Master of Science
Nursing—Leadership and Management (RN to MSN Option)
For RNs who want to advance straight to a master’s degree
Degree Overview
Our online RN to MSN graduate degree in nursing management will enhance your personal status and prepare you for successful operation of healthcare facilities. You’ll complete bachelor’s degree coursework, earn your master’s degree, and complete the exam necessary to earn the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Nurse Executive Certificate. You will become a valuable leader and manager in a variety of nursing settings.
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 administration.
Your program will be flexible and largely self-paced. Click here to learn how your program works.
What You’ll Learn -- Areas of Study:
In this online master’s in nursing management, you’ll learn all the essential skills and knowledge needed. This program includes 11 domains of study, the completion of a capstone project and a 40-hour practicum requirement in nursing management.
- Nursing: Leadership and Management
- Nursing Science
- Nursing Theory and Practice
- Policy, Organization, and Financing
- Role Development for Advanced Nursing Practice
- Research Fundamentals
- Science Content
- Social Science Content
- Language and Communication
- Quantitative Literacy
- General Education Distribution
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: 153 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 Academic Action Plan (AAP). You can learn more by exploring the WGU Experience. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor who can explain this program in greater depth.
