Master of Science in Nursing

Propel your career forward with our online nursing master’s degree

Master of Science - Nursing (37 - 47 credits)

Build on the nursing knowledge and skill sets you already have with a master of science in nursing (MSN) from Davenport University. Offered through our Global Campus, this 100% online nursing master’s degree gives you the flexibility to continue working while you earn your nursing MSN.

Davenport’s accredited master of science in nursing program will equip you with the high-level problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that today’s advanced nursing roles demand. Plus, earning your MSN degree will set you on a path to a higher nursing salary.

Davenport’s dedicated nursing faculty and staff are highly qualified clinicians and nursing educators. Their deep connections to a network of health care partners will lead you to the best clinical placements for your career goals. With exceptional instructors and clinical experiences, it’s no wonder students in Davenport’s nursing master’s programs pass their nursing certification exams at rates higher than the national average.

What is a master of science in nursing?

A master of science in nursing is a graduate-level academic degree that working nurses or students often pursue to gain professional skills and credentials that qualify them for new roles, along with the higher nursing salary an MSN unlocks.

Graduates of nursing master’s programs work as nurse educators, family nurse practitioners, research nurses, nurse administrators and much more.

Explore classes for Davenport’s nursing master’s programs

Through courses such as Transforming Nursing Practice Role Through Leadership, Policy and Advocacy, you’ll develop critical- and creative-thinking skills as well as leadership abilities you can bring to any nursing role. Prove your nursing skills and abilities with capstone and clinical experiences and then round out your master of science in nursing with a special project or MSN thesis.

Davenport’s nursing master’s programs are aligned with Quality Matters (QM) and are evaluated through Instructional Design to ensure you receive the highest quality online nursing master’s degree. This program also reflects the Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing developed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the Outcomes and Competencies for Graduates of Master’s Programs in Nursing by the National League for Nursing (NLN).

See Full Course List

Foundations of Advanced Nursing		9 Credits
NURS600	Theoretical Fndn Adv Nurs Prac	3
NURS601	MSN Orientation Seminar This seminar is required in the first semester of acceptance to the College of Health Professions MSN program. The program expectations and the MSN Student Handbook will be reviewed. Students in this course must register and complete the required Criminal Background Check (CBC) and Drug Screen (DS). Note: This course is graded on a Pass/Fail basis. If the CBC/DS portion of the class is not completed in the specified time frame, a failing grade will be given for the course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	0
NURS640	Nurs Research & Evid-Base Prac Critical discussion and analysis of the research process including the responsible conduct of research, qualitative and quantitative research methods and designs, analysis of data, and reporting of results. Strategies to improve dissemination and application of nursing research findings and integration of evidence-based practice will be discussed.Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS670	Transform NursingPractice Role This course prepares nurses at the Master’s degree level to investigate and analyze the organization, delivery, and financing of health care through the lens of a leadership role. Leadership theories and concepts are explored as they may be applied to address complex and dynamic health care challenges such as health care access, cost, and quality. Strategic planning, systems thinking, political advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration are discussed and explored as within the context of the nursing leadership role and the advanced nursing practice in affecting quality health outcomes and culturally patient-centered care. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3

Advanced Nursing Core		9 Credits
NURS735	Advanced Pathophysiology Alterations of various physiological systems, etiology and clinical manifestations of commonly occurring health problems across the life span are discussed. In-depth case analysis of risk factors, pathophysiological changes, and associated signs and symptoms, relevant theories, research, and evidence-based findings are discussed as a basis for advanced practice nursing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS738	Advanced Pharmacology The course focuses on the use of pharmacotherapeutic agents to manage health problems. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drug categories, as well as evidence-based findings, are discussed as a basis for prescribing and monitoring pharmaceutical and alternative therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of commonly occurring acute and chronic illnesses. Ethical, legal, and risk-management issues are discussed. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS740	Advanced Health Assessment This course focuses on the development of advanced practice nursing skills in health assessment for clients across the life span. Relevant concepts, theories, research, and evidence-based findings on prevention and early detection of risk factors and disease are emphasized. Critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning and communication skills are developed through case scenarios, simulated experiences, and clinical experiences as appropriate. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS740 and NURS740V Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	2
NURS740V	Advanced Health Assessment Lab This course focuses on the development of advanced practice nursing skills in health assessment for clients across the life span. Relevant concepts, theories, research, and evidence-based findings on prevention and early detection of risk factors and disease are emphasized. Critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning and communication skills are developed through case scenarios, simulated experiences, and clinical experiences as appropriate. Note: The lab portion designated with a ‘V’ will be taught in a virtual format. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS740 and NURS740V Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	1

Advanced Nursing Role		10 Credits
HINT730	Legal Aspects and Compliance This course will provide an overview of the legal processes and compliance issues related to health data. Students will review HIPAA compliance requirements as well as review risk management strategies and policies. Students will develop a training program related to legal issues and compliance and incorporate project management methodologies. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
NURS765	Concepts of Adv Nurs Practice This course focuses on examining and analyzing theories, concepts, and research evidence to support the practice of nursing at an advanced level. Students are provided the opportunity to enhance critical thinking and clinical judgment skills in designing, delivering, and evaluating health promotion, clinical prevention, and disease reduction interventions for individuals, groups, or populations. Emphasis is on nursing practice within an interdisciplinary context. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS765 and NURS765C Co-requisite(s): NURS738 Prerequisite(s): NURS735, NURS740 and NURS740V	2
NURS765C	Concepts of Adv Nurs Prac Clin This course focuses on examining and analyzing theories, concepts, and research evidence to support the practice of nursing at an advanced level. Students are provided the opportunity to enhance critical thinking and clinical judgment skills in designing, delivering, and evaluating health promotion, clinical prevention, and disease reduction interventions for individuals, groups, or populations. Emphasis is on nursing practice within an interdisciplinary context. Note: Any unexcused non-attendance or dismissal from an internship, practicum, clinical or fieldwork experience will result in a grade of F. NURS765C requires a clinical practicum component of 90 hours in an identified clinical specialty area. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS765 and NURS765C Co-requisite(s): NURS738 Prerequisite(s): NURS735, NURS740 and NURS740V	2
NURS780	Theoretical Fndns Teach/Learn This course prepares educators to identify and apply appropriate teaching methods and evaluate student learning, teacher, and program effectiveness. Topics include teaching, evaluation, integration of new and emerging technology, and assessment methods. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): NURS765 and NURS765C	3

MSN Electives* - Select two courses from the following:		6 Credits

Simulation Electives		(6) Credits
NURS782	Intro to Simulation in Nurs Ed The purpose of this course is to provide an introduction to simulation technology used in health care education. This introductory course will review the historical technology used in Integration of simulation as an imperative tool to building a foundational understanding of simulation technology. This course will explore the various educational theories as a basis for simulation in nursing and includes simulation used as a pedagogical approach to learning. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): NURS780	3
NURS783	Simulation Design/Devel/Eval This course prepares educators to develop health care learning experiences by using the various database design, development and implementation and evaluation principles. Participants will design a state of the art health care simulation activity using the simulation methodologies learned. The participants will be introduced to the art and science of moulage to generate an environment of realism for health care simulation. Student will explore the debriefing process and develop a model for evaluating the simulation experience. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): NURS782	3

Business Electives		(6) Credits
HCMG630	Health Care Organizations This course provides a systematic overview of the U.S. Healthcare Delivery System. Students will examine key components involved in the delivery and provision of healthcare services, including cultural diversity. This course also provides students an opportunity to examine the origin, development, structure, organization, and operational issues as they relate to hospitals and healthcare delivery systems. Note: A grade of C or better is required on the final assessment in order to earn a passing grade in this course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
HCMG730	Ethical/Legal Prspct Health Cr This course examines the legal and ethical dimensions involved in healthcare management. Students will learn the types of laws that impact healthcare organizations, including: tort, criminal, and civil. Students will examine issues that extend beyond the legal dimension and explore ethical dilemmas that are periodically encountered by healthcare leaders. Student will study, ethical theories and be provided with ethical decision making models or processes that can assist them in critically analyzing and resolving ethical dilemmas. Note: A grade of C or better is required on the final assessment in order to earn a passing grade in this course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): HCMG630	3
HRMG700	Managing Human Resources This course is designed to introduce the graduate student to the whole spectrum of human resources’ responsibilities and major functions. Topics include staffing, compensation, training, organizational development, employee and labor relations, human resources information systems, and global HR management. An emphasis will be placed upon learning the specific human resources’ disciplines and how to strategically apply that knowledge to solve organization-wide issues. Note: A grade of C or better is required on the final assessment in order to earn a passing grade in this course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
HRMG750	Org Development & Training In this course, students will apply behavioral and social theories to the analysis of individual, interpersonal and group behavior in the workplace. Students will examine current philosophies in self-directed work teams, implementation of a technical workforce, and evaluation of an organization’s knowledge and retention of that knowledge. In addition, the course will explore training demands, which will determine the training needs of an organization. The development of training programs will utilize current techniques for implementation of the training and help set objectives to evaluate staffing and cost-effectiveness, as well as measuring the training programs’ value. Note: A grade of C or better is required on the final assessment in order to earn a passing grade in this course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): HRMG700	3
MGMT610	Creative and Critical Thinking Management today is not business as usual. Disruptive technology, challenging economies, global markets, and significant environmental concerns require visionary responses that consistently cause leading CEOs to rank the development of creative and critical thinking as an organizational priority and an essential lifelong learning practice. Through the introduction and application of idea generation tools and decision-making techniques in a variety of organizational contexts, this foundational course prepares students for successful learning in the Master of Management program and for successful practice in their chosen careers. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
MKTG638	Mktg/Comm MultiCultural Env This course prepares students to competently interact in the global business environment. Students will study cross-cultural communication, the importance of creating an organization with a high level of cultural and global awareness, and will explore the marketing impact of culture on decision making, values, time perception. Complex business and communication problems, advocacy skills, and creative approaches to communications that integrate technology skills will also be explored. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3

Thesis/Capstone		3 Credits
NURS795 or NURS799	MSN Special Project or MSN Thesis NURS795 - Offered in Year Two. Student identifies a salient health care topic of interest to investigate using the principles and methodologies inherent in the conduct of evidence-based research and practice to design and implement a special clinical research project. Student will obtain approval of proposed special project from the MSN faculty Research Advisor before initiating research project. After implementing the special project, the student will use evaluation research methodology to assess project outcomes. Student’s special project will entail all components of an evidence-based research project including: determining clinical foreground (PICO) and background research questions; hypotheses (if applicable); research design; implementation of the project; data collection and data analysis procedures; discussion of the results and implications for advanced nursing practice, theory, and education; and recommendations for future research. Student will disseminate research results by presenting research findings at a professional conference and/or other appropriate public venue. Note: This special project is graded as Pass/Fail Prerequisite(s): NURS640 and data collection NURS799 - Offered in Year Two. Student identifies a salient health care topic of interest to investigate using the application of evidence-based systematic, scientific research principles and methodologies to complete a research thesis. Student will obtain approval of proposed research topic from the MSN faculty Research Advisor before initiating research thesis. Student’s research thesis will entail all stages of a scientifically conducted study including: determining research questions; hypotheses (if applicable); research design; data collection and data analysis procedures; discussion of the results and implications for advanced nursing practice, theory, and education; and recommendations for future research. Student will disseminate research results by developing a manuscript suitable to be submitted for publication and/or presentation at professional conferences. Note: The MSN Thesis is graded as Pass/Fail Prerequisite(s): NURS640 and data collection	1
NURS797	Advanced Generalist Capstone Offered in Year Two. This course provides the summative and synthesis of knowledge that serves as the capstone of the MSN Advanced Generalist Concentration. Students will develop a portfolio demonstrating the MSN Essentials within the Advanced Generalist. Student will review the MSN essentials as they apply to their individual coursework. An analysis and evaluation of prior coursework will be completed to determine exemplars for each MSN essential. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS797 and NURS797C Co-requisite(s): NURS795 or NURS799 Prerequisite(s): All other concentration courses completed; Last semester of program	1
NURS797C	Adv Generalist Capstone Clinic Offered in Year Two. This course provides the summative and synthesis of knowledge that serves as the capstone of the MSN Advanced Generalist Concentration. Students will develop a portfolio demonstrating the MSN Essentials within the Advanced Generalist. Students will review the MSN essentials as they apply to their individual coursework. An analysis and evaluation of prior coursework will be completed to determine exemplars for each MSN essential. Note: Any unexcused non-attendance or dismissal from an internship, practicum, clinical or fieldwork experience will result in a grade of F. NURS797C requires 45 clinical hours. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS797 and NURS797C Co-requisite(s): NURS795 or NURS799 Prerequisite(s): All other concentration courses completed; Last semester of program	1

Which class should I take? When should I take it?

See our Recommended Program Sequences:

45%

Enter a field projecting 45% employment growth

$108,842

Boost your nursing salary to $108,842 average with an MSN

100%

Simplify your schedule with our 100% online nursing MSN program

Choose from three concentrations: generalist, nurse educator, FNP or PMHNP

Why pursue an online nursing master’s degree at Davenport?

Advance your career and earn a higher nursing salary by achieving your MSN through Davenport’s online nursing master’s degree program. Through the online nursing master’s, you’ll be well prepared for roles such as nursing manager, clinical leader and specialist. Your nursing MSN degree at Davenport will also prepare you to complete family nurse practitioner, psychiatric nurse practitioner and nurse educator concentrations, which can open even greater career pathways.

Davenport’s online nursing master’s degree program gives you vital hands-on experience, including direct clinical practice and virtual simulations in our Health Assessment Lab. Network and get to know your nursing MSN peers and faculty — even through an online nursing master’s degree — thanks to Davenport’s innovative Global Campus.

Use Davenport’s unique partnership with the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA) to qualify for a 20% tuition discount on your nursing MSN. This advantage is available to any MHA member in the Davenport nursing MSN program.

Experience the Davenport difference:

Convenient online nursing master’s

Choose a master of science in nursing that’s 100% online and designed for working nurses like you.

Exceptional test preparation

Pass your certification exams and do so at a rate higher than the national average, just like the nursing MSN graduates before you.

Led by nursing leaders

Learn from (and be mentored by) highly credentialed master of science in nursing faculty with real-world health care experience.

Nursing career readiness

Earn a nursing MSN that gives you key clinical placements aligned with your career goals, thanks to our dedicated clinical care staff.

Get started on your online nursing master’s degree

Explore the admissions requirements and then take the next step toward earning your online nursing master’s degree at Davenport.

Talk to an admissions advisor

Davenport’s admissions team is here to answer your questions. Please call us at 800.686.1600 or email us at info@davenport.edu.

Apply now or request more information

Start on the road to a larger nursing salary with our nursing MSN. Request more information or begin your application now.

Programs related to the online nursing master’s degree

Family Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

Master of Science in Nursing — Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Master of Science in Nursing — Nurse Educator Concentration

Nurse Educator Postgraduate Certificate

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

About Davenport University

Davenport is a private, not-for-profit university with more than 150 years of experience preparing students for successful careers.

Offering over 80 degree and certificate programs, we align with top employers to design degree programs that help you gain the skills and real-world experience you need to rise above the rest. With small class sizes and campuses across Michigan or online, you’ll earn a quality education on your schedule at Davenport University.*

Additional resources

Nine nursing careers you never hear about

With an online nursing master’s, you’re expanding your career opportunities — and your nursing salary. Here are nine registered nurse career pathways you might consider with your nursing MSN.

Nurse in a white coat standing in a hospital classroom

Master of science in nursing granted accreditation through 2027

Davenport University’s master of science in nursing was granted a 10-year term of accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Nursing MSN concentrations

Generalist Concentration (37 credits)

Learn more about analysis (critical thinking and reasoning), pathophysiological concepts, advanced health assessment skills, pharmacological principles and applications, evaluation of evidence, critique of research and synthesis of literature to support best practices.

Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration (45 credits)

Learn best practices for caring for adults and children of all ages with a focus on family and community. This concentration focuses on continuing and a comprehensive wellness and illness care for individuals, plus illness management, health promotion and health education.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration (47 credits)

Assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of patients of all ages while providing physical and psychosocial assessments and emergency psychiatric care.

Nurse Educator Concentration (37 credits)

Choose to learn more about analysis (critical thinking and reasoning), pathophysiological concepts, advanced health assessment skills, pharmacological principles and applications, evaluation of evidence, critique of research and synthesis of literature to support best practices.

CCNE Accreditation

The master's degree program in nursing at Davenport University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

Admission requirements

A current, valid, and unrestricted license as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a U.S jurisdiction or province of Canada
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
One professional recommendation
Official transcripts from previous nursing program(s)
Resume/CV
Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 out of a 4.0
Professional essay

Out of State Applicants applying for academic programs leading to Professional Licensure (ie; FNP), it is highly recommended that students contact the appropriate licensing agency in their state of residence if they are considering an academic program that leads to a professional license. Davenport University offers a state by state guide with web links to the appropriate licensing agencies. It is the responsibility of students to contact the appropriate licensing agency and to understand the requirements in their state of residence as applied to their specific situation.

Nursing MSN program philosophy

The multifaceted roles of the practical and professional nurse are taught at Davenport University and include care provision, communication, management, and scope of practice. Theoretical foundations shape the curricula and guide the nursing education. The Davenport University Nursing Program is a dynamic system that provides for the educational growth and development of the nursing student. An adaptation of Fawcett’s metaparadigm is utilized and includes person, environment, health, and nursing.

Person - The concept of a person refers to the individual or individuals as part of culture, family, community or aggregate groups who interact with the nurse in a therapeutic manner.
Environment -The environment is made up of the physical surroundings and the settings in which the person interacts with society as a whole. This integrates the totality of social, cultural, and religious foundations and influences. Individuals are affected by the environment and, in turn, have the ability to effect the environment.
Health - The health continuum from birth to death includes physical, mental, cultural, and spiritual elements. Wellness describes the function of a person at his or her maximum potential.
Nursing - Nursing is a caring profession that is guided by the ANA Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Nursing is not limited to physical care but incorporates the promotion, protection, and optimization of health. Nursing practice is guided by research which contributes to the delivery of evidence-based practice.

Program outcomes

Synthesize concepts and theories from nursing and related disciplines and sciences to deliver advanced nursing care.
Integrate evidence-based knowledge, research, and clinical judgment to design, coordinate, and evaluate the delivery of care.
Integrate current and emerging health and information technologies effectively into one’s practice to enhance health outcomes.
Collaborate effectively within an interprofessional context to improve the delivery of care across the health care continuum.
Apply organizational and systems leadership strategies to promote high quality and safe patient care environments.
Advocate for policies at the local, state, and national levels to improve health and advance the profession of nursing.
Demonstrate beginning competency in an advanced nursing role.

Faculty and Staff

Associate Dean: Amy Stahley PhD, MSN, RN

Department Chair for Nursing: Tracy Alberta, MSN, RN

Nursing Administrative Assistant: TBD

MSN/FNP Online Faculty

Clinical Coordinator: Marlo Schepers, MSN, RN, FNP-C

Online Graduate Faculty: Jessica Abernathy, DNP, WHNP-BC, CNM, FNP-BC, Annette Mannion MSN, CRNP, IBLC

Some programs require a student to complete a portion of their degree plan off-campus.
View a full list of those programs and courses

Sources:

U.S. Department of Labor Statistics
Davenport University, 2023/2024 Catalog

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