To assist selected RNs with good academic records to move smoothly through the RN to BSN curriculum directly into certain MS(N) programs.
Normally, the student would take 6-8 semester hours of WCU undergraduate upper-division
electives to complete the BSN following the RN to BSN Program of Study. These electives
could be replaced with up to 6 hours of WCU MS(N) graduate-level work by following
the RN to MS(N) Program of Study (Page 1 shows the RN to BSN curriculum and page 2 shows the RN to MS(N) pathway).
The graduate electives count toward the Upper Level Electives needed in the BSN program
and the electives needed if later accepted into a MS(N) program. This can reduce the
time needed to complete both degrees by up to one semester.
RN to BSN students may still need to complete 3 upper-division perspective hours while
completing their undergraduate work.
Those interested in this program must first be admitted to the RN to BSN program. Once enrolled, they will be advised on how to proceed if interested in this option.
Enrollment in the RN to MS(N) Early-Entry Option does not guarantee admission to the MS(N) program. Admission of the RN to MS(N) applicant is provisional until the BSN is successfully completed. While enrolled in the MS(N) core courses, students must also apply to the Graduate School to be considered for full admission to the MS(N) Program.
"Going back to school has had a tremendous impact on both my professional career and personal life. The RN to MS(N) Early Entry Option allowed me to grow and explore other avenues that would not have been available to me in the traditional work environment. Western Carolina University opened doors to me as a student that were other wise closed. The distance program provides a structure that connects the entire region together. No longer do our geographical boundaries separate us as students. Being connected to the entire region though your fellow students has proven to be invaluable. It has allowed us to see not only our differences but our similarities as well."
Diane Fox RN, BSN
Owner of HealthCare Directions and RN to MS(N) student