Master of Science in Nursing

Education at the master’s level prepares graduates to assume leadership roles in clinical practice, nursing administration and nursing education. Advanced nursing practice graduates are prepared for entry into the Doctoral of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, and all graduates are prepared for higher education in the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) program.

The program of study leading to the MSN degree combines online courses with face-to-face classes and clinical experiences offering flexibility to students. The curriculum depends on the clinical concentration the student selects. Students have the following six clinical concentrations from which to choose:


In addition, the School of Nursing in conjunction with The University of Texas School of Public Health at Houston offers a dual degree: MSN-Master of Public Health (MPH).

The Master of Science in Nursing Program is designed to provide an opportunity for the student to become a leader. The graduate makes significant contributions to the improvement of health care and influences health care policy through advanced clinical practice and research in order to meet the current needs of society.

Graduates are given the opportunity to:

  • Perform effectively in a beginning functional role in advanced nursing practice.
    • Synthesize theories from natural, behavioral, and social sciences to support advanced clinical nursing and functional role development.
    • Evaluate the use of nursing theory as a base for advanced nursing practice.
    • Demonstrate expertise in a specialized area of clinical nursing practice.
    • Function effectively in a beginning functional role as an administrator, teacher, clinical specialist, nurse practitioner, or nurse anesthetist.
  • Contribute to the development of nursing knowledge through research.
    • Evaluate the use of nursing theory as a base for advanced nursing practice.
    • Contribute to the development of a body of nursing knowledge through research, theory testing, and use of findings.
    • Demonstrate a sufficient knowledge base for entry into doctoral study.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the Advanced Practice Nurse in health care delivery system.
    • Collaborate with other disciplines to systematically improve healthcare.

Program Coordinator

Nancy H Busen, PhD, FNP-BC, APRN

Assistant Dean & Department Chair, Family Health (Email)

Additional Information

For more information:

Student Affairs Office
The University of Texas School of Nursing at Houston
6901 Bertner, Room 220
Houston, Texas 77030
Phone: 713-500-2100 or 800-232-8876
Fax: 713-500-2107
Email: soninfo@uth.tmc.edu

MSN Interactive Brochure

Link to Interactive Brochure