MSN in Nursing Leadership
Admission Requirements
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Applying to the MSN-NL Degree Program
To be considered, please submit an application, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of an active unencumbered RN license and your resume.
New students are admitted to the program three times a year — spring, summer and fall — and USD is pleased to offer dedicated enrollment assistance for students throughout the application process. Simply fill out the inquiry form at the top of this page and an advisor will reach out to you.
Application Materials
Official Transcripts
Applicants must submit official transcripts verifying their undergraduate degree. Transcripts should be sent directly from the issuing institution to the University of San Diego Office of Graduate Admissions.
- Electronic Submission: Most institutions send transcripts electronically to [email protected]
- Mail Submission: If electronic submission is not available, transcripts can be mailed to:
Office of Graduate Admissions
University of San Diego
5998 Alcalá Park
San Diego, CA 92110-2492
Please note that transcripts sent via postal mail will likely cause delays in the processing of your application. Electronic submission of official transcripts is strongly recommended.
Resume or CV
A resume or CV describing the nature, scope and areas of responsibility of all your work experience is required. Please upload your resume with your application.
Personal Statement
Please include an essay explaining why this program is the right fit for you.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants are asked to submit one letter of support from a current supervisor/manager or other relevant external reference. If you are unable to obtain a letter of support from your current supervisor, you are required to submit two letters of support from a previous employer, board member, and/or previous professor who can comment on your experience and potential for graduate studies.
Interview
All prospective students will be scheduled for an admissions interview once their application is complete and ready for review. This interview will be held via Zoom with the program directors, with the goal of exploring your career aspirations, discussing the academic expectations and requirements of the program, and answering any remaining questions you have.
Additional requirements
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a related professional field
- Proof of an active, unencumbered RN license
- Bachelor’s degree GPA of 3.0 or higher is required. Candidates with a GPA below 3.0 are still encouraged to apply but may need to submit an explanatory essay (guidelines available on the applications page). You may also choose to submit standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT, to strengthen your application or if recommended by the admissions committee.
- Completion of an introductory statistics course (required). If not completed before starting the program, it must be finished by the end of the first term. (Note: This course is not part of the program curriculum for graduation.)
- One year of clinical experience is preferred
Priority Deadline
Applying to our master’s program by the priority deadline offers you significant advantages:
- Early Consideration: Be among the first to have your application reviewed and receive your admission decision sooner, giving you more time to prepare for your next academic journey.
- Increased Admission Chances: Secure your spot in the program while more seats are available, enhancing your chances of acceptance.
- Stress-Free Planning: Eliminate the last-minute rush by submitting your application early, allowing you to focus on the next steps.
- Showcase Your Commitment: Demonstrate your dedication and preparedness by applying early, making a strong impression on our admissions committee.
Don’t wait—take the first step toward your future today by submitting your application by the priority deadline!
At A Glance
The MSN-NL degree program equips you with the expertise and leadership skills that employers seek in nursing leaders.
I’ve Applied — What Happens Next?
Once your enrollment advisor has submitted your application materials to the admission review committee, you should expect to receive a determination within a week. Your official decision will be sent to you via email by the Office of Graduate Admissions.
If accepted, you will be provided a link and instructions for making your admission deposit and confirming your intent to enroll. The non-refundable deposit equal to 5% of your first term’s tuition will be applied to your first tuition payment when you enroll in the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a degree or work experience in healthcare required for admission?
Yes, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related professional field from an accredited institution, along with an active, unencumbered RN license. While work experience is not required, it can strengthen your application by demonstrating your understanding of the field.
Do you require any nursing entrance exam requirements?
No, we do not require any nursing entrance exams. However, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in a related professional field from an accredited institution and provide proof of an active, unencumbered RN license. You can find the complete list of requirements on the admissions page.
My GPA is slightly below the minimum requirement. Can I still apply to the program?
Yes — candidates with a GPA slightly under 3.0 are still encouraged to apply. Each applicant’s admissions packet is reviewed holistically, with full consideration of your professional experience, education, and letters of recommendation. Any exception to meeting the admissions requirements is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. An enrollment advisor will be happy to help you address all questions regarding your candidacy for the program.
What if decide I want to pursue a specialty track after I’ve started the program?
If you choose to pursue one of the optional specialization tracks in nursing education or informatics, you still have time! You can make that switch until the end of your first semester.
Do you provide clinical placements for MSN-NL students?
Yes! We take great pride in our robust clinical placements, which are customized to meet students where they are. These experiences provide valuable hands-on training while focusing on leadership development to prepare you for advanced nursing roles.
What are the benefits of the priority application deadline?
Applying to our master’s program by the priority deadline offers you significant advantages:
- Early Consideration: Be among the first to have your application reviewed and receive your admission decision sooner, giving you more time to prepare for your next academic journey.
- Increased Admission Chances: Secure your spot in the program while more seats are available, enhancing your chances of acceptance.
- Stress-Free Planning: Eliminate the last-minute rush by submitting your application early, allowing you to focus on the next steps.
- Showcase Your Commitment: Demonstrate your dedication and preparedness by applying early, making a strong impression on our admissions committee.
Don’t wait—take the first step toward your future today by submitting your application by the priority deadline!
How many units is the MSN-NL program?
The MSN-NL program is 36 units, which equates to approximately 20 months. Choosing a specialization track will require additional units and extend the program duration.
How much is the tuition for the MSN-NL program?
Tuition for the MSN-NL program is $995 per unit. With a total of 36 units, the full cost is $35,820. If you choose a specialization track, additional units will be required, which will increase the overall cost.
Tuition amounts shown on this website, or in other university publications or web pages, represent tuition and fees as currently approved. However, the University of San Diego reserves the right to increase or modify tuition and fees without prior notice and to make such modifications applicable to students enrolled at USD at that time as well as to incoming students. In addition, all tuition amounts and fees are subject to change at any time to correct errors. Please note that the displayed tuition covers only the cost of courses, and additional expenses such as books and other fees are not included.
Are there any state restrictions for applicants?
Applicants must hold an active, unencumbered RN license at the time of application. This program is authorized in the following states:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Montana
- Virginia
Is a GRE or GMAT required for admission to the MSN-NL program?
No, the GRE or GMAT is not required. However, if your GPA is below 3.0 or the admissions committee recommends it, submitting test scores may strengthen your application.