Nursing (MSN), Master of Science Degree - Nurse Leader Track

* Program length may vary. WCU distance education programs may not be available to residents in all states.

Clinical Hour Requirement:  this track requires a total of 135 precepted clinical hours.

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 29-1141.00, 25-1072.00, 11-19111.00

The Nurse Leader track helps to prepare the graduate for the challenges of leading health care organizations through these times of constant change and innovation, which demands highly qualified leaders with a well-rounded understanding of clinical, managerial, and business concepts. Students will learn the theories and concepts of leadership models, research utilization, strategic planning, and financial management, as well as policy development, ethical concepts and practices, and opportunities to collaborate with other health care disciplines. The program helps prepare the nurse leader to lead processes and teams and apply analytical and problem-solving skills to enhance the quality of patient care outcomes in a variety of settings.

Completion of this program would support eligibility requirements necessary to apply for certification with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Nurse Executive (NE-BC).  

Leader Program Learning Outcomes

1. Apply innovative leadership strategies and organizational management within complex healthcare systems.
2. Employ continuous process improvement using evidence to improve outcomes and affect patient safety and quality measures.
3. Develop strategic initiatives using performance metrics to improve outcomes.
4. Incorporate health policy, regulation, and compliance standards to facilitate positive patient experiences.
5. Analyze business acumen and strategies for financial literacy in complex healthcare systems.
6. Develop entrepreneurial strategies for healthcare systems management.

MSN with Nurse Leader Track Program Costs

For program costs, please see the Distance Education Tuition and Fees section.