Rasmussen University Online MSN NP and Certificate Programs

What to Expect from the Rasmussen University Online MSN NP and Certificate Programs

Admission Requirements: To be considered eligible for MSN program admission, applicants must complete an online application and submit transcripts documenting satisfactory completion of a BSN from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university in which they maintained a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and two professional letters of reference. They must also demonstrate they possess a current, unencumbered RN license valid in the USA.

Both the degree and certificate programs are not available to residents of all member states of the United States. Prospective applicants should consult with an admissions advisor to verify admission eligibility. Applicants can get assistance by contacting an advisor directly, visiting the Rasmussen campus, or using the university website’s live chat feature. 

Rasmussen University offers admission to various students, including transfer and military students. Unlike such student backgrounds, nursing students must also fulfill further requirements. Nursing students must attend a virtual information session. Such sessions customarily can answer applicants’ various questions. 

Applicants must complete the TEAS exam and receive a qualifying score, complete a physical exam, and provide current immunizations and CPR certification documentation. Depending on their program and transfer credit status, applicants may also be required to complete an entrance placement exam, though they may be exempt from this requirement.

State Restrictions: Rasmussen University accepts students from most states; however, the MSN-PMHNP program does not meet licensure requirements in the following states and territories: Alaska, Alabama, American Samoa, Arizona, California, Colorado, Washington DC, Delaware, Guam, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, North Dakota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Northern Mariana Islands, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, U.S. Virgin Islands, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming. 

Interested students should contact an admissions advisor to discuss nurse practitioner licensure requirements and eligibility for their state. 

Study Plan: Students of both the MSN degree and certificate programs complete a curriculum defined by something called Empowered Learning®. Empowered Learning® is a learning model that empowers students to set the pace of their studies and customize their learning to meet their particular needs. Elements of this model include online learning, self-paced study, an emphasis on student-generated real-world projects and consistent connection with faculty and student colleagues throughout the duration of study. Full-time MSN degree program students can complete the program in as little as 27 months. Certificate program students can finish in as little as 21 months.

MSN & Certificate Curricula: The Rasmussen University online MSN degree program curriculum is multi-faceted and designed to give students varied learning experiences. Students learn via simulation activities, modern treatment modalities training, and practica intended to enhance students’ skills and confidence in treating patients across the human lifespan. 

Core MSN courses include the foundations of advanced nursing practice; advanced health assessment across the lifespan; research and evidence-based practice; advanced pathophysiology across the lifespan; advanced pharmacology across the lifespan; leading healthcare transformation; and an MSN capstone.

In addition to specialization courses unique to their particular focus, noted below, students of all four specializations complete a series of four practicum courses designed to train them in caring for multiple patient populations within their particular specialization. This four-practicum course series is also a requirement of the post-graduate certificate program. 

• AGPCNP Specialization Courses: Foundations of AGPCNP, advanced primary care of the adult and older adult
• FNP Specialization Courses: Foundations of FNP, reproductive health
• PPCNP Specialization Courses: Foundations of PPCNP, principles of pediatric primary care course
• PMHNP Specialization Courses: Foundations of PMHNP, psychopathology and neurobiology of mental health disorders

Online Experience: The Rasmussen University MSN degree and certificate programs are offered online. As previously noted, the Rasmussen nursing curriculum features the Empowered Learning® model. Online and asynchronous learning allows students to study at their own pace and remain in productive contact with colleagues and faculty despite whatever existing demanding professional and personal commitments they may have.

Rasmussen University also offers live online sessions where students can pose questions and connect with faculty and peers. Doctorally-prepared nursing faculty provide personal feedback on completed coursework and students have access to a dedicated team of advisors and program coordinators, student success coaches, a School of Nursing librarian, career counseling, online tutoring, and technical support through the Personal Support Center (PSC).

On-Site Requirements: All CCNE-accredited programs must have a practicum experience as part of the curriculum. Students complete practicum experiences in their own local community under the supervision of a master’s or doctoral degree-trained nurse preceptor. Students receive assistance from a clinical practicum coordinator to ensure their placement suits them. Students must have a clear background check before working at practicum sites.