Accelerated MSN & Direct Entry MSN Programs: Understanding Your Options

Northeastern University's Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing program enables career changers with non-nursing bachelor's degrees to earn both BSN and MSN credentials. This campus-based program in Boston spans approximately two years for the BSN component, followed by 1-2 years of RN work experience before advancing to MSN specializations like adult-gerontology, family, neonatal, pediatric, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner tracks. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, prerequisite courses, two recommendation letters, and a personal statement, with no entrance exam specified. Accredited by CCNE, the program prepares graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure and advanced practice roles, with tuition ranging from $135,627 to $176,870.

• Campus-based program in Boston.
• Full-time, 2-year duration.
• For non-nursing bachelor's degree holders.
• Earns BSN and MSN degrees.
• Requires 1-2 years RN experience.
• Tuition $135,627-$176,870.
• 3.0 minimum GPA required.
• Prerequisite courses needed.
• Two recommendation letters.
• Personal goal statement.

University of San Francisco's Master’s Entry MSN, Clinical Nurse Leader program transforms individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees into registered nurses through an intensive two-year curriculum. Students complete over 1,000 clinical hours across San Francisco and Orange County campuses, focusing on evidence-based practices to enhance patient safety and care outcomes. This 68-unit program prepares graduates for California RN licensure, with NCLEX taken in the fifth semester. Fall and Spring start dates accommodate various schedules. While entrance exam requirements are not specified in the provided information, prospective students should verify current admission criteria directly with the university.

• Full-time, two-year program.
• Over 1,000 clinical hours.
• Prepares for RN licensure in CA.
• 68 units required.
• NCLEX in fifth semester.
• Fall and Spring start dates.
• San Francisco and Orange County campuses.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Designed for non-nursing bachelor's holders.
• Improves patient care and safety.

West Chester University of Pennsylvania offers a 24-month hybrid MSN program for bachelor's degree holders seeking both BSN and MSN degrees with a leadership focus. This accelerated pathway prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam while addressing nursing shortages in underserved communities. Admission requires a 2.8 cumulative GPA, prerequisite courses like anatomy and physiology with a 3.0 GPA, two recommendation letters, and a TEAS score of 75 or higher. The program features rolling admissions ending December 1, with cohorts starting in January, and is accredited by CCNE. No graduate entrance exam is required beyond the TEAS for nursing prerequisites.

• 24-month program length.
• Hybrid online and campus.
• Leadership concentration focus.
• BSN and MSN degrees.
• NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
• For bachelor's degree holders.
• Rolling admissions process.
• High retention and pass rates.
• Prerequisite courses required.
• Minimum 2.8 GPA needed.

Georgetown University's Master of Science Entry to Nursing Program is a direct-entry master's program designed for students with bachelor's degrees in non-nursing fields. This five-semester, on-campus accelerated MSN program requires 67 credits and includes over 800 clinical, lab, and simulation hours. The curriculum emphasizes health equity and evidence-based practice while preparing students for NCLEX-RN licensure. Prerequisites include Human Anatomy, Microbiology, and Statistics with B or C grades. Rolling admissions with a final deadline of June 15, 2026. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program. Scholarship opportunities are available, though specific cost details are not provided.

• Five-semester program length.
• On-campus format.
• 67 total credits.
• 800+ clinical hours.
• Direct-entry master's program.
• Prerequisites required for admission.
• B or better grade prerequisites.
• Human Anatomy and Physiology courses.
• Microbiology with lab.
• Chemistry or Biochemistry.

Yale University's Graduate Entry Prespecialty in Nursing (GEPN) is a three-year accelerated MSN program on campus for students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. It prepares graduates for advanced clinical practice, leadership, or further education through a curriculum integrating arts and sciences with clinical experiences in hospital and community settings. Students must complete four prerequisite courses and obtain a Connecticut nursing license to continue. The program emphasizes preventive and curative practice integration, utilizing Yale University and Yale New Haven Hospital resources. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

• Accelerated three-year program.
• Campus-based learning format.
• Leads to MSN degree.
• For non-nursing backgrounds.
• Clinical experiences in hospitals.
• Community setting placements.
• Four prerequisite courses required.
• Connecticut nursing license needed.
• Advanced practice nursing focus.
• Leadership role preparation.

The University of Pennsylvania's Master of Professional Nursing (MPN) is a four-semester, full-time campus program designed for bachelor's degree holders seeking entry-to-practice nursing education. This Ivy League program prepares graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure with a curriculum emphasizing clinical immersion, leadership, health equity, and evidence-based practice. The $144,220 tuition includes financial aid options, and admission requires a bachelor's degree with preferred 3.0 GPA and specific prerequisites in sciences and statistics. No GRE is required, and the program starts in fall with a focus on population health and collaborative care.

• Four-semester full-time program.
• Campus-based in-person format.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
• Bachelor's degree required for admission.
• Preferred 3.0 GPA or higher.
• Prerequisite courses must be completed.
• Courses include chemistry and microbiology.
• Anatomy and physiology with labs.
• Nutrition and statistics prerequisites.
• Human development course required.

Penn Nursing offers a 15-month Master of Professional Nursing (MPN) fast-track program for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders on campus. This full-time program builds skills in population health, health equity, and leadership, preparing graduates for RN licensure and advanced roles like Nurse Practitioner. The curriculum includes robust clinical training through regional partnerships, focusing on evidence-based practice and care for diverse populations. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in another field, with no GRE needed, and financial aid is available for this Ivy League education that emphasizes interprofessional collaboration.

• 15-month program length.
• Full-time campus study.
• Entry-level nursing degree.
• For non-nursing bachelor's holders.
• Prepares for RN licensure.
• Focus on population health.
• Emphasis on health equity.
• Interprofessional collaboration training.
• Systems thinking curriculum.
• Clinical site partnerships.

Johns Hopkins University's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Entry into Nursing program is an accelerated, five-semester, full-time on-campus option for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders seeking RN licensure. It emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and global health, integrating clinical management and health assessment with humanities and sciences. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, prerequisites in anatomy and statistics, essays, interviews, and three recommendation letters, but no GRE is needed. At $1,995 per credit, financial aid includes scholarships. The program prepares students for the NCLEX and advanced roles through hands-on clinicals in diverse settings.

• Five semesters program length.
• Full-time on-campus format.
• $1,995 per credit cost.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• 3.0 minimum GPA.
• Prerequisites in sciences.
• Three recommendation letters.
• Essay and interview needed.
• Prepares for NCLEX exam.
• Leadership and global focus.

California Baptist University's Entry-Level MSN program offers a direct pathway for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders to transition into advanced nursing practice. This online program requires 102-108 units over 10 semesters at $815 per unit, preparing students for NCLEX-RN licensure and master's-level roles. The curriculum integrates nursing theory with clinical practicums across diverse healthcare settings, emphasizing evidence-based practice and leadership development. With concentrations in Nurse Educator, Nursing Informatics, and Nursing Organizational Leadership, the program combines professional training with a faith-based, biblical worldview. No entrance exam is required for admission, though applicants must complete prerequisites with a C or better. Accredited by CCNE, it features state-of-the-art simulation labs and holistic nursing perspectives.

• 102-108 total units.
• 10 semesters program length.
• $815 per unit cost.
• Online program format.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• Prerequisites with C or better.
• NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
• Clinical practicum hours required.
• Three concentration options.
• Holistic nursing perspective.

The University of West Florida's Entry Into Practice (Direct Entry) Nursing MSN is a 20-month, campus-based program for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders seeking to become registered nurses with a master's credential. This full-time, five-semester program requires 69 credit hours and includes over 600 clinical hours in specialties like pediatrics, mental health, and labor and delivery. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, 75% TEAS exam score, prerequisite courses with B or higher grades, a letter of recommendation, resume, and a 500-word essay. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and population health, preparing graduates for advanced roles such as nurse practitioner or healthcare administrator.

• 69 credit hours required.
• Estimated 20-month program length.
• Full-time, five-semester program.
• Campus-based program delivery.
• In-state tuition $28,895 total.
• Out-of-state tuition $74,410 total.
• Bachelor's degree required for admission.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
• TEAS exam score 75% minimum.
• Prerequisite courses grade B or higher.

The Master's Entry to Practice Nursing program at the University of South Carolina-Columbia offers a hybrid MSN pathway for non-nursing graduates seeking RN licensure. This graduate-level program combines online coursework with campus-based learning experiences, requiring prerequisite courses in anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry completed within five years. Admissions require transcripts, three professional references, a personal statement, and a resume with spring application deadlines in July and September. The program does not require an entrance exam, focusing instead on building essential nursing competencies through a comprehensive curriculum designed for career advancement in healthcare.

• Hybrid program format.
• Master of Science in Nursing.
• For non-nursing graduates.
• Prepares for RN licensure.
• Spring semester admissions.
• Transcripts required.
• Three professional references.
• Personal goal statement.
• Curriculum vitae or resume.
• Prerequisite courses needed.

Western Carolina University's Master's Entry Prelicensure Nursing (MEPN) program specializes in Rural Health, offering an accelerated 15-month campus pathway in Cullowhee for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders. This 56-credit MSN curriculum includes 660 clinical hours, emphasizing rural generalist nursing, telehealth training, and culturally responsive care through advanced simulation and community partnerships. Admission requires a minimum 2.8 GPA, prerequisite courses, personal statement, recommendations, and an interview; the GRE may be needed for lower GPAs. Graduates gain leadership skills for roles in underserved areas, with competitive tuition and financial aid available.

• 15-month program length.
• Campus-based in Cullowhee.
• Rural Health concentration.
• Master of Science in Nursing.
• 56 credits required.
• 660 clinical hours.
• Accelerated graduate pathway.
• Hands-on clinical training.
• Advanced simulation technology.
• Rural healthcare focus.

University of Rochester's Master's Direct Entry into Nursing Practice is a 16-month hybrid MSN program tailored for career changers with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. It integrates online coursework with on-campus clinicals and labs, totaling 70 credit hours and 690 clinical hours across specialties. The program emphasizes advanced leadership skills and prepares graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure. Financial aid and scholarships are available, and admission requires a bachelor's degree and prerequisite coursework. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.

• 16-month program length.
• Hybrid online and in-person.
• Full-time study required.
• 70 credit hours total.
• 690 clinical hours included.
• 90 lab hours provided.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Master of Science in Nursing.
• For non-nursing bachelor's holders.
• Advanced leadership skills focus.

Marquette University's Direct Entry MSN program offers a career pathway for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders through a hybrid format completed in five or eight semesters. Students engage in simulation labs and clinical rotations at leading healthcare facilities, achieving a 93.86% NCLEX pass rate. The program does not require an entrance exam, focusing on flexible online or in-person coursework to prepare for diverse nursing roles. As a Roman Catholic, military-friendly institution, it emphasizes hands-on experience without campus hospital access.

• Five or eight semesters completion.
• Hybrid online or traditional coursework.
• 93.86% NCLEX pass rate.
• Hands-on simulation labs.
• Clinical rotations in top facilities.
• Options for in-person or online.
• Designed for non-nursing bachelor's holders.
• Prepares for diverse nursing careers.
• Admissions require bachelor's degree.
• Tuition and fees detailed on site.

Colorado State University Pueblo's Direct Entry MSN program offers a specialized Nursing Leadership concentration for aspiring healthcare managers. This campus-based pathway integrates undergraduate coursework into the graduate curriculum, allowing students to maintain a 3.000 GPA while transferring up to nine credits. Learners can choose between thesis and non-thesis options, with thesis candidates completing an oral defense before a graduate committee. While specific admission requirements aren't detailed, the program emphasizes rigorous academic preparation for leadership roles across diverse healthcare settings. As a master's-level program, entrance exam requirements remain unspecified in available materials.

• Campus-based program.
• Direct Entry MS in Nursing.
• Nursing Leadership concentration.
• 3.000 GPA required.
• Thesis option available.
• Non-thesis option available.
• Oral defense required.
• Integrated curriculum.
• Undergraduate courses apply.
• Transfer credits allowed.

The University of Virginia's Clinical Nurse Leader program is a 24-month accelerated MSN designed for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders seeking leadership roles. This full-time program provides over 840 clinical hours across five healthcare specialties, preparing graduates for NCLEX and CNL certification with pass rates exceeding 96%. Ranked #1 among American CNL programs, it emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and team leadership. Graduates report salaries ranging from $84,000 to $147,000, with 90% receiving scholarships. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, prerequisite courses, and healthcare experience; no entrance exam is mentioned. Tuition varies by residency, starting at $30,228 annually for Virginia residents.

• 24-month full-time program
• 840+ clinical hours
• NCLEX pass rates 96%+
• #1 American CNL program
• $84K - $147K salary range
• 90% scholarship recipients
• Master of Science in Nursing
• Eligible for NCLEX and CNL Certification
• Requires bachelor's degree in another field
• 3.0 GPA minimum for admission

Boston College's Direct Entry MSN program offers an accelerated pathway for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders to become registered nurses. This four-semester, campus-based curriculum requires 48 credits and covers essential areas including adult health, psychiatric care, and pharmacology. Students must complete prerequisite courses and maintain a B- minimum grade, with a five-year completion limit. The program meets both baccalaureate and master's standards, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and emphasizing evidence-based, culturally sensitive care. CCNE-accredited and military-friendly, it focuses on leadership in diverse healthcare settings. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

• Accelerated four-semester program.
• Campus-based learning format.
• 48 academic credits required.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
• Full-time study schedule.
• Prerequisite courses needed.
• Meets AACN baccalaureate standards.
• Meets AACN master's standards.
• Covers adult health nursing.
• Includes psychiatric mental health.

The University of Alabama's Master's Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MEPN) is an accelerated MSN program designed for individuals holding bachelor's degrees in non-nursing fields. This five-semester, 68-credit hour program prepares graduates for nursing licensure with advanced training in population health, leadership, and healthcare informatics. The program requires a 3.0 GPA, B grades in prerequisite courses, TEAS entrance exam, personal statement, interview, and two recommendation letters. Clinical training is integral to the curriculum, focusing on evidence-based science and serving both urban and rural communities. No work experience is required, making it accessible for career changers seeking advanced nursing roles.

• 68 total credit hours.
• Five semester program length.
• Campus-based program format.
• 3.0 GPA requirement.
• Prerequisite courses needed.
• TEAS exam required.
• Personal statement submission.
• Interview process included.
• Two recommendation letters.
• Clinical hours required.

The University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers a Direct Entry Generalist MSN program designed for career changers holding a bachelor's degree in another field. This hybrid program provides a fast track to RN licensure, combining online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Students develop advanced nursing skills and are prepared for entry-level practice at the master's level, culminating in eligibility for the NCLEX exam. The program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for non-traditional students seeking an efficient transition into nursing.

• Fast track to RN licensure.
• For non-traditional students.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• Hybrid program format.
• Prepares for NCLEX exam.
• Master's level education.
• Entry-level nursing practice.
• Advanced skills focus.

Florida International University's Foreign Educated Physician to BSN/MSN program offers an accelerated pathway for internationally trained physicians to earn both nursing degrees in just three years. This campus-based program at the Biscayne Bay Campus prepares graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure and advanced practice certifications without requiring an existing RN license. With competitive admissions limited to 45 students annually and a fall start, it provides a fast-track option culminating in eligibility for nurse practitioner roles. The program meets CCNE accreditation standards and includes a BSN stop-out option, though entrance exam requirements should be verified directly with the university.

• 8 semesters to complete.
• 102 total credits required.
• On-campus program only.
• Accelerated BSN and MSN.
• For foreign-educated physicians.
• Fall semester start.
• Limited to 45 students yearly.
• BSN stop-out option available.
• Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Eligible for APRN certification.

Saint Louis University's Accelerated Master of Science in Nursing program transforms bachelor's degree holders from other fields into clinical nurse leaders through an intensive 21-month campus curriculum. Students complete 750 clinical hours beginning in their first semester, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and nationally recognized faculty. The program maintains a perfect 100% NCLEX pass rate and requires prerequisites in Human Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Statistics. With a $1,330 per credit tuition and holistic admissions process focusing on a 3.00 GPA, resume, and personal statement, this CCNE-accredited program offers fall or spring starts without requiring entrance exams.

• 21-month program duration
• 750 clinical hours
• Campus-based learning
• $1,330 per credit tuition
• 3.00 GPA requirement
• 100% NCLEX pass rate
• Accredited by CCNE
• Clinicals start first semester
• Fall or Spring start options
• Designed for non-nurses

The University of Vermont's Direct Entry MSN program offers an accelerated pathway for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders to transition into nursing careers. This full-time campus-based program enables students to achieve RN licensure within one year through rigorous preparation, followed by online completion of the master's degree. While no specific concentration is indicated, the curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical expertise with specialization options in Business Leadership, Education, and Public Health. The program achieved a perfect 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2023 and requires a 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses for admission. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. CCNE accreditation and scholarships up to $20,000 enhance this comprehensive nursing education opportunity.

• Accelerated nursing career path
• 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
• Blends on-site and online learning
• Specializations available
• Scholarships up to $20,000
• 3.0 GPA prerequisite required
• Full-time program
• RN licensure in one year
• Advanced clinical expertise focus
• CCNE accredited

Western Kentucky University's Master Entry Professional Nursing (MEPN) program offers an accelerated pathway for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders to transition into nursing careers. This hybrid program combines online coursework with campus-based learning in Bowling Green, KY, enabling students to earn both BSN and MSN degrees in just two years of full-time study. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, HESI entrance exam score of 80 or higher, prerequisite courses, goal statement, references, and resume. Clinical experiences are conducted in Kentucky or Tennessee facilities. Graduates become eligible for NCLEX-RN licensure. The program includes a $575 semester fee in addition to tuition costs.

• 2-year accelerated program
• Hybrid online/campus format
• Earns BSN and MSN degrees
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• HESI exam score 80+
• Bachelor's degree required
• Clinicals in KY or TN
• NCLEX-RN eligibility
• $575 semester program fee
• Prerequisite courses required

The University of Illinois Chicago's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing for Non-RNs program offers a direct pathway for career changers without nursing backgrounds. This accelerated MSN combines flexible online coursework with essential in-person clinical rotations, emphasizing evidence-based practice and comprehensive patient care. Students develop leadership skills while preparing for advanced nursing roles. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and prerequisite courses, with no entrance exam specified. The program's hybrid structure provides both convenience and hands-on clinical experience, making it ideal for those transitioning into healthcare. Financial aid options help support students throughout their educational journey.

• Hybrid program format
• For non-RNs entering nursing
• Combines online and in-person learning
• Prepares for advanced nursing roles
• Requires bachelor's degree for admission
• Financial aid options available
• Focus on evidence-based practice
• Includes clinical experiences
• Designed for career changers
• Comprehensive patient care focus

UCLA's Master's Entry Clinical Nursing program transforms bachelor's degree holders from non-nursing backgrounds into skilled nurses through an intensive two-year campus curriculum. This MSN pathway prepares graduates for NCLEX-RN licensure and offers a Public Health Nursing Certificate option. Admission requires a B average, completion of science and psychology prerequisites, and three recommendation letters. The program emphasizes clinical proficiency, population health strategies, and evidence-based methodologies while integrating informatics and interprofessional collaboration. Military-friendly policies include experience credit. No entrance exam is specified for this master's-level program.

• Two-year program length.
• Campus-based learning.
• Leads to MSN degree.
• Eligible for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Public Health Nursing Certificate option.
• B average admission requirement.
• Prerequisite courses required.
• Three recommendation letters needed.
• TOEFL or IELTS for international students.
• Summer enrollment included.

The University of Arizona's Master of Science for Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MS-MEPN) is a 15-16 month accelerated program designed for career changers with bachelor's degrees in other fields. Students complete over 120 simulation hours and 550+ clinical hours through rigorous on-campus education in Tucson or Gilbert. The program boasts a 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate and graduates earn starting salaries around $87,000. This CCNE-accredited program emphasizes leadership development, clinical skills, and systems-level healthcare knowledge without requiring entrance exams. Small class sizes and expert faculty mentorship support students throughout this intensive, full-time program.

• 15-16 month accelerated program.
• On-campus learning in Tucson or Gilbert.
• Over 120 simulation hours.
• 550+ direct clinical hours.
• 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate.
• High starting salary around $87,000.
• Requires bachelor's degree.
• Full-time, in-person format.
• Hands-on clinical training.
• Leadership and systems education.