Graduate Studies
Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator
The NE track prepares the graduate for a faculty position within a program of nursing or NE position in a clinical setting. The student will increase mastery related to teaching and learning and evaluation strategies, curriculum design, and the use of educational technologies. Via directed study and mentorship with experienced faculty, students will enhance clinical expertise in a selected specialty area. Graduate students will have the opportunity to supervise basic nursing students in clinical practice areas and/or work with NEs in clinical settings in the preparation, delivery and evaluation of educational programs for nurses. The NE track is a year-round program featuring full-time and part-time options for program completion.
Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
The role of the FNP is that of direct care provider. FNPs practice in clinics, long-term care facilities, hospitals, physician officers, managed care corporations, and private industries. FNPs collect health histories and perform physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose and manage acute and chronic diseases, prescribe medications and treatments, refer to specialists as necessary, provide patient and family counseling and education regarding healthy lifestyle behaviors and self-care skills, and participate in research projects and integrate research findings. The FNP blends some aspects of medicine with nursing, using a holistic nursing perspective. Credentialing examinations, designed by specialty area, are available and required prior. To practice in most states. Our FNP track offers courses with the option for full-time and part-time study.
Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
The role of the PMHNP is that of direct care provider. PMHNPs practice in clinics, long-term care facilities, hospitals, physician officers, managed care corporations, and private industries. PMHNPs collect health histories and perform physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose and manage acute and chronic diseases, prescribe medications and treatments, refer to specialists as necessary, provide patient and family counseling and education regarding healthy lifestyle behaviors and self-care skills, and participate in research projects and integrate research findings. The PMHNP blends some aspects of medicine with nursing, using a holistic nursing perspective. Credentialing examinations, designed by specialty area, are available and required prior. To practice in most states. Our PMHNP track offers courses with the option for full-time and part-time study. MSN-PMHNP start is contingent upon class size.
Master of Science - Direct Entry Generalist (DEMSN)
UNLV School of Nursing's Direct Entry - Generalist (DEMSN) program is ideal for non-traditional students who have a bachelor’s degree in another field and are looking for a fast route to licensure as an RN. This program prepares students for entry-level nursing practice at the master’s level of education, with advanced skills in selected areas. Graduates of the DEMSN program are prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and will hold a generalist MSN degree.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal professional practice degree that prepares nurses to assume leadership roles in clinical practice, administration, clinical teaching, and clinical research. Please consult the State Authorization Reciprocity information for online degree programs. The DNP program prepares graduates for advanced clinical practice and other leadership roles to serve the health care needs of the people of Nevada, the nation, and the professional community.
Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing
The School of Nursing’s Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing prepares scholars to advance nursing science and practice through rigorous research, evidence-based education, and dynamic leadership. According to the American Association Colleges of Nursing (AACN) statement: “The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) represents the highest level of formal education for a career in research and the scholarship of discovery. It prepares scholars for the expression and communication of the knowledge base in the profession. The Ph.D. graduate develops the science, stewards the profession, educates the next generation of nurses, defines its uniqueness, and maintains its professional integrity. Nurse scholars are found in academic institutions or in health care agencies in research and educational roles.
Advanced Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education (Post Master's)
Students who have a master’s in nursing and meet the admission qualifications may take courses leading to a nurse educator post master’s certificate. The online program uses a variety of teaching strategies designed to actively engage students. Two-day orientation sessions are held on campus before the beginning of each fall semester to enhance the connections among students and with the nursing faculty.
Advanced Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for the FNP
This three semester, 21-credit post-master's advanced certificate program prepares family nurse practitioners to expand their practice specialty to include management of patients with acute and chronic psychiatric conditions. Building upon the existing skill set of the primary care clinician, the three semester sequence provides assessment, pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic management skills. Successful completion of the program meets the national certification board eligibility requirements. Program start is contingent upon class size.
Advanced Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
This four-semester, 28-credit post-master's advanced certificate program prepares graduate-degree nurses to become advanced practice nurses in psychiatric mental health. This practice specialty includes management of patients across the lifespan with acute and chronic psychiatric conditions. Building upon the existing skill set of the graduate-prepared registered nurse, the four-semester sequence provides family theory, health promotion, nurse practitioner role, and psychiatric-mental health assessment, pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic management skills. Successful completion of the program meets the national certification board eligibility requirements. Program start is contingent upon class size.
Advanced Graduate Certificate in Emergency Nurse Practitioner - On Hold
Individuals who already have a master's degree in nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner and meet the admissions qualifications will be allowed to take courses as a non-degree student. No degree will be awarded but a certificate documenting completion of the coursework will be provided and transcripts showing completion of the courses will be available. Program start is contingent upon class size.
