RN to MSN Option

woman in lab coat leaning on doctor table.

The RN to MSN Option is designed for well-qualified students seeking an efficient pathway to an MSN degree in Advanced Practice Nursing Roles.

Up to 9 credits of graduate coursework may be counted toward both the undergraduate and master's degrees in nursing.

This program allows for select post-licensure Registered Nurses, working closely with faculty advisors, to complete graduate coursework while they are still undergraduates.

Admission Procedures

Students who meet the admission requirements should consult with the graduate program director to discuss their eligibility and to establish a proposed plan of study for graduate courses to be taken as undergraduates.

  • Students must first apply and be accepted to the Nursing Post-licensure Major (BSN) program.
  • Once accepted, students will work directly with the Graduate Program Director to be considered for admission to the Linked BSN to MSN program.

The application to the Linked BSN to MSN will include:

  • 3 letters of recommendation, with at least one from a former faculty member and at least one from a former employer while in the RN role.
  • 500-700 word essay that addresses the applicant's goals and reasons for seeking certification as an advanced practice nurse. 

Some MSN tracks may have additional requirements. 

Linked Program Requirements

Students accepted into this curriculum may use nine graduate credits to count toward both the BSN and MSN degrees as follows:  

  • NURS 709 to meet BSN NURS 363
  • NURS 771 to meet BSN NURS 305
  • NURS 800 to meet required BSN NURS ELECTIVE

Program Contact

Assistant Professor Ellmer School of Nursing
Janice Hawkins is an Assistant Professor at Old Dominion University where she serves as the Chair of Advanced Practice Nursing… Read More
CCNE Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Accredited by CCNE

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Old Dominion University is accredited by the (