Master of Science in Nursing FAQs

What program tracks are available?

Bellin College offers the following Master of Science in Nursing tracks:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Nurse Educator (online only)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)(online only)

Each track is available in both full-time and part-time formats. Depending on the course, instruction may be offered online, on campus, or in a hybrid format.

Can I study full-time or part-time?

Yes. All MSN tracks offer both full-time and part-time options, allowing students to choose the pace that best fits their personal and professional commitments.

Are courses online, on campus, or hybrid?

Course delivery varies by program track and course. Depending on the curriculum, courses may be offered online, on campus, or in a hybrid format.

Can I switch between full-time and part-time study?

Students may transition from full-time to part-time if needed, although doing so may extend the time required to complete the program. Switching from part-time to full-time can be more challenging because of course sequencing, prerequisite requirements, and seat availability.

Do I need a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree to become a nurse practitioner?

No. A Master of Science in Nursing remains an accepted pathway to nurse practitioner certification. Although the American Association of Colleges of Nursing has recommended the DNP as the preferred entry-level degree for advanced practice nursing, it is not currently required for certification or practice.

What are the admission requirements?

Applicants must meet the published admission requirements for the Master of Science in Nursing program. Admission requirements vary by track. Please refer to the program page for current requirements.

What is the application process?

Applicants should submit:

• Bellin College Graduate Admission Application
• Two graduate reference/release forms
• Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
• Goal statement
• Résumé or curriculum vitae
• Unencumbered Wisconsin nursing license

Do I need to complete a health assessment or statistics course before admission?

Applicants who have not actively practiced as a registered nurse within the past five years are required to complete a refresher health assessment course before enrollment. Please contact the MSN Program Office if you have questions about prerequisite coursework.

Can I transfer graduate credits?

The Graduate Nursing Program may accept up to nine graduate transfer credits. Eligible coursework must generally have been completed within the past five years, be comparable to Bellin College coursework, and meet program grading and progression requirements.

How are clinical placements arranged?

Bellin College coordinates all clinical placements. Students are not responsible for locating their own practicum sites or preceptors, although requests for specific sites or preceptors may be considered whenever possible.

How many clinical hours are required?

Clinical hour requirements vary by program:

• MSN: minimum of 760 hours
• BSN-DNP: 1,040 hours
• PMHNP Post-Graduate Certificate: 570-760 hours, depending on prior education and certification

Can I work while enrolled?

Many students continue working while completing the program, particularly during the early semesters. However, balancing full-time employment becomes more challenging once practicum experiences begin because of the required clinical hours.

What certification opportunities are available after graduation?

Graduates are eligible to pursue certification appropriate to their chosen track.

• Family Nurse Practitioner: American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB)
• Nurse Educator: National League for Nursing (NLN) Certified Nurse Educator examination (when eligible)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: National PMHNP certification

Faculty review the certification application process with students before graduation.

Does the curriculum meet licensure requirements in other states?

Licensure and certification requirements vary by state. Students are responsible for reviewing the requirements for the state where they reside and where they plan to practice. If you move during the program, you are responsible for verifying authorization and licensure requirements in your new state.

I already have an MSN, PhD, or DNP but am not an APRN. Can I become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner?

Yes. Bellin College’s Post-Graduate Certificate (PGC) prepares nurses who already hold a graduate nursing degree to become eligible for PMHNP certification. Each student’s plan of study is individualized based on previous graduate coursework.

What does the program cost?

Tuition and fees are updated regularly. Please refer to the Tuition & Fees page for the most current information.

Is financial aid available?

Financial aid may be available to eligible students. Students should complete the FAFSA to be considered for aid and are also encouraged to explore employer tuition assistance programs.