Direct entry Master of Science in Nursing

Direct entry Master of Science in Nursing

CCNE Accredited

Designed for Career Changers

Finish in as Fast as 20 Months

Prepare for NCLEX-RN Exam

Improve the live of others - and your own - as an msn-prepared nurse


Realize your passion for helping people and fulfill a critical societal need with the Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing accelerated program. Designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, this prelicensure program prepares you to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become an RN.

Benefit from a low 1:8 faculty-to-student ratio, for practicum with hands-on clinical experience in leading Chicago health care systems, and courses that build leadership and critical-thinking skills. With an MSN, you can also pursue advanced-practice roles such as a nurse practitioner.

A growing need and income potential


There is a critical demand for highly prepared nurses, exacerbated by the lingering effects of the pandemic, an aging population and increased life expectancy.


The median annual salary for Registered Nurses is $86,070 per year.1


The demand for medical and health services managers is projected to grow by 28% from 2022 through 2032.2


In 2022, 17.4% of all RNs in the U.S. held a master’s degree. Demand for master’s and doctorally prepared nurses for advanced practice, clinical specialties, teaching and research positions far exceeds the supply.3

Partnering to Help Our Community

North Park University is committed to working in partnership with Chicago health care systems to support education that helps mitigate the critical nursing shortage. As a city-centered, intercultural institution, North Park University prepares its students for a wide range of patient-care scenarios through clinical experiences that mirror the diversity of both Chicago and the university.

Robust Courses Help You Excel in Any Healthcare Setting


Enhanced by 592 hours of clinical experience, Direct Entry MSN courses offer a comprehensive perspective, including evidence-based practice, nursing across the lifespan, population health and leadership competencies that prepare you to rise in nursing through the following courses and more.

Holistic Health Assessment and Therapeutic Interventions

Introductory clinical skills and patient assessment, including interviews and exams.

Health and Illness: Foundations of Nursing Practicum

Evidence-based practices applied to the care of patients with acute and chronic illness.

Health and Illness: Nursing Across the Lifespan

Therapeutic nursing interventions to address a patient’s holistic health needs.

Professional Communication and Collaboration

Clinical reasoning, judgment and decision making to support teams and partnerships.

Health and Illness: Nursing With Diverse Populations

Physical, behavioral, psychological, spiritual, socioeconomic and environmental factors.

Health Care Systems: Organizations and Resources

Organizational, economic, political and regulatory influences on health care delivery.

MSN-Prepared Nurses are Highly Valued


Many people who shift their career into nursing are seeking a more meaningful profession, where they can help others and make an impact on their community. But the nursing profession can be both emotionally and financially rewarding, especially as a master’s prepared nurse with advanced practice credentials.

Nurse, Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

$107,551

per year1
Nurse Administrator

$110,680

per year2
Registered Nurse (RN), Emergency Room

$110,999

per year3
Nurse Consultant

$92,384

per year4

The master’s degree program in nursing at North Park University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).

We Are Recognized for Excellence


North Park University is regularly ranked among the best universities in the region by several organizations. Current highlights include:

About North Park University


Since its founding in 1891, North Park University has embodied a spirit of community outreach and service. Established by the Evangelical Covenant Church and rooted in Christian principles, North Park welcomes students from all faiths and takes pride in a diverse, intercultural student body and connection to the vibrant Chicago community. As a graduate of North Park University, you will be prepared for a life of significance and service.

A Life-Changing Learning Experience


North Park prepares students for real-world scenarios by combining collaborative classroom work with robust clinical experiences. As you gain valuable skills, you will also foster strong connections with faculty and fellow students. Upon graduation, you will become part of a supportive, active network of North Park alumni.

Change careers and change lives as a nurse. Earn your DEMSN at North Park.