsylvania.
Master in Nursing Programs
Drexel University offers a wide range of specialization options for nurses in the MSN program: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Leader, Clinical Trials Research, Innovation and Intra/Entrepreneurship in Advanced Nursing Practice, Nursing Education and Faculty Role, Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Management and a RN-MSN bridge program. Many of these offerings are unique and not found in other schools around the state, including the areas of clinical trial research and entrepreneurship. With its online format, earning a MSN at Drexel is convenient, while also ensuring that the degree is well-respected by future employers.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Drexel University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
Contact
Drexel University Online
PO Box 34729
Philadelphia, PA 19101
877-215-0009
[email protected]
http://www.drexel.com/online-degrees/nursing-degrees/masters_main.aspx
Duquesne University
School of Nursing
The School of Nursing at Duquesne University is highly-ranked and well-known in the United States. The US News and World Report ranked Duquesne as third in the nation for best online graduate nursing programs for veterans and sixth in the nation for overall best online graduate nursing program. There are several options for students seeking nursing degrees at Duquesne, including an online graduate program, short-term international nursing trips, semester or year-long study abroad opportunities and traditional campus-based programs. The school houses two departments: the Center for Research for Underserved and Vulnerable Populations and the Community-Based Health and Wellness Center for Older Adults, in addition to the Irene Fritzky Nursing Simulation Lab and the Nursing Computer Lab.
Master in Nursing Programs
Duquesne University offers three areas of specialization for MSN students: Family (Individual Across the Lifespan) Nurse Practitioner, Forensic Nursing and Nursing Education and Faculty. All three programs are offered online in order to offer a convenient solution for individuals seeking to further their education while continuing to work in the field. The FNP MSN program consists of 21 hours of specialization courses in addition to core courses. Three campus visits are required for all but military students. All students in the FNP program are provided with a faculty mentor in order to provide more individualized attention.
The Forensic Nursing program is offered in collaboration with the Cyril H. Wecht Institute of Forensic Science and Law at Duquesne University. This is one of only a few forensic nursing programs in the United States, and at Duquesne, the focus of the program is on addressing violence and the consequences of violence, and creating opportunities for change.
The Nursing Education and Faculty concentration is designed to prepare nurses to work at the university level as faculty instructors for nursing programs. Students in the program are paired with master teachers in order to be fully immersed in the responsibilities of being a faculty member.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Duquesne University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Contact
Duquesne University
5th Floor Fisher Hall
600 Forbes Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
412.396.6550
[email protected]
https://www.duq.edu/academics/schools/nursing/graduate-programs
Gannon University
Villa Maria School of Nursing
The Villa Maria School of Nursing at Gannon University has a 50 year history of excellence, with a 100% placement rate for graduates and an average of 96% passing rate for certification and licensure examinations. All courses have a low 10:1 student-faculty ratio. Students also complete nearly 1000 supervised clinical hours prior to gradation, with additional service-learning hours available as well. The school has partnerships with more than 40 health care agencies in addition to its state-of-the-art clinical simulation lab.
Master in Nursing Programs
There are five options for nurses pursuing a MSN at Gannon University: Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration, Nursing Practice and a Nursing RN-MSN. The nurse anesthesia program is a full-time rigorous program that takes seven semesters to complete. This program prepares students for a career in the highly challenging field of anesthesiology. This program is offered in collaboration with the UPMC-Hamot Medical Center.
The Nurse Practitioner program is also a seven semester program and trains nurses to focus on providing care to patients of all ages, addressing legal issues and ethical dilemmas and taking on leadership positions in the community. The Nursing Administration Program is for individuals that would like to take on leadership and business roles within the medical field. The Nursing Practice concentration is a bridge program that assumes students will continue on to pursue a DNP. This 26 credit program can be completed in three semesters, and is offered to practicing and licensed RNs.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Gannon University is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing. Education
Contact
Gannon University
109 University Square
Erie, Pennsylvania 16541
1-800-GANNON-U
http://www.gannon.edu/Academic-Offerings/Health-Professions-and-Sciences/#programs
Gwynedd-Mercy College
Frances M. Maguire School of Nursing
The Frances M. Maguire School of Nursing at Gwynedd-Mercy College has been training nurses for over 50 years. It has been recognized for having a first-time NCLEX pass rate of 88%, and the US News and World Report ranked the university in the first tier due to high graduation and retention rates. Students in the program have clinical rotation opportunities in over 200 regional health care institutions, in addition to having access to the nursing simulation lab, featuring the SimMan and SimBaby nursing simulators. The school offers weekend nursing options, associate degrees, BSN degrees, three MSN degrees and a post-masters nurse practitioner degree.
Master in Nursing Programs
Gwynedd-Mercy College offers three specializations for students in the MSN program: Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator and Nurse Practitioner. The MSN CNS program is designed to provide a foundation for doctoral study. Students in this program can specialize in adult health and gerontology if desired, although the concentration does provide opportunities to practice with patients of all ages.
The MSN NE program is designed for nurses that would like to teach in collegiate nursing programs and clinical environments. Nurses will be trained to develop, implement and evaluate curricula and education programs.
The MSN NP program trains nurses to be licensed independent practitioners that are able to conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat common acute illnesses and injuries, manage chronic conditions, interpret lab results and prescribe pharmacologic and non-pharmacological interventions. Students in this program can choose to specialize in adult or pediatric care.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Gwynedd-Mercy College is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Contact
Gwynedd-Mercy College
1325 Sumneytown Pike
Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437-0901
1-800-205-5900
[email protected]
Holy Family University
School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions
At Holy Family University, the School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions is known around Pennsylvania for producing nurses that are highly sought after for positions in major hospitals throughout the state. The school offers part time and full time programs, including an associate of science in radiologic science, a bachelor of science in nursing, a bachelor of science in radiologic science, a master of science in nursing and a second baccalaureate degree pre-licensure BSN.
Master in Nursing Programs
The Master of Science in Nursing program is designed for graduates of the BSN program. This 30 credit hour program focuses on nursing safety, leadership and quality. Students in the program are fully prepared to enter DNP, PhD, EdD or post-master’s certificate programs. This generalist program offers courses in theory, ethics, health promotion, statistics, research, pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, quality and safety, and health policy. Upon completion of the program, nurses will be prepared to take on leadership roles in a variety of specialties.
Accreditations
The nursing program at Holy Family University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Contact
Holy Family University
9801 Frankford Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19114
215-637-7700
http://www.holyfamily.edu/choosing-holy-family-u/academics/schools-of-study/school-of-nursing/graduate-programs/422-master-of-science-in-nursing
A master’s degree in nursing can help open the doors to a challenging and rewarding career as a nursing specialist. While many bachelor’s degree holders are nursing generalist, a master’s degree often provides the chance to specialize in an area of interest. The above Master’s in Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania are all accredited and offer a variety of flexible and high-quality degree options for nurses hoping to expand their career.
For Master’s in Nursing Degree Programs in Pennsylvania (I-Q), click here.
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