RN to MSN Programs

Online Master of Science in Nursing (RN to MSN) with Nurse Leader and Nurse Educator Concentrations

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$0 Application Fee
$0 Transfer Credit Evaluation

0 Entrance Exams
No GRE/GMAT Required

About This RN to MSN Online Program

Accelerate your nursing education and help advance your nursing practice through American Public University’s RN to MSN online program. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

If you are a registered nurse holding a diploma or associate degree in nursing, American Public University’s program offers a quicker pathway to obtaining both a BSN and MSN. Through this program, you substitute three MSN courses for three BSN courses to save nine credit hours and graduate faster. You are awarded a BSN degree after successful completion of 120 credits.

Discover how to optimize patient outcomes as you analyze the impact of financial, regulatory, and political decisions on local, national, and global health outcomes. Your knowledge and skill as a practitioner, scientist, and leader will be cultivated. Coursework includes grant writing and a 16-week practicum in your community.

The mission of the program is to provide quality, affordable, and accessible higher education to professional registered nurses by fostering lifelong learning through a spirit of inquiry in order to prepare students for service and leadership roles in a diverse and global society.

Note: This program has specific admission requirements and is currently not open for admission to residents of Washington state.

What You Will Do

  1. Apply the principles of ethical decision-making to the practice of the master’s-prepared nurse
  2. Demonstrate leadership skills to support safe nursing practices and continually improve patient-centered care
  3. Advocate for healthcare policies that improve healthcare outcomes across the lifespan
  4. Translate theoretical knowledge, research and evidence-based practice to influence the delivery of high-quality, safe care to diverse populations in a variety of settings
  5. Apply data management principles in the delivery of cost-effective care to improve health outcomes
  6. Analyze how healthcare policy and health care economics affect change within the healthcare system
  7. Demonstrate effective inter-professional communication and collaboration to support safe and efficient coordination of care
  8. Reflect on personal commitment to lifelong learning to gain the competencies needed to lead the provision of care in a complex and changing healthcare environment

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Degree at a Glance

Accredited
CCNE Accredited
Number of Credits
147
Cost Per Credit
$350 | $250*
$315**
$455 | $250*
$386.75**
$409.50***
Courses Start Monthly
Online
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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version

Select 2 course(s) from the following:

Course ID: 2895

This course develops interpersonal, group, and presentational communication skills that are applicable in personal and professional cross-cultural relationships, and focuses on differences in values, message systems, and communication rules across cultural boundaries and in multicultural settings.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3694

This course is a contemporary study of popular culture in America – its development and characteristics, its role in shaping our individual lives and key social institutions; and its broad effects on our globalizing world. The course is designed around the interdisciplinary nature of cultural studies, and students will learn how to use key concepts and theories to examine popular culture from a number of different fields including Sociology, Anthropology, Communications, History, Cultural Studies, English, Women’s Studies, Ethnic Studies, and American Studies. Students will develop the skills to analyze the reciprocal relationship between culture and key stratification factors such as gender, race, ethnicity, class, age, region and sexuality. The course will cover many facets of popular culture from all forms of media, to sports, fashion, and the influence of technology. Students will learn to situate popular culture within its social, historical, political, and economic contexts and their personal lives.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3725

Microeconomics is an overview course that covers how households (consumers), firms (producers), and governments interact in competitive and other markets to set prices, and determine what and how much is produced. Key concepts introduced include the role of scarcity and choice, incentives and competition, and the law of supply and demand.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3726

Introduction to Macroeconomics is a survey course that builds on the topics covered and skills developed in ECON101 (Microeconomics) in order to present a complete picture of the economy. Macroeconomics shows how consumers and markets fit into the overall or aggregated economy and provides a framework to assess government policies. Key topics covered will include economic cycles (growth and recession), economic indicators and measures, and interest rates and money supply.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3727

This course is a basic overview of the geographer’s study of the location and distribution of features on the Earth’s surface. These features are both natural and man-made, both physically and culturally determined. The relationship of people and place is central to an understanding of human history, contemporary events, and possible global futures. As an introductory course it covers the whole globe and all its greatest geographic features and relationships. This dictates that the approach is broad and not too deep. However, knowledge of the geographer’s art will enable students to delve as deeply as their interest and energy will allow, into the dynamic spatial realities that surround them.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3729

This is the first course in a two-course sequence in American Government. The course is designed to convey basic facts about the structure and functioning of the American political system. The philosophical foundation of the U.S. Constitution is explored and the federalist construct is examined. The functions of the three separate branches of government and their roles in policy making are a major focus.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3731

An overview of the field of international and global politics. The nation state, factors of power, collective security, international trade, regional and international organization, sources of conflict and convergence are addressed.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3733

Introduction to Sociology introduces students to the sociological investigation of human interaction and behavior in society. Students will become familiar with the sociological perspective and develop a ‘sociological imagination’ – the ability to see the general in the particular, the new in the familiar, and to observe the impact social forces have on our lives. The course explores environmental, historical, cultural, and organizational influences on our interpersonal relationships and life-patterns within the context of contemporary society. Students will learn how to use sociological concepts, theory and research to think critically about individuals, groups, institutions, and societies in any given situation.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3734

The course introduces students to the art and science of Psychology. Course emphasis is on applying the "science of human behavior" to a variety of settings: vocational, personal, academic, and clinical. Course content introduces the history of psychology, major theories of personality and learning, current research and developmental issues. The course has a holistic approach and integrates the biological basis of behavior, social factors, learning and the unique coping styles of the individual to understand human behavior.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3735

This course is a worldwide survey of prehistoric cultural adaptations from the first use of bone and stone tools to the ancient mysterious civilizations of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Europe including recent archaeological discoveries. Emphasis is on the development of technologies, social groups and the patterns of cultural development. Archeological excavation methods and archeological artifacts are discussed in considerable detail. Archaeological concepts and skills will be explored through simulations as well as virtual field trips and activities.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3737

This course is designed to acquaint the novice anthropology student with anthropology and its various sub-fields, examining cross-cultural, global, comparative, and critical perspectives on human behavior and culture, as well as the diversity of human cultures from hunter-gatherers to industrialized city dwellers. The implications of socio-cultural analysis of economic, social, symbolic, and religious systems are also considered.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3738

This course introduces students to human nature and behavior from the broad, holistic perspective of contemporary U.S. American anthropology. The four primary sub-fields of anthropology, biological, cultural, linguistics, and archaeology, will be discussed in order to integrate various aspects of the human condition.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 3739

This course is an overview of the biological, psychological, cultural, and behavioral aspects of human sexuality and family life. The overall theme of the course focuses on attitudes and responsible sexual behavior. Key topics include how culture, society, and history have impacted our understanding of human sexuality.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4328

This course examines a diverse sample of social problems facing the United States today and identifies how these problems affect, and are affected by, our institutions and culture. The sociological perspective and key theories will be used to understand the beginnings of the civil society, how problems develop and are defined, and the role of social change (particularly contemporary technological innovation). Key social problems covered will include social stratification/inequality, crime, drug abuse, prostitution, aging, infectious disease, family violence, health care, racial/ethnic conflict, terrorism, etc. Sociological research on social problems will be explored, and social policies to remedy the negative consequences of these issues on society will be discussed
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4636

This course explores the practical and theoretical social impacts of computer-mediated communication (CMC) systems, including many different types of technologies, such as social networking sites, email, forums, chat, and online games. Students will engage in the analysis of CMC practices, the social processes and structures that emerge when people use these applications, and the problems and barriers that emerge from use.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4949

In a developed country, one can often take for granted the safety of the food supply. 1 in 6 Americans get sick from foodborne illness annually, with an estimated 128,000 requiring hospitalization and resulting in approximately 3,000 deaths annually. Practical knowledge in safe food sourcing, storage, preparation and serving is addressed along with providing tips for practical awareness of techniques for staying safe. In a global society, food safety is not just a local issue, and everyone should have a working knowledge of food safety and what to look for to remain free of foodborne illness. In this course, students will learn general techniques for preparing and consuming food that is free from harmful pathogens, incorporating the flow of food from purchasing through storage and preparation to serving. Students will explore contemporary and cross cultural issues surrounding food safety in a global society. Practical knowledge about preparing safe food and red flags to watch for when dining out will be explored. Students will learn where to find information on health inspection reports, foodborne illness outbreaks and recall alerts, and will know where to report any suspected foodborne illness or suspicious activity related to the food and water supply.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4961

This course is based upon the Institute for Humane Education’s (IHE) definition of humane education, which is “a lens, body of knowledge, and set of tools and strategies for teaching about human rights, animal protection, environmental stewardship, and cultural issues as interconnected and integral dimensions of a just, healthy society” (Institute for Humane Education, n.d.). The course explores issues, resources, rationales, and approaches to humane education related to various considerations and disciplines, including: economics, politics, science, technology, education, the arts, philosophy, religion, and geography.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5170

Introduction to Political Science explains foundational principles of the field. Students will learn the purpose of political science, common terms and concepts, and subfields. Among these are introductions to political philosophies and ideologies, comparative systems of government, and international relations. The course also examines the professional and academic fields to which a political science degree is relevant.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5176

This course offers students with a unique approach into the societies and cultures that we could progress toward in the future via the review of the science fiction genre. This course will review many aspects of technological questions that society will face in the future. Does the rise of technological advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics eventually bring us to a point where we must decide what is life and the right to self-determination as the Star Trek: TNG series covered in “The Measure of a Man”, laying out the rights of Commander Data. This is just one of many aspects of society and culture that will be examined throughout the course as students are made to think critically about what will the future look like.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5245

Literature has the ability to shape the way a nation thinks and behaves; it both responds to important issues in society and (re)shapes them. For far too long, the literature of cultures on the periphery of American society have been ignored because they do not fit comfortably into mainstream culture. Yet, from voices within the Native American population to Appalachian artists to LGBTQ groups, for example, cultures on the periphery have consistently helped shape the American literary identity and have continued to influence American society long after the publication of their works. This course lends credence to the legitimacy of the contributions of these underrepresented cultures and explores the role they have in shaping American literature—past, present, and future. (Pre-requisite: ENGL210 for English majors, or ENGL101 or ENGL110 for non-English majors)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5278

This course provides perspectives on death and dying. Students examine how death is beneficial and necessary for evolution. Participants explore the media's impact on mortality. Participants analyze how to communicate death to the living. Students assess the bereavement and burial process. Topics include: communicating death, the feeling of emptiness, the forgetfulness of life, living in the face of death, organ donation, burial, and the other side after death.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5279

American society is a cauldron of various racial, political, ethnic, and religious formations. Amongst these, religious and racial formations provide strong modes of social organization. Both religion and race are also a major stimulus of cultural practices and belief systems. These two modes influence the ideals of democracy, equality, freedom, and even political identifications. The current agitations about Black Lives Matter are drawing attention to the racial divisions that are splitting the American society. At the same time, these movements are receiving the support of people from different religions. The Islam phobia and growth of right-wing militias are also similarly pitting Americans against one another based upon their religious beliefs. American writers, artists, activists, and even poets have drawn attention to these linkages and the pernicious impact it is having upon our society. Their contributions provide an alternate understanding of the strengths and limitations of American democracy. In this course, we will examine a variety of sources to understand how religion and race are shaping American democracy and society.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5280

Difficult situations in life motivate us to think carefully about religion. The forms of religions are based on the well-being of human beings, and they have provided many different ways to follow paths that are good for our mental and physical health. This course will deal with essential questions; do religions offer ways and techniques to support that are good for our well-being? What paths have been provided to lead a good life? How our hope, contemplation, and resilience are rooted in popular religions? What are the methods advised by religions to help practitioners? The course will include traditions that are isolated to a specific culture. However, they have their historical, cultural, and social context, in which they have been beneficial to the practitioners of these cultures. On American soil, they are coming together as a melting pot, and this course will look into how their beneficial value can be used to manage current stresses. This course will look into beneficial teachings from different religions that are becoming mainstream and are practiced in a non-traditional way without converting to a specific religion. The course will cover Christian traditions, Sufi traditions, traditions from People of First Nation, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions. Ways to Stop and reflect and achieve tranquility. Not as a way of worship rather a way of living one’s life with equanimity and hope.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5452

This course introduces students to an attitude and approach for college success and relevant connections to their own inner motivations and external career options. Some key elements include values-goal alignment, an orientation to online learning, and strategies for successful adult learning. Other elements include planning a pathway from academic studies to a career path, career awareness, networking, engaging support resources, and collaborating with colleagues. Through the learning and activities of this course, students will gain the perspective needed for successful time management and prioritization, critical thinking, applied and collaborative learning, and civic/democratic and global learning. Content within the classroom includes open educational resources that are easily available online. This course fulfills one general education elective.   This course is recommended to be completed first in the student’s degree plan when possible. 
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 5037

Information and Digital Literacy is designed to provide students with sustainable and usable skills essential to success in both academic and professional settings. Students will learn best practices to locate and evaluate sources, and effectively communicate using digital literacy to become proficient 21st century learners.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4951

Martin Luther King, Jr, said, “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to KEEP MOVING.” Making Writing Relevant is a composition course that will definitely keep you moving. It is not merely a required course; it is the type of course you will want to take because it moves you onto the path to success. Over eight-weeks, we will help you learn the most important components of a successful writer-communicator. We will teach you how to research properly, knowing you will need this skill in every course you take here at APUS and also in interactions in your professional and personal life. We will teach you the formatting style you will use in your field. We will provide a supportive community to strengthen and encourage you, and by the end of this nearly-all-you-need-to-know-about-writing course, you will be able to fly.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates01/27/25 - 07/04/25 Course Dates07/07/25 - 08/31/25 SessionSummer 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 4894

This is an introductory statistics course designed to help students achieve a basic understanding of the statistical methods available to analyze and solve the wide variety of problems encountered in the workplace. This course is designed for students who seek an understanding of descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The emphasis of the course will be on the proper use and interpretation of statistical techniques. MATH120 is the recommended mathematics general education course for students who will be required to take additional statistics courses such as MATH302 Statistics as part of their program of study.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4109

This course is only open to students admitted and enrolled in the RN to Bachelor of Science Nursing Program. In this course, students examine the role of the baccalaureate-prepared Registered Nurse as a leader and change agent in diverse practice settings. Students determine the impact and effectiveness of informatics, cultures of safety, levels of professionalism and ethics in their healthcare settings. Students will conduct a self-assessment of professionalism, identify areas for growth and write a Professional Development Plan. Principles of critical thinking and scholarly writing are applied throughout the course.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4202

This course explores assessment of the individual and families across the lifespan with a focus on culturally diverse, vulnerable populations. The concepts of genetics, health maintenance/health promotion, and cultural competence will guide the student to develop plans of care focused on clinical prevention. Students will cultivate professional assessment skills by completing a health interview, a health risk assessment and a discharge teaching plan. All evidence-based plans of care reflect an understanding of the relationship between assessed risk factors and genetic predisposition toward illness with the goal of achieving quality patient outcomes. (Prerequisite: NURS300)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5347

This course is only open to students who are enrolled in the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program. This course explores the connections between pharmacological interventions and pathophysiology across the life span. The study of genetics/genomics, culture, and integrative health provides a theoretical context for the delivery of patient-centered care. An understanding of the dynamic relationship between comorbidities and medication interactions facilitates the development of an individual plan of care. An analysis of human responses to pharmacological interventions will be explored through case studies, evidence-based research, and group projects. (Prerequisite: NURS300)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4205

This course is only open to students who are enrolled in the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program. This course reviews evidence-based practice, the history of this movement, and the challenges to implementation in the practice setting. Students will further develop their skills with efficiently finding, reading, and comprehending published research and determine applicability to clinical practice. Students continue to explore means to assess, monitor, and develop cultures of safety in their own organizations and will become familiar with several national safety initiatives. (Prerequisites: NURS300 and MATH120)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4207

This course is only open to students who are enrolled in the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program. Students explore the rapid evolution of current nursing practice and examine historical and contemporary issues germane to their practice. Students examine changes in technology and its impact on access, cost, quality, and knowledge development. Global health and nursing workforce issues are evaluated and discussed.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4453

This course addresses the unique healthcare issues facing today's veterans. Emphasis is on physical and psychosocial needs of veterans and the delivery of patient/family centered care. Post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other health issues of veterans will be explored through evidence-based literature and research. Students will examine the veteran culture, identify health risks, analyze health issues and trends in healthcare systems, and explore best practices.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4841

This course is only open to students who are enrolled in the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program. In this course, the student will focus on the community as client with an emphasis on specific vulnerable populations and related topics, such as substance abuse, mental illness, domestic violence, women’s and men’s issues, and environmental health. The student will gain knowledge of underserved populations as well as how communities are affected by cultural diversity and natural and man-made disasters. Clinical experiences will allow for the implementation of a teaching project for a designated vulnerable population. (Prerequisite: NURS300)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4789

This course examines how population-based theories and practice inform community/public nursing practice. An emphasis is placed on the ecology of health and the interconnectedness of the biological, behavioral, physical, and socio environmental domains. Students will analyze root causes of health disparities including cultural, political, social, racial, class, gender and economic factors and examine the role of social justice to improving population health. Strategies for collaboration and advocacy with diverse population and groups will be explored.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4791

Rapidly changing healthcare systems demand that advanced degree nurses possess knowledge of the effective use of informatics and technology to enhance patient care in a variety of settings. This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve patient outcomes through effective use of these technological resources. Topics include electronic medical records, data analysis, safe management of patient care technology, health literacy, and related ethical issues. (Prerequisite: NURS502)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5052

Today’s nurse leaders must possess the essential communication, critical-thinking and decision-making skills required to effectively manage teams providing high quality healthcare to diverse populations. This course addresses issues related to inter-professional collaboration, quality improvement initiatives, data-driven decision making, leadership and communication styles and their effect on interaction with members of healthcare teams.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration DatesCurrent active, unencumbered registered nursing license Course Dates30
Total Semester Hours 30
Current active, unencumbered registered nursing license.
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4211

This course is only open to students who are enrolled in the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program. This course is organized around individual student research papers and project development and serves as a capstone and culminating experience where students integrate knowledge and apply professional skills to improve the quality of health in the workplace. Students prepare formal written and poster presentations of the project. A final evaluation of progress toward meeting goals is completed. (Prerequisite: NURS300, NURS310, NURS315, NURS340, and NURS350.) NOTE: Students must earn a grade of B or higher to pass this course
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Students must choose a concentration for this degree program:

Looks at curriculum, instruction, and assessment in nursing education with a focus on teaching and evaluations for nurse educators.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Apply programmatic objectives to the nurse educator role in clinical or academic settings.
  • Create educational and curricular materials for a variety of audiences.
  • Evaluate effectiveness of teaching strategies and modalities.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4788

Advanced degree nurses must integrate evidence-based principles into their daily practice, and promote research-based decision-making in themselves and others. This course focuses on the critical analysis of research and its application to current nursing practice. Ethical issues in the design and conduct of research are addressed. (Prerequisite: NURS502)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4792

Today’s healthcare providers must promote health, influence the health delivery system, and participate in policy advocacy to improve the healthcare outcomes of populations. In this course, students will examine the effects of legal and regulatory processes on healthcare delivery at institutional, local, state, and federal levels. Topics covered in this course will include healthcare policy development, accrediting agencies, quality improvement, and patient quality and safety. (Prerequisite: NURS502)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4794

This course builds on the undergraduate foundation in health assessment and provides the foundation for the advanced assessment skills required by the Nurse Educator. Teaching methodologies will facilitate the development of skills in conducting comprehensive and systematic assessments of patients throughout the lifespan. This will include physical and psychosocial assessment, risk assessment and functional assessments in diverse populations.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5011

This course builds on the undergraduate knowledge of pharmacology and the relationship of pharmacological therapies to patient health and outcomes, as well as pathophysiological conditions. Students study the actions and effects of medications as well as complementary and alternative therapies on the human system across the life span. Using a variety of theories and frameworks, students use clinical reasoning to evaluate ambiguous and complex clinical presentations. Students discuss the role of the advanced practice nurse educator in ensuring safe medication practice in a variety of settings.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4843

This course will provide the student with the theoretical basis of curriculum development, assessment and evaluation. Students will focus on the process of curriculum design and development; integrating these concepts into the economic, social, regulatory, technological, and ethical influences and trends which impact current nursing practice. (Prerequisite: ALL CORE COURSES IN THE PROGRAM and NURS601 and NURS604)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4797

The nurse educator must be proficient in developing and designing curriculum supportive of diverse learners in a variety of settings. This course introduces students to theoretical models and teaching methodologies to create stimulating learner-centered environments in both clinical and academic settings. This course explores the pedagogy of delivering effective nursing curricular content in learning environments that combine face-to-face and distance formats (blended learning) and those that deliver instruction completely online.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4798

The evaluation of learning is a critical component of advanced practice nursing education. This course explores the strategies and models that nurse educators use to evaluate the effectiveness of their teaching. Students use evaluation data to improve and revise curriculum. Content in this course is applicable to audiences in both academic and clinical education environments.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5012

This practicum provides nurse educator students the opportunity to apply specialized learning essential to strengthen and advance their own nursing practice in a particular area or focus in a direct care role. Students work with the practicum coordinator and faculty to identify a qualified preceptor and to select the practicum site for a wide variety of clinical practice settings consistent with AACN®’s Master’s Essentials (2011). 160 hours of clinical practice are required for completion of this practicum. All core and specialty courses must be completed before taking this course. This course requires an additional cost for the use of Typhon student practicum tracking software, to be purchased by the student prior to the start of the practicum.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 06/22/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session C Weeks16 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 08/24/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session K Weeks16 Week session

Offers a focus in leadership, human resource management, and operational quality. Healthcare business and finance are also covered.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Apply programmatic objectives to the role of the nurse leader.
  • Advocate for business practices that promote healthcare quality and patient safety.
  • Synthesize knowledge of key business and human resources practices to lead healthcare teams.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4995

This course explores legal and ethical dimensions of health care in the context of patients’ rights and responsibilities, employee rights and responsibilities, and business practices. The course examines ethical values and principles in healthcare, the Patient Bill of Rights, legal regulations in healthcare, malpractice and risk management, and basics of employment law and labor relations. Students will apply ethical and legal principles to analyze the health administrator’s role in case examples involving ethical and legal dilemmas.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5230

This course serves as an advanced course in human resource management with an emphasis on the health care workforce. Students will explore the intricacies associated with recruiting, hiring, and managing healthcare workers. Organizational culture as it pertains to human resources will be examined, and strategic planning will be highlighted. (Prerequisite: HCAD500)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5184

This course is designed to introduce students to the business side of healthcare. Topics include the regulatory environment, employment law, managing and marketing healthcare services. The course also looks at organized delivery systems including the labs, pharmacies, materials maintenance, and physician practice administration.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5185

This course is designed to give healthcare administration students a foundation in economic principles of health insurance. Topics will include managed care, employer-sponsored health insurance, the functioning of Medicare and Medicaid, the history of health insurance in the United States, and special topics in health insurance. (Prerequisite: HCAD650)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5186

This course is designed to develop the skills that will allow students to create safe and efficient quality healthcare systems through an understanding of the quality management cycle, goal-setting, and goal obtainment metrics. Topics include creating satisfied patients, high quality service, efficient processes, and examining tools used within the field. (Prerequisite: HCAD650 and HCAD651)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates08/26/24 - 01/31/25 Course Dates02/03/25 - 03/30/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates10/28/24 - 04/04/25 Course Dates04/07/25 - 06/01/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session B Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates12/30/24 - 05/30/25 Course Dates06/02/25 - 07/27/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4788

Advanced degree nurses must integrate evidence-based principles into their daily practice, and promote research-based decision-making in themselves and others. This course focuses on the critical analysis of research and its application to current nursing practice. Ethical issues in the design and conduct of research are addressed. (Prerequisite: NURS502)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 4792

Today’s healthcare providers must promote health, influence the health delivery system, and participate in policy advocacy to improve the healthcare outcomes of populations. In this course, students will examine the effects of legal and regulatory processes on healthcare delivery at institutional, local, state, and federal levels. Topics covered in this course will include healthcare policy development, accrediting agencies, quality improvement, and patient quality and safety. (Prerequisite: NURS502)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

Course ID: 5013

This practicum is completed with a nurse leader in a selected setting and will apply the leadership theories and concepts essential to the nurse leader role. The practicum provides the student the opportunity to apply their learning to their area of interest. Students engage in leadership activities such as committees, staff education, or quality improvement projects. Students work with their faculty member to select the practicum site. 160 clinical hours are required for completion of this practicum. All core and specialty courses must be completed before taking this course. This course requires an additional cost for the use of Typhon student practicum tracking software, to be purchased by the student prior to the start of the practicum.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 06/22/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session C Weeks16 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 08/24/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session K Weeks16 Week session

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4800

In this capstone course, students will apply the knowledge acquired throughout their graduate study. They will develop an evidence-based project proposal relevant to a problem or issue in current professional nursing practice. Components include problem identification, thorough literature review, proposal of a solution, an implementation plan, a process of evaluation, and dissemination of findings. Proposals and research are appropriate to the student’s area of specialty study: education or leadership.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
Registration Dates09/30/24 - 02/28/25 Course Dates03/03/25 - 04/27/25 SessionWinter 2025 Session D Weeks8 Week session
Registration Dates11/28/24 - 05/02/25 Course Dates05/05/25 - 06/29/25 SessionSpring 2025 Session I Weeks8 Week session

No Waiting to Gain Entry to this RN to MSN

If you meet our admission requirements, we have a place for you! American Public University has no waitlists for its RN to MSN program. Some on-campus programs may have limited numbers of students who can enroll and move through the program. But as an online program, the University can add classes to meet demand and ensure students maintain steady progress through the coursework.

Nursing classes for the RN to MSN at American Public University begin every other month and general education classes start monthly. Most classes run 8 weeks long. So, you have greater access to entry through our program.

 

What is the Advantage of this RN to MSN?

This online RN to MSN program enables registered nurses to earn a BSN degree and an MSN degree in a single, seamless nursing program. 

It is designed for registered nurses who hold a current RN license and an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or diploma. Diplomas are typically awarded by hospital-based schools of nursing. Not all nursing programs accept registered nurses holding a diploma, but American Public University does, thus offering an advantage for those holding this credential.  

American Public University’s RN to MSN is a 147-credit program. Among RN to MSN online programs, American Public University’s program is uniquely structured so that as you are completing the BSN program, you are able to replace three bachelor’s degree courses required for the BSN alone with three master’s degree courses, saving you time.1 Even though these are master’s courses, they are charged at the undergraduate rate, which provides tuition savings. 

Alternatively, you could pursue the University’s standalone BSN degree through its RN to BSN program and a nursing master’s degree through its standalone MSN degree program. The BSN degree is a 120-credit baccalaureate degree program, and the MSN degree is a 36-credit program for a combined total of 156 credits. For those with ambitions that include master’s-level achievement, the RN to MSN provides an accelerated and streamlined format that allows nursing students to save time and money1 in earning a bachelor’s degree, then a master’s.

1 Completion time is dependent on transfer credits accepted and the number of courses completed each session.

This RN to MSN is for students who have their associate degree or diploma, they have their nursing license, and their goal is to become a nurse educator or nurse leader. The benefit is that they replace some of their undergraduate-level courses with graduate-level courses. So it can actually save them time and money with the end goal of having a master's degree. The beauty of the program is its structure—they will get a bachelor's degree conferred along the way.
Stacey Malinowski
DNP, RN, NPD-BC, CCRN/K, PCCN, CNE, assistant dean and chief nurse administrator with the School of Health Sciences.
nurse with child

About Our CCNE Accreditation

American Public University is part of American Public University System. The RN to MSN at American Public University System is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org). 

CCNE-accredited programs exemplify strength and quality, offering a level of rigor that prepares students for the demands of this important profession. As an accredited institution, American Public University has signaled its commitment to continuous quality improvement for its nursing programs. The Commission is officially recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education to accredit nursing programs at the baccalaureate and graduate level. 

To become accredited, a program must undergo an intense self-evaluation, also known as self-study, to thoroughly assess its coursework, student outcomes, the nurse faculty and their credentials, and the program’s ability to graduate nurses ready to take on the challenges of providing excellent patient care.

As further validation of the significance of accreditation, accredited programs have also been approved or authorized by all applicable state boards of nursing. Employers often will look for graduates from an accredited program as well. Additionally, accreditation enables those students who qualify to use federal financial aid, if needed.

CCNE accreditation assures that a program meets its high standards, is committed to quality improvement in public health, and prepares students to deliver outstanding patient care. 

Why Advance to This Degree?

This RN to MSN program is suitable for the registered nurse who holds a diploma or associate degree in nursing, holds a current unencumbered RN license, and wishes to earn an MSN degree. The program is designed for those who aspire to advance their knowledge of professional nursing practice and build the skills often necessary to become a nurse educator or assume a nursing leadership role.

 

Focus Your Studies with a Concentration

Choose your area of interest. American Public University offers tracks or concentrations, allowing you to focus your studies as a Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, or Community and Public Health Nurse.

The pandemic inspired many to pursue the healthcare field and triggered a wave of retirements among nursing veterans. Each track allows registered nurses to make a positive difference supporting the future of healthcare.

 

The Nursing Education Track

By pursuing the Nurse Educator track, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills typically used to help educate the next generation of nurses. There is a critical shortage of nurses, in some cases attributable to the rate of retirements outpacing the number of incoming nurses to the field. 

Meanwhile, nursing programs offered through colleges, universities, hospitals, and other healthcare providers require that nurses typically hold a master’s degree in order to teach. With an MSN degree, you may become a nurse educator and make a difference by facilitating the influx of nurses into the healthcare field. 

The track includes a 160-hour practicum to be completed in your community to demonstrate applied knowledge. You will work with a practicum coordinator to identify a qualified preceptor and location.

The Nursing Leadership Track

Hospitals and healthcare organizations need registered nurses wishing to grow into leadership roles and support vital administrative, human resource management, and operational integrity responsibilities. The Nursing Leadership track is designed for those registered nurses who have ambitions to drive the future of health care and professional nursing practice. 

Like the Nursing Education track, the Nurse Leader track requires completion of a 160-hour practicum where you will engage in clinical practice experiences to apply the leadership theories and concepts learned through the program.

The Community and Public Health Nurse Track

The pandemic underscored the urgent need to address matters of public health. This track allows you to focus on the urgent need to serve, protect, and promote the health of a community. You will use epidemiology data to analyze the social determinants of health and address public health policy matters, particularly as they relate to vulnerable populations. 

online nursing student

Earn This RN to MSN Online

You can get both your BSN degree and master’s degree in nursing online through American Public University’s RN to MSN program. 

Online courses are completed asynchronously, meaning you don’t have to log in at a specific time to attend a scheduled lecture or other virtual activity. You choose the days and times to complete your assignments to meet weekly deadlines specified by your professor. 

American Public University takes pride in opening access to ambitious learners, especially registered nurses, looking to advance their knowledge and impact the future of healthcare in their community.

Many who enroll enjoy engaging with fellow students through online discussion boards to share professional experiences and best practices. Some faculty members will host optional scheduled virtual drop-in meetings for students who wish to connect with peers in real time to discuss class assignments or make professional connections.  

Benefits of Taking This RN to MSN Online

Registered nurses frequently have unpredictable schedules and need flexibility in furthering their education. American Public University’s online program enables busy nurses seeking personal and professional development an opportunity to control their learning schedule. 

Those who commit to online learning should have strong time management skills, good self-discipline, and be fairly tech savvy. 

Because this program is online, it enrolls students from around the globe, enabling you to interact with registered nurses from many walks of nursing practice. There are so many areas of specialization available in today’s health world, making for a robust learning experience.

We have students from all over the country and on military installations around the world in our classes. As they start sharing their experiences, it really creates this rich discussion. The students tend to appreciate hearing how a military treatment facility does things differently than a small rural community hospital.
Stacey Malinowski
DNP, RN, NPD-BC, CCRN/K, PCCN, CNE, assistant dean and chief nurse administrator with the School of Health Sciences

What Are the Paths For Nurses Seeking Advanced Education?

There are many ways to earn various nursing credentials. Programs of study leading to each credential typically introduce or cover nursing theory, quality patient care, evidence-based practice, population health, and trending topics in the health professions. 

As you research options, you may discover some of the following degree types, acronyms, and programs:

These are associate degree programs, specifically the associate degree in nursing (ADN), associate of science in nursing (ASN), and the associate of applied science (AAS) degree. These programs might be considered the most entry-level options and help prepare students to take the NCLEX-RN®1 to earn state licensure as a registered nurse (RN).

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is open to anyone who wishes to pursue the nursing profession. These programs tend to be heavy on science, with coursework usually required in subjects like anatomy and physiology, biology, and chemistry. These programs are designed to help prepare non-nurses to take the NCLEX-RN®1 as well to become an RN.

This program is for individuals who are already registered nurses. Often, transfer credits will be awarded for holding a current RN license, thus shortening the time it takes to complete the program. 

American Public University offers an RN to BSN program online and awards 30 credits for a registered nurse license.

For RNs who have earned a bachelor’s degree and wish to pursue a master’s degree to advance their knowledge and impact on the profession, standalone Master of Science in Nursing programs offer a way to earn this degree. Many, but not all, programs will require that you hold a BSN. Some Direct-Entry MSN programs will admit students who hold a baccalaureate degree in any field. 

American Public University’s MSN program does require applicants to hold a current RN license and a conferred Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Like the RN to MSN, the standalone MSN offers concentrations in nursing education, nursing leadership, and community and public health nursing.

These programs are for RNs prepared at the associate level who want to ladder up their learning all the way to master’s standing. These programs help provide the preparation to take on higher levels of responsibility in health care.

American Public University’s program awards students their BSN degree once they have completed the first 120 credit hours of the program. This credential can be an advantage for nurses who need to demonstrate accomplishment to meet an employer’s requirements. 

Those who hold a master’s degree and wish to enhance their knowledge in a particular focus area may pursue a post-master’s certificate program. These programs might be sought by an individual interested in advanced practice specialties like family nurse practitioner, adult gerontology nurse practitioner, nursing informatics, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. 

American Public University offers two post-graduate nursing certificates: Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership. If you choose a track during your MSN studies, you can supplement with the other 18-credit certificate program upon graduation to build your capacity in the other specialty. 

Each is a doctoral program. Typically, a nurse who wishes to continue in clinical practice will choose a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, while an RN who wants to undertake research or teach in a university setting will pursue a PhD. 

1 NCLEX-RN is a registered trademark of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.

nurse

The Urgency for Advanced Education for Nurses

In 2011, a report on The Future of Nursing by the Institute of Medicine, now known as the National Academy of Medicine, called for increasing the proportion of nurses holding a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to at least 80%. 

Many hospitals have Magnet®2 designation, which means they have higher levels of care in place to ensure enhanced patient outcomes. To be a Magnet program, a hospital must have a specified number of nurses who hold at least a baccalaureate degree in nursing. Often, these hospitals will require nurses they hire to hold a BSN degree. 

Meanwhile, the critical need for nursing faculty contributes to the overall shortage of nurses. Nurses must hold a master’s degree in order to teach in most settings. When educational institutions are unable to hire nursing faculty, seats available for students eager to pursue this field are limited. Many schools have waitlists because of the lack of eligible faculty.

Additionally, our aging population with people living longer coupled with an enlarging pool of retiring nurses have contributed to the need for nurses and other healthcare professionals. The ability of nurses to treat more complex, chronic conditions becomes more essential. 

2 Magnet ® is a registered trademark of the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Curriculum

Coursework is both rigorous and rewarding, helping build your confidence to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in health today. Nursing theory, evidence-based practice, health technology, and population health are among the topics covered. 

One unique course examines caring for veterans, exploring the physical and psychological needs of veterans, like traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Nursing faculty enjoy sharing their experiences ranging from local, community-based health operations to major healthcare systems to enrich your learning. 

 

How to Pay for This Degree

American Public University takes pride in its affordable tuition rate—it’s the University’s way to assure access to higher education for ambitious working professionals who often must juggle family and career responsibilities. 

The University offers a team of financial aid advisors ready to assist you in navigating options to finance your education. Some solutions include: 

Visit studentaid.gov, a website provided by the U.S. Department of Education. The first step in gauging your eligibility is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, popularly known as the FAFSA®1.

1 FAFSA is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Education.

Scholarships are considered “gift funds” and don’t need to be repaid, while loans, usually offered through banks and credit unions, do need to be repaid.  American Public University does not offer any of its own scholarships but can provide assistance with identifying scholarship sources. Some 100 organizations have provided scholarships to our students over the years.

Your employer may provide tuition assistance. Contact your human resources department to find out if you can take advantage of educational benefits.

Credit cards, digital payments, and e-checks are all accepted by American Public University. To facilitate extending payments over time, the University offers an automatic debit plan. Tuition payments are directly charged to your credit card based on a preset schedule. 

The University honors those who have served by offering a veteran tuition rate, representing savings on our standard rate. For those who wish to take advantage of GI Bill®2 benefits, financial aid advisors can help veterans navigate and maximize their options.

2 GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by the VA is available at the official website: http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.  

Note: American Public University's RN to MSN is not eligible for military tuition assistance.

 


 

Frequently Asked Questions

That will depend on the number of transfer credits you have coming into an RN to MSN program. If you are an RN with a bachelor’s in a non-nursing field, you will be able to advance to master of science in nursing coursework more quickly than an RN with an associate degree. RNs must have some type of academic degree. Generally, individuals with no academic degrees come into any program with a limited number of transfer credits and start at an entry level, taking general education courses in arts and humanities, history, social sciences, and natural sciences, followed by courses in the major. At the end of most MSN programs, clinical hours earned through a practicum are required and that can take 16 weeks (or more, depending on the program) to complete. So speed to completion will vary depending on a student’s level of education upon admission. 

Generally, a bachelor’s of some type is required to enroll in an MSN program. You can bypass the BSN and dive right into MSN coursework, if your program of choice allows it. These are known as Direct-Entry programs and are for those holding a non-nursing degree. However, with accelerated programs, like RN to MSN programs, it is possible to earn your BSN as part of your entire program of study. Holding a BSN may be generally attractive to employers, like hospitals, which may require their nurses to hold a minimum of a bachelor of science in nursing degree.

Differences in curriculum should be considered when evaluating the difficulty of a bachelor’s in nursing (BSN) and a master’s in nursing (MSN). Each nursing degree has its own challenges, however, an MSN typically involves a more rigorous curriculum and covers advanced topics such as leadership, administration, and specialized nursing roles.

Speed to completion often depends on enrollment status as a full-time or part-time student and level of education upon entry. Both are graduate programs, however, the DNP is a doctoral program—the Doctor of Nursing Practice—and requires the highest level of scholarship and rigor. Each program requires at least 2 years of full-time coursework. MSN programs will usually conclude with a clinical practice experience called a practicum under the supervision of a preceptor. A DNP may also require clinical practice hours and concludes with a scholarly project. This project may take another 1 to 2 years to complete. 

MSN is the acronym for the Master of Science in Nursing and is a degree awarded at the conclusion of a prescribed course of study. NP stands for Nurse Practitioner and is a specialized area of study, often offered as a concentration within an MSN program. Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), taking on more duties than a registered nurse and able to perform some of the same duties as doctors, such as diagnosing and treating health conditions and writing prescriptions. Family nurse practitioner is an example of an NP.

You can. Once you have successfully completed a bachelor of science in nursing program, you are eligible to pursue an MSN degree. However, there are some programs, like RN MSN programs, that enable you to complete a BSN and MSN in one consolidated program of study. This may be a more efficient and cost-effective way to complete both degrees.

Consider your personal and professional goals when answering this question. As part of the evolution of professional nursing, a BS in Nursing is now considered the minimum level of education for registered nurses, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). In fact, AACN issued a position paper on this, citing more complexities in healthcare, given a shift away from hospital-based care and a focus on preventive care. Hospitals with Magnet® designation typically require nurses they hire to hold a BSN. For those who aspire to higher levels of responsibility and wish to address a specialized niche, an MSN may be the appropriate choice. The role of Nurse Practitioner, for example, requires an individual to hold an MSN at a minimum. A nurse practitioner is able to diagnose and treat illness and prescribe medications, much like the care delivered by a physician. A nurse practitioner track is a popular specialization offered by some MSN academic programs.

NCLEX-RN® is a registered trademark of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.
Magnet ® is a registered trademark of the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

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Next Courses Start Feb 3
Register by Jan 31

Admission Requirements

This program has specific admission requirements. This program is currently not open for admission to residents of Washington state.

To apply to this program, you must hold the following:

  • Associate degree or diploma from an accredited or board approved institution in nursing
  • Current, active, unencumbered registered nursing (RN) license
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Signed statement of understanding
  • Current resume/CV
  • 500-600 word statement of purpose and goals for this RN to MSN program

Please read all graduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation including a legible copy of your valid government-issued photo ID (civilian students) or government-issued JST or CCAF transcript (military students).

A university admissions representative will contact you via email or phone to assist you with the enrollment process, review your nursing license and documentation, and notify you when you have been admitted into the program and may register for courses.

Note: You must complete this program within 7 years of starting your first nursing (NURS) course.

IMPORTANT NOTE

The baccalaureate and master’s degree programs in nursing at American Public University System are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Program Goals

The goals of the MSN degree program are to prepare students to:

  1. Assume service and leadership roles and effectively employ leadership skills to affect practice changes across systems
  2. Foster a culture of personal lifelong learning and professional development to align the nursing profession with the future of health and healthcare systems
  3. Cultivate and lead collaborative inter-professional healthcare teams
  4. Provide a seamless transition for the BSN prepared Registered Nurse to earn an MSN and provide a foundation for doctoral programs in nursing
  5. Encourage licensed nurses to attain and apply specialized knowledge at the graduate level in the Nurse Educator or Nurse Leader concentration

Materials Cost

Most courses in this program use Open Educational Resources (OER). These teaching, learning, and research materials are made available to you at no cost, meaning there are minimal book costs associated with earning this degree.

There is a one-time fee for Typhon student practicum tracking software. This fee will be paid directly to the Typhon group. Technology fee: $85 per course 

Need Help?

Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an APU admissions coach at 877-755-2787 or info@apus.edu.

Quality Education Should Be Affordable

So you can focus on the opportunities ahead, without the financial burden of more expensive schools who are not as invested in your success. Learn more about paying for school.

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Disclosures

Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.

 

1The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.

*Cost Per Credit Hour

The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.

See all military student benefits.

Cost of Attendance

Learn more about American Public University's cost components and full cost of attendance