Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing (DE-MSN) Program
Ready to Advance Your Career and Your Education?
If you are seeking to transition into a nursing career while advancing your education, the Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing program is designed for you. This program is specifically tailored for individuals who old a non-nursing bachelor's degree and wish to enter the nursing profession at an accelerated pace, earning a graduate degree rather than pursuing a second bachelor's degree.
Through our comprehensive two-year program, you will develop the knowledge and skills to:
- Make an Impact. Make a meaningful difference in people's lives by applying your expertise to improve health outcomes.
- Be a Leader. Gain insight into yourself and others, preparing you to lead high-performing teams with confidence and purpose.
- Provide Compassionate Care. Build a rewarding career where your work truly matters and contributes to the well-being of individuals and communities.
Experience the Bon Secours Difference. Be part of the health care ministry founded over 200 years ago by the Bon Secours Sisters that have committed their life's work to the poor, sick, dying, and the most vulnerable populations. You will be a part of the legacy of giving "good help to those in need."
Program Overview
The DE-MSN program is structured in 8-week terms and offers the flexibility to begin your studies at five different start dates throughout the year. This program fulfills all requirements to prepare you for the nursing licensure examination (NCLEX), enabling you to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) with advanced competencies in leadership, evidence-based practice, and organizational health systems. In addition, you will engage in purposeful self-reflection and self-care strategies designed to promote well-being and build resilience as you progress through your professional journey.
The DE-MSN program offers guaranteed first-priority clinical placements at five local Bon Secours hospitals, along with opportunities in diverse community settings. These placements provide hands-on learning experiences that truly distinguish our program from others.
You will also have access to a state-of-the-art, accredited high-fidelity simulation center where you can apply concepts in a realistic environment to strengthen your skills. Our hybrid model blends online and in-person learning, giving you the flexibility to meet your individual needs and achieve success.
Direct Entry MSN Student Learning Outcomes
- Synthesize the art and science of nursing to support the application of clinical judgment and innovation as the foundation of nursing practice.
- Model therapeutic relationships by providing holistic, ethical, developmentally appropriate, and person-centered care that extends compassion to those in need.
- Lead health promotion strategies that advance access to care by incorporating cultural humility and social determinants of health.
- Critically evaluate and translate research into evidence-based practice to improve health outcomes.
- Design quality and safety initiatives to improve patient outcomes and promote a culture of workplace safety.
- Coordinate care by demonstrating intentional collaboration with patients, families, communities, and both intra-professional and inter-professional teams to improve health outcomes and optimize resource utilization.
- Evaluate systems-based approaches to healthcare, incorporating evidence-based quality improvement, organizational effectiveness, healthcare finance, and policy advocacy.
- Provide nursing care by utilizing informatics and healthcare technologies in alignment with professional and regulatory standards.
- Demonstrate professional behaviors that embody the identity, ethics, and core values of nursing and Bon Secours Mercy Health.
- Demonstrate personal and professional development that integrates self-care, emotional intelligence, leadership development, and a commitment of career-long learning.
Curriculum Overview
Incentives for Bon Secours Employees
Bon Secours' Human Resources Department currently offers 100% paid tuition and fees for Bon Secours employees (full-time, part-time and PRN status) who agree to work as a Registered Nurse for a minimum of 18 months after successful completion of the program. For more information, visit Bon Secours Mercy Health Employees.
Next Steps
Start your journey by attending an information sessions to learn more about the DE-MSN program.
Visit our DE-MSN interest page for more details.
Confident this is your path? Complete an online application (coming soon!). Review your application checklist to ensure all documents are submitted by the application deadlines.
Have Questions?
Email the Admissions team at admissions@bshsi.org or call 804-627-5300.
