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Masters of Science Nursing

The MSN program provides for one option, the Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS).

Graduates will be prepared to practice in the CNS role upon successful completion of the national certification examination appropriate to the population-focused area. Graduates will also be prepared to meet graduate-level CNS competencies and CNS spheres of impact.

MSN Mission Statement: To provide evidence-based quality education for future nurse leaders who advance nursing science knowledge into the transformation of global healthcare through holistic care for aging adults.  

MSN Vision Statement: To impact healthcare worldwide by increasing the availability of advanced educated nurses who promote health and wellness through innovative education and technology for vulnerable populations.

MSN Philosophy Statement: The MSN program is dedicated to cultivating advanced nursing knowledge through the integration of arts and sciences, fostering a dynamic and inquiry-driven learning environment. We empower future nurse leaders to excel in clinical practice by promoting holistic, person-centered care and encouraging critical thinking and innovation. Our curriculum emphasizes the importance of addressing disparities in healthcare by grounding education in evidence-based practice.  We prepare graduates to lead transformative health initiatives, promote wellness, and prevent disease within their communities—ensuring they are equipped to meet the evolving demands of healthcare and uphold the highest standards of professional excellence.  

MSN Accreditation: Effective March 5, 2025, this nursing program is a candidate for initial accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. This candidacy status expires on March 5, 2027.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) 
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 
Atlanta, GA 30326 
(404) 975-5000

https://www.acenursing.org/search-programs?status=Candidate

Note: Upon granting of initial accreditation by the ACEN Board of Commissioners, the effective date of initial accreditation is the date on which the nursing program was approved by the ACEN as a candidate program that concluded in the Board of Commissioners granting initial accreditation.

Starting Your MSN Journey

Contact us for more information and how to apply at international@bridgewayfirm.com.

Admission Requirements for MSN Program

All students applying to the AG-CNS program must fulfill all admission requirements without exception.  These documents are submitted with the Rio MSN application.

1. Current unencumbered Registered Nursing (RN) license in the state of Ohio before the end of the first semester in the MSN program for continued enrollment in the MSN program with evidence of NCLEX PASS.

2. BSN

3. 1-2 years current direct care experience as RN (completed within the past year) 

4. Current Curriculum Vitae or resume 

5. Official transcript(s)

6. Written paragraph of a personal statement describing why the student wants to be part of the MSN program.  State at least three goals for acceptance into the program which demonstrates clear and comprehensive thought processes that flow logically, show critical thinking, and highlight their passion for gerontology.  

International students must also submit:

1. TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 / IELTS C1-6.50 minimum

2. CES report (transcript evaluation)

3. Valid Passport 

4. Students are expected to begin submitting clinical pre-requirements in coordination with the clinical coordinator into the Typhon system at the beginning of semester one.

 

MSN

The curriculum focuses on direct and indirect care roles, advanced practice nursing competencies, role-specific professional standards and competencies, and certification requirements. Our class size ensures that students are fully supported by our faculty providing a personalized approach to the learner.
 

Master’s in the Science of Nursing

  • Master's Program

Program Overview

•    Three-year program
•    In-person classes 
•    Prepared to get certified as an Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
•    Six semesters: Spring and Fall plus Summer 1 and 2
•    Total Clinical Hours: 540 
•    Total Lab Hours: 45 
•    Total Project Hours: 90

Please note the locations for this program are in Blue Ash, Ohio and Salem, Ohio. 

Learning Outcomes

  1. Integrate knowledge and evidence from nursing and related disciplines to inform clinical judgment in advanced practice nursing. 
  2. Critique evidence-based, ethical, and equitable patient-centered care for diverse young to older adults at the individual and system levels 
  3. Create a plan with interprofessional team members to solve complex health care problems and improve outcomes for adult populations. 
  4. Evaluate current evidence-based research to influence care for patient, nursing practice, and systems leadership  
  5. Implement principles of quality and safety to mitigate risks for patients, nursing practice, and systems leadership
  6. Demonstrate leadership skills and advanced clinical expertise in designing cost-effective, evidence-based policies across the care continuum. 
  7. Combine information and technology to manage and improve healthcare delivery in accordance with best practices and policies
  8. Exhibit responsibility and accountability for one’s personal health and professional values and identity as an advanced practice nurse 
  9. Demonstrate role competencies as a clinical nurse specialist in the care of adult patients, families, and populations and advancement of nursing practice

 

Progression and Graduation Requirements

 

Requirements for Satisfactory Completion of Courses:

It is necessary to obtain a seventy-seven percent (77%) final grade in each lecture course.

It is necessary to obtain a seventy-seven percent (77%) final grade in each clinical lab course.

It is necessary to obtain a seventy-seven percent (77%) final grade in each Clinical Preceptorship course.    

Requirements for Progression Through the Program:

Completion of courses according to the program of study sequence with achievement of an overall grade point average of 3.25 each semester demonstrates successful progression in the AG-CNS program.  

If a student gets out of sequence, it is necessary to work with faculty to establish a modified program of study to ensure timely completion.   

Requirements for Completion of the Program:

In order to graduate from the MSN AG-CNS program, all students must complete the following:

  1. Forty-seven (47) semester credit hours following the MSN AG-CNS program of study.
  2. Five hundred forty (540) clinical role clock hours.
  3. Ninety (90) total Clinical Inquiry clock hours.
  4. Forty-five (45) hours of simulation in the Advanced Health Assessment and Differential Diagnosis Lab course. 

Requirements for Graduation:

Upon completion of all courses, clinical and lab requirements of the MSN AG-CNS program, you are eligible for graduation with a MSN degree.  All MSN students must apply for graduation with the Office of the Registrar for Spring and Summer graduation by May 31st and for Fall graduation by October 31. Graduation fees are paid by student.  The graduation application will prompt the Registrar’s Office to complete a degree audit to ensure all requirements are met. Students are encouraged to participate in commencement exercises.

 

Locations:

Salem 
230 Continental Drive  
Salem, OH 44460

Blue Ash  
10123 Alliance Rd  
Blue Ash, OH 45242

All Course Requirements 

Degree or Certificate
  • Masters in Science
Campus Location
  • Blue Ash
  • Salem
College or School
  • College of Professional and Technical Studies
Modality
Modality tells you whether this program is in-person, online, or hybrid.
  • All courses required in-person
Total Credit Hours
47