COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Webster University consists of a 36-credit hour curriculum that includes both core courses and a specialized track in either nurse education or nurse leadership. The core curriculum is designed to equip students with foundational and advanced nursing competencies across various domains. Core courses include Collaboration and Communication, Policy and Politics in Nursing, and Strategies to Facilitate Learning, which focus on professional communication, policy influence, and educational methodologies. Additional coursework in Population Health and Organization and Systems Leadership develops students’ understanding of healthcare systems and community-based care. Students also study Quality and Safety in Healthcare, emphasizing improvement initiatives, and take two Pathophysiology and Application courses that deepen clinical knowledge relevant to advanced nursing roles. A critical course in Translating Evidence to Practice prepares students to apply research and data to enhance patient outcomes.Following completion of the core curriculum, students select one of two tracks based on their career goals. In the Educator Track, students complete courses in Curriculum and Program Design and two sequential practicum courses that provide hands-on experience in academic or clinical teaching roles. Alternatively, in the Leader Track, students take Financial Issues for Nurse Leaders and two leadership practicum courses, where they apply management and administrative skills in healthcare settings. Both tracks are designed to prepare nurses for advanced roles by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. The program’s structure, including its eight-week course format and year-round schedule, allows for flexible, part-time study and can be completed in 2.5 years. By the end of the program, graduates are well-prepared to assume specialized roles as nurse educators or nurse leaders, equipped with the skills to influence patient care, education, and health systems effectively.