Saint Xavier University School of Nursing offers an accredited graduate nursing program leading to a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree.
The purposes of the graduate program in nursing are to:
- Prepare registered nurses to engage in advanced nursing practice.
- Actively engage learners in enhancing their creativity and independence in preparation for the professional responsibilities they will face in the delivery of health care presently and in the future.
- Provide a foundation for doctoral study in nursing.
The Graduate School of Nursing Program offers options in 1) the advanced practice nursing roles of family nurse practitioner (FNP/Grad) and 2) the generalist role of clinical nurse leader (CNL). In addition, an MSN/MBA is offered, which combines the strengths of the School of Nursing and the Graham School of Management.
Two post-master's certificates are also available:
- Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate (FNP/Postgrad)
This certificate enables a nurse who already has earned a master's degree in nursing to become prepared as a family nurse practitioner. - Nurse Educator Post-Master's Certificate
This certificate provides an opportunity for a nurse with a master's degree to specialize in nursing education.
Through the study of both clinical and role areas, nurses are prepared to assume leadership roles in a challenging and rapidly changing health care environment. The theoretical knowledge base and clinical practicum experience offered within each of the graduate options is specifically designed to facilitate graduates' eligibility to sit for national certification examinations administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
Graduate nursing courses are offered at the main campus primarily in the early evening. The Clinical Nurse Leader track is also offered in an online format (Online CNL Track). In addition, some courses are offered at off-campus sites. Most courses are offered on a 10-week schedule. Both the baccalaureate and master's programs are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Information can be obtained by contacting the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 1 Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, D.C. 20036. Their phone number is (202) 887-6791.
Academic Faculty
G. Jacobson, Dean; D. Bruley, J. Buenting, K. Florczak, M. Gallagher, J. A. Gruca, C. Hardy,C. Kostovich, S. Kimble, N. Lockie, E. Norton, S. Pfantz, M. Poradzisz, C. Poronsky, C. Rosner, M. Ryan, L. Ungerleider, K. Wood.
Admission Requirements
Admission decisions are made by the Graduate Admission, Recognition and Progression Committee on the basis of the criteria outlined, as well as the quality of previous coursework and demonstrated potential for a productive career in the advanced practice of nursing.
In addition to the Saint Xavier University admission requirements, the graduate nursing program has the following prerequisites:
- A completed application form.
- Graduation from an NLNAC or CCNE accredited baccalaureate nursing program, with a grade-point average of 3.0 or greater on a 4.0 scale or satisfactory completion of undergraduate requirements within the non-nursing baccalaureate Special Entry Option with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher* (see below).
- Evidence of a current nursing license in Illinois.
- 4. Two completed recommendation forms from nursing professionals, e.g., recent employers or professors. One must be provided by a professional nurse who has observed the applicant’s clinical performance.
- Applicants may be required to complete a faculty interview and/or submit a writing sample.
*Applicants with a cumulative GPA less than 3.0 may be considered on an individual basis, with completion of additional requirements (e.g., submission of a professional portfolio or submission of acceptable GRE scores). To discuss ways to strengthen your application, please contact the associate dean for graduate nursing.
Alternative Graduate Admission
Special Entry Option (SEO)
The Special Entry Option (SEO) allows certain registered nurses who have earned baccalaureate degrees in areas other than nursing to work toward a master's degree in nursing without completing the entire nursing baccalaureate. This option allows greater educational flexibility for registered nurses, minimizes the duplication of previous learning and provides the opportunity to obtain an advanced degree in nursing. Specific aspects of this program may be discussed further with the Office of Admission or the associate dean for graduate nursing in the School of Nursing.
Saint Xavier University 2009-2010 Catalog
Please visit the SXU Web site for the most recent information.