ÌÇÐÄVlog

Program Overview

The Master’s Entry Prelicensure Nursing (MEPN) program at ÌÇÐÄVlog University offers an accelerated, full-time pathway for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. In just four semesters (15 months), students earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) while gaining eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

This program is uniquely designed to prepare rural generalist nurses who can provide high-quality, culturally responsive care and take on leadership roles across healthcare systems. Graduates are ready to serve in hospitals, clinics, community health organizations, and public health settings, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

• Degree Awarded: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN – Prelicensure)
• Length: 4 semesters (15 months)
• Credits/Clinical Hours: 56 credits, 660 clinical hours
• Location: Cullowhee, NC
• Focus: Rural Generalist Nursing

  

Why Choose ÌÇÐÄVlog’s MEPN?

• Rural Healthcare Focus – Preparation to address the needs of rural and underserved populations through coursework in telehealth, culturally responsive care, health policy, and community-based interventions.
• Accelerated Graduate Pathway – Earn an MSN in just four semesters, faster than traditional nursing programs.
• Hands-On Clinical Training – More than 660 hours of supervised clinical practice in regional hospitals, clinics, and rural health settings.
• Cutting-Edge Simulation – Training with advanced technology including high- and low-fidelity manikins, virtual reality, AVKIN wearable simulators, and bedside monitors.
• Strong Partnerships – Collaborations with healthcare organizations across Western North Carolina, including Harris Regional Hospital, Haywood Regional Medical Center, Cherokee Indian Hospital, Angel Medical Center, and Mission Health.
• Affordable & Accessible – Competitive tuition with financial aid opportunities.

  

Curriculum & Coursework

The MEPN curriculum integrates graduate-level coursework, skills labs, and immersive clinical experiences. Students progress from foundational content to advanced nursing leadership and practice.

Semester Highlights (sample):

• Transformational Nursing I–IV – Advocacy, business of healthcare, leadership, and system change.
• Nursing Essentials I–III – Core clinical skills, decision-making, and advanced patient care technologies.
• Nursing Across the Lifespan – Public health, primary care, acute care, and chronic disease management.
• Pathophysiology & Pharmacology I–II – Understanding disease processes and medication management.
• Health Assessment Across the Lifespan – Comprehensive patient assessment skills.
• Evidence-Based Practice & Practice Change Project – Translating research into practice and leading change.
• Care Coordination & Transition Management – Preparing for leadership in continuity of care.

View Full Curriculum

  

Admission Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field from an accredited institution
• Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.8 (3.0 preferred)
• Completion of prerequisite courses before enrollment:
• Anatomy & Physiology I & II with labs
• Microbiology with lab
• Human Nutrition
• Introductory Chemistry with lab
• Applied Statistics
• General Psychology

Application Materials

• Personal Statement (1–2 pages outlining interest in nursing and rural health)
• Two professional letters of recommendation
• Resume or CV
• Interview (by invitation)
• GRE (if GPA < 3.0)

  

Clinical Experience & Rural Focus

Students gain hands-on experience through regional clinical placements and advanced simulation. Rural health is central to the program, with opportunities to engage in community-based care, public health, and telehealth practice.

Clinical Sites

• Harris Regional Hospital
• Haywood Regional Medical Center
• Cherokee Indian Hospital
• Angel Medical Center
• Mission Health System
• Community clinics and rural health agencies

Capstone: Practice Change Project

In the final semester, students complete a Practice Change Project, partnering with healthcare organizations to address rural health needs. Focus areas may include:

• Chronic disease management
• Maternal and child health
• Mental health and substance use services
• Preventive care and wellness initiatives
• Geriatric and aging-in-place programs
• Emergency preparedness and disaster response

  

Tuition & Financial Aid

Tuition is set at ÌÇÐÄVlog’s competitive graduate rates. Students are encouraged to use the Tuition Calculator and explore Financial Aid Options.

  

Career Pathways

Graduates of the MEPN program are prepared for RN licensure and careers in:

• Acute care hospitals
• Primary care and specialty clinics
• Public health and community health organizations
• Rural and underserved healthcare settings

While this program prepares students for RN licensure and generalist leadership, it does not prepare graduates for nurse practitioner or other advanced practice roles.

  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  

Want to Learn More?
Interested in the Master’s Entry Prelicensure Nursing (MEPN) program at ÌÇÐÄVlog? Complete our Request More Information Form on the right sidebar of this page to receive details about admissions, curriculum, and upcoming info sessions.