NewDayIt’s been made easy to complete the WGU MSN in 6 months by enrolling in the WGU BSN to MSN programs.
This article is a complete review of the WGU MSN, the actual duration for the WGU BSN-MSN programs, the entry requirements and the 12 available specialties.
There are many interesting facts and questions about this program and I’m glad to inform you that I have done a great job by putting this together.
With this piece, you will get answers to all the necessary questions revolving around the Western Governors University MSN program and also discover interesting facts about the program.
WGU MSN Program Background
Western Governors University is one place to advance your nursing career by taking their Master’s in Nursing (MSN) program.
This program is designed for people who wish to learn how to care for people while making a living out of it. Nursing has become competitive and innovative.
Check also: 10 MSN Programs that Accept Transfer Credits
One way to stay ahead of the competition or edge over your counterparts is to add to your skills and knowledge.
Nursing students are lucky as Western Governors University has many programs to help them get their MSN degree. These programs have different time frames, from 6 months to 4 years.
If you can handle the load, finishing an MSN at WGU in 6 months is possible. The program is self-paced, but your capstone project requires completion within 6 months.
Can You Get MSN from WGU?
Most people ask this question;
However, it is possible for nursing students to get their MSN degree from Western Governors University, provided they have met the requirements and criteria.
WGU Requirements for MSN
Some of the requirements for a Master in Nursing at Western Governors University include:
- GPA scores of 3.0 or higher
- Bachelor’s degree or RN degree
- Letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from previous schools.
- Personal essay
- A Resúme with relevant experience
Why Should You Get Your MSN From WGU?
There are some reasons why getting your MSN degree from WGU is a good choice; these reasons include:
1. It is affordable
Unlike other MSN programs, getting a Master in Nursing degree from Western Governors University is inexpensive.
According to the school’s official website, the tuition fee for a campus-based MSN program at WGU is $7,790.
This amount is cheaper when compared to other schools with in-person MSN degrees. The affordability makes it easier for students to save money while getting a quality education.
2. Western Governors University is accredited and recognized.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited WGU and recognized the degree acquired from the school.
With the accreditation and recognition, you will surely get a degree, knowledge, and skills from an institution backed by a respected and authorized organization.
Also, the National League for Nursing recognizes the MSN degree from Western Governors University as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, giving the students an edge over others.
3. There are many options available to students.
The Master in Nursing program at Western Governors University comes with many options. Students can major in Nursing Education, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Leadership, and Management.
The pathway also has the chance of either BSN-to-MSN or RN-to-BSN. The many options make it easier for students to focus and build their careers.
4. There is a faster rate of graduation.
Western Governors University operates competency-based education, and students are headed more on their knowledge and skills demonstrated through assessments.
Students with more experience have acquired many skills and shown them through numerous evaluations to graduate faster.
The school also allows students to transfer credits from other institutions provided they are relevant to the course of study, so there are higher chances of faster graduation.
List of MSN Programs Available in WGU
There are five (5) Master in Nursing programs you can study at Western Governors University. Below is a list of the 5 available WGU’s Online MSN (nursing and healthcare master’s degree programs):
- Leadership and Management MSN Program
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN Program
- Nursing Informatics MSN Program
- Family Nurse Practitioner MSN Program
- Nursing Education MSN Program
1. WGU Leadership and Management MSN Program
This Master in Nursing program is for students interested in overseeing and managing the nursing staff.
Since the job is large and demanding, the program aims to teach a leader and team head the basic skills required.
The topics covered in the program include conducting performance appraisals, creating schedules, developing effective communication between staff and administration, recruiting and training new nurses, and initiating and implementing policies.
2. WGU Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN Program
For those who want to provide mental treatment, this program is recommended. The specialty also involves diagnosing and assessing people with mental illnesses and substance abuse issues, prescribing medication, providing therapy, managing treatment plans, and educating patients.
3. WGU Nursing Informatics MSN Program
Nursing Informatics is the tech part of nursing, and the program integrates nursing science with information technology.
This program will teach topics like the design and implementation of information systems, assessing data structure, and identifying and applying technologies for nursing.
4. Family Nurse Practitioner MSN Program
From the name, this program is recommended for nurses interested in providing comprehensive healthcare to individuals and families of all ages and genders.
Graduates of this program can easily access, diagnose, treat, and manage all body systems, illnesses, and diseases.
5. Nursing Education MSN Program
Nursing Education is for nurses who wish to formally train other nurses in the science and art of nursing.
People with this degree teach others the functions and duties of physically and emotionally caring for patients.
WGU BSN to MSN in 6 Months Programs with Certificates
I’d you’re specifically interested in WGU BSN to MSN programs, then I will specifically outline the WGU BSN to MSN in 6 months programs below.
But the fact is…
Having a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree means you have started your nursing career and are ready to take up more responsibilities and challenges.
To become a professional and advance your nursing career, you must take up Master in Nursing (MSN) programs and specialize in a particular field.
Western Governors University has many BSN to MSN programs that will empower you with skills, knowledge, and experience to make your career dreams come true. These programs enable you to get the best of your time and ability.
Some of these programs are online, and you can take them anywhere, while others require you to visit the campus occasionally.
Below are 5 accredited WGU BSN to MSN programs with certificates:
- Nursing Leadership & Management BSN-to-MSN Program
- Nursing Informatics BSN-to-MSN Program
- Nursing Education BSN-to-MSN Program
- Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN-to-FNP) M.S. Nursing Program
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner BSN-to-MSN Program
WGU Nursing Leadership & Management (BSN-to-MSN)
This management and leadership nursing program is an effective way of becoming a competent nurse manager and leader, which is one of the American Nurses Association (ANA) standards for becoming an administrator.
The school designed the curriculum to have topics like quality healthcare, learning styles, schedule development, staff and patient assessment, complexities of leadership in healthcare, and others.
Program Duration:
The program has 15 courses that must be finished in or before 24 months. Students are allowed to transfer up to 17 master’s level credits.
Although this program is online, students are required to undergo field experience in any healthcare facility. Western Governors University charges $4,367 for tuition fees every six months.
Requirements:
Requirements for admission include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an active R.N. license, clean criminal records, and others.
WGU Nursing – Nursing Informatics (BSN-to-MSN)
This MSN program is for nurses who wish to venture into data and informatics while practicing in the healthcare industry.
The program includes courses like data analysis, data management, data science, communication, and technology.
At the end of the program, students will be able to use systems-thinking approaches to serve the healthcare population. Field experience is also required at the end of the program.
Program Duration:
This MSN program contains 14 courses with a time frame of 24 months, although it can be finished earlier. The school allows the transfer of 47% of the entire units.
Requirements:
To be considered for admission, you must have a Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited school, an active R.N. license, and a clean criminal record from the American Databank.
WGU Nursing Education (BSN-to-MSN)
As a nurse educator, you must have a nursing education MSN degree; this degree will help you train nurses and improve patient care and the overall healthcare system.
This program allows students to pursue their passion as teachers and produce efficient nurses for the next generation.
In addition to the MSN degree, you will earn the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ) certificate, which will boost your resúme.
Program Duration:
The students must finish the 15 courses in this program in or before 24 months with a unique field experience in any facility close to the student.
Students can also transfer up to 17 master’s level credits from accredited institutions with a minimum B grade.
Requirements:
The Western Governors University’s criteria for admission include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, a clean criminal record from the American Databank, and an active R.N. license.
WGU Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing
This MSN program is for specialized training in family practice; students of this program will be able to evaluate and diagnose patients, write prescriptions, and provide quality healthcare.
With this program, students can meet the standards for nurse practitioners by the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF).
Program Duration:
This MSN program has 16 courses with a time frame of 2 years and 12 months, although students can quickly move the courses.
At the end of the program, students must undergo a professional workshop, clinical internship, and field experience.
Requirements:
Requirements for this program include a Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree with a 3.0 GPA from an accredited institution, an active R.N. license, criminal background check from the American Databank, a professional resumé, an essay, three recommendation letters, and one-year clinical experience.
Due to the clinical requirement, this program is unavailable to applicants with permanent residence in states like New York, the District of Columbia, North Dakota, Oregon, Washington, Maryland, California, Louisiana, and Massachusetts.
WGU Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing
This MSN program is designed for nurses interested in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating patients with mental health challenges.
Students can provide mental treatments and take up leadership roles in organizations with an additional certificate from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Program Duration:
This online program consists of 17 courses that must be finished in or before 2 and a half years. At the end of the program, students must go on clinical internships in any healthcare facility.
Requirements:
To be admitted, you must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with a 3.0 cumulative grade point average from any accredited institution, an active R.N. license, three recommendation letters, a personal essay, professional resumé, a criminal background check through the office of the American Databank and a one-year clinical experience.
Students with permanent residence from Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and Wisconsin are not eligible for admission.
Bottom line
Having a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is not the peak of your career; it is just the starting point.
If you wish to advance in your career and take up professional organizational roles, you should take up MSN programs.
Western Governors University has many MSN programs in different fields, and you can choose from any and take advanced steps in your nursing career.
12 Specialties in WGU MSN Programs
Each of the above-mentioned WGU programs is offered and classified based on professional levels and specialty. These programs offered based on qualifications as follows:
- Nursing Leadership & Management (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
- Nursing Informatics (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
- Nursing Education (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
- Nursing Leadership & Management (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
- Nursing Informatics (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
- Nursing Education (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
- Family Nurse Practitioner, FNP (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing
- Master of Health Leadership
- MBA Healthcare Management
- Nursing Education – Post-Master’s Certificate
- Nursing Leadership and Management – Post-Master’s Certificate
1. Nursing Leadership & Management (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
This program is specifically for registered nurses with bachelor’s degree who are ready to get an MSN within a short study duration like 6 months.
Program details: Visit here
2. Nursing Informatics (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
This is a BSN-MSN nursing degree program that empowers data-driven nurses who already have earned a BSN from a reputable institution.
Program Details: Visit here
3. Nursing Education (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S.
This WGU master’s program is designed specifically for nurses with BSN that want to undergo a master’s degree program in nursing education.
Program Details: Visit here
4. Nursing Leadership & Management (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
This WGU program is specifically for registered nurses (RN) who want to transition to MSN. The program for RNs includes a BSN component.
Program Details: Visit here
5. Nursing Informatics (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
This nursing program is designed to empower data-driven registered nurses with a BSN and MSN to attain a greater height of the nursing profession.
Program link: Visit here
6. Nursing Education (RN-to-MSN) – M.S.
This WGU nursing education online nursing program for RNs nursing students who have also earned a BSN.
Program link: Visit here
7. Family Nurse Practitioner, FNP (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing
This WGU nursing program is designed specifically for nurses with BSN who have an active, unencumbered RN license.
Program link: Visit here
8. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-to-MSN) – M.S. Nursing
This WGU nursing program is similar to the FNP. It also designed for BSN holders who have an active, unencumbered RN license.
Program link: Visit here
9. Master of Health Leadership
This WGU nursing program focused on managing comprehensive, and value-based health care training. It is assigned for RN students with BSN.
Program link: Visit here
10. MBA Healthcare Management
The WGU MBA healthcare management master’s degree program trains on the health career path that is leading private and public healthcare organizations.
Program link: Visit here
11. Nursing Education – Post-Master’s Certificate
This WGU nursing program is specifically designed for nurses with MSNs who want a specialty certificate in nursing education.
Interested nurses who don’t have MSN but FNP, RN or BSN can also choose the RN-to-MSN or the BSN-to-MSN WGU nursing education degree programs.
Program link: Visit here
12. Nursing Leadership and Management – Post-Master’s Certificate
The WGU Post-Master’s Certificate’s nursing leadership and management program is designed for registered nurse (RN) with MSN who are ready to take on new managerial challenges in nurse leadership.
Meanwhile, nurses who don’t have MSN but FNP, RN or BSN can also choose the WGU RN-to-MSN or the BSN-to-MSN nursing leadership and management degree programs.
Program link: Visit here
Note: WGU requires that nurses applying for any of it’s online nursing master’s degrees must possess an active RN license to be eligible.
Meanwhile registered nurses (RN) with or without a BSN, can opt in for other WGU MSN in 6 months programs to help them progress in their nursing career.
How to Apply to WGU MSN Programs
Applying to any WGU MSN program is simple. You can follow the steps below to apply to any WGU MSN program:
- Visit the WGU MSN Program page here
- Navigate through and the list of courses shown there
- Select the MSN course you want be clicking on the Apply Now button
- You’ll then be redirected to the application form starting page
- Fill the application form and submit
Below is a clearer and detailed explanation with image procedures:
Step 1:
Visit the WGU MSN Program page here. The homepage of the program page will look like the image below.
Step 2:
Navigate through and the list of courses shown there to choose the course that you intend to apply for.
Step 3:
Select the MSN course you want be clicking on the Apply Now button or click on the More Details to read more about the course as shown in the image below
Step 4:
You’ll be redirected to the application form starting page shown here. Now, fill the form that looks like the image attached below.
Step 5:
Fill the application form and click on Next to proceed. Fill the next page and click on the submission button to submit your application.
After that, you’ll have to await further information from the school via email or phone calls.
Is WGU MSN Respected?
Many ask if the Master in Nursing acquired from Western Governors University is respected by other institutions and organizations.
The answer is yes.
Deseret News reported that about three-fourths of Western Governors University students say their school education is worth the cost and time.
This statistic is more than twice the national average, meaning about 96% of students are satisfied with their degrees.
A Master in Nursing degree from WGU is respected as the school is accredited by an official accrediting body and receives donations from many well-known organizations and foundations.
A review on the school’s official website says that about 98% of employers have reported that graduates from the school always meet and exceed their expectations.
How Fast Can You Finish MSN At WGU?
The length of time it will take to get your MSN from WGU depends on the type of program you are going for.
For people moving from RN to MSN, it may take 42 months or less; that is 4 years. The first two years are for acquiring BSN, while the other two are for MSN.
If you are moving from having a BSN to getting MSN, then it may take between 6 months to two years.
Online programs finish faster, while campus-based part-time programs will take longer.
How Long Does BSN to MSN Take at WGU?
Getting a Master in Nursing degree from Western Governors University after your BSN typically takes about 24 months.
However, sometimes, students can fast-track themselves and finish in 6 months.
But to finish your MSN degree after your BSN in 6 months, you must know your capstone project, complete all essays and pass them; set the ground running from day one.
WGU BSN to MSN FAQs
How long does BSN to MSN take at WGU?
How long does it take to go from BSN to MSN in WGU? Some of BSN to MSN programs at WGU takes about 2 to 2.5 years while some takes 18 to 24 months. However, the exact duration for each of the WGU BSN to MSN programs varies.
Your ability to complete the program at the stipulated time depends on how many courses you take per term and how much time you can dedicate to your studies.
Can you go Directly from a BSN to an MSN in WGU?
Yes of course!
WGU offers a BSN to MSN program that allows students to earn their BSN and MSN degrees in a streamlined and cost-effective manner.
In fact, the WGU BSN-to-MSB programs are designed for students who have already earned their BSN and want to further for MSN.
Is WGU BSN-MSN respected?
Yes, WGU’s MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is recognized as a reputable and respected program.
Graduates of the WGU MSN programs have been on track records of building successful careers in nursing specialties.
Is WGU BSN to MSN Worth it?
Yes! But whether or not the WGU BSN to MSN program is worth it will solely depend on your individual goals and career aspirations.
If your aim with this program is to advance your nursing practice, choose a more professional speciality in Nursing and also acquire a more relevant training in the nursing filed, then pursuing the WGU MSN degree is a good option.
WGU’s BSN to MSN program offers a flexible and affordable way to earn an advanced nursing degree, making it a good option for many students.
However, completing this program will require enough time and resources. So it’s very important to consider your time and financial commitments needed for the program before enrolling.
Bottom line
Getting your MSN degree from WGU is possible but requires lots of work. Since the average time for graduation is 24 months, you must set the ground running from the first day of admission to reach your target.
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