Apply NowGivingCalendar & EventsDirectoryStudent Logins
HomeAbout UsAdmissionsAcademic ProgramsResearchCollaborative OutreachStudent ResourcesPublic Affairs

RN-MS

Overview

The RN Master of Science (RN-MS) option gives individuals the opportunity to earn both the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and the MS degree in one of our nursing specialty areas. The curriculum combines elements of the BSN program with the MS program by substituting the master's core courses for BSN core courses. This option is designed for both registered nurses with a baccalaureate degree in another discipline and for registered nurses who do not have a baccalaureate degree but possess the background and ability to pursue leadership and specialty preparation at the master's level. The RN-MS is offered at the Baltimore campus; however, some of the courses may be taken at the Universities at Shady Grove campus and online. Full-time and part-time options are available. RN to MS students must complete the full course of study within six years.

Sample Plan of Study

Sample Plan of Full-time Study to Complete the BSN Degree

First Semester
Course Title Credits
NURS 331 Gerontological Nursing 3
NURS 333 Health Assessment 3
NURS 405 Informatics and Technology 3
NURS 418
NURS 320
Directed Elective -OR-
Science and Research for Nursing Practice
 
3
Second Semester
Course Title Credits
NURS 403 Community Health Nursing 5
NURS 418 Directed Elective 3
NURS 701 Research for Advanced Nursing Practice 4
Third Semester (Summer)
Course Title Credits
622 Systems and Populations in Health Care 3
659 Organizational and Professional Dimensions of Advanced Nursing Practice 3
418 Directed Elective 2

Completing the MS Degree

Upon completion of the CORE courses, the student begins taking courses specific to the master’s degree specialty they have chosen. The number of credits to complete each specialty varies from 30 to 72 and each has a unique plan of study. The RN-MS program has been created as a seamless progression, with the student progressing from one phase to the next.

Total Credits
  Total Credits
  General Education & Prerequisite Courses 59
  Total Credits from BSN and master degree courses 32
  Total Credits from MS Degree 30-72
  Total Credits for RN to MS 121-163

Admissions Requirements

  • Overall GPA of 3.0
  • Science GPA of 3.0 (Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology)
  • Official transcripts from all schools attended
  • Entrance Exam Requirement
  • Courses in Progress form (PDF)
  • Statement of goals and objectives
  • Two letters of recommendation (PDF)
  • Application and $50 application fee
  • Copy of State of Maryland or compact state licensure

For International Applicants

Application Information

Apply online. The UMSON catalog is available online. Information about course descriptions and schedule of courses is also available online.

Contact Information