Korea University

What you'll study

The master’s curriculum combines advanced theoretical coursework, research methods and supervised clinical practice. Core topics typically include advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment and clinical decision-making, pharmacology for advanced practice, nursing research and biostatistics, evidence-based practice, health policy and systems, and nursing leadership and management.

Students normally choose a clinical or research focus and may follow a thesis (research) track or a coursework/project track depending on programme rules. Specialist modules and practicum placements are offered across areas such as adult/gerontological nursing, pediatric nursing, psychiatric/mental health nursing, community and public health nursing, and nursing administration. Clinical practicums are arranged in affiliation with Korea University Anam Hospital and other partner health facilities, and students undertake supervised practice hours relevant to their specialism.

Entry requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in nursing (or equivalent) from an accredited institution; applicants with a related health or science degree plus relevant clinical experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Registration or licensure as a nurse in the applicant’s home country is usually required for clinical tracks.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance; many successful applicants hold a competitive GPA and relevant clinical experience.
• Two or more references (academic and/or professional), a personal statement or research proposal that outlines study goals, and a CV detailing clinical experience.
• Language proficiency: programmes are primarily taught in Korean, though some research supervision and electives may be available in English; proof of Korean language ability may be required for clinical placements. International applicants may also be asked to provide English test scores if instruction or supervision will be in English.
• Some applicants—particularly those proposing a research thesis—may be invited for an interview with potential supervisors.

Career prospects

• Advanced clinical roles such as clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse in hospitals and community settings.
• Leadership and management positions including nurse manager, clinical coordinator and director-level roles within healthcare organisations.
• Careers in nursing education as lecturers or clinical educators in universities, colleges and hospital education departments.
• Research roles in academic institutions, hospitals and public health organisations, preparing graduates to continue to doctoral study where applicable.
• Positions in health policy, quality improvement, patient safety, and health services administration in governmental and non-governmental organisations.

Why study at Korea University

Korea University offers the Master of Nursing within a major research university environment known for strong health sciences faculties and close links to clinical practice. Students benefit from access to Korea University Anam Hospital for clinical placements, multidisciplinary collaboration across medicine, public health and biomedical research, and faculty with experience in clinical practice and nursing research.

The programme emphasises evidence-based practice and research skills, preparing graduates for both practice-oriented advanced roles and academic research pathways. For international students and those seeking global perspectives, Korea University maintains exchange and collaborative research links with overseas institutions, and the university’s location in Seoul provides access to a diverse clinical environment and professional networks in South Korea’s healthcare system.