Founded in 1977, Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU)
is an independent, non-profit graduate university dedicated to
educating health care professionals to practice and teach with
excellence and compassion. Within a learner-centered environment,
WesternU encourages lifelong learning, supports faculty and
student scholarly activities, provides patient care in support of
clinical training, and enhances the quality of life in the region
through community service.
The programs of Western University's College of Graduate Nursing
are BRN approved and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate
Nursing Education (CCNE). We are proud to present a highly
qualified faculty who are experts in their fields.
Our web-based (MSN, MSN/FNP and Post-Master's FNP Certificate)
and campus-based (MSN-E) programs are innovative and designed to
make graduate education a reality for those who are either
professional nurses, or those who are interested in a career
change.
Master of Science in Nursing Entry (MSN-E)
Back to top
The MSN-E program offers a pathway for applicants with
baccalaureate degrees in other fields to obtain RN licensure and
then continue with graduate courses to obtain a Master of Science
in Nursing degree with a focus in one of the following areas:
- Leadership and Management (L&M)
- Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
The first 16 months or pre-licensure portion of the MSN-E program
is completed through full-time, intensive, on-campus instruction
and hospital training to prepare students to sit for the RN
licensing exam. The post-licensure portion of the program is
delivered in a reduced unit, web-based format to enable students
to work as an RN while continuing with their graduate education.
During this phase, the College of Graduate Nursing uses a
combination of self-directed learning activities, collaborative
learning projects and intensive weekend seminars twice each
semester on our southern California campus. In addition, online
discussion forums and e-mail also provide important lines of
communication and support among distance learners, faculty and
other program personnel.
According to the AACN, graduates of accelerated programs are
prized by nurse employers who value the many layers of skill and
education these graduates bring to the workforce. Employers
report that these graduates are more mature, possess strong
clinical skills, and are quick learners on the job. Many practice
settings are partnering with colleges like ours and offering
tuition repayment as a mechanism to recruit highly qualified
nurses.