Nursing, MSN (CAGS)

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate degree in nursing with two specialty tracks: Nursing Education and Clinical Care Management in Adult and Geriatrics. The MSN program is designed utilizing national accreditation standards in preparation for national certification in each emphasis.

The Nursing Education specialty track prepares nurses to work as nurse educators in diverse settings such as colleges/universities, hospitals, long-term care, or home health/public health. The program emphasizes faith and learning while integrating teaching methods, instructional design, Christian principles, teaching/learning principles, staff development strategies, student/nurse assessment, innovative teaching strategies, and program evaluation. The graduate will be an innovative change agent while teaching within academic or healthcare settings with experience in using best practices in teaching. Clinical practicum experiences are distributed over four courses for a total of 245 clinical hours. Of the required 245 clinical practice hours, 90 will involve direct patient care. Direct care hours provide opportunity for application of advanced knowledge in pathophysiology, physical assessment, and pharmacology. 

The Clinical Care Management in Adult and Geriatrics specialty track prepares nurses to work in diverse settings as a clinician, consultant and coordinator of healthcare for adult and geriatric populations emphasizing clinical prevention and improved health outcomes for patients with acute and chronic diseases. The program emphasizes the core foundations of the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Adult and Geriatrics, which is an advanced practice nurse (APRN) specialty role. Students build expertise in CNS competencies, regulatory requirements, and Christian principles as a moral leader and change agent for various adult populations. Clinical practicum experiences are distributed over five courses for a total of 500 clinical hours.

Admission to the Master of Science in Nursing Degree Program

Admission to the Master of Science in Nursing program at Colorado Christian University is selective. Each applicant is carefully evaluated on previous academic performance, personal and professional accomplishments and strength of character. A strong desire to complete graduate level work in a Christ-centered community of nurse leaders is required. Specific admission requirements:

• Complete the graduate admission application online (including essay, transcripts, and fees).

• Valid state-issued driver's license or state-issued ID card or passport.

• Submit current resume or Curriculum Vitae through the online application process.

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a regionally accredited higher education institution. The college or university must have national nursing program accreditation from either CCNE or ACEN.

• A minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

• Submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. Documentation of a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing degree must be evident.

• Participate in an admission interview.

• Complete a criminal background check upon admission.

Transfer of Courses

In accordance with CCU's Graduate Residency Policy, students transferring from a regionally accredited institution may transfer up to nine (9) semester hours of graduate credit from a regionally accredited master's program toward the Master of Science in Nursing degree, and must complete the remaining hours at CCU.  The coursework must be comparable to that offered at CCU and fulfill the CCU degree requirements for the MSN. Specialty track courses are not transferrable from other institutions.

Professional Licensure Disclosure

Colorado Christian University offers several academic programs which lead to professional licensure in the state of Colorado and, in some programs, prepare students for a national exam. All students should be aware that states vary in their educational and professional requirements depending on the profession. Some states require specific educational requirements, clinical requirements, accreditation requirements, or exam requirements. See professional licensure disclosures for details.