Master of Science

The Graduate Nursing Program offers two options for baccalaureate prepared nurses. The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) option is designed to prepare graduates to provide global primary health care to diverse and underserved clients across the life continuum. Upon completion of the program of study, graduates are eligible to write a national certification examination for Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP). The program of study is designed to be completed in five (5) semesters (including one summer) and 44 semester hours of full-time continuous study. The Nurse Educator (NE) option is designed to prepare qualified nurses to function as well-prepared educators in academic or healthcare settings. Upon completion of the program of study, graduates are eligible to write a national certification examination for Nurse Educators (CNE). The program of study is designed to be completed in four (4) semesters (including one summer) and 35 semester hours of full-time continuous study.

The Post-Master’s Certificate option is a special studies program for Master’s prepared nurses pursuing certification in a specialty area or seeking a program of study that may lead to a change in role (e.g., a CNS seeking an FNP specialty certificate). Alcorn offers Post-Master’s Certificate options for specialized study as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nurse Educator (NE). Upon completion of the program of study, applicants are eligible to write a national certification examination.

Mission and Program Student Learning Outcomes

The mission of the Graduate Nursing Program is devoted to educating nursing leaders and scholars committed to advancing the global healthcare needs of diverse and undeserved populations through teaching, scholarship, and service.

1. Evaluate theoretical and empirical knowledge from nursing and other disciplines and knowledge for use in guiding nursing research, nursing pedagogy, and advanced nursing practice.

2. Generate new teaching and practice approaches based on the integration of research, theory, and practice knowledge.

3. Demonstrate mastery of advanced knowledge and skills in advanced practice nursing (FNP) or in specialized role (NE).

4. Analyze implication of ethical and legal issues affecting health care delivery, education, and research.

5. Analyze the effect of organizational structure, functions, and resources on the development and delivery of quality health care and educational programs.

6. Communicate effectively in a scholarly manner using oral communication, written, and information technology in a variety of settings.

7. Assume leadership roles to initiate and guide changes that foster collaboration and contribute to the ongoing development of nursing education and practice.

8. Analyze the impact of culture and diversity on the delivery of healthcare and nursing education.

9. Utilize the best available evidence to continuously improve the quality of nursing education and practice.

10. Participate in professional organizations and activities that influence advanced practice nursing and/or health outcomes.