Master of Science in Nursing: FAQs
How do I apply?
- Complete the Graduate School Application online with the $35 application fee.
- Submit official transcripts from all undergraduate institutions attended (UMHB graduates do not need to request transcripts)
- Two professional recommendation letters
For additional admissions information, please visit the Graduate School website or contact the Director of Graduate Admissions, Melissa Ford at mford@umhb.edu or 254-295-4020.
*Deadline for submission of complete application files for the Family Nurse Practitioner track is April 1st, 2013. There is currently not an application deadline for the Clinical Nurse Leader or Nurse Educator tracks.
Can I apply before I take the GRE?
The College of Nursing no longer requires the GRE.
Is there a deadline for application to the Graduate School to be submitted?
There is no set deadline for the application to be submitted, except for the FNP track with a complete application file deadline of April 1st, 2013. 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 Admissions Office and this information will be forwarded to the College of Nursing. After you are notified by the Graduate Admissions Office that your application is complete the MSN Program Director will contact you to come for an on campus interview.
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 through the following tracks: Nurse Educator, Clinical Nurse Leader, and Family Nurse Practitioner.
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-thirds 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 Admissions Office will notify you when all admission requirements are complete, which will occur within a week following your interview with the MSN Program Director.
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.