MS Nursing, Education (RN to MSN Option)

Master of Science Nursing—Education (RN to MSN Option)

For RNs who want to advance straight to a master’s degree

Degree Overview

Our online RN to MSN program will enhance your personal status and prepare you to teach the next generation of nurses. You’ll complete bachelor’s degree coursework and earn your master’s degree. Competencies for this specialty were derived from the NLN Nurse Educator standards and the Masters Essentials for Professional Nursing practice. The coursework will prepare you to become an accomplished nurse educator.

Who the program is for:

• Registered nurses (RNs) who possess an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing, have a current unencumbered RN license, and wish to earn a master’s degree to move into nursing education.
• Individuals who can typically spend 15 or more hours per week on their studies.

This program will be flexible and adaptable to your schedule. Click here to learn how your program works.

What You’ll Learn -- Areas of Study:

In this online master’s in nursing education, you’ll learn all the essential skills and knowledge needed. This program includes nine domains of study, the completion of a capstone project and a 40-hour practicum requirement in nursing education.

• Behavioral Science
• General Education
• Nurse Educator Specialization
• Nursing Science
• Nursing Theory and Practice
• Policy, Organization, and Financing
• Professional Portfolio
• Role Development for Advanced Nursing Practice
• Science Specialty Topics

The curriculum of WGU’s RN to MSN online program incorporates the Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Practice and the Essentials of Masters Education from Professional Practice established by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).

Total Program: 145 Competency Units (credit equivalents)
Less: Any competency units waived through transfer of prior college credits.

More details about your challenging course of study

View the PDF program guide

Answers to your questions
Click a question, see the answer below.

• Can I complete my program entirely online?
• Is financial aid available?
• How will I complete my degree?

Can I complete my program entirely online?

Because this is a non-clinical degree program, the majority of your projects and assessments can be completed online—when and where it’s most convenient for you—making it ideal for a busy RN’s schedule. However, you will be required to complete applied learning projects in various community and healthcare settings. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor to learn more.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, WGU offers federal financial aid. Loans are available to most students, regardless of financial need. Grants that don’t require repayment are also available for those with financial need. You can check into your financial aid eligibility at any time during the admissions process. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor or visit the Financial Aid section of the website.

How will I complete my degree?

As a WGU student, you take and complete assessments. You’ll prepare for your assessments by engaging various learning resources including textbooks, web tutorials, and online courses. You will determine what learning resources are best for you in consultation with your mentor using your personalized Degree Plan. You can learn more by exploring the WGU Experience. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor who can explain this program in greater depth.