Program Overview

Online Accelerated RN to MSN Nursing Program (RN-BSN-MSN)

The Online Accelerated RN to MSN Nursing Program (RN-BSN-MSN) is designed for nurses who have a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing. This program emphasizes the development of competencies related to the use of technology, evidence-based practice, customization of care, health team and interdisciplinary leadership, and outcome and risk assessment within the selected specialty track.

Program Overview

• The program is fully online and has an average duration of 2-4 years.
• It is organized into four 10-week quarters per year, allowing students to take more courses in a shorter time period.
• One semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits.

RN-BSN-MSN Program at a Glance

• Consistently ranked among the best online Master's in Nursing Programs.
• After successfully completing the 18 undergraduate bridge credits, a mandatory portfolio, and being accepted into the MSN program, students progress directly into graduate-level coursework.
• The BSN is awarded at the same time as the MSN.
• Emphasizes evidence-based approaches to the solution of clinical problems, assessment of nursing and healthcare outcomes, clinical decision-making, and the design of nursing care for clinical populations.
• Practicum experiences provide opportunities to deepen skills and develop additional competencies for the advanced role.

Upon Graduation

Students will be prepared to:

• Take on leadership roles in a variety of healthcare settings.
• Practice within a legal and ethical framework of healthcare delivery.
• Demonstrate critical thinking and diagnostic reasoning skills in clinical decision-making.
• Integrate technologies and relevant theories into the organization and synthesis of health data required to develop plans of care for patients, families, and communities.
• Demonstrate leadership through involvement in the development of outcome-based standards of care and practice-based health policy issues.
• Evaluate and modify the quality and effectiveness of clinical practice based on current research findings, standards of care, and patient outcomes.
• Contribute to the advancement of nursing, healthcare, and humanity through communication, collaboration, and education.

MSN Advanced Role Concentrations

• Nursing Education
• Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Management
• Quality, Safety, and Risk Management

MSN Nurse Practitioner Concentrations

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner (Individual Across the Lifespan)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (Individual Across the Lifespan) with Emergency Specialization
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Primary Care and Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Dual Option)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Women's Health/Gender Related Nurse Practitioner

Curriculum

The program includes:

BSN Bridge Courses

• NURS 333: Appreciative Inquiry into Nursing: Science, Theory, and Patterns of Knowing (4.5 credits)
• NURS 341: Using Genetics and Genomics to Inform Nursing Care Delivery (4.5 credits)
• NURS 347: Educating Patients, Professionals, and the Public to Improve Health Outcomes (4.5 credits)
• NURS 348: Responding to the Challenges of Global and Population-based Health Needs (4.5 credits)
• Total Credits: 18.0

Admissions Criteria

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• If GPA is lower, relevant professional experience should be included on the resume, and two professional letters of recommendation are required.
• While specific clinical work and/or volunteer experience is not required, it may make the application more competitive.

Required Documents

• A completed application.
• Official transcripts from all universities or colleges attended.
• Two professional letters of recommendation (if GPA is lower than 3.0).
• Personal statement describing interest in the program and particular specialty.
• Resume.
• Copy of United States RN license.
• Additional requirements for International Students.

Tuition

• The tuition rate is $1169 per credit.
• A graduate online program fee of $125 per year applies.
• The program is eligible for Financial Aid.
• Special tuition rates are available for Drexel University Alumni, Military members, and members of Partner Organizations.

Academic Calendar

The academic year includes:

• Fall term: September 22, 2025 - December 13, 2025
• Winter term: January 5, 2026 - March 21, 2026
• Spring term: March 30, 2026 - June 13, 2026
• Summer term: June 22, 2026 - September 5, 2026

Accreditation

The RN-BSN-MSN program at Drexel University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).