Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Nursing Education

This program is for registered nurses who are graduates of an accredited Bachelor of Science in nursing program. Graduates of the masters in nursing education concentration will have the opportunity to serve as academicians to educate current and future nurses. Prepared to teach in academic and clinical settings, including staff development. Registered nurses who meet the admission requirements for the program may complete the program in two calendar years of full time study. Students selecting part-time study may take three years to complete the program. All coursework is delivered online with 375 clinical practicum hours completed in your own clinical settings.

Nursing Leadership

This program is for registered nurses who are graduates of an accredited Bachelor of Science in nursing program. Upon successful completion of the masters of science in nursing leadership degree, students will be prepared to assume leadership roles in academic and practice settings. Preparing budgets, scheduling, developing and implementing policies and procedures, advocating for patients, and serving on interprofessional teams are all encompassed in the nursing leadership role. Registered nurses who meet the admission requirements for the program may complete the program in two calendar years of full time study. Students selecting part-time study may take three years to complete the program. All coursework is delivered online with 187 clinical practicum hours completed in clinical settings.

Clinical Nurse Leader

The Clinical Nurse Leader is a relatively new role in nursing. In practice, the CNL is an advanced generalist who oversees the care coordination of a distinct group of patients and actively provides direct patient care in complex situations. This master’s degree-prepared clinician puts evidence-based practice into action to ensure that patients benefit from the latest innovations in care delivery. The CNL evaluates patient outcomes, assesses cohort risk and has the decision-making authority to change care plans when necessary. The CNL is a leader in the health care delivery system. The implementation of this role will vary across settings. Upon completion of the program, the graduate will be eligible for CNL certification through the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). All coursework is delivered online with 500 practicum hours completed in clinical settings.

The baccalaureate and master’s degree programs at University of South Carolina Upstate, Mary Black College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.