University of North Florida

What you'll study

This master's programme combines advanced nursing science, research methods and leadership content with supervised clinical practice. Core topics typically include advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, nursing research and evidence-based practice, healthcare policy and organisation, quality improvement and patient safety, and biostatistics.

Students follow one of the specialist pathways — Nursing Administration, Nursing Research or Clinical Nursing — where pathway-specific modules address managerial finance and human resources for health services (Administration); quantitative and qualitative research methods, grant writing and research practicum (Research); and advanced assessment, differential diagnosis, and specialty clinical practicum (Clinical Nursing).

The programme blends classroom-based theory, simulation and clinical placements. Assessment methods include written assignments, research projects, practice-based portfolios, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs) and a supervised practicum or capstone project aligned to the chosen pathway.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold an active, unencumbered Registered Nurse licence and a recognised bachelor’s degree in nursing (or equivalent). Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a current résumé or curriculum vitae, a personal statement outlining professional goals and pathway preference, and professional references.

Many candidates have at least one to two years of clinical experience; some pathways, particularly Administration and Research, may prefer or require relevant practice experience. Additional requirements commonly include compliance with health and background screening, up-to-date immunisations, and current basic life support (BLS/CPR) certification. International applicants should provide proof of English language proficiency where applicable.

Career prospects

• Nursing Administration: roles such as nurse manager, clinical services manager, director of nursing operations, or quality and safety coordinator in hospitals, community health services and long-term care organisations.
• Nursing Research: positions in clinical research coordination, research assistant or associate roles, outcomes and quality analyst posts, or progression to doctoral studies and academic research careers.
• Clinical Nursing: advanced clinical practitioner roles, clinical nurse specialist positions, specialty practice leadership in areas such as acute care, community health or chronic disease management, and advanced practice roles depending on licensure and certification.

Graduates commonly move into leadership, education and policy-influencing roles within health systems, public health agencies, research institutes and academic settings. The programme also provides a foundation for doctoral study (PhD or DNP) for those pursuing research or highest-level clinical practice careers.

Why study at University of North Florida

The University of North Florida’s nursing programmes are delivered through a college with established clinical partnerships across the Jacksonville metropolitan region, providing a wide range of placement opportunities in acute, community and specialty settings. Students benefit from simulation suites and clinical skills laboratories that mirror contemporary practice environments, plus faculty who combine academic expertise with current clinical experience.

UNF’s approach emphasises evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration and leadership development. Flexible delivery options, including part-time and hybrid course formats, support working professionals balancing study and practice. Research-active faculty and links with regional healthcare providers create opportunities for applied research projects and quality improvement initiatives aligned to local healthcare priorities.