Georgian Court–Hackensack Meridian Health School of Nursing will launch a 24-month Direct-Entry Master of Nursing, or DE-M.S.N., program this fall, the only program of its kind in the state, according to a Monday announcement from the Lakewood-based university.
“The DE-M.S.N. is another example of the many ways Georgian Court meets labor market demands, delivers the experiences students need to excel in the workforce, and positions graduates to give back to the community,” GCU President Joseph Marbach said.
“Our strong partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health is also a factor in the continued growth and success of nursing programs at Georgian Court,” he said. “Working closely with New Jersey’s largest health provider offers a tremendous advantage for our nursing students.”
This master’s program follows the 2020 launch of GCU’s 14-month, accelerated bachelor of science in nursing, or A.B.S.N. The new DE-M.S.N. program, meanwhile, is for those who want to enter the profession as a master’s-prepared registered nurse.
“This truly is one of a few of its kind throughout the nation,” Program Director JoAnn Cummings said. “Most of the DE-M.S.N. programs are usually affiliated with larger institutions, and we are fortunate enough to have it here because of our partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health.”
The 80-credit direct-entry master’s-degree curriculum also includes critical courses that go beyond bedside care. Increasingly, hospitals and health care facilities need professionals who can navigate emerging fields like data mining, informatics, and quality performance.
