For Graduate Programs
Admission Standards for Degree Seeking Students
Individuals seeking admission to USC Upstate as a degree candidate will be considered for full admission when the USC Upstate Admissions Office receives all admissions materials. A baccalaureate (BSN) degree from a college or university and accredited by a regional accrediting agency is required. Nurses admitted to the RN-BSN program can receive direct admissions to the MSN program at USC Upstate.
Additional requirements include:
- An unencumbered RN license
- Nursing grade point average (NSG-GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Cumulative grade point average (CUM-GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for undergraduate coursework (official transcripts for all post-secondary school coursework are required),
- Undergraduate level statistics course
Application Requirements for Master of Science in Nursing Program
All applicants must meet and/or furnish the following criteria:
- Application, application fee, residency form with all requested information and supporting documents.
- Transcripts: Individuals seeking admission must provide official transcripts showing all post-secondary coursework attempted and the award of the BSN degree by an accredited college or university. Official transcripts verifying all previous college-level course work are required for the University’s records. To be considered official, transcripts must be sent directly from the institution to USC Upstate or delivered in a sealed envelope bearing a registrar’s stamp.
- Letter of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation is required. Recommendation should be from a professional knowledgeable about the applicant’s academic and nursing leadership potential.
- Validation of current RN license
- Current CV or resume
- Completion of agency requirements needed for clinical practice.
- Personal statement: Applicants are required to submit a 1-2 page personal statement that describes career goals and how this degree will be utilized as a practicing CNL, a Nursing Educator and a Nursing Leader.
After admission has been granted, an online orientation course will need to be completed before admission is final. After final acceptance to the program, the student will also need to comply with clinical agency requirements for CPR certification, HIPAA and OSHA certification.