University of Delaware

What you'll study

The MSN programme at the University of Delaware combines advanced clinical science, research methods and leadership education. Core modules typically include advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, health assessment, nursing research and statistics, evidence-based practice and healthcare policy. Depending on the chosen pathway, you will take specialist modules such as:

• Nursing Administration: organisational management, healthcare finance, quality improvement, strategic leadership, human resource management and systems-level change in healthcare.
• Nursing Research: research design and methods, qualitative and quantitative analysis, grant writing, translational research and implementation science, alongside an independent research thesis or capstone project.
• Clinical Nursing: advanced clinical reasoning, specialty-focused practicum placements, advanced assessment and diagnostic reasoning, care coordination and interprofessional practice.

All pathways combine classroom-based teaching with supervised clinical practicum hours in clinical settings. Students engage in simulation-based learning and interprofessional activities with other health disciplines. Elective options and practicum specialities allow tailoring to areas such as chronic disease management, critical care, community and public health nursing.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution and an active, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) licence. Academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a personal statement outlining professional goals and at least two professional references are required. Some applicants without a BSN but with substantial RN experience may be considered for alternative pathways or bridging programmes. Applicants may also need to provide evidence of basic clinical competencies, up-to-date immunisations, background checks and compliance with clinical site requirements. Standardised tests are not routinely required for all applicants, though individual circumstances may prompt additional documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates move into advanced clinical and leadership roles across healthcare systems, community services and research settings. Common career outcomes include nurse manager or director roles, clinical nurse specialist or advanced clinical practitioner positions, research nurse or clinical research coordinator roles, quality improvement and patient-safety leadership, academic or clinical educator positions, and policy or population health roles. The research track also prepares graduates for doctoral study and careers in academic or clinical research.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware offers nursing students access to experienced faculty who combine clinical practice and active research, high-fidelity simulation facilities and strong clinical partnerships across Delaware and the mid-Atlantic region. The programme emphasises interprofessional education, translational research and leadership development, enabling students to apply evidence to practice in real clinical settings. Flexible delivery options and close ties with local health systems support diverse practicum placements, while the university’s commitment to community health provides opportunities for population-focused nursing experience.