Program structure

The MSN program at DCN is designed to equip registered nurses with advanced knowledge and skills for leadership and educational roles in nursing. Delivered entirely online, the program offers flexibility for working professionals.

Program Duration:

• The program spans six academic quarters, allowing completion within 15 to 18 months.

Curriculum Components:

1. Core Courses:

   • Advanced Health Assessment
   • Advanced Pathophysiology
   • Advanced Pharmacology
   • Leadership Theories
   • Teaching Strategies
   • Curriculum Development and Planning
   • Programmatic Evaluation
   • Emphasis on culturally appropriate, evidence-based nursing practices

2. Practicum Experience:

   • Includes 30 hours of practicum to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

3. Doctoral Preparation:

   • Coursework is designed to be transferable to Doctorate of Nurse Practitioner programs, facilitating further academic progression.

Program Delivery:

• The online format accommodates working nurses, enabling them to balance professional responsibilities with academic advancement.

For detailed course descriptions and additional information, please visit DCN's Master of Science in Nursing page.

Note: Program details are subject to change. Consult the college's official resources or contact the admissions office for the most current information.

Fees and Funding

Pursuing an MSN at Denver College of Nursing (DCN) involves understanding the associated tuition costs and available financial aid options.

Tuition Costs:

• MSN Program: The online MSN program consists of 56 quarter credit hours. While specific tuition rates are not detailed on the official website, the 2024 graduate school tuition and fees at DCN are $9,586.

Financial Aid Options:

DCN offers various financial aid opportunities to assist students in managing their educational expenses:

• Federal Financial Aid: DCN participates in Title IV Federal Financial Aid programs, including Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Work-Study Programs, and Federal Stafford Loans. Eligibility is determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

• Veterans Benefits: DCN is approved for participation in various U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs funding programs, including the Yellow Ribbon Program, which is part of the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Eligible veterans and their dependents can access these benefits to support their education.

• In-House Financing: DCN provides in-house, no-interest payment plans that allow students to make monthly payments throughout their program, facilitating manageable tuition payments without accruing interest.

Additional Resources:

• Net Price Calculator: To estimate the net cost of attendance after accounting for financial aid, DCN provides a Net Price Calculator. This tool helps prospective students gauge their potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Note: Tuition rates and financial aid availability are subject to change. For the most current information, please consult DCN's official resources or contact the admissions office directly.

Scholarship Guidance

Pursuing an MSN at DCN is a significant investment. While DCN offers various financial aid options, it does not provide institution-specific scholarships for the MSN program. However, students can explore external scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support their education.

External Scholarship Opportunities:

• Friends of Nursing (FON) Scholarships: FON offers scholarships to nursing students enrolled in baccalaureate or higher degree programs at participating Colorado schools, including DCN. Eligible students must have attained junior or senior status in an undergraduate program or be enrolled in a graduate nursing program (e.g., MSN). A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. The application period typically runs from September 1 through November 8 each year.

• AfterCollege-AACN Scholarship Fund: This scholarship is available to students pursuing a BSN, MSN, or doctoral degree in nursing. Awards of $2,500 are granted each quarter. Applicants must be enrolled at an AACN member institution.

• A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship: Offered by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), this scholarship supports AISES members of American Indian or Alaskan Native ethnicity pursuing degrees in engineering, medicine, natural resources, math, and other sciences. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required.

• ACLS Medical Training Scholarship Program: This program offers multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000 to paramedics, nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and physicians. Requirements vary by scholarship.

• Vohra Wound Care Scholarship for Nursing Education and Nursing Certifications: This scholarship awards $1,000 and a full tuition waiver for Vohra’s comprehensive Wound Care Certification course to nursing professionals and students aiming to earn a certification in wound care.

Financial Aid Options at DCN:

• Title IV Federal Financial Aid: DCN participates in federal financial aid programs, including Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Work-Study Programs, and Federal Stafford Loans. Eligibility is determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

• Veterans Benefits: DCN is approved for participation in various U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs funding programs, including the Yellow Ribbon Program, part of the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Eligible veterans and their dependents can access these benefits to support their education.

• In-House Financing: DCN offers interest-free payment plans, allowing students to make monthly payments throughout their program, facilitating manageable tuition payments without accruing interest.

Additional Resources:

• Scholarships.com: Provides information on various scholarships available to DCN students.

• Niche.com: Offers insights into scholarships and financial aid specific to DCN.

• CollegeFactual.com: Details financial aid and scholarship opportunities at DCN.

For detailed information on financial aid options, including application procedures and eligibility criteria, please visit DCN's College Financing page or contact the financial aid office directly.

Note: Scholarship availability and eligibility criteria are subject to change. It is advisable to consult the respective scholarship organizations or DCN's financial aid office for the most current information.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for the MSN program at DCN, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Background: Hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from a nationally accredited program.

• Licensure: Possess an active, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license in the state of residence.

• Professional Experience: Have a minimum of one year of work experience as a registered nurse.

• Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, indicating graduation from a nationally accredited BSN program.

• Application Materials: Complete the online application and pay the non-refundable application fee.

• Personal Statement: Provide a one-page, typewritten personal statement (double-spaced, 12-point font) addressing professional goals, healthcare-related work experience, and volunteer activities.

• Additional Requirements: Be prepared to undergo a background check and submit immunization records upon acceptance.

Note: Admission requirements are subject to change. For the most current information, please consult DCN's official resources or contact the admissions office directly.

Application Procedure

Applying to DCN's MSN program involves several steps to ensure candidates are well-prepared for advanced nursing roles.

1. Review Admission Requirements:

• Educational Background: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a CCNE-, ACEN-, or CNEA-accredited program.

• GPA: Minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.

• Nursing Courses: Grade of "B" or better in all undergraduate nursing courses.

• Licensure: Current unrestricted or unencumbered RN license. Conditional acceptance may be granted pending licensure, which must be obtained before the end of the first quarter.

• Professional Experience: At least one year of clinical practice as an RN; two years preferred.

• Recommendations: Three recommendations from individuals knowledgeable about the applicant’s academic, professional, and leadership potential.

• Personal Essay: A one-page essay describing how master's-level education in nursing will impact the applicant’s practice.

• Health Requirements: Updated immunization records, proof of current health insurance, and proof of current CPR certification.

For detailed admission criteria, visit DCN's Admissions page.

2. Prepare Application Materials:

• Application Form: Complete the online application available on DCN's Apply Online page.

• Transcripts: Arrange for official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions to be sent directly to DCN.

• Recommendations: Secure three recommendations as specified.

• Personal Essay: Write and proofread the required essay.

• Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee as specified during the application process.

3. Submit Application:

• Online Submission: Ensure all materials are complete and submit the application online.

• Confirmation: Expect an email confirmation within one week of submission.

4. Post-Submission Process:

• Interview: Selected applicants may be invited for an admissions interview to discuss career goals, experiences, and educational background.

• Background Check: Authorize DCN to conduct a background check and notify the college of any items that could create a barrier to clinical practice experience, placement, or licensure.

• Health Documentation: Submit updated immunization records, proof of current health insurance, and proof of current CPR certification as required.

For more information on the application process, visit DCN's Application Process page.

Note: Application procedures and requirements are subject to change. Consult DCN's official resources or contact the admissions office for the most current information.