Walden University

What you'll study

The programme provides a comprehensive blend of foundational science, nursing theory and practice, and specialised coursework across administration, research and clinical practice. Core topics include health assessment, anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, adult and gerontological nursing, maternal and child health, mental health nursing, community and public health nursing, and ethics.

Specialist strands allow focused study in:

• Nursing Administration — leadership and management in health care settings, organisational behaviour, quality improvement, finance and resource management, human resources and policy implementation.
• Nursing Research — research methods, statistics, evidence-based practice, critical appraisal, translational research and designing practice-based improvement projects.
• Clinical Nursing — advanced clinical assessment, clinical decision-making, complex care management, specialty practicum experiences and advanced interventions in acute and community settings.

All students complete supervised clinical practicum placements to apply classroom learning in real-world settings, supported by simulation and skills laboratories. The curriculum emphasises evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, cultural competence and use of health informatics.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent, with prerequisite coursework in biology (with laboratory), chemistry and college-level English or composition. Admission commonly considers academic transcripts, a personal statement, and references. Some pathways are specifically for already-licensed practical or registered nurses (articulation/RN-to-BSN), which require an active nursing licence and transcripts from prior nursing education.

Because the programme includes clinical placements, applicants must meet health and safety requirements such as immunisation records, background checks and basic life support (CPR) certification prior to clinicals. Mature students or those with prior healthcare experience may be considered through standard admissions processes; specific academic thresholds and documentation requirements are provided by the university during application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for licensure and practice as registered nurses and for a range of professional roles. Typical career destinations include staff nurse positions across acute care, community health, primary care and long-term care; specialty clinical roles in areas such as emergency care, oncology or perioperative nursing; and practice-focused roles such as case management or clinical coordination.

Those who choose the administration pathway commonly move into roles such as charge nurse, nurse manager, unit director or quality improvement coordinator. Graduates who focus on research are prepared for roles supporting clinical research, quality and outcomes analysis, clinical educator positions or as a foundation for further study in research or graduate-level nursing programmes.

Why study at Walden University

Walden offers flexible delivery designed to accommodate working students, combining online coursework with local supervised clinical experiences. The programme emphasises applied learning, integrating simulation, practicum placements and evidence-based practice projects to build clinical competence and leadership skills.

Students benefit from academic support services, faculty with clinical experience, and networking opportunities with healthcare providers where practicum placements are arranged. The curriculum is tailored to prepare graduates for contemporary healthcare settings and to serve as a pathway to advanced study or professional development in nursing leadership, research and specialised clinical practice.