A Guide to Master’s Entry Program in Nursing at the
University of San Diego

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Sometimes referred to as a Direct-Entry Nursing program, a Master's Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) is designed for aspiring nurses with a baccalaureate degree or higher in another discipline. MEPN students come to USD from all walks of life—from baristas to lobbyists and even clergy. Spanning every possible age, they bring a rich diversity of experiences, backgrounds, and skills to this intellectually rigorous program. 

Students enroll in the program annually, completing the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree in five terms. The program is demanding, as it provides the student with a general foundation in nursing as well as master’s-level courses that provide the skills necessary to serve in leadership positions. 

As nurse scientists and advanced clinicians ourselves, we believe in each student and work tirelessly to support, mentor and prepare you to enter nursing practice. You’ll gain the skills, the thinking, the compassion, and the drive you’ll need to make a real difference in patients’ lives.

It's never too late to pursue your passion for meeting the health needs of humanity.

Request an information packet to learn more!

MEPN Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) as a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) and are prepared as Advanced Nurse Generalists.

Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for registered nursing (RN) licensure. Graduates are also eligible to take the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certificate exam and are eligible for certification as public health nurses in the state of California.

Learn more about USD's MEPN program.

Program Outcomes

MEPN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Track Outcomes

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Integrate knowledge about social, political, cultural, economic, environmental, and historical issues into the analysis of and potential solutions to professional and health care issues.

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Use systems theory in the assessment, design, delivery, and evaluation of health care at the micro-, meso-, or macrosystem level within complex organizations. 

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Use evidence to design and direct system improvements that address trends in safety and quality. 

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Lead change initiatives to promote safe, timely, effective, efficient, equitable, and patient-centered care. 

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Analyze current and emerging technologies to support safe practice environments, and to optimize patient safety, cost-effectiveness, and health outcomes. 

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Examine the effect of health policy on legal and regulatory processes of nursing practice, health care delivery, and outcomes. 

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Advocate for the value and role of the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) as a leader and member of interprofessional health care teams for diverse populations across the lifespan. 

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Synthesize broad ecological, global and social determinants of health; principles of genetics and genomics; and epidemiologic data to design and deliver evidence-based, culturally relevant clinical prevention interventions and strategies. 

Clinical Placements for MEPN Students

Students in the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing have clinical rotations that are the same as those of all pre-licensure nursing programs. These rotations focus on the care of patients in medical/surgical, maternal/newborn, pediatric, psychiatric, and geriatric as well as community settings. 

These rotations are primarily done in hospital settings and can occur in any hospital in San Diego County within a 60-mile radius from the USD campus. Students may also visit a variety of community settings.

Current placement facilities include: 

  • Kaiser Permanente
  • UCSD Medical Center
  • UCSD Thorton Hospital
  • Rady Children’s Hospital
  • Palomar Health
  • Sharp Hospitals
  • Scripps Hospitals
  • Tri-City Medical Center
  • VA Medical Center
  • Balboa Naval Medical Center

The Premier MEPN Program in California

The University of San Diego’s Master’s Entry Program in Nursing is one of the best direct entry nursing programs in the country. But that's not the only reason future students walk through our doors to pursue one of our graduate degrees. Download our guide to the MEPN Program at USD and discover how our rich heritage of excellence in nursing education can help you achieve your academic and professional goals.

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Building Experience at the Dickinson Nursing Simulation Center

Together, our MEPN students build experience and confidence through hands-on practice in the Dickinson Nursing Simulation Center (DNSC). In this sophisticated facility, “standardized patient” professional actors recreate real-world situations you’ll experience as a nurse. Because understanding cultural context is a vital part of nursing, we provide outreach opportunities in underserved communities while fostering diversity that informs and invigorates our programs

Located on the first floor of the Beyster Institute for Nursing Research, the DNSC houses an eight-bed clinical skills classroom equipped with high-fidelity human patient simulators, six primary care exam rooms, three acute-care hospital rooms with observation rooms, a medication station, three debriefing rooms, a green room for patient-actors, control rooms, equipment, and storerooms, along with a faculty/staff office suite.

Learn more about the DNSC.

FAQs: USD’s Master’s Entry Program in Nursing

As a future direct entry graduate student, you likely have questions regarding where, when, and how you’ll obtain your MSN degree - especially since you do not hold the BSN degree. By answering some of the most frequently asked questions, we aim to help you meet your future career goals.

When is the application deadline? How often are students admitted?

The application deadline for the Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) is October 15. Applications are screened once a year for admission. The application opens on August 15. 

What is NursingCAS?

NursingCAS is a central application system for nursing. This service allows applicants to provide necessary application materials (references, transcripts, and resume) to a centralized repository, thus making it easier for the applicant to manage their application.


Note: NursingCAS requires applicants to enter prerequisite coursework into the application. Please make sure you have copies of your transcripts on hand before starting the process.

What are the required prerequisite courses?

  • Human Anatomy* 
  • Human Physiology* 
  • Microbiology* 
  • Psychology (Introduction, Developmental or General) 
  • Introduction to Cultural Anthropology or Introduction to Sociology 
  • English Composition 
  • Introduction to Oral Communication, Introduction to Speech or Introduction to Public Speaking 
  • Statistics 
  • Nutrition 

 

*Courses must include a lab. 

 

AP courses or other substitutions are not accepted. A minimum grade of “B” is required in science prerequisite courses.

Do all the prerequisite courses need to be completed at the time of application?

Only one course can be in progress at the time of the application close. You must submit an official transcript upon completion of the outstanding prerequisite coursework.

Is the TEAS or GRE test required?

USD does not require the TEAS or GRE test.

Am I able to attend the program on a part-time basis?

The MEPN program is accelerated and requires a full-time commitment. 

Will I be able to work while in the MEPN program?

The MEPN program is very demanding. Course schedules change each semester. Successful students make the MEPN program their number one priority. We recommend students work no more than 16-20 hours per week. 

Am I required to submit my health requirement information by the application deadline?

The health requirement information is not required at the time of application. Accepted applicants must submit the documentation by a specified date if accepted into the program. 

Are a background check and drug screen required?

A thorough Department of Justice background check and drug screen administered through American Databank is required annually. The first background check and drug screen are due prior to the start of classes. Students must have a clear criminal background check and drug screen to participate in placement in clinical facilities. 

Is the MEPN Program competitive? What can I do to improve my chances of being accepted?

Applicants to the MEPN Program are screened as a cohort during the admission process. Great consideration is given to the demonstration of a solid academic background (GPA and grades earned in science prerequisites), goal statement, letters of reference, health care experience (volunteer or paid, based in the hospital setting), and the interview. 


Prior to applying, applicants are encouraged to research the nursing and health care professions and the role of a registered nurse (RN).

Alumni Spotlight: MEPN Program Graduate

"The University of San Diego’s Master’s Entry Program in Nursing provided a strong academic and clinical foundation. Upon graduation, I was well-prepared to successfully pass the NCLEX and assume a new graduate position in the fast-paced environment of the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. I’ve developed lifelong friendships and am proud to be part of the strong network of USD graduates."

– Jason Vazquez, MSN, RN

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The Leading Master’s Entry Nursing Program in California is at USD 

The Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science was founded more than 40 years ago on the beautiful campus of the University of San Diego. Our school consistently ranks among the best graduate nursing schools locally and nationally, but that’s not the only reason future students walk through our doors to pursue their MSN.

The personal connections between faculty and students fuel our collective success and impact. Compassion isn’t just woven into our coursework — it’s embodied in our commitment to you. As scholars and clinicians, we value your talents and experiences. We’re here to mentor, nurture, and uplift you as you become all you’re meant to be.

Explore USD's MEPN Program Download MEPN Guide

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1. Become a Nurse

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2. MEPN Program Outcomes

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3. MEPN Pre-Licensure Learning Outcomes

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4. MEPN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Track Outcomes

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5. Clinical Placements for MEPN Students

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6. Dickinson Nursing Simulation Center

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7. Program FAQs

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8. Alumni Spotlight

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9. The Leading Master's Entry Nursing Program in California