Program structure

The University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program specializing in Nursing Informatics. This program integrates nursing science with information management and analytical sciences to enhance patient care through technology.

Program Structure:

• Credits Required: 36 credits
• Format: Fully online, providing flexibility for working professionals
• Duration: As few as two years

Curriculum Components:

1. Core Courses:

   • Foundations of Nursing Informatics
   • Health Information Systems
   • Data Analytics in Healthcare
   • Project Management in Health Information Technology

2. Specialized Courses:

   • Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
   • Big Data Analytics
   • Clinical Decision Support Systems

3. Practicum Experience:

   • 500 practicum hours in a healthcare setting, providing hands-on experience in nursing informatics

Program Highlights:

• Competency-Based Curriculum: Emphasis on the nursing informatics role, artificial intelligence, and big data
• Flexible Learning: Online format allows students to balance studies with professional and personal commitments
• Expert Faculty: Courses taught by experienced professionals in the field

This program prepares graduates for roles such as systems analysts, clinical data analysts, and clinical informatics experts in various settings, including hospitals, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.

For more information, visit the Nursing Informatics MSN program page.

Fees and Funding

The University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) offers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program specializing in Nursing Informatics. Below is an overview of the program's tuition, fees, and available funding opportunities.

Tuition and Fees:

• Program Duration: Approximately 3 years
• Total Credits Required: 36 credits
• Estimated Total Tuition and Fees:
  • Maryland Residents: $37,782.50
  • Non-Residents: $62,432.50

Note: These figures are based on the 2024-2025 academic year and may vary depending on the program length or course sequence.

Funding Opportunities:

• Federal Financial Aid:

  • Students may be eligible for federal loans and grants by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The University of Maryland, Baltimore's school code is 002104.

• UMSON Scholarships:

  • Donor-Funded Scholarships: UMSON offers scholarships through the generosity of donors, awarded based on academic excellence, financial need, and specific areas of interest. The application for these scholarships is typically available during specific periods.
  • Conway Scholarship: This scholarship provides substantial financial support to eligible students, covering a significant portion of in-state tuition and fees. Eligibility criteria include U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, Maryland residency, and full-time enrollment. Applicants must submit the FAFSA to determine financial need.

• External Scholarships:

  • Students are encouraged to explore scholarships offered by external organizations, such as the Maryland Higher Education Commission and professional nursing associations.

Application Process for Scholarships:

• Automatic Consideration: By submitting an application to UMSON, students are automatically considered for most donor-funded scholarships.
• Separate Applications: Some scholarships, like the Conway Scholarship, require a separate application with specific deadlines. Applicants should consult UMSON's financial aid office for detailed information.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact UMSON's Office of Admissions and Student Scholarships to identify funding opportunities that align with their qualifications and financial needs.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) offers various scholarship opportunities to support students enrolled in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a specialty in Nursing Informatics.

Available Scholarships:

• Donor-Funded Scholarships:

  • UMSON provides scholarships funded by generous donors, awarded based on criteria such as academic excellence, financial need, and specific areas of interest. All UMSON applicants are automatically considered for these scholarships upon application submission.

• Conway Scholarship:

  • This scholarship offers substantial financial support, covering 50% to 75% of in-state tuition, fees, and books, depending on financial need. Eligibility criteria include U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, Maryland residency, and full-time enrollment. Applicants must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial need.

Application Process:

• Automatic Consideration:

  • By applying to UMSON, students are automatically considered for most donor-funded scholarships.

• Separate Applications:

  • The Conway Scholarship requires a separate application, including an essay and resume. Applicants should review specific requirements and deadlines on UMSON's scholarship application page.

Additional Funding Opportunities:

• State of Maryland Scholarships:

  • The State of Maryland offers several scholarships and grants to undergraduate and graduate students, such as the Education Assistance Grant and the Graduate and Professional Scholarship Program. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary.

• External Scholarships:

  • Students are encouraged to explore scholarships from external organizations, including professional nursing associations and private foundations. UMSON provides a curated list of external scholarship opportunities.

Financial Aid:

• Federal Financial Aid:
  • Students may be eligible for federal loans and grants by completing the FAFSA. UMSON's Office of Student and Academic Services offers guidance on federal and state financial aid options.

Prospective students are encouraged to consult UMSON's admissions and financial aid offices to identify scholarship opportunities that align with their qualifications and financial needs.

Admission Requirements

The University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program specializing in Nursing Informatics. Admission to this program requires meeting specific academic and professional criteria.

Admission Requirements:

• Educational Background:

  • A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from a regionally accredited institution.
  • A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all undergraduate coursework.

• Licensure:

  • An active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of Maryland or a compact state.

• Professional Experience:

  • While not mandatory, prior nursing experience is recommended to enhance understanding of advanced practice concepts.

• Application Materials:

  • Official Transcripts: From all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Three professional or academic references attesting to the applicant's qualifications.
  • Statement of Goals and Objectives: A 1-2 page essay outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing the MSN in Nursing Informatics.
  • Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae: Detailing educational background, professional experience, and any certifications.

• English Proficiency:

  • Non-native English speakers must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores meeting UMSON's minimum requirements, unless they have earned a degree from an accredited U.S. institution.

Application Process:

• Online Application: Submit through the UMSON Admissions Portal.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee is required.
• Transcripts: Provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three professional or academic references.
• Statement of Goals and Objectives: A 1-2 page essay outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing the MSN in Nursing Informatics.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae: Detailing educational background, professional experience, and certifications.
• English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores meeting UMSON's minimum requirements, unless they have earned a degree from an accredited U.S. institution.

Application Deadlines:

• Fall Admission: February 1
• Spring Admission: September 1

Note: Deadlines are subject to change. Applicants should verify current deadlines on the UMSON Admissions page.

Prospective students are encouraged to attend information sessions or consult with admissions counselors for personalized guidance on the application process.

Application Procedure

The University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program specializing in Nursing Informatics. This program is designed to prepare nurses to effectively manage and utilize information technology to enhance patient care and healthcare operations.

Application Process:

1. Online Application:

   • Submit your application through the UMSON Admissions Portal.
   • A non-refundable application fee is required.

2. Official Transcripts:

   • Provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
   • Transcripts should be sent directly to UMSON's Office of Admissions.

3. Letters of Recommendation:

   • Submit three professional or academic references that attest to your qualifications and readiness for graduate study.

4. Statement of Goals and Objectives:

   • Write a 1-2 page essay outlining your career goals and reasons for pursuing the MSN in Nursing Informatics.

5. Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae:

   • Detail your educational background, professional experience, certifications, and any relevant accomplishments.

6. English Proficiency:

   • If English is not your native language, provide TOEFL or IELTS scores meeting UMSON's minimum requirements, unless you have earned a degree from an accredited U.S. institution.

Application Deadlines:

• Fall Admission: February 1
• Spring Admission: September 1

Note: Deadlines are subject to change. Applicants should verify current deadlines on the UMSON Admissions page.

Additional Information:

• Format: The Nursing Informatics specialty is offered fully online, providing flexibility for working professionals.
• Practicum Requirement: The program includes a practicum component, which can be completed at a site convenient to the student.
• State Eligibility: Due to varying state regulations, not all online programs are available in every state. Prospective students should check UMSON's state eligibility requirements.

Prospective students are encouraged to attend information sessions or consult with admissions counselors for personalized guidance on the application process.