The Graduate School

Nurse Educator Specialty Track
RN-to-MS Fast Track Program

The RN-to-MS Fast Track Program provides an opportunity for associate degree and diploma-prepared nurses to obtain the Master of Science in Nursing Degree. The RN-to-MS Fast Track Program curriculum is characterized by flexibility and recognition of the diversity of the students who enroll.

The RN-to-MS Fast Track Program allows students to work toward their Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing degrees in one integrated program. The Graduate Record Exam, generally required for admission to master’s degree programs, is NOT required for admission in to the RN-to-MS Fast Track Program.

Six (6) graduate credits (500 Level) taken while completing the undergraduate senior year count toward both degrees only when the RN meets the criteria for the Fast Track program, completes an application to the Graduate Nursing Program through the Graduate School, and is accepted into the RN-to-MS Fast Track Program during the first semester as a student in the RN-to-BS Program.

Students can typically complete the RN-to-MS Fast Track Program in nine part-time semesters. Only course grades of B- or above can be counted toward the Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Fast track students must take courses in the M.S. program the semester after completing the requirements for the B.S. degree. Otherwise 500 Level courses taken in the senior year will count only towards the RN-to-BS degree unless they are in excess of the credits required for the B.S. degree. 

Admission Process for RN-to-MS Fast Track Program

The RN student applying to WSU as a transfer student can receive up to 65 credits transferable from associate degree colleges and a maximum of 90 credits from four year colleges or universities. WSU has articulation agreements with many area colleges for transfer credits (up to 23 credits may be approved for nursing credits).

The RN student who graduated from a nursing diploma program must take the NLN Mobility Profile II Mobility Exam as a prerequisite, which allows the students to obtain up to 23 nursing credits. All RN students must hold a current license to practice nursing in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Students interested in applying to the RN-to-MS program are advised to contact the RN-to-BS Coordinator, at 508 929-8960.