The University of Kentucky College of Nursing has a long history of pioneering advanced nursing degrees, beginning with its Master of Science in Nursing program in 1970. Since then, the college has established itself as a leader in graduate nursing education, adding a research-focused PhD program in 1987 and the world’s first practice-focused Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in 2001.
These advanced degrees, while offering career advancement opportunities for nurses, represent a significant financial and time commitment. The UK College of Nursing has graduated approximately 1500 MSN, 175 PhD, and 593 DNP students from its graduate programs. The MSN in Healthcare Systems Leadership at UK is offered as a fully online program, designed to build upon existing knowledge and expertise.
Other institutions in Kentucky also offer a range of advanced nursing degrees. Spalding University provides hybrid MSN programs in Family Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Leadership, Nurse Educator, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. The University of Louisville offers a BSN-to-MSN program requiring a minimum of two years of full-time study, including 672 patient-centered clinical hours and 84 professional clinical hours.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing recognizes two primary pathways to master’s-level nursing education: traditional entry into a master’s program with a bachelor’s degree in another discipline, and direct entry master’s programs for those with a prior bachelor’s degree. Western Governors University offers a BSN to MSN program designed to prepare nurses for roles as nurse educators.
The UK College of Nursing offers information sessions for prospective students interested in learning more about its graduate programs. Financial aid is available through the College, the University, and external organizations. The college’s DNP program is ranked in the top 9% of programs nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 rankings.
