University of Oregon

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced nursing theory, health systems and research methods with supervised clinical practice. Core topics typically include advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, health policy and organisational leadership, evidence-based practice and quantitative and qualitative research methods. Students choose a pathway—Nursing Administration, Nursing Research or Clinical Nursing—and take pathway-specific modules such as healthcare finance and human resource management for Administration; advanced statistics, study design and translational science for Research; and advanced clinical decision-making, specialty practicum and care coordination for Clinical Nursing.

Programme structure usually comprises a mix of classroom and online coursework, laboratory work in simulation settings and clinical practicum hours placed with healthcare providers across the region. Progression requires completion of core courses, pathway electives and a culminating scholarly requirement: either a capstone project, practice portfolio or a thesis, depending on pathway and student choice.

Entry requirements

• Current, unencumbered licence as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the United States or eligibility for licensure in the state where clinical placements occur.
• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution; applicants with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) are typically preferred, though RN-to-master's pathways and post-baccalaureate routes may be available for experienced RNs without a BSN.
• A competitive undergraduate GPA; departments often specify a minimum cumulative GPA and consider the academic record in relevant science and nursing courses.
• Clinical experience in nursing (employers and length of experience considered as part of the application).
• Supporting materials such as professional references, a personal statement outlining career goals and fit with the chosen pathway, and an up-to-date CV/resume.
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview; standardised tests (for example GRE) may be optional or waived depending on departmental policy.

Career prospects

• Nursing Administration: roles such as nurse manager, director of nursing, quality improvement lead and operational roles in hospitals, community health organisations and long-term care systems.
• Nursing Research: positions including clinical research coordinator, research nurse, health services researcher or progression to doctoral study and academic research roles.
• Clinical Nursing: advanced clinical specialist roles, care coordination, clinical educator positions and enhanced practice roles within specialised inpatient and community settings.
• Graduates also move into policy, population health leadership, healthcare consulting and education—working in healthcare systems, public health agencies, non-profit organisations and academic settings.

Why study at University of Oregon

The University of Oregon School of Nursing offers interdisciplinary teaching and research grounded in the healthcare needs of Oregon and the wider Pacific Northwest. Students benefit from strong clinical partnerships across metropolitan and rural healthcare providers, which support diverse practicum experiences. The school emphasises evidence-based practice and research, with faculty engaged in health services, community health and implementation science—opportunities that support student-led scholarly projects.

Facilities include access to simulation laboratories and collaborative learning spaces that replicate contemporary clinical environments, and the programme is designed to accommodate working professionals through flexible delivery modes. The University of Oregon’s location provides exposure to a wide range of care settings and population health challenges, preparing graduates to lead improvements in practice, education and health outcomes.