Baker College

What you'll study

The program consists of 24 credit hours of core courses and 12 credit hours specific to nursing administration, integrating advanced nursing practice, leadership, technology and health systems management. Sample course offerings and elements drawn from the curriculum include:

• Advanced Nursing Practice Roles (NUR 5110) — overview of graduate-level nursing roles with attention to ethics, scope of practice and credentialing as nurses transition into specialty roles.
• Informatics and Healthcare Technologies (NUR 5410) — study of information systems, tools and processes used in healthcare to manage data, improve efficiency and support patient care.
• Graduate Practicum (NUR 6230) — an applied preceptor-guided practicum designed to synthesize knowledge and demonstrate specialty skills; the course lists 90 practice hours and requires students to identify preceptors and sites in consultation with faculty.

The program addresses leadership, human resources management, finance, quality management, healthcare policy, legal and ethical issues, quality improvement and population health, preparing graduates for executive and managerial responsibilities.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold an unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license in the United States (including DC and territories) or in Canada and must be a graduate of an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited BSN program, in addition to meeting Baker College's graduate school admission criteria. The RN-to-MSN pathway also allows applicants who hold an ADN/ASN to apply and pursue the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in hospitals, long-term care and other healthcare settings, including administrative tracks and education tracks. Typical responsibilities supported by the curriculum include oversight of nursing staff, budgeting and finance, regulatory compliance, quality and patient safety initiatives, strategic planning and policy advocacy.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Prospective students should explore Baker College financial aid options and employer tuition assistance if continuing to work while enrolled. Also consider graduate scholarships, loan programs and any funding targeted to nurses pursuing advanced practice or leadership credentials.