Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The master of science in nursing, the first-professional degree in nursing at Vanderbilt, is specialty-related and offered at the graduate level. The increase in knowledge required of nurses and the scope of their responsibilities, as well as changes in roles, functions, and practice settings, require a post-baccalaureate nursing education built on a rich undergraduate liberal education or baccalaureate nursing degree or its equivalent. Due to the present diversity in nursing programs, educational opportunities must be made available to facilitate progression to the M.S.N. as the first-professional degree. Vanderbilt School of Nursing offers several options for entry into a master’s degree program designed to accommodate a variety of cognitive styles, life experiences, and professional backgrounds. In addition to educating students, the M.S.N. program provides other benefits. Faculty members are engaged in the scientific investigation of nursing practice and theory, innovative nursing care, and participation in national, state, and local activities related to nursing and health care delivery. They serve as role models for students, the profession, and the public. The program constitutes an arena for excellence in nursing practice and research, as well as a forum for discussion and analysis of issues that affect health care, consumers, the nursing profession, and society.