FAQs

If I am accepted into the MSN program, when would I be able to start? 
Applications are accepted year-round and classes start every Spring and Fall session. 

How long are the courses? How long will it take me to complete the program? 
Courses run in 8-week blocks and are only 33 credits. You can complete the program in as little as two years. 

Can I transfer credits?
Yes, you can transfer up to 9 credit hours.

When am I officially accepted into the MSN program? 
Students will receive a letter from DSU’s Office of Graduate Studies and Research. The letter will provide the student with their ID number, DSU email address, and your next steps.

What program options are offered? 
The options currently offered are Global Leadership and Nursing Education.

What is the cost per credit hour for each course?  
$450 per credit hour 

What is the total cost of the program?
 $14,850 plus fees

How long will it take me to complete the program? 
Two years 

Is financial aid and scholarship money available?  
Scholarships are awarded every session based on available funding. Students must meet the prerequisites and submit an application to be considered. 

What are the total number of practicum hours needed for both program options?  
Students must complete a minimum of 90 hours of practicum experience in an approved and supervised setting to fulfill practicum requirements for the program.  

What are some appropriate places that I can complete my practicum? 
Hospitals, Public Health Departments, Colleges and Universities, Non-Profit Organizations that have an MSN prepared nurse.

When should I find a practicum site? 
Several months before the beginning of the practicum course, our faculty and staff will meet with each student to discuss program requirements and deadlines.

Is it possible to fulfill my practicum requirements at the same agency/organization where I am employed? 
The site may be in the institution where the graduate student is currently employed but must be outside of the normal work area (e.g., the student may be a hospital staff nurse in the cardiac unit and may select a preceptor who is the director of the staff development department in the same hospital). Prior approval must be obtained. 

Can I graduate if my practicum is not completed? Is the practicum requirement ever waived? 
Practicum is one of the final courses of each MSN program option. This is a requirement for completion of the program. Any unforeseen circumstances will be addressed on a case-by-case basis with the Program Director.  

How many students will be in my class?
Online nursing classes are capped at 24 students.

What support services are available for online students?
Online Tutoring- Tutor.com, Writing Studio, Student Accessibility Services and many more.
*For a list of all available services, view the Distance/Online Learning Resource Guide.

What careers are available with an MSN?