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Master of Science in Nursing

The purpose of graduate education at the MSN level is to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice, educator, and leadership positions in health care. In addition, study at the MSN level develops clinical competence and increased sophistication in applying a theoretical framework for nursing practice. MSN education also serves as an introduction to scholarly activity for those who wish to pursue the doctoral degree in nursing. Scholarly activity focuses on discovering nursing knowledge, analysis and evaluation of nursing theory, and the study of strategies for nursing application. Finally, MSN education provides students with the opportunity to realize their creative potential and collaborate with other health care professionals in maintaining effective nursing and health care.

Graduate Program Mission Statement

The mission of the Orvis School of Nursing is to prepare individuals for both entry level and advanced practice nursing by providing excellent academic programs based upon recognized educational standards. The curriculum emphasizes nursing care of individuals, families and populations throughout the lifespan: among diverse cultures and beliefs; and across all socioeconomic groups in the context of their environments, by providing a strong foundation for evidence-based practice, critical thinking and leadership. As an essential part of its mission as a land grant institution, Orvis School of Nursing provides service to the state of Nevada and to the professional community at large

Graduate Program Purpose

The purpose of graduate education at the MSN level is to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice, educator, and leadership positions in health care. In addition, study at the MSN level develops clinical competence and increased sophistication in applying a theoretical framework for nursing practice. MSN education also serves as an introduction to scholarly activity for those who wish to pursue the doctoral degree in nursing. Scholarly activity focuses on discovering nursing knowledge, analysis and evaluation of nursing theory, and the study of strategies for nursing application. Finally, MSN education provides students with the opportunity to realize their creative potential and collaborate with other health care professionals in maintaining effective nursing and health care.

Graduate Program Objectives

1. Integrates scientific findings from nursing, biopsychosocial fields, genetics, public health, quality improvement, and organizational sciences for the continual improvement of nursing care across diverse settings.
2. Provide advanced, ethical, evidence-based nursing services for multi-cultural and ethnic individuals, families, aggregates, and select populations.
3. Apply patient-care and communication technologies to deliver, enhance, integrate, and coordinate care.
4. Collaborate with other professionals and members of the community to provide optimal coordinated health care to individuals, families, special populations, and communities with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention.
5. Respect diversity to address complex health care needs of persons, including the un-served and under-served, populations and communities, in the role of nurse leader, educator, and/or advanced practice nurse.
6. Participate in the organization, management, and policy negotiations of health care delivery systems to use ethical principles and advocacy strategies to influence health and healthcare.
7. Participate in the application of safe patient care and quality health care practices.
8. Participate in the development of nursing as a science, through the use of theory, research, and scientific processes, while acquiring a foundation for doctoral study.

Approved by the graduate faculty: May 2005

Careers Opportunities, Scholarships, and Travel Assistance for Conferences

Employment and Scholarship Resources are available from American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Scholarships are merit awards based on academic performance. Information on the types of programs, application procedures, and a search of available scholarships is available on the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships website.

For graduate students desiring to attend professional meetings that may or may not include an opportunity for poster/podium presentation, for information related to travel assistance, please see the Graduate Student Association.

Completion of the Program

Upon completion of the program, clinical option graduates are prepared to work as Clinical Nurse Leaders, Nurse Educators or Family Nurse Practitioners and are eligible to take national certification examinations.

The Notice of Completion is the last form to be completed by the student and then signed by the thesis/project committee following successful defense and/or comprehensive examination. The form can be found at the University of Nevada, Reno, Graduate School Forms: at the bottom of the page is the heading "Master's Degree Notice of Completion".

Related Nursing Degrees and Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• RN/Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Public Health
• Advanced Graduate Certificate Family Nurse Practitioner
• Advanced Graduate Certificate Clinical Nurse Leader
• Advanced Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education