June 10, 2024
Shawnee State University’s School of Nursing has introduced its first graduate program – an online Master of Science in Nursing – for nurses wanting to advance their profession within their region’s healthcare system.
SSU has a long history of preparing future nurses and advancing the healthcare profession in the region. Accepting the first class of nursing students in 1969 when the university was still a branch of Ohio University, SSU has continued to respond to the needs of the healthcare workforce by expanding its initial associate’s degree to multiple pathways.
“Our faculty members work hard to make sure our students are as prepared as they can be for their first day as a nurse,” said Dr. Cathy Bailey, Director of the SSU School of Nursing. “It is inspiring how faculty have grown our nursing programs to supply our region and beyond with excellent professional registered nurses.”
Starting this fall, the School of Nursing will take its commitment to enhancing the profession a step further with the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Designed for Registered Nurses, the MSN program is built for those with an interest in pursuing an advanced practice degree to further their professional skillset.
“The program is perfect for those nurses that have a strong tie to the region and want to better the health of those around them,” said Dr. Adair Carroll, MSN Program Director. “The classes will prepare our students to incorporate common beliefs of the Appalachian region into patient care and education of future nurses.”
The MSN will offer two concentrations – Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership. A supplement to many nursing careers in the region, graduates of the graduate program will be able to connect their education to improve quality of life (nursing education) and health care delivery (nursing leadership) for the rural community.
“The program will commence with capstone practicums and a project that the student can choose to complete in their home area, allowing them to directly observe the impact of their education in the nursing field,” said Dr. Carroll.
Students enrolled in the MSN program can complete the program in as little as five semesters. The fully-online program will allow for three entry points for incoming students and will be offered full-time and part-time to meet the needs of working professionals.
To learn more about the Master of Science in Nursing at Shawnee State University, visit shawnee.edu/msn.