Grand Canyon University's Master's in Nursing Degree Programs

If you are working in the field of nursing and looking to expand your skills, specialize, or move into a leadership or education role then Grand Canyon University offers a variety of master's in nursing programs for students with diverse interests and goals. Master's in nursing programs include advanced practice roles in primary care (Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist) and acute care (Acute Care Nurse Practitioner) as well as curriculum which prepare nurses for roles in nursing leadership, nursing education, nursing informatics, and public health.

All of the graduate nursing degrees develop the core knowledge and skills required for master's level practice. There are three initial courses which focus on nursing theory, nursing research, ethical practice, health policy and the financing of the healthcare system. At the end of the program, all students develop an evidence-based project that requires the integration of the knowledge gained from their individual programs.

The advanced practice clinical nurse specialist focuses his/her practice in the three spheres of influence that include patient/client, nursing/nursing practice and organizations/systems. Evidence-based practice expertise is paramount to influencing changes in all three spheres and is incorporated throughout the core CNS courses.

The family nurse practitioner program prepares the experienced professional nurse for a career in the role of care provider for clients across the lifespan. The program focuses on the diagnosis and management of acute and chronic diseases, education, counseling, referral and client follow up.

The acute care nurse practitioner (ACNP) program leads to a master's in nursing or a post-master's degree ACNP certificate. The ACNP is prepared as an advanced practice nurse to provide care for adults experiencing acute and chronic illness in acute care facilities such as trauma and stroke centers, community hospitals and urgent care facilities.

The advanced nursing leadership program focuses on research and quality assurance, spirituality, diversity, critical thinking, caring and learning. The nursing leadership courses focus on the competencies required by AACN as well as on servant leadership as an overarching model. These culminate in a practicum (150 hours) that allows students to develop a relationship with a mentor who guides the students in formulating a personal model of leadership.

The nurse educator emphasis focuses on teaching/learning strategies, curriculum development, and assessment of learning in academia, clinical settings, and patient education. Students complete their program of study by participating in a culminating practicum experience.

Master's in nursing programs include practicum and/or clinical hours that range from 150 to 650. Most of the master's in nursing programs at Grand Canyon University are available at the traditional campus setting, with the leadership and education programs also being offered online.

All masters in nursing applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from a NLNAC/CCNE accredited program. A practicing nurse with an accredited bachelor’s degree in something other than nursing may be eligible to apply to one of the master’s bridge programs. Master's in nursing students must have completed prerequisite courses in statistics, research, and health assessment. Applicants for the graduate nursing programs must present a valid unrestricted and unencumbered RN license issued in the state of residence. Upon admission, advanced practice seeking students are strongly encouraged to contact the State Board of Nursing in their state of residence to determine the requirements for certification as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse in that jurisdiction.

College of Nursing and Health Care Professions Graduate Degrees