What graduate nursing programs are offered?
We currently have 4 graduate nursing specializations leading to an MS degree in Nursing: adult nurse practitioner (ANP), adult clinical nurse specialist (ACNS), family nurse practitioner (FNP), and nursing education.
In addition, we offer post-master’s certificate programs for family nurse practitioners and nurse educators.
How long do I have to complete my degree?
All courses must be completed within 6 years of starting the program. This 6-year clock starts with any courses counted toward the degree (including transferred credits and credits taken as a student-at-large). A student who completes courses in spring of 2007, must graduate by December of 2012.
Can graduate courses taken at another university count toward a degree at NIU?
Up to 6 credit hours may be transferred. The 6-year time frame for degree completion starts with credits that are transferred. For example, a student who transfers a course taken in spring of 2005, must graduate by December, 2010. Dr. Judi Hertz (Director of Nursing Graduate Studies) should be contacted with questions related to transfer credits. She can be reached at: jhertz@niu.edu
What are the requirements for admission to the School of Nursing graduate programs?
Prospective students must have a B.S. degree in nursing (from an accredited program) and an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or greater (on a 4.0 scale). They must have completed undergraduate courses in health assessment and research, prior to taking the graduate-level equivalents.
Do I have to start the program in the fall semester?
The School of Nursing has a rolling admissions policy, meaning that students can start in the spring, summer, or fall semesters.
What does it mean to be a student-at-large?
Students who wish to start taking classes but whose applications have not been processed may take up to 9 credit hours as a student-at-large. Students-at-large take the same courses as students already admitted to the nursing program; however they are not guaranteed admission to the program. For more information or to apply to become a student-at-large, go to the Graduate School website.
Where are graduate nursing courses held?
Most of the face-to-face graduate nursing courses are held on the DeKalb campus. A section of ETR 521 (a graduate level statistics course) is frequently offered at satellite campuses (such as Naperville or Hoffman Estates). Several nursing courses can be taken online. In an effort to meet the learning preferences of all of our students, we often alternate course formats. When a course is offered online one semester, the next time it is offered face-to-face.
Is it possible to take classes part-time?
The majority of our students attend school part-time (1 or 2 courses per semester). A full-time load is 9 credit hours or more. Face-to-face classes are usually offered once weekly, in the late afternoon or early evening.
How do I know what courses will be required?
Course requirements for each of the graduate specialization areas below can be viewed on the online graduate catalog.
How do I know when courses are offered?
Look at the master course schedule. Remember that these courses are subject to change at any time.