LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Career changers with a baccalaureate degree in another field can make the transition into health care through the University of Louisville School of Nursing’s Master’s Entry into Professional Nursing (MEPN) program beginning in summer 2015.
Upon completion of the two-year program, students will receive both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing. They will be prepared as entry level professional nurses and eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for registered nursing licensure.
“The MEPN allows for a seamless transition from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree that recognizes the broad based learning that occurred with the first degree. It permits students to take the next logical step in their educational progression without requiring a completely separate second bachelor’s degree,” said S. Lee Ridner, PhD, FNP-BC, associate dean of graduate programs, UofL School of Nursing.
“We know that higher levels of education are associated with better patient outcomes. These students will have greater training in evidence-based practice and leadership. Both of these areas are essential for nurses practicing in today’s environments. MEPN nurses routinely move into leadership positions on their units,” he said.
Students who graduate with a MEPN and want to become advanced practice registered nurses must complete a post-master’s certificate program, also offered through the school.
The application deadline for the MEPN Summer 2015 class is March 1. Information sessions will be held at the UofL School of Nursing, 555 South Floyd Street, room 2006 on Oct. 22 at 5:30p.m. and Oct. 27 at noon. The school plans to host two additional on-line informational sessions in November. To register for one of the sessions or to learn more contact Jessica.jackey@louisville.edu, 502-852-1196 or 502-852-5825.