Indiana University East received approval for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The first cohort will begin in January 2012.

The School of Nursing is currently accepting applications online to the Master of Science in Nursing now through November 1. Admissions decisions will be made soon after that with the inaugural cohort starting in January 2012.

Classes for the master’s program in nursing will be held on Thursday afternoons and evenings for the duration of the six semesters students are enrolled to complete the degree. The next cohort of students will be admitted for summer 2013.

“With the changing health care arena and the emphasis on preparing nurses to advance the health of our citizens, it is a right time to be able to offer the MSN in nursing education and administration for nurses in the region,” said School of Nursing Dean Karen Clark.

The MSN program provides registered nurses with advanced practice knowledge in the areas of nursing education and nursing administration.  Nurses with this advanced knowledge will enhance the delivery of health care in the community and throughout the region. Students who will be considered for enrollment in the program are practicing Registered Nurses (RNs) with a baccalaureate degree in nursing.

“The Master of Science in Nursing is one of four master’s degree programs now offered at IU East, with at least a couple more still to come,” said Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Larry Richards. “Offering graduate programs that address immediate educational needs in eastern Indiana and western Ohio is an important part of IU East’s mission. As the campus continues to grow, its contribution to the economic development and quality of life of the region becomes increasingly significant, and these master’s degree programs play a critical role in realizing that contribution.”

For more information about the Master of Science in Nursing, contact the IU East School of Nursing at (765) 973-8213 or go online to iue.edu/nursing.