About This Program
Take your nursing career to the next level. With a focus on evidence-based practice, leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration, you will be equipped to tackle the complex challenges of today's healthcare environment. Whether you are interested in a career as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, educator or administrator, the M.S.N. degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Read more...
Contact Information
- Teresa Adams | tadams27@kent.edu |
330-672-8761
- Connect with an Admissions Counselor: U.S. Student | International Student
Program Delivery
- Delivery:
- Fully online (concentrations Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, Nursing Administration and Health Systems Leadership, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner)
- Mostly online (concentrations Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)
- Location:
- Kent Campus
Applications to the Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration are not being accepted at this time.
Examples of Possible Careers and Salaries*
Medical and health services managers
- 31.5% much faster than the average
- 422,300 number of jobs
- $104,280 potential earnings
Nurse practitioners
- 52.4% much faster than the average
- 211,300 number of jobs
- $111,680 potential earnings
Nursing instructors and teachers, postsecondary
- 17.6% much faster than the average
- 72,900 number of jobs
- $75,470 potential earnings
Additional Careers
- Clinical nurse specialists
Accreditation
The Master of Science in Nursing degree at Kent State University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
* Source of occupation titles and labor data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook. Data comprises projected percent change in employment over the next 10 years; nation-wide employment numbers; and the yearly median wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.
For more information about graduate admissions, visit the graduate admission website. For more information on international admissions, visit the international admission website.
Admission Requirements
Applications to the Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration are not being accepted at this time.
- Bachelor's and/or graduate degree from an accredited registered nursing program1
- Minimum 3.000 undergraduate/graduate GPA on a 4.000-point scale (starting with spring 2026 admission term, minimum 2.750 GPA is required)
- Completion of an undergraduate statistics course with a minimum C grade (starting with spring 2026 admission term, requirement is eliminated)
- Active, unrestricted registered nurse license in the state in which clinical coursework will be completed
- Curriculum vitae (including activities such as national nursing certifications, professional organizations, clinical ladder, PI/QI projects, research, publications and military experience if applicable)
- Essay (two pages double spaced, 500 words) describing professional preparation and rationale for seeking the master's degree in the identified specialty along with professional goals and any experience as a nurse caring for the under-served, high risk or vulnerable populations (starting with spring 2026 admission term, the essay is eliminated)
- Admission essay is required starting with spring 2026 admission term responding to the following questions (two pages, double spaced, 500 words):
- How do you plan to contribute to the nursing profession and healthcare community after earning your M.S.N. degree?
- How has your experience, professional development and service within the profession contributed to your readiness for graduate education?
- What experience do you have working as a nurse caring for the underserved, high-risk or vulnerable populations?
- Three professional letters of reference from healthcare professionals, either a supervisor and/or an advanced practice nurse who can speak to the applicant's professional capabilities
- English language proficiency - all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions to waive) by earning one of the following:2
- Minimum 83 TOEFL iBT score
- Minimum 6.5 IELTS score
- Minimum 55 PTE score
- Minimum 110 DET score
Admission to the M.S.N. degree is competitive and never guaranteed. Priority will be given to candidates with:
- Strong academic record
- Strong references
- Demonstrated experience in the area of interest
- National certification in a specialty as a nurse
- Membership in a professional nursing organization or military
- Documented community service
- Participation in an agency's Clinical Ladder, PI/QI Projects, research, publication or similar programs/projects
- Experience as a nurse caring for underserved, high risk or vulnerable populations
An additional interview video may be required. Students selected for admission to the nursing program must meet the College of Nursing's Clinical Compliance Policy.
- 1
Applicants with an RN license and a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, or with a bachelor's degree in nursing from an institution outside the U.S. will be considered based on faculty review of a portfolio submitted with the application.
- 2
International applicants who do not meet the above test scores may be considered for conditional admission.
Application Deadlines
- Fall Semester
- Priority deadline: March 1
- Spring Semester
- Priority deadline: October 1
- Summer Term
- Priority deadline: March 1
Applications submitted by these deadlines will receive the strongest consideration for admission.
Program Requirements
Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major Requirements | ||
| NURS 50089 | INTERNATIONAL HEALTH CARE POLICIES 1 | 3 |
| or NURS 60025 | HEALTH POLICY AND ADVANCED NURSING PRACTICE | |
| NURS 60010 | ADVANCED NURSING INFORMATICS 2 | 3 |
| NURS 60101 | THEORETICAL BASIS FOR NURSING PRACTICE | 3 |
| NURS 60403 | METHODS OF INQUIRY 3 | 3 |
| Concentrations | ||
| Choose from the following: | 18-34 | |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 30-46 | |
- 1
NURS 50089 is only offered in another country for students who travel abroad. Students who are planning to earn the D.N.P. degree may take NURS 70685 or NURS 70686 toward this requirement.
- 2
Students who are planning to earn the D.N.P. degree may take NURS 70750 toward this requirement.
- 3
Students who are planning to earn the D.N.P. degree may take NURS 70630 toward this requirement.
Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration Requirements | ||
| NURS 60015 | ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT | 3 |
| NURS 60045 | PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60126 | FAMILY AND ADULT GERONTOLOGY NURSE PRACTITIONER ROLE AND PROCEDURES | 2 |
| NURS 60129 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY ACUTE CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER I | 3 |
| NURS 60230 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY ACUTE CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER III | 4 |
| NURS 60330 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY ACUTE CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER IV | 2 |
| NURS 60441 | PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60506 | CLINICAL DIAGNOSTICS FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSES | 3 |
| NURS 61092 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY ACUTE CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER I PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 61392 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY ACUTE CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER II PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 62392 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY ACUTE CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER III PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 63392 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY ACUTE CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER IV PRACTICUM | 2 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 31 | |
Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major Requirements | ||
| NURS 60015 | ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT | 3 |
| NURS 60045 | PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60110 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST I | 3 |
| NURS 60210 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST II | 3 |
| NURS 60310 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST III | 3 |
| NURS 60441 | PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60506 | CLINICAL DIAGNOSTICS FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSES | 3 |
| NURS 61192 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST I PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 62192 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST II PRACTICUM | 2-3 |
| NURS 63192 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY CLINICAL NURSE SPECIALIST III PRACTICUM | 2-3 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 28 | |
Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration Requirements | ||
| NURS 60015 | ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT | 3 |
| NURS 60045 | PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60120 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY PRIMARY CARE I | 3 |
| NURS 60125 | FAMILY AND ADULT GERONTOLOGY NURSE PRACTITIONER ROLE | 1 |
| NURS 60220 | PRIMARY CARE II: CHRONICALLY ILL ADULTS | 3 |
| NURS 60320 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY PRIMARY CARE III | 3 |
| NURS 60441 | PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60506 | CLINICAL DIAGNOSTICS FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSES | 3 |
| NURS 61292 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY PRIMARY CARE I PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 61892 | FAMILY AND ADULT GERONTOLOGY NURSE PRACTITIONER ROLE PRACTICUM | 1 |
| NURS 62292 | PRIMARY CARE II PRACTICUM: CHRONICALLY ILL ADULTS | 2 |
| NURS 63692 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY COMPREHENSIVE PRIMARY CARE III PRACTICUM | 2 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 29 | |
Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration Requirements | ||
| NURS 60015 | ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT | 3 |
| NURS 60045 | PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60120 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY PRIMARY CARE I | 3 |
| NURS 60125 | FAMILY AND ADULT GERONTOLOGY NURSE PRACTITIONER ROLE | 1 |
| NURS 60160 | PRIMARY CARE PEDIATRICS | 3 |
| NURS 60220 | PRIMARY CARE II: CHRONICALLY ILL ADULTS | 3 |
| NURS 60325 | PRIMARY CARE: FAMILY HEALTH AND CHRONIC ILLNESS | 4 |
| NURS 60441 | PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60506 | CLINICAL DIAGNOSTICS FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSES | 3 |
| NURS 61292 | ADULT GERONTOLOGY PRIMARY CARE I PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 61692 | PRIMARY CARE PEDIATRICS PRACTICUM | 1-2 |
| NURS 61892 | FAMILY AND ADULT GERONTOLOGY NURSE PRACTITIONER ROLE PRACTICUM | 1 |
| NURS 62292 | PRIMARY CARE II PRACTICUM: CHRONICALLY ILL ADULTS | 2 |
| NURS 63292 | PRIMARY CARE: FAMILY HEALTH AND CHRONIC ILLNESS PRACTICUM | 2 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 34 | |
Nurse Educator Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major Requirements | ||
| NURS 60015 & NURS 60045 & NURS 60441 | ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT and PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE and PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3-9 |
| or NURS 60016 | ADVANCED ASSESSMENT, PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE NURSE LEADER | |
| NURS 60592 | NURSING EDUCATION PRACTICUM | 3 |
| NURS 60601 | CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION IN NURSING EDUCATION | 3 |
| NURS 60602 | ROLES AND EVALUATION FOR NURSING EDUCATION CURRICULA | 3 |
| NURS 60605 | NURSING EDUCATION WITH TECHNOLOGY | 2 |
| NURS 60607 | CLINICAL NURSING AND EDUCATION ISSUES IN A SPECIALTY AREA | 2 |
| NURS 67092 | CLINICAL NURSING AND EDUCATION ISSUES IN A SPECIALTY AREA PRACTICUM | 2 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 18 | |
Nursing Administration and Health Systems Leadership Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major Requirements | ||
| NURS 60014 | LEADERSHIP IN NURSING AND HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT | 3 |
| NURS 60016 | ADVANCED ASSESSMENT, PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE NURSE LEADER | 3 |
| NURS 60020 | LEGAL AND REGULATORY MANAGEMENT FOR NURSE ADMINISTRATORS | 3 |
| NURS 60024 | HEALTH CARE ORGANIZATION, STRUCTURE AND BEHAVIOR | 3 |
| NURS 60315 | BUDGETARY AND FISCAL MANAGEMENT FOR NURSES | 3 |
| NURS 64002 | PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION FOR NURSE ADMINISTRATORS | 3 |
| NURS 64292 | NURSING ADMINISTRATION AND HEALTH SYSTEMS LEADERSHIP I PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 64302 | NURSING ADMINISTRATION AND HEALTH SYSTEMS LEADERSHIP SEMINAR | 2 |
| NURS 64392 | NURSING ADMINISTRATION AND HEALTH SYSTEMS LEADERSHIP II PRACTICUM | 2 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 24 | |
Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration Requirements | ||
| NURS 60015 | ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT | 3 |
| NURS 60045 | PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60170 | PEDIATRIC ASSESSMENT FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSES | 3 |
| NURS 60270 | PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER I | 3 |
| NURS 60370 | PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER II | 1 |
| NURS 60372 | ADVANCED NURSING CARE OF THE CHRONICALLY ILL CHILD | 3 |
| NURS 60441 | PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60470 | PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER III | 2 |
| NURS 61792 | PEDIATRIC ASSESSMENT FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSE PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 62792 | PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER I PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 63792 | PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER II PRACTICUM | 1 |
| NURS 63992 | ADVANCED NURSING CARE OF THE CHRONICALLY ILL CHILD PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 64792 | PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER III PRACTICUM | 1 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 29 | |
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration Requirements | ||
| NURS 60012 | ADVANCED MENTAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT AND PSYCHOPATHOLOGY | 4 |
| NURS 60015 | ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT | 3 |
| NURS 60045 | PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60051 | NEUROBIOLOGY AND PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY OF MAJOR PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS | 4 |
| NURS 60151 | INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY | 3 |
| NURS 60251 | FAMILY AND GROUP PSYCHOTHERAPY | 3 |
| NURS 60353 | INDIVIDUAL, ORGANIZATION AND COMMUNITY CONSULTATION | 3 |
| NURS 60441 | PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 61592 | PRACTICUM I: INDIVIDUAL THERAPY | 2 |
| NURS 62592 | PRACTICUM II: MEDICATION MANAGEMENT AND INDIVIDUAL THERAPY | 2 |
| NURS 63592 | PRACTICUM III: FAMILY AND GROUP THERAPY | 2 |
| NURS 64592 | PRACTICUM IV: NURSE PRACTITIONER ROLE | 2 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 34 | |
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration Requirements | ||
| NURS 60015 | ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT | 3 |
| NURS 60045 | PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60441 | PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE | 3 |
| NURS 60506 | CLINICAL DIAGNOSTICS FOR ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSES | 3 |
| NURS 66100 | WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER I | 3 |
| NURS 66192 | WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER I PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 66200 | WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER II | 2 |
| NURS 66292 | WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER II PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 66300 | WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER III | 3 |
| NURS 66392 | WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER III PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 66400 | WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER IV | 2 |
| NURS 66492 | WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER IV PRACTICUM | 2 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |
Graduation Requirements
| Minimum Major GPA | Minimum Overall GPA |
|---|---|
| - | 3.000 |
- Minimum 300-600 clinical hours, depending on concentration
- Maximum six years of study. Under selected circumstances and upon the consent of the advisor, petitions for extensions of an additional one year to completion may be submitted to the concentration director.
- No more than one-half of a graduate student’s coursework may be taken in 50000-level courses.
- Grades below C are not counted toward completion of requirements for the degree.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Meet standards for advanced practice certification or other advanced professional distinction.
- Demonstrate competencies based on professional standards to assume advanced roles in nursing, and for leadership and career advancement, including doctoral study.
- Communicate, integrate and apply advanced nursing knowledge and skills to provide equitable, evidence-based, inclusive nursing care and promote quality outcomes in nursing and health care.
Program Policies
Clinical Compliance Policy
This policy applies to all students enrolled in B.S.N., M.S.N., D.N.P. degree programs and postmaster's certificates. Students must provide documentation of the following items to a third-party vendor that is approved to track and maintain student health and other compliance documents. Students are responsible for all costs incurred in meeting the requirements for clinical compliance and for establishing and maintaining their third party account profile. Students in the B.S.N., M.S.N. and D.N.P. degree programs and College of Nursing post-master's certificates must be fully compliant with this policy prior to registering for their first practicum course.
Requirements
- Current American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or American Red Cross CPR/AED. Ph.D. students must have CPR certification within the first semester of enrollment.
- Background Check: Students are required to submit federal and state criminal background checks and incur the related costs. International students must meet university policy for admission.
- Healthcare Insurance: Students must provide proof of health insurance. Students can submit either (a) a copy of an insurance card with the student's name on the card or (b) a copy of the health insurance statement coverage that indicates that the student is covered.
- Immunizations/Immune Status Testing: Evidence of the required immunizations/tests must be provided on the Immunization and Physical Compliance Form available from the Office of Student Services. The form must be completed, dated and signed by a licensed health care provider then uploaded to the third party vendor's portal.
- Physical examination: A physical examination is required within one year prior to admission to a clinical site. For students admitted into the B.S.N., M.S.N. and D.N.P. degrees or post-master's certificates, the provider conducting the physical must indicate that the student can perform activities in the nursing student's clinical and practicum courses, or can do so with reasonable accommodations, and is free of all communicable diseases. Students should request accommodations from the Office Student Accessibility Services. Failure to obtain the physical examination or the provider assurance may prevent the university from placing the student in a clinical setting.
Students who have allergic reactions, medical waivers, refuse vaccinations or other physiological conditions that preclude them from receiving vaccinations are required to contact the Office of Student Services upon admission to their academic program. Such conditions may prevent students from completing clinical/practical coursework at some partner agencies which may result in a delay of graduation.
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure
Students enrolled in the B.S.N. (Nursing for Registered Nurses major), M.S.N., and D.N.P. degrees or post-master's certificates must have an active, unrestricted RN license in either (1) the state of Ohio for students taking on-campus courses or who will be completing practica in Ohio or (2) the state of residence and practice for applicants residing and completing practicum outside Ohio. They must obtain proof of the appropriate licensure within the first semester of their program or before starting their practicum hours, whichever comes first.
Students in the Ph.D. degree must have an active unrestricted Ohio RN license—or for international students, proof of legal ability to practice as a RN in country of origin. They must show proof of license at the time of admission into the Ph.D. degree.
Uniform for Clinical Experience
- The uniform consists of a white tunic top and blue pants embroidered with the Kent State University College of Nursing logo. Any student expecting a modification of the uniform should speak first with the Kent State University Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs.
- Students are required to purchase two sets of the official embroidered uniform, an embroidered white scrub jacket, and the required College of Nursing name tag, which must be worn at all times during each clinical experience (per Ohio Board of Nursing). Uniforms may only be purchased from the uniform company authorized to sell official Kent State University College of Nursing uniforms.
- Female students who need a maternity uniform should contact the official Kent State University College of Nursing uniform company to purchase a maternity uniform embroidered with the Kent State University College of Nursing logo, similar to the typical tunic and pants.
- Students requiring a uniform dress to meet religious guidelines should contact the official Kent State University College of Nursing uniform company to purchase a uniform embroidered with the Kent State University College of Nursing logo dress similar in style to the tunic top.
- In selected areas such as obstetrics, community health, and psychiatric/mental health, scrubs or street clothes are worn. Specific apparel requirements for these areas are provided by the affiliating clinical agencies, the course syllabus and/or the faculty.
- It is required that baccalaureate nursing students dress in a professional manner at all times in the clinical area. In order to maintain a professional appearance, a limited number of accessories may be worn with the uniform:
- A watch with a second hand, a single pair of plain gold or silver posts worn in the lower ear lobe of pierced ears and a wedding band are acceptable in most settings.
- A chain that does not show when worn may also be acceptable, depending on the clinical agency.
- Not permitted in the clinical area are visible piercings with jewelry in places other than the lower ear lobes (e.g. upper ear, nose, tongue, eyebrows, etc.). All open piercing must remain empty. Spacers are not permitted while attending clinical experiences.
- While at the clinical agency, tattoos must be covered with a long sleeve top, white or neutral undershirt, socks or dressing/band aid.
- If nail polish is worn, only a clear or light, neutral shade is permitted. Nails should be trimmed to avoid extending beyond the end of the fingers. Per OSHA rules, artificial nails may not be worn in any clinical facility.
- Hair should be neat and worn above the collar in a style becoming to the person. If hair is longer than collar length, it must be pulled back to avoid contact with patients while performing procedures. Hair of unnatural color is unacceptable. Established beards are to be neatly trimmed. Males without beards are to be clean shaven.
- Prior to the first clinical experience, students are required to provide documentation to the Assistant Dean of the Undergraduate program if they must adhere to specific religious dress and head covering restrictions
- Shoes should be clean and in good repair. With the official Kent State University College of Nursing uniform, students may wear white nursing shoes; white, closed front clogs with backs; or white, leather athletic shoes, without large or colorful logos.
- At all times during clinical experiences, students must adhere to the uniform code of Kent State University College of Nursing. Clinical agency policies may be more restrictive and require further or additional accommodations by students.
Dual Degree with Master of Business Administration
Student have the opportunity to complete a dual degree program with the M.B.A. degree in Business Administration and the M.S.N degree in Nursing. A separate application must be submitted for each program. Students can view admission requirements for each program on their respective catalog page.
The M.B.A./M.S.N. dual degree is for experienced nurses whose career goals include assuming middle or executive management positions in health services agencies or in health-related companies, or who are interested in starting their own businesses. It combines the strengths of advanced nursing preparation with the practical management knowledge needed to develop significant leadership capabilities.
Dual Degree Requirements
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major Requirements | ||
| ACCT 63037 | FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING FOR DECISION MAKING | 2 |
| ACCT 63038 | MANAGERIAL ACCOUNTING FOR DECISION MAKING | 2 |
| BA 64005 | ANALYTICS FOR DECISION MAKING | 2 |
| BA 64026 | SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT | 2 |
| CIS 64042 | GLOBALIZATION AND TECHNOLOGY STRATEGY | 2 |
| or NURS 60010 | ADVANCED NURSING INFORMATICS | |
| ECON 52086 | ECONOMICS OF HEALTH CARE | 2-3 |
| or ECON 62022 | MANAGERIAL ECONOMICS | |
| ECON 62021 | MACROECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT OF BUSINESS | 2 |
| FIN 66050 | LAW AND ETHICS | 2-3 |
| or NURS 60020 | LEGAL AND REGULATORY MANAGEMENT FOR NURSE ADMINISTRATORS | |
| FIN 66060 | MANAGERIAL FINANCE | 2 |
| HRM 64271 | HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT | 2 |
| MGMT 64158 | LEADERSHIP | 2 |
| or NURS 60014 | LEADERSHIP IN NURSING AND HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT | |
| MGMT 68051 | BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT I 1 | 1 |
| MKTG 65051 | MARKETING MANAGEMENT | 2 |
| NURS 60016 | ADVANCED ASSESSMENT, PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY FOR THE NURSE LEADER | 3 |
| NURS 60024 | HEALTH CARE ORGANIZATION, STRUCTURE AND BEHAVIOR | 3 |
| NURS 60025 | HEALTH POLICY AND ADVANCED NURSING PRACTICE | 3 |
| NURS 60101 | THEORETICAL BASIS FOR NURSING PRACTICE | 3 |
| NURS 60403 | METHODS OF INQUIRY | 3 |
| NURS 64002 | PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION FOR NURSE ADMINISTRATORS | 3 |
| Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship Graduate Electives (50000 level or higher), choose from the following: | 6 | |
| Culminating Requirement | ||
| MGMT 64399 | BUSINESS STRATEGY | 3 |
| NURS 64292 | NURSING ADMINISTRATION AND HEALTH SYSTEMS LEADERSHIP I PRACTICUM | 2 |
| NURS 64302 | NURSING ADMINISTRATION AND HEALTH SYSTEMS LEADERSHIP SEMINAR | 2 |
| NURS 64392 | NURSING ADMINISTRATION AND HEALTH SYSTEMS LEADERSHIP II PRACTICUM | 2 |
| Minimum Total Credit Hours: | 58 | |
- 1
MGMT 68051 is required for students who have not worked a minimum of two years, full-time, since obtaining their bachelor's degree. Students waived the course may graduate with 57 credit hours.
Full Description
The Master of Science in Nursing degree meets the educational eligibility requirements for national certification in the respective area of study. The degree program can be completed in four to five semesters (two full academic years) for full-time students. Part-time students typically take three to four years to complete the program. Completion of a thesis is optional.
The Nursing major comprises the following concentrations:
- The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration allows students to attain advanced practice nursing competencies in providing evidence-based care to adults and older adults with complex acute and chronic illnesses. Clinical experiences occur in a variety of acute care settings, including general medical care, emergency care, critical care and specialty practice. Through clinical practicums, students provide direct patient care in collaboration with a team of health professionals to diagnose and treat patients across the continuum of health care services.
- The Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist concentration fosters acquisition of the needed competencies to care for patients spanning the entire adult to older-adult spectrum. Class and clinical experiences focus on providing advanced nursing care across the health continuum, from wellness to acute care. Students develop competencies across the three spheres of impact: patient/direct care, nurses/nursing practice and organizations/systems.
- The Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration allows students to develop advanced practice nursing competencies in health promotion, risk detection, illness prevention and management of acute and chronic illnesses in adults and older adults. Clinical experiences involve direct care in collaboration with other health professionals to maximize the effectiveness of community and health care system services. Clinical practicums include primary care offices, such as internal medicine and family practice clinics, managed care offices, emergency departments, free clinics and long-term care and occupational health settings.
- The Family Nurse Practitioner concentration allows students to acquire advanced practice nursing competencies to provide continuity of health care to persons across the life span, as well as to maximize the effectiveness of community and health care system services through collaboration with other health professionals. Clinical experiences are offered in a variety of ambulatory care settings and specialty clinics in primary care offices, including family practice, internal medicine, managed care offices, emergency departments, long-term care facilities and academic and occupational health settings.
- The Nurse Educator concentration allows students to develop in-depth knowledge and expertise in selected areas of nursing practice and the role of the nurse educator. Emphasis of the nurse educator role focuses on best practices in curriculum development, instruction and evaluation that prepare students for teaching within a variety of learning environments in academic and staff professional development settings. Students engage in individualized practicum experiences where they apply content learned throughout the graduate curriculum in both their area of nursing practice and the nurse educator role.
- The Nursing Administration and Health Systems Leadership concentration integrates management, leadership and nursing knowledge for students to develop skills and competencies in administration, systems leadership and advanced nursing.
- The Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration focuses on health promotion, illness prevention, risk identification and acute and chronic care of infants, children and adolescents in the primary care setting. Practicum experiences take place in outpatient primary care and specialty settings; the experiences offer the opportunity for students to provide individualized and culturally competent advanced practice nursing care to children within the context of their families.
- The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration builds on core advanced practice nursing knowledge. The program focuses on knowledge and skill development in mental health assessment and diagnostic reasoning, prescribing and medication management and advanced therapeutic modalities such as individual, group and family psychotherapy.
- The Women's Health Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares students to provide the highest level of primary nursing care for women involving health promotion and disease prevention. Students gain competency in advanced nursing management of common acute and chronic conditions. Students practice in direct care and in collaboration with other health care professionals. Practicum experiences foster development of clinical judgment and primary care skills through faculty mentorship and clinical preceptors in a variety of ambulatory care settings and specialty clinics.
Professional Licensure Disclosure
This program is designed to prepare students to sit for applicable licensure or certification in Ohio. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, please review state educational requirements for licensure or certification and contact information for state licensing boards at Kent State's website for professional licensure disclosure.
The Nurse Educator and Nursing Administration and Health Systems Leadership concentrations have an optional licensure that is not required in any state.