The MSN in Healthcare Systems Leadership program is based on the MSN Essentials and builds on the student’s current knowledge and expertise. Graduates that complete this program will have a fuller understanding of the discipline of nursing in order to engage in higher level practice and leadership in a variety of settings and to commit to lifelong learning. Students will take a series of courses that prepare them to function as change agents in multi-dimensional roles in the organization and community. The curriculum emphasizes leadership effectiveness in micro and meso organizational/systems/settings, evidence-based management, quality/safety, information management expertise, and strategies to make organizational effectiveness strategies. MSN courses are offered on-line. Graduates will be prepared to:
- Lead change to improve quality outcomes,
- Advance a culture of excellence through lifelong learning,
- Build and lead collaborative inter-professional care teams,
- Navigate and integrate care services across the healthcare system,
- Design innovative nursing practices, and
- Translate evidence into practice (AACN, 2011, The Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing)
The Master of Science in Nursing in Healthcare Systems Leadership program builds on a student’s undergraduate nursing degree and prepares the individual for advanced practice nursing in a chosen specialty. Research utilization, evidence-based practice, and leadership are emphasized throughout the program.
The University of Kentucky prepares nurse practitioners in the post BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, and not in the MSN program. The DNP is a professional clinical doctorate program. For more information, visit: UK DNP Program information.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the master’s degree program must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School, as well as the following requirements of the nursing program:
- minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale;
- baccalaureate degree in nursing from a school accredited by a nationally recognized organization and goal statement,
- scholarly writing sample,
- three references, resume/CV and interview.
- unencumbered RN licensure required in/for the state where clinicals take place. The RN license cannot have any restrictions on licensure which would preclude meeting the requirements of the degree program and required clinical rotations.
Final admission recommendations are made on a competitive basis. See details at MSN Healthcare Leadership Admission
The MSN application opens September 15 and closes February 15 for Fall (August) enrollment. February 15 is the preferred deadline. Applications received after this deadline will be considered in a space available basis. The MSN program does not admit a spring or summer class.
See sample full- and part-time plans of study at: MSN Healthcare Systems leadership plans of study
Information on all graduate nursing programs is available at: UK Graduate Nursing Programs
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