Frequently Asked Questions about M.S.N.

What are the prerequisites?

Students must submit a completed application, have a bachelor of science in nursing degree, three letters of recommendation (one academic recommendation preferred), have a GPA of at least 3.0 and successful completion of the following courses with a C or better:

  • Nursing Research – 3 credits
  • Health Assessment – 3 credits
  • Statistics (with Inferential Analysis) – 3 credits, within five years of program start date

In addition, students must hold a current RN license in the state of Wisconsin and must be in good standing. A current resume and a goal statement are also required.

Do the prerequisites have to be completed before start of the program?

Statistics can be taken the first semester; however, all other prerequisites need to be completed before the start of the program.

When can I apply?

Students should apply three to six months before their intended start date. Deadlines are posted in Nursing CAS.

Do I have to take the GRE?

You only have to take the GRE if your undergraduate GPA is less than 3.2.

How much is tuition?

More information on the cost of graduate tuition is on our tuition and costs webpage.

Where can I find information on graduate financial aid?

For more information regarding financial aid, visit Marquette Central.

Are any of the classes offered online?

Yes, but the majority of course work still includes class time.

How long does the program take to complete?

This will depend upon if you go full time and the option you select. Part-time program plans are set up individually. Regardless, the M.S.N. program must be completed within six years.

What options do you offer?

We offer a generalist master of science degree in addition to the following specialty options:

  • Adult-Older Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Older Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse-Midwifery
  • Pediatrics Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatrics Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Dual Pediatrics Acute and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Systems Leadership and Health Care Quality

Do I have to interview for a certain option?

Yes. The Nurse-Midwifery option requests an interview for selected students. Otherwise, students are encouraged to speak with their Program Director.

Do I have to find my own preceptor?

Clinical preceptors are arranged by the college. Please contact the option coordinator for more clinical information.

When are classes offered?

Courses may be in person once a week, online, or a hybrid of in person and online. In person classes are typically offered during the late afternoon and evening. Not all courses are offered every semester. Your academic adviser will create a program plan to help keep you on track.