Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Looking to advance your nursing career? Wayne State University’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs prepare nurses for meaningful leadership and clinical roles in today’s ever-evolving health care environment. Whether you're just curious about what's possible with an MSN degree or actively comparing program options, our specialized curriculum offers five in-demand clinical tracks to match your career goals.
Why earn a master’s degree in nursing from Wayne State?
Wayne State University ranks among the best nursing schools in the country. Our nationally recognized MSN programs offer:
- A real-world focus. Our location in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, positions us to address nursing challenges in urban and underserved communities.
- Part- and full-time options. You can earn your MSN in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study.
- On campus or online. Built to fit your busy schedule, the program offers classes on campus and synchronously online.
- Expert faculty mentorship. Learn from experienced educators and nurse practitioners who genuinely care about your success.
- Clinical training placement. We prepare you for a variety of health care settings, empowering you to build a career in your specific interests.
- Community impact. We don’t just want you to graduate with clinical skills; we want you to graduate ready to make a difference through advanced population- and patient-focused care.
Attend an info session
Ready to learn more? Join one of our upcoming virtual information sessions to explore our MSN programs, meet admissions staff and get your questions answered.
Master’s in Nursing program curriculum
Our Master of Science in Nursing is a graduate-level program that prepares registered nurses (RNs) for advanced clinical roles, leadership positions and specialized nurse practitioner certification.
The program curriculum builds expertise in:
- Evidence-based clinical care
- Health policy development
- Advocacy for vulnerable populations
- Leadership in health care systems
- Specialized areas of practice (for example, pediatrics, mental health, public health)
Clinical specialties
Explore Wayne State’s five unique MSN tracks tailored for high-demand roles in health care and discover which one is right for you.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
Gain advanced clinical expertise to care for critically ill and premature newborns in NICU and hospital settings.
Specialty overview:
- Focus on high-risk neonatal care.
- Emphasizes family-centered care and prevention.
- Certification eligibility: National Certification Corporation (NCC).
- Best for: RNs passionate about neonatal health in urban, rural and global contexts.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care (PNP-AC)
Prepare to treat children and adolescents with acute and chronic conditions in hospital or emergency settings.
Specialty overview:
- Learn advanced pediatric assessment and intervention.
- Train in family-centered acute and critical care.
- Certification eligibility: Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB).
- Best for: Nurses seeking roles in pediatric ICUs, ERs or specialty clinics.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (PNP-PC)
Focus on long-term health and prevention for infants, children and teens in outpatient and community environments.
Specialty overview:
- Emphasis on well-child care, development and prevention.
- Learn to care for diverse pediatric populations.
- Certification eligibility: Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB).
- Best for: Nurses passionate about pediatric primary care and family health education.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Deliver mental health counseling and medication management for individuals and families across the lifespan.
Specialty overview:
- Focus on psychiatric assessment and crisis intervention.
- Study addiction, trauma and major psychiatric disorders.
- Certification eligibility: American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
- Best for: Nurses drawn to behavioral health, addiction treatment and integrated mental health care.
Advanced Public Health Nursing (APHN)
Lead population and public health initiatives while influencing health care policy and reducing health disparities.
Specialty overview:
- Dive deep into community partnerships and health equity.
- Learn about epidemiology, health policy and program evaluation.
- Based on APHN core competencies in leadership, education and research.
- Best for: Nurses committed to public health leadership and systemic change.
Master’s in Nursing Admissions
To apply to an MSN program at Wayne State, you must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), with a minimum GPA of 3.0. If you studied outside the U.S., we require a transcript evaluation. All transcripts — domestic or international — must come from accredited institutions.
Admissions deadlines
The College of Nursing must receive your application by:
August 1: fall enrollment
December 1: winter enrollment
MSN certification and career pathways
Upon completing your MSN at Wayne State, you'll be eligible to pursue national certification in your clinical specialty. Your degree can open doors to roles such as:
- Clinical Nurse Leader
- Health Policy Analyst
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Public Health Nurse
Graduates are equipped to work in hospitals, community clinics, government agencies, school-based settings and nonprofit organizations.
Financial aid opportunities
In addition to federal student loans through the FAFSA, students may be eligible for the Graduate Professional Scholarship, Rumble Fellowships, ANEW Grant and the Impact Grant.
Learn more about financial aid
Advance your nursing career with a master’s degree
Wayne State’s MSN programs combine real-world practice, academic excellence and deep community engagement. Join the next generation of advanced practice nurses transforming health care in Michigan and beyond.
Contact
Director of Graduate Admissions and Continuous Quality Improvement
Chrissy Seaver MBA, LSSBB
313-577-1363
gradnursing@wayne.edu
Director of Advanced Practice and Graduate Certificate Programs
Leanne Nantais-Smith, PhD, RN, NNP-BC, FAANP
313-577-5934
ar2446@wayne.edu
