Who Should Do a Direct-Entry MSN Program?
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A direct-entry master of science in nursing (MSN) program, also known as a master’s entry program in nursing (MEPN), is an accelerated graduate program designed for students who already have a degree in a non-nursing field and are interested in becoming nurses.
With the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) calling for more nurses to earn their MSN degrees and the nation still struggling with an ongoing nursing shortage, an MEPN program could be a pathway to a new and in-demand career.
Learn more about direct-entry MSN programs, job options for MSN-trained nurses after graduation, and the career and salary outlook for these professionals.
Learn More About Herzing University’s Online Direct-Entry MSN Program
What Can I Do With a Master of Science in Nursing Degree?
An MSN is a graduate degree for nurses who want to advance their education and careers. It allows nurses to continue caring for patients but with greater scope and impact.
MSN-prepared nurses are often leaders in their workplaces. They are experts in the nursing field and can hold teaching, research, management, information technology (IT), and consulting positions. Obtaining an MSN is also the first step in becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), including a nurse practitioner (NP).
MSN-trained nurses often have different clinical roles and responsibilities than registered nurses (RNs) who have earned a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree, which is the most popular degree for nurses.
MSN vs. BSN: Roles and Responsibilities
BSN-prepared Nurses
- Scope of practice: Provide direct patient care, use critical thinking skills, and develop and implement care plans.
- Responsibilities: Patient assessments, monitoring, and patient education.
- Opportunities/Roles: Work in various healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and outpatient and long-term care facilities. Roles include direct patient care, administration and management.
MSN-prepared Nurses
- Scope of practice: Practice as advanced clinicians, educators and nurse leaders
- Responsibilities: Advanced clinical care, managing business operations, and team leaders
- Opportunities/Roles: Work in clinical, leadership and educational roles in a variety of settings
What Is a Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing Program?
An MEPN is a graduate, accelerated program for individuals with degrees other than nursing.
Full-time programs take about three years to complete, including clinical hours. Students graduate as RNs and obtain an MSN. MEPN programs prepare nurses to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) exam.
Students can choose from online, in-person, or hybrid programs, which combine online and in-person classes. Clinicals — where nurses receive hands-on experience caring for patients — occur in person, with some portions of the clinical provided through simulation.
The amount of clinical hour requirements varies per program.
Prerequisite requirements for direct-entry MSN programs can vary, so check with your individual institution before making any concrete plans. Generally, prospective nursing students should first complete coursework in:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Nutrition
- Psychology
- Statistics
Some MEPNs allow students to complete prerequisite courses at the school before being accepted into the program. Students must also maintain a certain GPA, usually 3.0 or above. Direct-entry MSN programs are competitive.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field
- Official transcripts
- Community service or volunteer experience
Admission Materials
- Completion of prerequisites
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- GRE or GMAT test scores (may be optional); TOEFL scores for international applicants
- Criminal background check and drug test results
GPA Requirement
- Minimum 3.0 GPA out of a 4.0 scale
Am I a Good Fit for a Direct-Entry MSN Program?
To be eligible for a direct-entry MSN program, individuals must have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited program.
According to the AACN, prospective direct-entry MSN candidates are highly motivated, often older in age, and have high academic expectations for themselves and their program.
Direct-entry MSN programs are for students who work well in a fast-paced environment. Coursework is rigorous and requires a serious commitment. As such, students are encouraged not to work during the education course if possible.
What Can I Do With a Master of Science in Nursing Degree?
The job outlook for MSN-prepared nurses, including NPs, is expected to grow a whopping 38% from 2022 through 2032 — more than 10 times faster than the national average — according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
In general, individuals with an MSN can also expect higher average salaries. According to Payscale, the average salary of an MSN-prepared nurse is $104,000, compared with $95,000 for BSN-prepared nurses.
The MSN is a versatile degree, and graduates can pursue many in-demand nursing jobs, including:
Nurse Practitioner
NPs are APRNs who assess, diagnose, and treat patients with little or no supervision from medical doctors or other healthcare team members. They also educate patients on preventative care and wellness.
- Average Salary:$128,490
- Job Outlook: 45% from 2022-2032
Clinical Nurse Leader
Clinical nurse leaders are team leaders who typically work in the hospital setting. They are usually responsible for quality improvement and implementing evidence-based practices.
- Average Salary:$89,949
- Job Outlook: 28% from 2022-2032
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) focus on counseling and treating patients with mental health conditions.
- Average Salary:$141,112
- Job Outlook: 38% from 2022-2032
Nurse Administrator
Nurse administrators oversee the daily operations of nursing units and or departments. Positions include assistant nurse managers and directors.
- Average Salary:$84,334
- Job Outlook: 28% from 2022-2032
Nurse Educator
Nurse educators are MSN-prepared nurses with training in education, instruction, curriculum design, and related skills.
- Average Salary:$94,727
- Job Outlook: 28% from 2022-2032
Nurse Informaticist
Nurse informaticists work in IT at healthcare organizations. They are trained in data management and quality improvement.
- Average Salary:$84,610
- Job Outlook: 9% from 2020-2030
Frequently Asked Questions About Direct-Entry MSN Programs
A direct-entry MSN program is a graduate-level, accelerated program for individuals who already have a degree in a field other than nursing.
Related Pages
The Top Direct-Entry Master’s in Nursing Programs
If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to pursue a master’s in nursing, a direct-entry MSN program could be a good fit. Find the best programs here.
Nurse Practitioner MSN vs. DNP vs. BSN
While you can enter nursing with an associate degree, you can advance your career with an MSN or DNP degree. Learn about the benefits of advancing your education, including salary potential and job opportunities.
Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing
A master’s degree in nursing can advance your nursing career. Find out more about MSN program options.