The mission of the California Baptist University College of Nursing is to educate competent, responsible, caring, and professional nurses prepared from a biblical worldview to serve locally, nationally and globally; revering the human dignity of all persons created in the image of God.

The purpose of the Master of Science degree in Nursing (MSN) is to prepare students for dynamic nursing leadership to improve patient outcomes in a variety of healthcare settings. The focus is on critically examining ideas, research, and theories in relation to health issues and clinical practice in preparation for direct and indirect care both locally and globally. The program prepares graduates for seamless transition into doctoral study.

The purpose of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is to prepare students to assume clinical leadership positions in a variety of health care, business, government, and educational organizations. The focus is on practice that is innovative and evidence-based, reflecting the application of credible research findings and theories to improving health care outcomes.

Entry Level Master of Science in Nursing (EL MSN) Program

The Entry Level MSN program is designed for candidates who hold a non-nursing baccalaureate degree who are interested in transitioning into the field of nursing as a generalist into practice and prepares graduates for a post-MSN certification concentration and/or doctoral studies. After completion of pre-licensure coursework, students have the opportunity to apply for RN licensure through the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) requiring successful passing of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Post-licensure MSN core coursework will allow students to obtain a MSN as a generalist into practice. EL MSN students are eligible to complete a post-Master’s certification or doctoral studies if a concentration area is desired. The pre-licensure section of the program requires a full-time commitment. Students in the post-licensure MSN core coursework are expected to work as a registered nurse upon licensing.

Admission Requirements

Master of Science in Nursing Admission Requirements

Admission standards for graduate studies at California Baptist University can be found in the Admissions section of the University Catalog. Additional application requirements for the graduate programs in Nursing are:

1. Grade Point Average
   • A minimum 3.25 GPA for unconditional admission and a minimum 3.0 GPA for conditional admission
2. Prerequisites*. All prerequisites must be completed with a grade of C or higher prior to pre-licensure admission
   • Intermediate Composition
   • Interpersonal Communication
   • General Sociology or Cultural Anthropology or Holistic Health (ANT 315)
   • Abnormal Psychology
   • Introductory Statistics or Intermediate Algebra
   • Lifespan Development or Developmental Psychology
   • Human Anatomy/Physiology with Lab (2 semesters)
   • Organic and Biochemistry for Health Sciences with Lab
   • Human Microbiology with Lab
3. Clearances *:
   • CPR Certification
   • Background Check Clearance
   • Health Clearance
   • Drug Testing
   • Proof of Health Insurance
   • Proof of Motor Vehicle Insurance
4. Pre-Admission Examination * ^
5. Passport Photo *
6. Three Recommendations completed on forms provided
   • Must be from sources who can personally attest to the candidate’s potential for scholarly and professional success: one personal, one academic, and one employer. Family members and friends may not complete recommendations.
7. A Comprehensive essay of no more than 1000 words that includes the following elements:
   • Purpose for entering the program
   • Significant events and influences that have affected your approach to life
   • Long-term professional goals
   • Reasons for choosing to study at California Baptist University
   • Essay must be submitted in APA format
8. Successful Interview with the College of Nursing *

* Not required to enroll in pre-nursing curriculum; must be complete after acceptance to the EL-MSN pre-licensure and MSN postlicensure programs.

^ Not required to enroll in MSN post-licensure program.

Additional Requirements for MSN Post-Licensure Admission

1. Master of Science in Nursing degree from a regionally accredited university
2. Current California Registered Nursing (RN) license
3. Professional resume that includes current clinical practice
4. Prerequisites must be completed recently
   • Advanced pathophysiology
   • Pharmacology
   • Physical assessment
   • Advanced Nursing Leadership