Program FAQs for MSN Students - JMU School of Nursing

MSN Program

Frequently Asked Questions

MSN Admission Process

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Do I have to apply to the JMU graduate school and the School of Nursing as separate applications?

Yes. You must apply to the Graduate School in order to be admitted to JMU and the MSN program. Additionally, you must also apply through the NursingCAS system. More information: https://www.nursing.jmu.edu/msn/admission.html

Do I have to submit letters of recommendation and original transcripts with both the NursingCAS application and Graduate School application?

You must submit emails of the people who will complete your recommendation and original transcripts as part of the NursingCAS application. You do not need to submit letters of recommendation and original transcripts with the Graduate School application. If you are offered admission to the MSN program, then you will need to send original transcripts to the JMU Graduate School prior to the start of classes.

Who should complete my recommendations?

You must submit contact information for two (2) people who will complete your recommendation as part of the NursingCAS application. You do not need to submit the letters of recommendation with the Graduate School application. Letters are best from prior supervisors/employers, university professors, and/or healthcare team members whom you have worked with in a professional capacity. Letters of recommendation from friends or family members are highly discouraged.

Is an interview required?

Yes. For top candidates, two (2) faculty members will participate in an admission interview. The interview is scheduled via email communication with the Administrative Assistant for the MSN program. Interviews for the NP program will be conducted on one of the dates listed on the School of Nursing website. More information: https://www.nursing.jmu.edu/msn/admission.html

Do I need nursing experience before I apply to the program?

Yes. For the FNP and AGPCNP programs, applicants must have the equivalent of one (1) full-time year of experience as an RN before beginning the program. For the Psychiatric Mental Health NP and Nurse Midwifery programs, please see Shenandoah University’s website: https://www.su.edu/nursing/nursing-graduate-programs/

Is the GRE required?

No. GRE scores are not required for to apply or be admitted.

The NP Program

When does the program begin?

Depending on the program, classes may begin in either the summer or fall semester. Full-time students start the program during the summer and part-time students start during the fall.

How long is the program of study?

For full-time students, the program takes two years to complete. For part-time students, the program takes three years to complete.

Is there an option for transfer of graduate credits?

Yes. Transfer, waive, and substitute credits are possible and are granted based on individual review of credits/courses taken. Students must submit the syllabus from the course taken outside of JMU to their adviser for review..

Am I able to work while in the NP program?

Yes. Classes for the NP program meet on Wednesdays. Once in practicum courses, students will have class on JMU campus on Wednesdays and have an addition 1-2 days per week in their practicum sites. Most students who enroll in the NP program full-time, work part-time.

How much does the program cost?

Information about tuition and fees can be found on the University Business Office website: https://www.jmu.edu/ubo/rates-graduate.shtml

Are classes online or on campus?

Both. Approximately half of the courses in the NP program are all online. Some of the classes are hybrid: some content is online with intensive meetings on campus throughout the semester. The diagnosis and management courses and practicum seminars are held in person on campus on Wednesdays.