Master of Science in Nursing Program
The School of Nursing offers a Master of Science degree in Nursing. The purpose of the program is to prepare nurses for advanced practice in the functional role of nurse practitioner primary care – family. Each graduate of the master’s in nursing program must demonstrate advanced knowledge and skill in physical diagnosis, psychological assessment, and management of health-illness needs in complex client and community systems. The program provides a foundation for doctoral study in nursing. For specific program information please refer to the Graduate Student Handbook.
The accelerated entry level nursing master’s degree program known as Entry Level Master’s in Nursing program (ELM) is no longer offered.
About The Program
The goals and curriculum are organized around the national Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) core competencies for nurse practitioners and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Master’s Essentials, and include:
- Integrate scientific findings from nursing, biopsychosocial fields, genetics, public health, quality improvement, and organizational sciences for the continual improvement of nursing care across diverse settings (Essential I)
- Demonstrate Leadership skills that emphasize ethical and critical decision-making, effective working relationships, and a systems-perspective. (Essential II)
- Demonstrate knowledge of the methods, tools, performance measures, and standards related to quality. (Essential III)
- Apply research to outcomes within the practice setting. (Essential IV)
- Use patient-care and communication technologies to deliver enhance, integrate, and coordinate care. (Essential V)
- Intervene at the system level through the policy development process and employ advocacy strategies to influence health and health care. (Essential VI)
- Communicate, collaborate and consult with other health professionals to manage and coordinate care. (Essential VII)
- Apply and Integrate broad, organizational, client centered, and culturally appropriate concepts in the planning, delivery, management, and evaluation of evidence-based clinical prevention and population care and services to individuals, families, and aggregates. (Essential VIII)
- Demonstrate understanding of nursing and relevant sciences and integrate this knowledge into practice (Essential IX)
Clinical Options
Students select a functional role of nurse practitioner primary care – family. Any nursing class in the role specialization options area may be canceled because of insufficient enrollment. Learn more about our Nurse Practitioner Primary Care – Family Option below.
Nurse Practitioner Primary Care – Family Option
Admissions Information
There are two pathways into the M.S.N. program for individuals with different educational backgrounds: the B.S.N. graduate and the R.N. with a non-nursing baccalaureate degree.
Criteria for BSN GraduateCriteria for RN with bachelor’s degree
- Admission to California State University, Fresno, Division of Graduate Studies
- Baccalaureate degree in nursing from an NLN/CCNE accredited program
- Registered nurse license in California (may be waived for nurses licensed in another country)
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Malpractice insurance
- An introductory course in statistics
- An introductory course in research
- A physical assessment course that includes theory and practice; or validation of knowledge and skills for graduates of programs with integrated content
- Current CPR certification
Post-Master’s Certificates
The number of units for the Post Master’s Certificate can vary based on prior coursework. However, the minimum number of units is 30, based on California Board of Registered Nursing requirements. Applicants may receive course credit toward a certificate for graduate courses taken previously by submitting a copy of course descriptions, objectives, and assignments for review by the graduate coordinator. At that time, a course of study will be determined with input from the student, the graduate coordinator, and department graduate curriculum committee.
How long is Fresno State nursing Program?
Fresno State University is a renowned institution in California, known for its commitment to providing quality education and diverse academic programs. Among its many offerings, the Fresno State nursing program stands out as one of the most sought-after programs for aspiring nurses. One of the primary questions prospective students often ask is, “How long is the Fresno State nursing program?” In this article, we’ll explore the various aspects of this program, its duration, and what makes it a popular choice for those pursuing a nursing career.
Duration of the Fresno State Nursing Program
The duration of the Fresno State nursing program varies depending on the degree level and the specific track you choose. Fresno State offers both undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, which can range from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Let’s break down the duration of each of these programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): The BSN program at Fresno State typically takes four years to complete. Students can enter the program as freshmen or transfer in after completing prerequisite courses. The BSN program includes a combination of general education courses, nursing-specific coursework, and clinical experience. This comprehensive curriculum prepares students to become registered nurses and provides them with the knowledge and skills necessary for patient care.
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): For those who already hold a BSN and wish to advance their nursing career, Fresno State offers an MSN program. The duration of this program can vary based on the specific track you choose. Most MSN programs can be completed in two to three years of full-time study. Fresno State offers several MSN tracks, such as Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Administrator. Each track may have its own timeline and requirements.
Can you get a masters at Fresno State?
Yes, you can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree at Fresno State. The university’s MSN program is designed to provide registered nurses with the opportunity to advance their education and nursing career. Let’s delve deeper into the MSN program at Fresno State.
Fresno State’s Master of Science in Nursing Program
Fresno State’s MSN program is a popular choice for nurses who want to expand their knowledge, skills, and career opportunities. The program is designed to provide a high level of education and specialized training in various nursing tracks, including Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Administrator.
The program generally requires applicants to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution and an active registered nurse (RN) license. Some tracks within the MSN program may have additional prerequisites and admission requirements, so prospective students should review the specific track they’re interested in.
Fresno State’s MSN program typically takes two to three years to complete, depending on the chosen track and whether students are enrolled full-time or part-time. The curriculum includes advanced nursing courses, clinical experiences, and opportunities for research and specialization.
Pursuing an MSN at Fresno State can open doors to various career paths in nursing, including leadership and advanced practice roles. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of healthcare and make a significant impact on patient care and healthcare systems.
Is Fresno State Nursing Program Good?
The reputation of a nursing program is a crucial consideration for prospective students. When evaluating the quality of a nursing program, several factors come into play, such as accreditation, faculty expertise, clinical experiences, and outcomes. So, is the Fresno State nursing program good? Let’s explore what makes it stand out.
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
One of the primary indicators of a good nursing program is accreditation. Fresno State’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). These accreditations signify that the programs meet rigorous standards and deliver quality education.
Experienced Faculty
The quality of the faculty plays a significant role in the strength of a nursing program. Fresno State’s nursing faculty consists of experienced professionals who are committed to excellence in nursing education. They bring diverse clinical backgrounds and research expertise to the classroom, ensuring that students receive up-to-date and relevant instruction.
Clinical Experiences
Nursing education is not just about classroom learning; hands-on clinical experiences are essential. Fresno State nursing students benefit from clinical placements at various healthcare facilities, enabling them to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world healthcare settings. These experiences are critical for developing clinical competence.
Outcomes and Success Rates
One measure of a program’s quality is the success of its graduates. Fresno State nursing graduates consistently perform well on licensing exams and find employment in the healthcare field. High pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam, for example, demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for their nursing careers.
Is Fresno State Nursing Program Hard to Get Into?
Admission to nursing programs, including those at Fresno State, can be competitive. The level of competition depends on several factors, including the program’s popularity, the number of available seats, and the qualifications of the applicant pool. So, is the Fresno State nursing program hard to get into? Let’s delve into the admission process and factors that may influence acceptance rates.
Admission Requirements
Fresno State’s nursing programs have specific admission requirements, which can vary depending on the degree level and track you’re applying for. For the BSN program, you’ll typically need to meet the university’s general admission requirements and complete prerequisite courses, such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry.
The MSN program generally requires applicants to hold a BSN, have an active RN license, and meet additional track-specific prerequisites.
Competitive Nature of Nursing Programs
Nursing programs, in general, tend to be competitive because of the high demand for nursing education and the limited number of available seats. Fresno State’s nursing programs are no exception, and admission can be competitive due to the program’s strong reputation and the number of qualified applicants.
To improve your chances of acceptance, it’s essential to maintain a competitive GPA, complete prerequisite courses, gain relevant healthcare experience, and submit a compelling application that highlights your passion for nursing.
In conclusion, the Fresno State nursing program offers students an opportunity to pursue their nursing education, from a BSN to an MSN. The duration of the program varies depending on the degree level and track chosen. Fresno State’s MSN program is a popular choice for those looking to advance their nursing careers, and it is known for its rigorous curriculum and experienced faculty.
The program’s reputation as a quality nursing program is reinforced by its accreditations, experienced faculty, hands-on clinical experiences, and strong graduate outcomes. While admission to Fresno State’s nursing programs can be competitive, prospective students who meet the requirements and demonstrate a commitment to nursing have the chance to embark on a rewarding educational journey.
