The BSN-to-MSN track in the nursing program allows the qualified licensed registered professional nurse a flexible adult learning experience to complete Master's degree requirements completely online. Students take the Core Curriculum and then pursue one of two concentrations: Nursing Education or Clinical Nurse Leader. The program integrates an interdisciplinary grouping of courses that enable students to gain the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to advance their careers.
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Castleton University has received provisional approval (pending graduation of the first class) from the Vermont Board of Nursing (BON). Email: SOS.OPRLicensing1@Vermont.gov
Office of Professional Regulation, 89 Main Street, 3rd Floor Montpelier, VT 05620-3402. Phone: 802-828-2396
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Castleton University is undergoing application for accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). CCNE will conduct an on-site accreditation evaluation in February 2023. http://www.ccneaccreditation.org
Upon successful completion of all degree requirements, graduates are awarded a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and will be prepared to further their careers as a Clinical Nurse Leader or Nurse Educator.
Students in the BSN-to-MSN track are admitted directly into the major and enrolled in a transitional course designed to ease them into the on-line teaching-learning environment. The transitional course exposes students to University and Department resources, on-line learning, and Master teaching-learning expectations.
All courses required for completion of the BSN-to-MSN program are offered through distance-learning methods. Indirect and direct "hands-on" clinical experiences occur under the guidance of qualified and approved preceptors with faculty and agency guidance and support in settings local to the student's place of residence. In the semester prior to graduation, students complete a transitional course (involving on-line course work combined with an internship) designed to showcase their advanced practice knowledge, skills, and attitudes.
Admission Requirements
All applicants must possess an unencumbered license to practice as a registered professional nurse in the United States. Additional admission requirements for this program include:
- Submission of all post-secondary transcripts.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Demonstrated successful completion of an accredited baccalaureate degree in nursing
- A resume with job and educational history.
- A letter of recommendation from a current and immediate supervisor; other recommendations may be supplied as well.
Progression Standards
All nursing courses must be passed with a grade of B- or better. Nursing majors may repeat a maximum of two courses required for the major; each course required for the major may be repeated only one time. Patient safety is our number one priority, thus, students whose health, performance, or behavior is judged unsatisfactory may be withdrawn from the program.
Additional Fees
The nursing student experience is different than that of other students, thus, additional fees apply including but not limited to fees related to equipment and supplies (name badge, stethoscope, uniforms, lab coat, shoes solely for the clinical setting, pen light and bandage scissors), the conduct of a criminal background check, drug screening, maintenance of records necessary for clearance to practice in the clinical setting, and select laboratory and curricular technology fees. Reasonable attempts are made to communicate new fees and changes in fee structures in a timely manner. A description of fees can be found in the student handbook and/or course syllabi.
Licensure
Students enrolled in the BSN-to-MSN program must maintain an active, unencumbered license to practice as a registered professional nurse in the United States.
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