What is an Accelerated Direct Entry to MSN Program?

How Does an Accelerated MSN Program Work?

A direct entry Master of Science in Nursing program creates a fast, efficient pathway for anyone with a Bachelor’s degree in any non-nursing field to advance in the field of nursing. Blending online coursework with onsite clinical, labs, and simulation, Joyce University’s accelerated MSN program equips students with the knowledge and clinical skills needed to be a successful nurse, in addition to providing master’s level training and education that sets the foundation for nurse leadership roles as well as advanced degrees and certifications. There are no additional requirements outside of the program, including no need for prior nursing degree, coursework, or experience.

The program provides two degrees in a single MSN track, with the first five semesters resulting in a BSN, which qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN examination, and the final three semesters resulting in the completion of your Master of Science in Nursing. The total program is designed to be completed in only 32 months – no matter what previous area of expertise you bring to the program. From bedside clinical care to teaching positions, our accelerated MSN program helps to maximize your growth and earning potential as a nurse – and we get you there as quickly as possible.

How Long Will an Accelerated Nursing Program Take?

Joyce University’s direct entry MSN Program is unique. You will apply up to 60 credits from your previous Bachelor’s degree, allowing you to finish your MSN in only 32 months. In as little as 18 months, the curriculum covers the complete theory and practical application of nursing required for you to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), and, upon passing, begin working as a registered nurse.

In 2019, 91.18% of our students passed this examination the first time, enabling them to immediately begin a career in caregiving. Once you reach this stage and you are officially licensed as a registered nurse, the final three semesters of your MSN are designed for working nurses, which means all classes are online and flexible so you can finish your coursework as your schedule allows.

Related Resource: 5 NCLEX Test Taking Strategies

What Are the Curriculum Requirements?

The accelerated nursing program is a total of 155 credit hours, including 742.5 clinical hours. Up to 60 of those credit hours are transfer from your prior Bachelor’s, leaving 95 hours of core curriculum. You can review MSN curriculum requirements here.

The first 5 semesters of the direct entry MSN program are dedicated to registered nurse licensure preparation and bedside practice. This includes all nursing essentials, from anatomy and physiology to pharmacological principles and psychiatric care. What makes Joyce University’s direct entry MSN Program special is our emphasis on population health and case management. Students will explore both patient simulation and real-world clinical experiences in these areas. This includes top of the line equipment, like robotic mannequins, life-like synthetic cadavers, and realistic clinical environments housed in our state-of-the-industry Joyce Johnson Center of Simulation.

We provide the most diverse and experiential coursework possible to prepare our nursing students for any post-grad work, whether they choose to pursue employment at a healthcare facility or further their doctoral studies. Job placement assistance is also made available by our career services team.

How Much of the Program Will Be Completed Online?

Seventeen of the 23 courses are offered online, with the first and final three semesters of our accelerated MSN program not requiring any campus-based instruction. While we expect and facilitate academic excellence, we make an effort to help students find balance between their personal and professional lives through flexible online coursework.

Between lectures and laboratories, our accelerated nursing program instills passion and purpose in the nursing profession. By graduation, you will be able to understand and apply all necessary skill sets to begin work in patient care. Have questions? Ready to enroll?