Considering the Mississippi State University MSN program? Find answers to frequently asked questions about admissions requirements, prerequisite courses, program length, financial aid and student support services. This guide provides prospective students with information about what to expect before applying and throughout the 12-month MSN program.
Program Overview
What is Mississippi State University's prelicensure Master of Science in Nursing program?
Our prelicensure MSN program Program offers a 12-month pathway to practice as a registered nurse (RN) for those with a previous degree in a non-nursing field.
Why choose the Mississippi State University MSN program?
Graduate-entry pathway
- Only graduate-entry prelicensure nursing program in Mississippi
(A graduate-entry prelicensure nursing program is designed for individuals who have already earned a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and want to become registered nurses. Students complete the education and hands-on clinical training required to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam while earning a master's degree.)
Team-Based Learning
- Small-group collaboration
- Real-world clinical decision making
- Immediate faculty feedback
Early Clinical Experience
- Patient care experiences begin during the first term
- Simulation and standardized patient experiences integrated throughout the curriculum
Personalized Learning Environment
- Strong faculty support
- Small cohort experience
- Emphasis on belonging and student success
Admissions Requirements
Who is eligible for the prelicensure MSN program?
Those who:
- Are U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have completed at least a bachelor's degree at an accredited U. S. college or university
- Have at least a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field
- Have completed all prerequisite courses with at least a grade of “C” in each course by July 15th
- Have an overall GPA of 2.8 in all previously attempted/completed course work
What is required during the holistic admission process?
- Completed application in NursingCAS with the following documents:
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities, even if a degree was not granted, submitted to NursingCAS
- Current resume or curriculum vita
- Written statement of purpose for graduate study
- Two letters of recommendation (personal/professional) attesting to the applicant’s readiness for accelerated graduate education in nursing
- ATI TEAS exam score within the last 5 years
- In-person interview, if invited
Do I need to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)?
Applicants whose native language is not English and/or who have completed their tertiary education primarily outside of the United States must submit official scores of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), as evidence of English language proficiency. However, the MSN program can only offer admission to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have completed at least a bachelor's degree in the United States.
How do I submit my TEAS exam scores for the MSU School of Nursing?
Upload your TEAS exam scores as part of your application in NursingCAS.
Is there a minimum ATI TEAS score that is required?
No. However, we recommend applicants score Proficient or above to be considered competitive.
When is the deadline to apply for the prelicensure MSN program at Mississippi State University?
The prelicensure MSN program admits students each Fall. Applications open the previous fall and close in the Spring. The application may close early once all seats are filled.
Pre-requisite Courses
Are there prerequisites for the program?
Pre-requisite courses (subject to approval by faculty adviser) include:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab
- Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab
- Microbiology with Lab
- Select one: Introductory Logic, Introductory Philosophy, or Chemistry I with Lab
- Nutrition
- Introductory Statistics
- Select one: Developmental Psychology, Human Growth & Development
Do you accept online coursework for prerequisites?
Yes, we accept online coursework for prerequisites as long as it is from a U.S.-accredited college or university.
Can I apply with prerequisite courses in progress?
Yes, but all courses must be completed with a C or better before July 15th.
Program Format and Curriculum
How long does the MSN program take to complete?
The MSN program can be completed in 12 months of full-time study across three academic terms. Students participate in classroom learning, simulation exercises, and supervised clinical experiences throughout the program.
What is the curriculum like?
It is a full-time plan of study across three terms. The curriculum builds on prior education and incorporates prelicensure content and curriculum on advanced nursing concepts of leadership, quality improvement, interprofessional teamwork, population health and policy, and evidenced-based clinical judgment. Feedback from our clinical partners led to the inclusion of these advanced nursing concepts as a focus of the program.
What is the format of Mississippi State University MSN classes?
- Classes meet face-to-face and use a team-based learning format, facilitated by a faculty content expert.
- Students can expect to begin supervised direct patient care in the first term of the program.
- Clinical learning experiences occur in acute-care hospitals, specialty facilities, community-based practices, and simulation labs.
Are online options available for the prelicensure MSN program?
No. Courses are taught in a face-to-face format employing team-based and competency development assessment, through simulation, clinical experiences, and practice labs.
Can I work while enrolled in the prelicensure MSN program program?
Due to the fast pace and intensity of the program, working while enrolled is generally not recommended.
Can I transfer credits from another nursing program?
Due to the unique nature of the MSN plan of study, the nursing program does not accept transfer credit from other programs of study for nursing.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
1 faculty member to 8 students
Financial Aid and Student Support Services
Is financial aid available?
Yes. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid. In addition, students may apply for scholarships and private educational loans to help finance their education.
Because students in the graduate-entry Master of Science in Nursing program are considered graduate students, they are generally classified as independent for federal financial aid purposes and are not typically required to provide parent information on the FAFSA.
For detailed information about financial aid options, application deadlines, scholarships, and loan programs, please visit the Mississippi State University Office of Financial Aid website.
What support services are available for students?
Please visit the MSU-Meridian Student Support Services website for more information.
Other Common Questions
I already have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Can I apply to the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at MSU?
Unfortunately, no. This program is designed for individuals who hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree.
Does the Mississippi State University School of Nursing have any programs for current nurses?
Yes, we offer Advanced Physical Assessment, Advanced Pharmacology, and Advanced Pathophysiology (the 3 P's) for Registered Nurses interested in continuing their education. Complete this form to receive more information.
Does the pre-licensure MSN program prepare students to become a Nurse Practitioner?
No, the pre-licensure MSN program is not an advanced practice program. The program prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN and practice as a generalist Registered Nurse.
Does the MSU School of Nursing accept degrees earned outside of the United States?
Unfortunately, no. At this time, applicants must have earned at least a bachelor's degree and taken all prerequisite courses from a U.S. accredited institution.