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About the Program

1. Is this program accredited? 
The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) has approved the program. CBU is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The master's degree program in nursing at California Baptist University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).  
 
2. How long is the program? 
The post-master's in nursing certificate and non-certificate programs takes between 2-4 semesters. 
 
3. Are you on a semester or quarter system? 
CBU has three semesters: fall, spring and summer. Each semester is 14 weeks.
 
4. What is the program format? 
The program is offered in two formats: online with in-person residencies throughout the program or on-campus and in-person one afternoon/evening a week. 

5. How many students do you accept per year?
MSN cohorts do not have a limit on the number of accepted students; however, most cohorts consist of 30 students. 

6. How will this degree prepare me to better serve my patients? 
Studies show master's prepared nurses are more likely to demonstrate professional behaviors important to patient safety including better clinical judgment, problem solving, performance of complex functions, effective communication and early detection of complications and problems in care. This directly impacts the success of patient outcomes. 
 
7. Can students work and go to school? 
Yes, the MSN program format is designed for students to work full time as registered nurses while attending class one night per week or online classes with in-person residencies. 

8. Are there any prerequisites for the program?
Post-master’s certificate students for the nurse practitioner programs need to complete the separate advanced pathophysiology, advanced assessment and advanced pharmacology courses within the last five years prior to starting the program.  

9. Do you offer the program part-time? 
Currently the program is only offered part time. 
 
10. Will I be required to complete a practicum (clinical rotation hours) as part of the program? 
Yes, the College of Nursing adheres to all clinical hour requirements for each MSN specialty that requires clinical practicum hours as mandated by the California Board of Registered Nurses (BRN). 
 
11. When can I apply for certification? 
The graduate student is eligible to apply for certification after successful completion of the MSN program in their chosen concentration, required clinical hours and any other criteria (such as work experience) deemed necessary by the appropriate certification agency. 
 
12. Can I pursue a PhD or a DNP after I complete the MSN program? 
Yes. MSN graduates are encouraged to apply to Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs to further their education. PhD programs prepare nurses to lead and conduct research projects in the healthcare field while DNP programs train nurses to utilize research evidence in practice. For more information on CBU's DNP program, click here. 

Application 

What are the program entry dates?
The post-master’s certification programs start in spring and summer. 

2. When is the application deadline? 
The spring semester priority application deadline is November 1 and the standard deadline is December 1.

The summer semester the priority application deadline is March 1 and the standard deadline is April 1. 
 
3. Am I required to attend an information session? 
We highly recommend you attend an information session as we discuss pertinent details of the program and clarify admission guidelines, prerequisite courses, financial aid, etc. 
 
4. Is the GRE required? 
No, the GRE is not required for admission. 

5. Do I have to submit all admission documents at the same time?
Yes, you need to upload all of your documents to your application. 

6. What is the minimum GPA? 
The minimum GPA is 3.0. GPA calculations are based on comparing cumulative to the last 60 semester/90 quarter units. The higher of the two calculations will be taken. Coursework taken after your bachelor's degree is also included in the calculation. 
 
7. What if my GPA is below the minimum requirement? 
To overcome a low GPA, you can take additional classes from an accredited university or community college. We recommend you take classes that are relevant to nursing and health science.  Every additional grade that is posted to your transcript, regardless of the subject, will be considered in the calculation of your final GPA. 
 
8. Once I apply, when will I find out if I am accepted to the program? 
A complete application means that ALL required application materials have been received; including completion of all prerequisites and submission of the essay and transcripts. Once all items are on file, you will find out between 3-5 business days after your interview. 
 
9. When should I complete my health clearances? 
Upon acceptance of the program, instructions will be given with details about health clearances, the background check and the drug screening.