Master of Nursing

Applications are open for the Fall 2025 MN classes. Apply now.

Become a master’s-prepared registered nurse with NCLEX-RN licensure in just 4 full-time, in-person semesters. This accelerated pre-licensure program provides students without a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with a comprehensive foundation in nursing.

Master of Nursing and Master of Nursing Prespecialty students are equipped to deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment as RNs. Those who chose the MN Prespecialty path continue their education to an advanced practice specialty via a Post-Master’s Certificate or Doctor of Nursing Practice. 

 

2 nursing students in black scrubs perform a wellness check on a child mannequin as instructor and Sim Lab staffer look on
Section Contents

One degree. Two paths forward.

Become a Master’s-Prepared RN in Just 4 Semesters

The MN program equips students to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in just four semesters. By obtaining the MN generalist nursing degree, you’ll be ready to provide patient care in various settings to a wide array of patients.

Explore MN Curriculum

Apply Prespecialty and Take Control of Your Future

Already know which specialty you want to pursue? Select MN Prespecialty when you apply to guarantee your spot and move directly into your preferred Post-Master’s Certificate specialty program after completion of your MN degree.

View Admissions Requirements

Program Highlights

Accelerated Program for Non-Nurses

Choosing nursing as a second career or degree? The MN program will prepare you to become an RN or to advance to a specialty in just 4 semesters – no BSN is required for admission. 

Fall & Spring Starts

The MN program admits students in January and August each year. This accelerated program requires 66 credit hours over 4 semesters.

In-Person Format

MN courses take place in a full-time, face-to-face format. Students should live within daily commuting distance of Vanderbilt’s campus.  

Robust Clinical Experience

The integrated, accelerated curriculum includes 1,200 clinical hours across multiple spheres of care, age groups, and populations.

Focus on Health Equity & Justice

The program’s unique focus on health equity and health justice encourages students to see their patients through a holistic and health equity lens.

Commitment to You

Accessible faculty and talented staff will do what it takes to aid you in your pursuit of the MN. 

The support and resources at Vanderbilt are phenomenal. The professors are hands-on, personal and available. That is a major difference from my past educational experiences and the reason why I am continuing my education here.  

Kendra Phillips Lowry, MN‘24 
Nursing Students

About the Program

 

Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.  

As master’s prepared registered nurses, graduates are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients. They can provide care in providers’ offices, hospitals—including ICUs and acute care units—long-term care facilities, schools, clinics, imaging centers and anywhere an RN is needed.  Those on the MN Prespecialty path are well-prepared to begin their education as nurse practitioners and nurse-midwives.

VUSN fosters an inclusive learning environment and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion—it is dedicated to being a school where students can belong.

Explore MN Curriculum

Continue to a DNP

Credits from your MN program can be applied to Vanderbilt’s Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program—saving you time and money.

Admissions Requirements

Browse the degree requirements and work experience necessary for each course of study.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Apply for financial aid. You may already qualify for a partial scholarship.

Accreditation Information 

The Master of Nursing program at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) http://www.ccneaccreditation.org.

See all VUSN accreditation info.

Take the Next Step

Interested in the Vanderbilt MN program? Explore our curriculum and admissions requirements. Then take the next step and request information about the program or contact your admissions counselor.

Start Your Application