Ferris State University

What you'll study

This master's programme builds on registered nursing experience to develop advanced clinical judgement, leadership and research skills. Core modules typically cover advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, advanced health assessment, research methods and evidence-based practice, and healthcare ethics.

• Nursing Administration: modules focus on healthcare systems and policy, organisational behaviour and leadership, finance and resource management in healthcare, quality improvement, human resources and strategic planning for nursing services. Students complete a capstone or practicum in management or leadership settings.
• Nursing Research: study emphasises research design, biostatistics, qualitative methods, grant-writing and translating research into practice. Students undertake a substantial research project or thesis under faculty supervision, preparing them for roles in clinical research or doctoral study.
• Clinical Nursing: modules deepen clinical assessment and intervention skills for specific patient populations, advanced clinical decision-making, care coordination and interprofessional practice. Clinical practicum placements provide supervised experience in acute, community or specialised care settings.

The programme is commonly offered in a flexible delivery model that may include on-campus seminars, online coursework and supervised clinical practicums. Assessment methods include written assignments, case studies, objective structured clinical examinations, a practicum or capstone project and (where applicable) a research thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a Registered Nurse licence and typically a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or equivalent. Ferris State may also provide pathways for experienced ADN-prepared RNs through bridge options; applicants without a BSN should contact admissions to discuss eligibility and any prerequisite coursework.

• Current, unrestricted RN licence in the jurisdiction where clinical placements will be undertaken.
• A bachelor’s degree in nursing is normally required; equivalent qualifications and relevant experience may be considered for bridge entry routes.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating successful prior study; programmes usually expect evidence of good academic standing.
• Relevant clinical experience as a practising RN, typically demonstrated through a CV and references.
• A personal statement outlining professional goals and suitability for the chosen pathway and one or more professional references. Standardised tests (such as the GRE) are not commonly required but applicants should check current programme guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of advanced roles across healthcare delivery, management and research. Typical career outcomes include:

• Nurse manager or director of nursing, responsible for unit or service leadership, staffing and quality improvement.
• Clinical nurse specialist or advanced clinical practitioner, providing expert patient care, consultation and clinical education within specialities.
• Clinical research nurse or research coordinator, supporting and leading clinical research projects and translating findings into practice.
• Quality and safety officer, policy analyst or healthcare consultant focusing on systems improvement and patient outcomes.
• Academic or clinical educator roles and progression to doctoral study (PhD or DNP) for those aiming for research, policy or higher education careers.

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State University combines applied, career-focused teaching with established links to regional healthcare providers, giving students access to varied clinical placements and hands-on learning. The university’s nursing programmes emphasise practical skills reinforced by simulation labs and faculty who maintain active clinical and research experience.

Students benefit from flexible delivery options suitable for working professionals, dedicated student support services and a focus on workforce-ready skills in leadership, evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. The programme’s applied research component and practicum opportunities help graduates move directly into advanced roles or continue to doctoral-level study.