The College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN-DNP or Post-Master’s DNP), the Master of Science in Nursing degree (M.S.N) for nurses seeking advanced preparation, as well as the RN to MSN Pathway for registered nurses who wish to advance their education to the graduate-level. 

DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE (D.N.P.) 

The BSN-DNP Program 

The BSN-to-DNP program offered at VSU is a 10-semester, 81 credit hour program of study that is a pathway for students who have completed their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and desire to complete their MSN and DNP degrees. The program offers a seamless transition to obtaining both the FNP and the DNP. It also offers an MSN opt-out option at Semester 7 with the ability to return within 3 years to complete the last 3 semesters for attainment of the DNP. The DNP graduate is prepared and equipped for advanced nursing practice and leadership in an increasingly complex health system. 

BSN-DNP Admission Information  

Post-Master's DNP Program 

The Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offered at VSU is a 5-semester, 38 credit hour program of study. The DNP program prepares graduate Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) for leadership roles in an increasingly complex healthcare system as well as for utilizing evidence-based practice to design, implement, and evaluate change for improved health outcomes. With its online format, the Post-Master's DNP option allows the working APRN the flexibility to learn while working. 

Post-Master’s DNP Program Admission Information  

Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N)

Admission to Master of Science in Nursing Programs 

Potential students must submit application material to the Graduate School at Valdosta State University. Admission requirements include the GRE or MAT, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts from all universities previously attended, submission of RN license and the graduate school application.  

Master of Science in Nursing Program Structure 

Students are accepted into the Master of Science in Nursing programs each fall and spring semesters. The program is a hybrid model which consist of five weekend class meetings during the semester. On weekends the classes meet, students typically meet from 1:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday. In addition, students typically meet 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 1:00-4:00 p.m. on Saturdays. 

Master of Science in Nursing Program Options 

1. Family Nurse Practitioner Track 
  • The program is approximately 6 semesters 
  • The program requires a minimum of 50 credit hours. 
  • The program requires 715 clinical hours 

2. Family Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track 

  • The program is approximately 8 semesters 
  • The program requires a minimum of 56 credit hours. 
  • The program requires 645 clinical hours 

College of Nursing & Health Sciences