West Coast University Catalog
Catalog Links

RN to MSN - Nurse Educator Track, RN to MSN - Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Tracks, RN to MSN - Nurse Leadership Track

Program Location Distance Education/Online
  • - RN-MSN Nurse Educator
  • - RN-MSN Nurse Leader
  • - RN-MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • - RN-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
  • - RN-MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • - RN-MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Program Credits RN-MSN
  • - RN-MSN Nurse Educator - 135 Credits - Effective Spring II 2023
  • (For Spring I 2023 Enrollment Use Winter 2022 Catalog for Program Information)
  • - RN-MSN Nurse Leader - 135 Credits - Effective Spring II 2023
  • (For Spring I 2023 Enrollment Use Winter 2023 for Program Information)
  • - RN-MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - 154 Credits
  • - RN-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner - 158 Credits
  • - RN-MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - 158 Credits
  • - RN-MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - 155 Credits
Program Length* RN-MSN
  • - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
    7 Trimesters, 112 Instructional Weeks
    or
    11 Trimesters, 176 Instructional Weeks
  • - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
    6 Trimesters, 96 Instructional Weeks
    or
    11 Trimesters, 176 Instructional Weeks
  • - Family Nurse Practitioner
    7 Trimesters, 112 Instructional Weeks
    or
    11 Trimesters, 176 Instructional Weeks
  • - Nurse Leader
    4 Trimesters, 64 Instructional Weeks
  • or
  • 5 Trimesters, 80 Instructional Weeks
    or
    8 Trimesters, 128 Instructional Weeks
  • - Nurse Educator
    4 Trimesters, 64 Instructional Weeks
  • or
  • 5 Trimesters, 80 Instructional Weeks
    or
    8 Trimesters, 128 Instructional Weeks
  • - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
    8 Trimesters, 128 Instructional Weeks
    or
    11 Trimesters, 176 Instructional Weeks
Time to Complete RN-MSN
  • - Nurse Educator: 16 Months, 20 Months or 32 Months
  • - Nurse Leader: 16 Months, 20 Months or 32 Months
  • - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 24 Months or 44 Months
  • - Family Nurse Practitioner: 28 Months or 44 Months
  • - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 32 Months or 44 Months
  • - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner:  28 Months or 44 Months

* Total program length may vary. WCU distance education programs may not be available to residents in all states.

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Advanced Generalist:  Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 29-1141.00, 25-1072.00, 11-9111.00

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator:  Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 29-1141.00, 25-1072.00, 11-9111.00

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner: Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 29-1141.00, 25-1072.00, 29-1171.00, 11-9111.00

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Informatics: Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 29-1141.00, 25-1072.00, 11-9111.00, 15-1121.01

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Leader:  Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 29-1141.00, 25-1072.00, 11-9111.00

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: SOC Code: 29-1170

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner:  SOC Code: 29-1170

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner:  SOC Code: 29-1170

Mission Statement

The graduate program in nursing promotes foundational competencies that are core to advanced nursing practice in an ever-changing and globally reaching health care environment. Both academic, practicum and interpersonal preparation are characterized by increased depth in organizational and systems’ leadership within a culture of integrity and personal accountability in a community that values the dignity and contributions of our members. Standards of ethical behavior and decision-making are essential foundations of our graduate education programs, which guide individuals to distinguish ethical principles and understand the consequences and implications beyond personal and organizational self-interest. By pursuing more effective and innovative methodologies through which students utilize administrative expertise with the foresight to analyze problems, structure and facilitate development, and find and implement solutions, WCU graduates are prepared to make a positive impact on society.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation, RN to MSN students will:

  1. Demonstrate innovative leadership strategies in complex healthcare settings to evaluate health outcomes in culturally diverse populations. 
  2. Appraise research findings to support evidence-based quality initiatives. 
  3. Employ communication and information technologies to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and guide clinical decisions.
  4. Develop population-based care coordination strategies to promote health and disease management.
  5. Present advocacy strategies to influence ethical and fiscally responsible policy and process changes to influence individual health and healthcare systems.

RN to MSN

The RN-MSN program promotes foundational competencies that are core to advanced nursing practice in an ever-changing and globally reaching healthcare environment. Academic, practice experience, and interpersonal preparation are characterized by increased depth in organizational and systems’ leadership within a culture of integrity and personal accountability in a community that values the dignity and contributions of all members. Standards of ethical behavior and decision-making are essential foundations of the education programs that guide individuals to distinguish ethical principles and understand the consequences and implications beyond personal and organizational self-interest.

This RN-MSN degree programs build upon prior nursing clinical knowledge and experience and focuses on the core knowledge, skills and abilities that are essential to meet the complexities of today's healthcare environment.  Academic, practice experience, and interpersonal preparation are characterized by increased depth in organizational and systems' leadership within a culture of integrity and personal accountability in a community that values the dignity and contributions of all members.

The core courses and practice experience offer expanded study in the health care areas of advocacy, program management, education, clinical practice, research, and health policy formulation. Graduates will be able to formulate an inspirational perspective of nursing, incorporating a wide range of theories from nursing and other sciences. The Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing (AACN, 2011) provides a foundation for the theoretical and clinical emphasis of the RN- MSN program.

RN to MSN Nurse Educator Track

The Nurse Educator track focuses on the development of the nursing professional who can integrate enhanced leadership skills with nursing education in the academic or service setting, to formulate a professional commitment to learning and to contribute to quality improvement.  Faculty shortages at nursing schools across the country are limiting student capacity at a time when the need for nurses continues to grow. Budget constraints, an aging faculty, and this increasing job competition from the service setting have contributed to this emerging crisis.

Completion of this program would support eligibility requirements necessary to apply for certification with the National League for Nursing (NLN) as a Certified Nurse Educator (CNE).

RN to MSN Nurse Leader Track

The Nurse Leader track helps to prepare the graduate for the challenges of leading health care organizations through these times of constant change and innovation, which demands highly qualified leaders with a well-rounded understanding of clinical, managerial, and business concepts. Students will learn the theories and concepts of leadership models, research utilization, strategic planning and financial management, as well as policy development, ethical concepts and practices, and opportunities to collaborate with other health care disciplines. The program helps prepare the nurse leader to lead processes and teams, and apply analytical and problem-solving skills on a daily basis to enhance the quality of patient care outcomes in a variety of settings.  

Completion of this program would support eligibility requirements necessary to apply for certification with the National League for Nursing (NLN) as a Certified Nurse Educator (CNE).

RN to MSN Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Tracks

RN to MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The RN to MSN Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)Tracks are designed to build on the experiences of the registered nurse and prepare the student to meet the health care needs of the family by providing health assessments, direct care, and guidance, teaching, or counseling as appropriate, particularly around client/family self-care.  The APRN typically works collaboratively with physicians and other professionals within the health care system. APRNs work in a variety of health care settings, such as but not limited to private practice, clinics, community health organizations, prisons, schools, and hospice care.  The demand for more Nurse Practitioners continues to grow as they present a viable solution to the growing trend of fewer physicians entering practice. These tracks are aligned with standards set by the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

RN to MSN Family Nurse Practitioner

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is a registered nurse educated at the Master’s level as a nurse practitioner. The focus of care for the FNP is children and adults of all ages, in the context of the family unit. The FNP is educated to provide high-quality, continual, and comprehensive wellness and illness care to children and adults by providing preventive health services, patient education, disease management, and illness prevention. The FNP is prepared to implement evidence-based practice guidelines and to critically analyze and adapt healthcare interventions based on individualized assessments of individual/family needs. The FNP practices in the context of community, with broad knowledge, sensitivity, and awareness of the specific needs of people from diverse populations and cultural backgrounds. Family nurse practitioners practice primarily in ambulatory care settings.

RN to MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) is a Registered Nurse educated at the Master's level as a nurse practitioner. The focus for the AGPCNP is to provide primary care to individuals across the adult age spectrum from late adolescence through older adulthood. In addition, AG PCNPs are prepared to provide comprehensive end of life care to adults. The AGPCNP is educated to provide high quality, continual and comprehensive wellness and illness care to adults by providing preventive health services, patient education, disease management and illness prevention. The AGPCNP is prepared to implement evidence-based practice guidelines and to critically analyze and adapt health care interventions based on individualized assessments of individual needs. The AG PCNP practices in the context of community, with broad knowledge, sensitivity and awareness of the specific needs of people from diverse populations and cultural backgrounds. AGPCNP delivers care may include community health centers and clinics, private medical practices, specialty clinics, health maintenance organizations, Veteran's Administration facilities, Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) units, adult day health centers, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities and other long-term care settings, acute and chronic rehabilitation centers, urgent care and emergency departments.

RN to MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG ACNP) is a Registered Nurse educated at the Master's level as a nurse practitioner. The focus for the AG ACNP is to provide Acute care to individuals across the adult age spectrum from late adolescence through older adulthood. In addition, AG ACNPs are prepared to provide comprehensive end of life care to adults. The AG ACNP is educated to provide high quality, continual and comprehensive wellness and illness care to adults by providing preventive health services, patient education, disease management and illness prevention. The AG ACNP is prepared to implement evidence-based practice guidelines and to critically analyze and adapt health care interventions based on individualized assessments of individual needs. The AG ACNP practices in the context of community, with broad knowledge, sensitivity and awareness of the specific needs of people from diverse populations and cultural backgrounds. AG ACNP delivers care may include community health centers and clinics, private medical practices, specialty clinics, health maintenance organizations, Veteran's Administration facilities, Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) units, adult day health centers, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities and other long-term care settings, acute and chronic rehabilitation centers, urgent care and emergency departments.

This program meets the educational eligibility requirements for the ANCC Nurse Executive, Board Certified Credential (NE-BC).

RN to MSN Online Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the program must meet the following standards (RN-MSN All Track Options):

  1. Completion of the application for admission.
  2. Complete all university admissions requirements.
  3. Completion of an associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited collegiate institution with a 3.0 CGPA or better.  
  4. A valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in any US State or territory in which the student is licensed, including the State in which the student completes all assignments for the program.   
    1. Military, federal, and foreign-educated nurses must meet this State requirement for nursing licensure.
    2. An active and unencumbered RN license(s) must be maintained throughout the program.
    3. A domestic or foreign medical degree is not equivalent to a nursing degree.
  5. Submit official transcripts from one of the programs below approved by the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) (including any prior courses taken to be considered for transfer of credit). 
    1. Associate of Science in Nursing
    2.  Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
    3. Diploma in Nursing
    4. State-approved nursing with evidence of an earned RN license
    5. Foreign nursing equivalency with evidence of an earned RN license in the United States
    6. Associate of Science with evidence of an earned RN license
    7. Associate of Applied Science with evidence of an earned RN license
    8. Non-Nursing Bachelor's Degree with evidence of an earned RN license*
    9. Foreign-Foreign equivalency with evidence of an earned RN license in the United States*

* Applicants submitting non-U.S. or non-English transcripts should refer to the International Admissions section of the catalog.

RN-MSN Probational Admissions Requirements

Applicants with a CGPA of 2.70-2.99 may be considered for probational admission after meeting the following probational admissions requirements. Based on review of the applicant packet the Program Dean may request an interview in consideration for admission.  

  1. The applicant must provide a letter of intent.
  2. The applicant must be approved for admission by the Program Dean/Director.
  3. The applicant must satisfy program prerequisites and achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on all coursework attempted over the first trimester (two terms). Students failing to meet these requirements following the first trimester (two terms) will be administratively withdrawn from the university.

Additional Nurse Practitioner Program Tracks Admissions Requirement for Applicants with Nursing Degrees Awarded Outside of the United States

Students with nursing degrees outside of the United States may be considered for admission into one of the WCU RN to MSN programs.

Additional Academic Transcript Requirements:  Applicants who have completed the equivalent of a baccalaureate degree or higher at an institution outside of the United States are required to provide official third-party course-by-course evaluations of those academic credentials, verifying the Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale. These evaluations must be completed by a recognized accredited organization.  

In addition, those students applying to any of WCU’s programs leading to an MSN and Nurse Practitioner [Adult-Gerontology Acute Care; Adult-Gerontology Primary Care; Family, and Psychiatric Mental Health] Programs, must have their transcripts from nursing degrees awarded outside the United Stated reviewed by:

CGFNS International -- must include computed equivalent grades [course-by-course] and computation of GPA.

It is the student’s responsibility to cooperate with WCU in providing all essential required documentation for CGFNS and other national certification agencies such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Association of Critical Care (AGAC-NP Certification), etc., to ensure their foreign course(s) are recognized the same as if earned in the United States and written confirmation provided to WCU of the student eligibility to sit for national certification upon successful completion of the program. If the courses are not recognized as equivalent by national certification bodies such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), the American Association of Critical Care (AGAC-NP Certification), etc., they will not meet West Coast University eligibility.

Language Verification Requirements

Students with foreign degrees applying to a nursing program must possess proficiency in English at a level to enable them to succeed in graduate-level studies. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo English Test (DET) must be taken if the applicant’s native language is not English. Results must be sent directly from TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo to the West Coast University admissions department. Copies are not acceptable. Your application will not be considered until you have achieved at least the minimum score.

  • TOEFL - minimum composite score of 100, with sub-scores of 21 or higher. 

  • IELTS – minimum overall band score of 7.0, with a speaking band score of 7.0 or higher and other band scores of 6.0 or higher.

  • DET – minimum score of 125.

Additional Admissions Requirements Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Tracks Only:  

In addition to the admissions requirements above, applicants to the RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Advanced Practice Registered Nurse tracks must also meet the following admissions requirements:

  1. Recommendation for admission by the Program Dean/Director and admission committee members. Past academic performance and professional achievements will be evaluated using a rubric to determine the applicant’s level of qualification.  
  2. Pre-requisite: Any student that is approved for transfer of credit for Advanced Pharmacology will be required to complete and pass the California BRN Pharmacology approved modules (California students only).  
  3. Applicants to the APRN tracks must have a minimum of one (1) year of direct patient care RN experience before entering APRN core courses.
  4. APRN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Track, one (1) year of critical care or intensive care setting experience as a registered nurse (RN) within the past 5 years is required prior to admission.
  5. APRN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track, one (1) year of registered nurse (RN) experience in direct patient care or a minimum of six (6) months of direct patient care experience in psychiatric mental health nursing (preferred) within the last 5 years prior to admission.
  6. Students in RN-MSN APRN tracks will be required to have a Gap Analysis review upon admission.
  7. All students will be required to complete the Supplemental Application Form.

California APRN Tracks Additional Admission Requirements/Information

California applicants will be provided information on the selection process during information sessions.

California Board of Nursing capped APRN program application period opening dates are as follows:

  • September 1st, for January start
  • December 1st, for March start

The application period closes:

  • October 1st for January start
  • January 1st for March start

Applicants are required to complete the following:

  • Complete each section of the application and submit by the deadline provided.
  • After submission complete the Supplemental Application Form and all document requirements.

The APRN selection committee carefully reviews each application and supplemental information. The selection committee selects qualified applicants for admission consideration. Admissions will notify the applicants of admission status based on the selection committee and space availability.

Incomplete applications will be rejected after seven (7) business days (M-F exclusive of University Holidays), applicants will be notified by admissions that they no longer are considered for admission.

Applicants are required to complete the financial aid process within a timeframe outlined by admissions. 

Nursing (RN to MSN) Transfer Credits

Applicants who have successfully completed a pre-licensure nursing program and who have an active, unencumbered license may be awarded up to 90 credit hours of transfer credit. The transfer credit is comprised of up to 51 credits for lower level nursing and an unencumbered license and up to 39 general education credits. Applicants who fail to demonstrate competencies through transcript review are required to complete equivalent course(s).

Students who request transfer credits for courses must submit sealed official transcripts to the Registrar’s Office from originating institutions prior to their first day of class. All nursing transferred courses in which a grade of B or better was received will be evaluated for transfer credit. If students are unable to submit transcripts or transcripts are unavailable at admission, students may submit unofficial transcripts by the student’s first day of the first course. Official transcripts must be received by the end of the first term In addition to official transcripts, copies of course descriptions, school catalogs, and course syllabi may be requested for evaluation purposes.

Graduate post/non-licensure programs require a grade of “B” (3.0) or better, except when general education undergraduate courses are included as part of the program where a C- (1.7) or better grade is required in general education courses. (Minimum passing grade of “B” will be in effect Summer 1 2023 and beyond)

APRN Transfer Credit Gap Analysis

  1. All Post Masters Certificates and transfers of credit into the nurse practitioner programs must have an APRN Transfer Credit Gap Analysis completed prior to admission acceptance. Students will be required to submit transcripts and may be required to submit course syllabi to determine transfer credit equivalency.
  2. Advanced Physiology/Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, and Advanced Health/Physical Assessment course(s) [3P] must have been completed within the last five (5) years with a grade of "B" or better.
  3. Any 3P courses that are population specific (e.g., Advanced Pediatric Assessment, Advanced Pathophysiology for the CRNA, Advanced Pathophysiology for the Neonate, Advanced Psychopharmacology, etc.) are not transferable.
  4. If courses were taken more than five (5) years from the date of program application, applicants must repeat the course(s).
    1. For Post-Masters Certificate applicants who have taken an equivalent 3P course(s) that is more than five (5) years from the date of program application, transfer of credit may be considered for those who have an active NP certification.
  5. Applicants who hold an MSN degree with a focus on education, leadership, informatics, or another area will be required to take essential APRN core courses including Advanced Physiology/Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, and Advanced Physical Assessment prior to the desired focused specialty track courses.
  6. APRN specialty courses will not be considered for transfer of credit. APRN specialization coursework must be completed at West Coast University.

Note: Students enrolled in the RN-MSN program must have earned/transferred 72 credits to be eligible for federal Title IV financial aid.

Note: CA BRN related to prescriptive authority may have additional requirements. Some applicants may be required to take additional courses or continuing education equivalence based on licensure board of nursing.

Progression Requirements (All MSN Tracks)

A cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 is required in all 500 and 600 courses for graduation.  Students are also required to meet all requirements under the Satisfactory Academic Progress policy.  

NURS 496L A&B Language

Students who do not intend to earn a California Public Health Certificate should register for NURS 496L A & B as a substitute for NURS 495L. Please contact your program dean if you have any questions. 

RN-MSN-APRN Progression Requirement

A cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 is required for all 500 and 600-level courses for graduation. Students are also required to meet all requirements under the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.

  1. Maintain an active, unencumbered RN license throughout the program.
    1. An active, unencumbered license is required up to degree completion and will be verified throughout the program.
    2. Failure to present a valid RN license may result in dismissal from the university until such time as an active, unencumbered license is obtained.
  2. A student in the nurse practitioner tracks must participate in two (2) mandatory On-site Intensives (OSI). The OSI brings students to campus or other locations to learn, practice, and demonstrate essential hands-on skills and competencies required by nurse practitioners. Students who do not attend the OSI automatically fail the course that is associated with the missed OSI, and the student must retake the course and complete the OSI to progress in the program.
  3. All course and clinical educational program requirements must be successfully completed to meet graduation requirements. All course and practicum requirements are published in the course syllabi and expanded upon in the Post-Licensure Nursing Student Handbook. Students will have access to course syllabi one week prior to the term start date. Students will have access to the Post-Licensure Nursing Student Handbook after acceptance into the nursing program.
  4. Students in good standing are required to meet the academic progression standards as stated in the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy. Failure to meet the SAP standards will result in dismissal from the nursing program.
  5. A grade of C- (1.7) or better is required in general education courses. 
  6. Students in the nursing graduate program must earn a B or better in all post-licensure nursing courses. Students will be required to repeat any course for which they achieved less than a "B" the next term the course is offered. (Minimum passing grade of “B” will be in effect Summer 1 2023 and beyond) Probationally admitted students are required to adhere to the Probational Admission Policy.
    • Fully admitted students in specialty tracks other than nurse practitioner tracks who receive a third grade less than a "B" in any nursing course will be dismissed from the nursing program. 
    • Fully admitted students in a nurse practitioner track who receive a second grade less than a "B" in any nursing course will be dismissed from the nursing program.  
  7. Students who fail a sequenced theory and/or clinical course may not continue to the next course in the sequence until the failed course is repeated successfully. Students must complete all required clinical hours in each of the clinical courses, or they will not progress to the next course and must follow the University's Incomplete policy.  
  8. Student Conduct from a Clinical Site

    • Students in clinical sites will be held to the University’s Incidents reported to the student’s Program Dean will be reported to the Campus Director of Student Affairs for investigation and potential adjudication and disciplinary sanctions.

General Education Requirements

 

Category and Requirements WCU Course Requirements  Transferable / Options
A1- Written Communication
(3 Semester Credits Minimum)

Written communication courses cover the use of writing as a means of conveying information.  In these courses, students will utilize discussions, papers, essays, research, etc. to examine, analyze, and transmit information in an appropriate academic or professional manner.  (Transferable courses will generally have ENG, JRN, or COM prefix)

 Any course that meets the General Education category and requirements. 
A2. Oral Communication
(3 Semester Credits Minimum) 		Oral communication courses cover the use of language and speech as a means of conveying information.  In these courses, students will utilize language and speech to disseminate information to audiences as appropriate.
 (Transferable courses will generally have SPE, COM, JRN, ENG, or BUS prefix)  		Any equivalent courses that meet the General Education categorical requirements.
A3. Critical Thinking
(3 Semester Credits Minimum) 		Critical thinking courses provide the skills necessary to make complex decisions.  In these courses, students will utilize complex thinking, logic, and other skills to analyze decision making processes.  (Transferable courses will generally have PHI, LOG, or COM prefixes  Any equivalent courses that meet the General Education categorical requirements.
A4. Quantitative Reasoning
(3 Semester Credits Minimum) 		 Quantitative reasoning courses provide the skills to process, analyze, and interpret data.  In these courses students will utilize math to solve problems.  (Transferable courses generally have MAT or STAT prefixes) Any equivalent courses that meet the General Education categorical requirements.
B1– Social and Behavioral Sciences / Cultural Diversity, Tradition
(3 Semester Credits Minimum) 		Social and behavioral science, cultural diversity, and tradition courses cover a broad range of humanities disciplines.  Courses in this competency may cover social interactions, human behavior, cultural diversity, aesthetic awareness, art appreciation and creation, history, civic duty, and other areas in the field.  (Transferable courses generally have SOC, SSC, PSY, ART, HIS, LIB, ENG, ANT, REL, POL, LNG, CRJ, or related prefixes)  Any course that meets the General Education category and requirements. 
B2. Life and Physical Sciences
(4 Semester Credits Minimum) 		Life and Physical Science courses cover vary disciplines within the scientific field.  Courses in this field may cover any scientific discipline within life and physical sciences.  (Transferable courses generally have BIO, CHEM, PHYS, ENV, NRM, or SCI prefixes) 

Any course that meets the General Education category and requirements. 

*As of April 2019, this course will be delivered online, asynchronously, through the institution's Learning Management System except where otherwise authorized by the Program Dean/Director.

RN to MSN - Advanced Generalist Curriculum

Course Number
Course Name
Total Credit Hours
ELECT 199

Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Coursework:
Up to 48 credits of transfer coursework:

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

* College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

* Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)

* Advanced Placement (AP)

* International Baccalaureate (IB)

* American Credit Evaluation (ACE)

* National College Credit Recommendation
Service (NCCRS)

* Challenge exams

 		 48.0
LDR 432Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations

3
PATH 370Pathophysiology

3
MATH 211Statistics

3
NURS 340APublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 340BPublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 500Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice

3
NURS 510Policy, Organization, and Financing in Healthcare

3
NURS 521Ethics in Healthcare

3
NURS 530Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology - APRN

3
NURS 540Research Utilization

3
NURS 561Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

3
NURS 570Advanced Pharmacology

3
NURS 580Advanced Health/Physical Assessment

3
NURS 590AAdvanced Clinical Concepts

1.5
NURS 590BAdvanced Clinical Concepts

1.5
NURS 591L-AAdvanced Clinical Practice Practicum

1.5
NURS 591L-BAdvanced Clinical Practice Practicum

1.5
NURS 690ACulminating Experience I

1.5
NURS 690BCulminating Experience II

1.5
NURS 535Principles of Teaching and Learning

3
Total Credit Hours:51.0
Required at WCU
51.0
Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Courses
48.0
Awarded for Unobstructed RN Licensure
42.0
Degree Total
141.0

RN to MSN Informatics Track Curriculum

Course Number
Course Name
Total Credit Hours
ELECT 199

Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Coursework:
Up to 48 credits of transfer coursework:

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

* College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

* Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)

* Advanced Placement (AP)

* International Baccalaureate (IB)

* American Credit Evaluation (ACE)

* National College Credit Recommendation
Service (NCCRS)

* Challenge exams

 		 48.0
PATH 370Pathophysiology

3
LDR 432Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations

3
MATH 211Statistics

3
NURS 340APublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 500Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice

3
NURS 340BPublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 510Policy, Organization, and Financing in Healthcare

3
NURS 495L-ACommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 521Ethics in Healthcare

3
NURS 495L-BCommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 656Project Management in Healthcare Informatics

3
NURS 561Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

3
NURS 540Research Utilization

3
NURS 677Intro to Healthcare Informatics

3
NURS 655Database Systems, Design and Informatics

3
NURS 658Interoperability and Standards

3
NURS 659Implementation, Management, and Evaluation of Healthcare Systems

3
NURS 675L-AHealth Informatics Practicum I

1.5
NURS 693ACulminating Experience I

1.5
NURS 675L-BHealth Informatics Practicum II

1.5
NURS 693BCulminating Experience II

1.5
Total Credit Hours:51.0
Required at WCU
51.0
Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Courses
48.0
Awarded for Unobstructed RN Licensure
42.0
Degree Total
141.0

RN to MSN Nurse Educator Track Curriculum

Course Number
Course Name
Total Credit Hours
ELECT 199

Awarded for College-Level General Education Coursework:
Up to 39 credits of transfer coursework:

- Effective Spring II 2023

(For Spring I 2023 Enrollment use Winter 2023 Catalog for Curriculum Information)

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

* College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

* Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)

* Advanced Placement (AP)

* International Baccalaureate (IB)

* American Credit Evaluation (ACE)

* National College Credit Recommendation
Service (NCCRS)

* Challenge exams

 		 39.0
BSNR 300Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations

3
BSNR 305Pathophysiology

3
BSNR 315Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice

3
BSNR 400CCommunity & Public Health Nursing I

3
BSNR 405CCommunity & Public Health Nursing II

3
MSNC 500Nursing Roles in Policy, Ethics, & Finance

3
MSNC 505Scholarship for Advanced Nursing Practice

3
MSNC 510Advanced Nursing Technologies & Collaborative Care

3
MSNC 515Health Promotion and Disease Management

3
MSNE 540Advanced Pathophysiology, Physical Assessment, & Pharmacology for Nurse Educators

3
MSNE 600Nurse Educator Roles: Scholarship, Service, and Leadership

2
MSNE 605Curriculum Design I

2
MSNE 610Accreditation & Regulatory Requirements

2
MSNE 615Curriculum Design II

2
MSNE 620Program Assessment & Evaluation

2
MSNE 625Innovative Teaching Strategies & Learning Styles

2
MSNE 635CNursing Education Practice Integration Experience

3
Total Credit Hours:45.0
Required at WCU
45.0
Awarded for College-Level General Education Courses
39.0
Awarded for Unencumbered RN Licensure and Lower Level Nursing Courses
 51.0
Degree Total
135.0

RN to MSN Nurse Leader Track Curriculum

Course Number
Course Name
Total Credit Hours
ELECT 199

Awarded for College-Level General Education Coursework:
Up to 39 credits of transfer coursework:

-  Effective Spring II 2023

(For Spring I 2023 Enrollment use Winter 2022 Catalog for Curriculum Information) 

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

* College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

* Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)

* Advanced Placement (AP)

* International Baccalaureate (IB)

* American Credit Evaluation (ACE)

* National College Credit Recommendation
Service (NCCRS)

* Challenge exams

 		 39.0
BSNR 300Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations

3
BSNR 305Pathophysiology

3
BSNR 315Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice

3
BSNR 400CCommunity & Public Health Nursing I

3
BSNR 405CCommunity & Public Health Nursing II

3
MSNC 500Nursing Roles in Policy, Ethics, & Finance

3
MSNC 505Scholarship for Advanced Nursing Practice

3
MSNC 510Advanced Nursing Technologies & Collaborative Care

3
MSNC 515Health Promotion and Disease Management

3
MSNL 600Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management

3
MSNL 605Business Management for Advanced Nursing Practice

2
MSNL 610Leading Change in Complex Healthcare Systems

2
MSNL 615Leadership Communication & Conflict Management

2
MSNL 620Financial Management for Advanced Practice Nursing

2
MSNL 625Healthcare Quality, Safety, Policy, and Ethics

2
MSNL 630Entrepreneurship for Advanced Nursing Practice

2
MSNL 635CNurse Leader Practice Integration Experience

3
Total Credit Hours:45.0
Required at WCU
45.0
Awarded for College-Level General Education Courses
39.0
Awarded for Unobstructed RN Licensure
51.0
Degree Total
135.0

RN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Track Curriculum

Course Number
 Course Name
 Total Credit Hours
ELECT 199

Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Coursework:
Up to 48 credits of transfer coursework:

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

* College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

* Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)

* Advanced Placement (AP)

* International Baccalaureate (IB)

* American Credit Evaluation (ACE)

* National College Credit Recommendation
Service (NCCRS)

* Challenge exams

 48.0
LDR 432Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations

3
MATH 211Statistics

3
PATH 370Pathophysiology

3
NURS 340APublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 340BPublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 495L-ACommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 495L-BCommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 500Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice

3
NURS 510Policy, Organization, and Financing in Healthcare

3
NURS 521Ethics in Healthcare

3
NURS 530Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology - APRN

3
NURS 535Principles of Teaching and Learning

3
NURS 540Research Utilization

3
NURS 561Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

3
NURS 676Advanced Pharmacology - APRN

3
NURS 679Primary Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory

3
NURS 679L-APrimary Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum I

2
NURS 679L-BPrimary Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum II

2
NURS 681Advanced Health/Physical Assessment and Lab - APRN

4
NURS 682Care Coordination and Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse

3
NURS 682L-AAdvanced Healthcare Residency I

2
NURS 682L-BAdvanced Healthcare Residency II

2
NURS 684Primary Care Women's Health: Theory

2
NURS 684LPrimary Care Women's Health: Practicum

2
NURS 691ACulminating Experience I

1.5
NURS 691BCulminating Experience II

1.5
Total Credit Hours:64.0
Required at WCU
64.0
Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Courses
48.0
Awarded for Unobstructed RN Licensure
42.0
Degree Total
154.0

RN to MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Track Curriculum

Course Number
Course Name
Total Credit Hours
ELECT 199

Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Coursework:
Up to 48 credits of transfer coursework:

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

* College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

* Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)

* Advanced Placement (AP)

* International Baccalaureate (IB)

* American Credit Evaluation (ACE)

* National College Credit Recommendation
Service (NCCRS)

* Challenge exams

 		 48.0
LDR 432Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations

3
MATH 211Statistics

3
PATH 370Pathophysiology

3
NURS 340APublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 340BPublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 495L-ACommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 495L-BCommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 500Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice

3
NURS 510Policy, Organization, and Financing in Healthcare

3
NURS 521Ethics in Healthcare

3
NURS 530Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology - APRN

3
NURS 535Principles of Teaching and Learning

3
NURS 540Research Utilization

3
NURS 561Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

3
NURS 676Advanced Pharmacology - APRN

3
NURS 679Primary Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory

3
NURS 679L-APrimary Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum I

2
NURS 679L-BPrimary Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum II

2
NURS 681Advanced Health/Physical Assessment and Lab - APRN

4
NURS 682Care Coordination and Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse

3
NURS 682L-AAdvanced Healthcare Residency I

2
NURS 682L-BAdvanced Healthcare Residency II

2
NURS 684Primary Care Women's Health: Theory

2
NURS 684LPrimary Care Women's Health: Practicum

2
NURS 685Primary Pediatric Care: Theory

2
NURS 685LPrimary Pediatric Care: Practicum

2
NURS 691ACulminating Experience I

1.5
NURS 691BCulminating Experience II

1.5
Total Credit Hours:68.0
Required at WCU
68.0
Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Courses
48.0
Awarded for Unobstructed RN Licensure
42.0
Degree Total
158.0

RN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track Curriculum

Course Number
 Course Name
 Total Credit Hours
ELECT 199

Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Coursework:
Up to 48 credits of transfer coursework:

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

* College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

* Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)

* Advanced Placement (AP)

* International Baccalaureate (IB)

* American Credit Evaluation (ACE)

* National College Credit Recommendation
Service (NCCRS)

* Challenge exams

 48.0
LDR 432Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations

3
MATH 211Statistics

3
PATH 370Pathophysiology

3
NURS 340APublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 340BPublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 495L-ACommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 495L-BCommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 500Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice

3
NURS 510Policy, Organization, and Financing in Healthcare

3
NURS 521Ethics in Healthcare

3
NURS 530Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology - APRN

3
NURS 535Principles of Teaching and Learning

3
NURS 540Research Utilization

3
NURS 561Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

3
NURS 676Advanced Pharmacology - APRN

3
NURS 681Advanced Health/Physical Assessment and Lab - APRN

4
NURS 682Care Coordination and Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse

3
NURS 682L-AAdvanced Healthcare Residency I

2
NURS 682L-BAdvanced Healthcare Residency II

2
NURS 683Neurobiology and Psychopharmacology

3
NURS 686Psychiatric - Mental Health Care Across the Lifespan: Theory I

3
NURS 686LPsychiatric - Mental Health Care Across the Lifespan: Practicum I

3
NURS 687Psychiatric - Mental Health Care Across the Lifespan: Theory II

3
NURS 687LPsychiatric - Mental Health Care Across the Lifespan: Practicum II

3
NURS 691ACulminating Experience I

1.5
NURS 691BCulminating Experience II

1.5
Total Credit Hours:68.0
Required at WCU
68.0
Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Courses
48.0
Awarded for Unobstructed RN Licensure
42.0
Degree Total
158.0

RN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track Curriculum

LDR 432Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations

3
MATH 211Statistics

3
PATH 370Pathophysiology

3
NURS 340APublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 340BPublic Health Nursing

1.5
NURS 495L-ACommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 495L-BCommunity Practice Experience

1.5
NURS 500Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice

3
NURS 510Policy, Organization, and Financing in Healthcare

3
NURS 521Ethics in Healthcare

3
NURS 530Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology - APRN

3
NURS 535Principles of Teaching and Learning

3
NURS 540Research Utilization

3
NURS 561Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

3
NURS 676Advanced Pharmacology - APRN

3
NURS 681Advanced Health/Physical Assessment and Lab - APRN

4
NURS 682Care Coordination and Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse

3
NURS 682L-AAdvanced Healthcare Residency I

2
NURS 682L-BAdvanced Healthcare Residency II

2
NURS 691ACulminating Experience I

1.5
NURS 691BCulminating Experience II

1.5
NURS 696Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory I

3
NURS 696LAcute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum I

3
NURS 697Acute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Theory II

3
NURS 697LAcute Care Adult and Geriatric Patient: Practicum II

3
Total Credit Hours:65.0
Required at WCU
65.0
Awarded for College-Level Non-Nursing Courses
48.0
Awarded for Unobstructed RN Licensure
42.0
Degree Total
155.0