Master of Science in Nursing

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The Wellstar School of Nursing is a well-respected, long-time provider of advanced nursing education, all of which are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, CCNE. 

Housed in the Wellstar College of Health & Human Services on KSU's Kennesaw campus, these graduate nursing programs reflect KSU’s close community ties with first-class healthcare agencies. The MSN learning environment is welcoming and supportive, with small, online and hybrid classes which promote collaboration. Each program includes clinical or practicum experiences, which advance your skills and expand your professional network. The courses are taught by expert doctoral faculty who are experienced educators with relevant real-world experience, including senior leadership positions. 

MSN - Nursing Administration and Transformational Leadership

MSN – Nursing Administration and Transformational Leadership track prepares you to be a successful healthcare leader at all levels, from front line to C-suite. The 40-hour, fully online program is grounded in practice and guided by healthcare theory and research. Emphasis is on developing leadership competencies identified by the American Organization of Nursing Leadership: healthcare finance; change management; understanding data and evidence; creation of a healthy work environment; and organizing high quality care delivery systems. The full-time option takes four semesters to complete; the part-time option can be completed in seven semesters.

MSN - Nursing Education Leadership in a Digital World

The MSN – Nursing Education Leadership in a Digital World will prepare you for the ever-changing world of nursing education. Grounded in best practice and guided by healthcare theory and research, you will learn the knowledge and skills necessary to provide leadership and information as a nursing instructor or a clinical nurse educator nurse educator in an academic or clinical setting. Courses address nursing education leadership, ethics, health policy, curriculum design/evaluation, information technology, conflict management, learning and learning strategies, resource allocation and best practices. Classes are online/hybrid options with many classes meeting on campus only once a month. The full-time option takes four semesters to complete; the part-time option can be completed in seven semesters.

MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

The MSN Family Nurse Practitioner track is a 44-credit program that will prepare you to be a primary healthcare provider. You can enjoy more career autonomy and have increased earning potential. You’ll also be prepared to sit for national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The full-time option is one of the shortest FNP programs in Georgia, only five semesters; a part-time option is also available. You’ll study diagnostic reasoning, pharmacology, physiology and pathophysiology, research and evidence-based practice, and clinical management of acute, chronic, and complex disorders in individuals across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on caring for diverse populations and developing strategies to minimize health disparities.

Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate

Added in January 2024, the Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate is a 12-credit program that can be completed in two to four semesters, depending upon the number of courses taken during each semester. Applicants should be registered nurses and possess a master’s degree in another advanced nursing specialty, a DNP, or a PhD.

You Can Take Advantage of Job Growth and Enhanced Earning Potential

The need for nurse educators, administrators and practitioners is of critical concern in the healthcare field. From 2023 to 2033, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 40 percent growth rate for nurse practitioners and a 29 percent growth rate for medical and health services managers.

In 2023 in Georgia, Nurse Practitioners earn, on average, $119,490; Medical and Health Service Managers $128,660; and Post-secondary Nursing Instructors and Teachers $72,000. Salaries vary widely based on credentials, experience, employer and job role/responsibilities.

• Well-Respected in the Marketplace – KSU nursing graduates have been sought after by Georgia’s top-tier healthcare employers for the past 45+ years
• Affordability – KSU programs are offered at a far lower cost than private universities and for-profit programs
• Valuable Hands-on Components – The Education track and certificate includes simulation labs and innovative activities that mimic practice, hone patient interaction skills, and perfect the use of relevant technology. The Administration track includes 18 credit hours of practicum experience with a nursing leader at an established Georgia site or the state in which you practice.
• Tuition Reimbursement – Many local healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement for graduate study. Check with your employer’s human resources personnel to find out if you qualify. Professional organizations may also offer scholarship opportunities. The MSN-Education track and Education Certificate take part in the Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP), which provides loans which can be partially canceled by service as an educator in an academic or clinical setting. Also check with KSU’s Office of Financial Aid about scholarship support.