Graduate Program in Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing: FAQs
When will the graduate program in nursing begin accepting students?
Our Master of Science in Nursing program is currently under review and will begin admitting students for the fall 2008 session.
How do I apply?
You can complete the Graduate School application online or print and mail it Mail a check for the application processing fee to the UMHB Graduate School Admissions Office. The address is:
900 College Street
Belton, TX 76513
You need to have official copies of all of your transcripts as well as official GRE scores sent to the Admissions Office.
Once all documents are received, you will be contacted by the Graduate Office.
Can I apply before I take the GRE?
You can make application before taking the GRE; however, the GRE must be taken before an interview can be scheduled.
How do I find out about taking the GRE?
You may find out about taking the GRE at the following:
What is an acceptable score on the GRE for acceptance into the College of Nursing?
A GRE score of a minimum of 900 is required for the College of Nursing
What if my GRE scores are over 5 years old?
The Graduate School only accepts scores if the GRE has been taken within the past 5 years.
If I have a master's degree, can I waive the GRE requirement for an additional degree?
All UMHB graduates must submit official GRE scores required of previous academic achievements.
What application forms do I need to fill out to get into graduate school?
The application form for admission to the university may be downloaded from the Graduate School website. You must fill it out and pay the application fee to the UMHB Graduate School. The application and application fee will be processed through the Graduate School office and you will be notified when they have completed the enrollment process. All required documents (including the GRE) must accompany the application fee.
Is there a deadline for application to the Graduate School to be submitted?
There is no set deadline for the application to be submitted; open enrollment is permitted. However, students are encouraged to apply the semester prior to enrollment intent.
What is the application process for the College of Nursing?
Your application and fee will be processed by the Graduate Office and this information will be forwarded to the College of Nursing. After you are notified by the Graduate Office that your application has been processed, you are to:
- Set up a time to interview with the Dean of the College of Nursing and
- Set up a time to interview with the Program Director
What master's programs are offered in the College of Nursing?
The College of Nursing offers the Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on education.
What are the qualifications for faculty teaching in the graduate program in the College of Nursing?
All faculty hold the terminal degree (doctorate) and have experience in the areas taught.
Do I need to have a bachelor degree in nursing to enter the master's program in nursing?
Yes, you must have a bachelor degree in nursing
Do I have to have a license to practice as a registered nurse in the state of Texas?
Yes, there must be evidence that you are currently licensed to practice in Texas.
What if I am licensed in another state?
You must obtain a Texas license prior to beginning clinical courses. Contact the Texas Board of Nursing at www.bon.state.tx.us for information.
What is a hybrid program?
The graduate nursing program is structured so that one-third of each course is conducted in the classroom and two-thirds is off campus. The classroom portion of each course is scheduled to occur Friday afternoon or Saturday and several courses are clustered to allow the student to plan campus time one weekend each month. For didactic courses, two-third of the course will be on-line. For clinical courses, one-third is on-line, one-third is in a clinical setting, and one-third is in the classroom.
Do I need to have a criminal background check?
Yes, clinical agencies require background checks before students can use the site for clinical. Information regarding the vendor used will be provided for students.
What immunizations and certifications do I need to have before I start the program?
Health records will be needed prior to enrolling in clinical courses. You will need to submit evidence of a negative TB skin test within two months prior to admission to clinical courses and annually thereafter. If you have a positive TB skin test, you will need to submit a chest x-ray report. You will also need to provide certification of immunizations and vaccinations for diphtheria-tetanus, measles (rubeola), mumps, varicella (no history of chicken pox or titer does not indicate immunity), and the hepatitis B series (3 injections).
A Health Care Provider CPR/AED course completion card is required and must be on file prior to beginning clinical courses.
What do faculty look for in an applicant to the program?
The College of Nursing looks for applicants with the desire to be involved in nursing education, either in the academic or service setting, and who desire to search for best-practice with appropriate investigations and research.
When will I know when I am admitted to the College of Nursing?
The Graduate School will notify you when all admission requirements are complete
How long will it take to finish the program?
The program is set to begin a new cohort of students in the second summer session each year. Courses are scheduled for a calendar year and students can take six hours in the summer semester, nine hours in the fall semester, and nine hours in the spring semester. This allows students to finish the 36 credit hour program in 17 months.
Can I work and go to school too?
Yes. Our program is designed for people who work. A portion of each class is on-line and classroom meetings are scheduled for Friday afternoon and Saturday.