The Best Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

The field of nursing is undergoing changes, influencing the educational pathways to enter this fulfilling profession. For individuals passionate about healthcare but holding a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, the journey to becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or a specialized nurse may appear challenging. Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs provide a distinctive and expedited route to realizing these career aspirations.

Explore Direct-Entry MSN programs as we illuminate their structure, curriculum, clinical training, and more. Whether contemplating a career transition or aspiring to advance in the healthcare sector, you’ve found the right resource.

What Is a Direct-Entry MSN?

A Direct-Entry MSN program is tailored for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree who aim to transition into the nursing field. Unlike the traditional path of first earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and then pursuing an MSN, direct-entry programs enable students to attain their MSN in a more streamlined manner. These programs are particularly suitable for those seeking a career change to become APRNs or take on specialized roles in nursing.

Coursework

The coursework in a Direct-Entry MSN program is rigorous and encompasses foundational nursing concepts and advanced nursing practices. While specific courses may vary based on the institution and chosen specialization, typical coursework includes:

• – Foundational Nursing Courses: Covering fundamental nursing practice aspects, such as health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology.
• – Advanced Practice Courses: Tailored to the chosen track (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist), these courses delve into specialized content relevant to that role.
• – Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Teaching students how to integrate research findings into clinical practice, ensuring current and effective care.
• – Leadership and Management: Preparing students for leadership roles, focusing on topics like healthcare policy, ethics, and healthcare systems management.
• – Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Emphasizing a holistic care approach, these courses instruct students on health promotion strategies and disease prevention.

Clinical Training

Clinical training is an integral part of Direct-Entry MSN programs, offering students hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations. Key aspects of clinical training include:

• – Supervised Clinical Hours: Completion of a set number of clinical hours under the supervision of experienced nurses or nurse practitioners for skill development and competence.
• – Diverse Settings: Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and specialty care units, ensuring students are well-prepared for diverse care scenarios.
• – Specialized Rotations: Depending on the chosen track, students may undergo rotations focused on specific populations (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics) or care settings (e.g., critical care, primary care).
• – Capstone Projects: Many programs require a capstone project integrating learning from coursework and clinical experiences, often addressing a specific healthcare challenge or research question.
• – Preceptorships: In later stages, students may engage in preceptorships, working closely with a mentor in their chosen specialty, gaining deeper insights and more independent practice experience.

Upon completing a Direct-Entry MSN program, graduates are prepared for licensure and certification exams to practice as RNs and, depending on the program, as APRNs.

The Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs in the US

Best Direct-Entry MSN Programs

The selection of schools is based on online nursing writings’ methodology, considering reader values and additional factors such as graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates for prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. John Hopkins University

The Direct-Entry MSN program at Johns Hopkins University is designed for students holding a bachelor’s degree in a discipline other than nursing. The program emphasizes leadership, global impact, quality and safety, and evidence-based interprofessional education. It integrates the humanities, public health, genetics, and physical and organizational sciences into nursing practice. Graduates are equipped with enhanced bedside nursing education and training, preparing them to take the nursing licensure exam (NCLEX) and become licensed as RNs. They also have the tools to advance into leadership roles or pursue a doctoral degree.

Program Details:

Duration: 5 semesters
Mode: In-Person, Full-Time
Degree Awarded: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Tuition & Fees:

Estimated Tuition Cost: $1,881 per credit
Financial Aid: The university offers various financing options, including grants, scholarships, federal loans, and employment programs.

Highlights:

The program provides a robust framework that integrates diverse disciplines into nursing practice.
Students receive enhanced bedside nursing education and training.
Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX exam and can pursue advanced roles or doctoral degrees.
The curriculum covers foundational nursing concepts, advanced nursing practices, research integration, leadership, and management.
Opportunities are available for students to explore areas of interest, such as global health, research, quality and safety, and various specialty areas.

2. Columbia University

Columbia Nursing’s Masters Direct Entry (MDE) Program is tailored for non-nurse graduates who possess a bachelor’s degree and have aspirations to become RNs. This program is structured to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills to excel in the nursing profession.

The program encompasses a diverse range of courses, including but not limited to:

– Advanced Clinical Assessment: This course emphasizes the identification and interpretation of abnormalities in the physical exam, introducing the approach to the development of the differential diagnosis.
– Advanced Pharmacology: The course provides students with knowledge about the actions of drugs, enabling them to use therapeutic agents rationally.
– Health and Social Policy in the Context of Practice: This course examines contextual contributors to health status and the current social, legal, and political determinants of healthcare systems.
– Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Designed to provide a systematic approach to the delivery of health promotion and disease prevention in primary health care.
– Nursing Leadership and Management: Introduces concepts of leadership and management for entry-level professional nursing practice.
– Physical Assessment: Develops the knowledge and skills necessary for conducting comprehensive and focused health assessments.
– Science of Nursing Practice: Introduces students to core concepts of nursing science, including taxonomy, philosophies of caring, and evidence-based care.

Highlights:

The program is designed for individuals transitioning into the nursing field, offering a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theory and practice.
Students are exposed to a variety of courses that cover both foundational and advanced nursing concepts.
The program is housed within the renowned Columbia School of Nursing, ensuring a high standard of education and training.

3. University of California, Los Angeles

The UCLA School of Nursing offers a Master’s Entry Clinical Nursing (MECN) program tailored for individuals with baccalaureate degrees in disciplines other than nursing. This two-year prelicensure program is designed to equip students for a career as an RN or public health nurse.

The program encompasses Summer enrollment between the first and second years. Upon completion, graduates are awarded the MSN degree, making them eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. Additionally, graduates can apply for a Public Health Nursing Certificate from the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Key Highlights:

Designed for individuals with a baccalaureate degree in another discipline.
Two-year prelicensure program with Summer enrollment between the first and second years.
Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX for RN licensure.
Opportunity to apply for a Public Health Nursing Certificate.

4. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt has a rich history of over a century in providing innovative educational opportunities in nursing. The institution takes pride in its tradition of producing passionate professionals who are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the ever-evolving nursing profession.

Program Duration: The Direct-Entry MSN degree at Vanderbilt requires a minimum of 35 credits. Most students can complete the program in one calendar year (spanning Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters). However, certain specialties, such as Nurse-midwifery and dual specialties, may take between 4 to 5 semesters.

Program Highlights:

Advanced Practice Specialties: Vanderbilt offers a wide range of advanced nursing practice specialties, including but not limited to Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Informatics, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan).

Distance Learning: Vanderbilt University School of Nursing employs cutting-edge online and distance technologies to enhance the student learning experience across all its programs. While the course and education formats can vary among the different degree programs and specialties, the institution ensures flexibility and convenience for its students.

Admission Requirements: Prospective students need to have a BSN from an NLNAC or CCNE-accredited program. A recommended GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, an undergraduate course in statistics, a completed application with a statement of purpose, official transcripts, responses to application essays, and three letters of reference are among the key requirements. Additionally, an unencumbered RN license in the state(s) where clinical training will be undertaken is mandatory.

5. The University of Texas, Austin

The Alternate Entry Master of Science in Nursing (AE-MSN) program at The University of Texas at Austin is tailored for individuals who possess baccalaureate or graduate degrees in fields other than nursing. This program equips them to pursue both their RN License and an MSN degree. After completing this rigorous program, graduates are anticipated to take on entry-level nursing positions and progress swiftly in their nursing careers as they gain field experience.

Program Highlights:

Duration: The program spans 3 years full-time.
Degree Awarded: Master of Science in Nursing.
Part-Time Study: Available after the foundation (first) year.
Concentration Areas
Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
Leadership in Diverse Settings (LeaDS)
Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program (PMHNP)
Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PC-PNP)

Admission Requirements:

A bachelor’s degree in a field other than Nursing.
A GPA of 3.0 or comparable GPA in upper-division work and graduate work.
GRE scores taken within the last 5 years (Note: The GRE requirement has been temporarily waived for the 2023.24 application process).
Completion of AE-MSN Prerequisite Courses.
A personal statement, curriculum vitae/resume, and three professional recommendations (with one from a healthcare professional).

6. University of California, Davis

The Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis is tailored for individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree in a discipline other than nursing.

The MEPN prepares its graduates as leaders in quality and safety, advocates for diverse patient populations, and agents of change for healthier communities. Upon completion, graduates are qualified to take the NCLEX-RN and are also eligible for certification as a Public Health Nurse.

The program is led by the Nursing Science and Health-Care Leadership Graduate Group, an interprofessional team from various disciplines. The MEPN takes 18 months (six consecutive quarters including summers) to complete. The curriculum is rooted in integrative case-based learning, technology, and a systems-wide perspective. Students typically attend class from Monday to Friday, with some courses and clinical experiences scheduled during evenings and weekends.

Highlights:

Accelerated Program: Offers the quickest route to registered nursing licensure for those with a non-nursing undergraduate degree.

Interprofessional Education: The program is led by an interprofessional team of over 55 faculty members from various disciplines.

Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum covers foundational nursing concepts, advanced nursing practices, research, leadership, and more.

Clinical Training: Students gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings and engage in specialized rotations based on their chosen track.

Capstone Projects: Students integrate learning from coursework and clinical experiences to address specific healthcare challenges or research questions.

7. University of California, Irvine

The University of California, Irvine offers a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) tailored for individuals who possess a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and are keen on transitioning into the nursing profession. This two-year, full-time master’s program equips students with the requisite education, training, and clinical hours to become competent RNs. The program emphasizes the foundation of nursing practice and is particularly suitable for those aspiring to delve into an accelerated graduate-level program.

Program Highlights:

An accelerated two-year, full-time curriculum.
Incorporation of high-tech clinical simulation experiences throughout the course.
Strong clinical partnerships offering rotations throughout UCI Health and immersion opportunities in local communities.
Preparation for leadership roles and development of interprofessional team-building skills.
A unique concentration in Community and Population Health.

8. University of Rochester

The University of Rochester School of Nursing offers the Accelerated Master’s in Nursing Programs for Non-Nurses, designed for individuals who have previously earned a bachelor’s degree in a discipline other than nursing. This program allows students to transition into the nursing field and specialize as nurse practitioners in a shorter timeframe.

The program structure involves first completing a 12-month Accelerated Bachelor’s in Nursing (ABSN) program, after which students will sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure. Following this, they continue on to their master’s degree in their chosen clinical specialty.

Key Features:

• The program provides an opportunity for students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing.
• Students gain rigorous clinical experiences at the University of Rochester Medical Center.
• Admission to the program requires a previous bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and relevant health care experience (professional or volunteer) related to the chosen nurse practitioner specialty.
• The program offers multiple nurse practitioner specialties, ensuring a comprehensive education tailored to students’ interests and career goals.
• Students have the flexibility to start the program in either the Spring or Summer semesters, provided they have successfully completed the prerequisite course requirements (21-24 credits).

9. The Ohio State University

The Ohio State University offers a Graduate Entry Master of Science in Nursing program tailored for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, allowing students to earn an MSN in a streamlined manner. After completing the necessary coursework, which spans approximately three years of full-time, year-round study, students are prepared for advanced practice nursing in diverse clinical settings.

The program emphasizes active, collaborative relationships between faculty, The Ohio State University Medical Center’s teaching hospitals, and community-based preceptors. Upon reaching the mid-point of the program, students are required to take the NCLEX-RN. Graduates are then eligible for certification in their chosen specialty area upon graduation.

Highlights:

• The program prepares students for a variety of clinical settings, including private practices, clinics, hospitals, managed care organizations, and governmental agencies.
• Students gain knowledge, values, and skills essential for advanced practice nursing through coursework, clinical experience, and research.
• The program emphasizes the importance of collaborative relationships between faculty, teaching hospitals, and community-based preceptors.
• Students are required to take the NCLEX-RN exam at the program’s mid-point.
• The program meets advanced practice registered nurse licensure requirements in the State of Ohio and is approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

10. Emory University

The 15-month Master of Nursing (Pre-licensure program) at Emory University is a full-time, campus-based program tailored for students with bachelor’s degrees in disciplines other than nursing. The program emphasizes leadership and prepares students for leadership roles within healthcare. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX to become an RN. They can also apply to certain MSN specialty programs, post-licensure DNP programs, or CRNA programs.

Admission Requirements:

• Application for Admission
• $50 Application Fee
• Official transcripts from each school attended
• Resume
• Prerequisite courses completion with a grade of C or higher by the program’s start date
• Other requirements include a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and potentially an interview.

Prerequisites: The MN program requires seven prerequisite courses, including:

Physical Sciences: General Chemistry I with lab, Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II with labs, Microbiology with lab, and Nutrition.
Math: Introductory Statistics
Social Sciences: Human Growth and Development or Life Span Development.

11. Fairfield University

Fairfield University provides an Accelerated Master’s Entry to Practice Nursing (MEPN) program specifically designed for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. This groundbreaking program, the first of its kind in Connecticut, aims to equip advanced generalists for roles in registered nursing practice and leadership.

Case Study- 4-year-old African American male living in a rural community

The MEPN program optimizes students’ previous education and experience, enabling them to attain an MSN degree within an accelerated two-year time-frame. Upon program completion, students become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN.

Program Duration and Structure: The MEPN program spans 24 months, requiring full-time commitment. It encompasses 76 credits and entails 800 clinical hours.

Admission Requirements: Admission is competitive, necessitating candidates to possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited four-year college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.3 or higher. All mandatory prerequisite courses must be fulfilled before admission.

Highlights:

– Fairfield University’s MEPN program stands as Connecticut’s inaugural initiative to prepare individuals as advanced generalists for registered nursing practice and leadership.
– The program uniquely allows individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to transition into nursing without the need for an additional bachelor’s degree.
– The curriculum is comprehensive, covering foundational and advanced nursing topics, ensuring students are well-prepared for their nursing careers.

12. Marquette University

Marquette University offers a Direct-Entry MSN program tailored for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and aspiring to transition into nursing. This program is designed for completion in 19–21 months, leveraging the student’s non-nursing bachelor’s degree and a cumulative 3.0 GPA in the conferred Baccalaureate Degree. Graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and a diverse array of nursing career opportunities.

Program Highlights:

– Flexible Coursework: The program provides coursework accommodating diverse learning styles, offering options for hybrid online or traditional learning.
– High-Fidelity Simulation Center: Students have the opportunity to refine skills in a controlled environment simulating real clinical settings, using high-fidelity manikins.
– Clinical Practice: The program facilitates clinical practice experiences at top healthcare facilities in Metro Milwaukee, Southeast Wisconsin, and Northeast Illinois.
– Multiple Start Dates: The program offers flexibility with three start dates per year, enabling students to commence their nursing journey at a time that suits them best.

Prerequisites & Requirements

Given the intensive nature of Direct-Entry MSN programs, specific prerequisites and requirements must be met for consideration.

Prerequisites:

– Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a field other than nursing is essential.
– Science and Health-Related Courses: Including Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry (organic and/or biochemistry), Nutrition, Statistics, and Psychology or Developmental Psychology.
– Minimum GPA: Many programs require a minimum GPA, typically ranging from 2.5 to 3.5, for both overall undergraduate coursework and prerequisite courses.
– Completion of Prerequisite Courses: Some programs require completion of all prerequisite courses before application.

Requirements for Acceptance:

Beyond prerequisites, additional requirements include:

– Application Form: A completed application form, often accompanied by an application fee.
– Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
– Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters from academic or professional references.
– Personal Statement or Essay: An essay outlining the applicant’s reasons for pursuing nursing, their goals, and interest in the specific program.
– Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic, professional, and volunteer experiences.
– Interview: Some programs require an in-person or virtual interview as part of the admissions process.
– Standardized Test Scores: While not as common, some programs might require GRE scores or other standardized test results.
– Background Check and Drug Screening: Many nursing schools require a criminal background check and drug screening for patient safety during clinical rotations.
– Health Requirements: Proof of immunizations, a physical exam, and possibly a TB test or chest X-ray might be required.
– CPR Certification: Some programs require a current CPR certification for healthcare providers.
– Proof of Health Insurance: Some schools mandate students to have health insurance, either through the school’s plan or a personal plan.
– English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Costs of a Direct-Entry MSN

Pursuing a Direct-Entry MSN program is a substantial educational and career investment. Costs vary based on factors such as:

Tuition:

– Public Institutions: In-state and out-of-state residents may have different tuition rates, with in-state residents typically enjoying a reduced rate.
– Private Institutions: Private schools usually have a consistent tuition rate for all students, potentially higher than public institutions.

Fees:

– Application Fee: A one-time fee when applying to the program.
– Enrollment or Matriculation Fee: A fee confirming a student’s spot in the program.
– Lab Fees: For courses with a hands-on lab component.
– Technology Fee: To cover online platforms and tech services.
– Graduation Fee: Associated with program completion.
– Student Activity Fee: Covering student events, resources, and campus activities.

Books and Supplies: Budgeting for textbooks and study materials is essential, representing a significant cost each semester.

Clinical Costs:

– Uniforms and Equipment: Including scrubs, stethoscopes, and necessary gear.
– Background Check and Drug Screening: Some clinical sites require these before student participation.
– Health Requirements: Such as immunizations and physical exams.

Living Expenses:

– Housing: Costs vary based on location and accommodation type.
– Transportation: Associated with commuting to campus and clinical sites.
– Food and Miscellaneous Expenses: Everyday living costs.

While the costs of Direct-Entry MSN programs can be substantial, financial aid, scholarships, and grants are often utilized to offset expenses. Exploring all available financial aid options is crucial, considering the long-term benefits as graduates often secure rewarding positions in the nursing field.

Salary Expectations

Embarking on a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) journey not only reflects a dedication to professional growth but also reveals a spectrum of diverse career opportunities. MSN programs are carefully designed to address distinct nursing specializations such as nurse practitioner, nursing leadership, nursing informatics, and nursing education. The chosen specialization can significantly impact potential income.

For example, insights from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) highlight nurse practitioners (NPs) with an average annual salary of $121,610. Examining regional variations, certain states emerge as top earners for NPs:

Top-Earning States for NPs:

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

Moreover, individuals in roles encompassed by Medical and Health Services Managers, including nurse administrators, earn an average of $104,830 per year, according to BLS data.

Considering salary expectations involves a nuanced examination of several factors, including professional experience, employer type, ongoing education, scope of responsibilities, and more.

Career Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) paints a promising picture for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), projecting a robust growth rate of 38% from 2022 to 2032. This optimistic projection translates to an estimated creation of around 123,600 new positions. Similarly, healthcare administrators can anticipate a favorable job outlook, with a projected employment growth of 28%, resulting in an additional 144,700 jobs during the same period, according to BLS data. It’s worth noting that BLS doesn’t furnish career outlook data specifically for Nurse Educators.

Direct Entry MSN Pros & Cons

Contemplating enrollment in a Direct Entry MSN program involves weighing various factors. Here, we elaborate on some of the prominent advantages and disadvantages.

Direct Entry MSN Pros

– Accelerated Career Progression: Direct Entry MSN programs serve as expedited pathways, propelling individuals into advanced nursing roles and facilitating swift career advancement.
– Diverse Backgrounds: Enrollees in Direct Entry MSN programs bring a tapestry of academic and professional backgrounds, fostering a vibrant and enriching learning environment.
– Specialization Opportunities: These programs often present a spectrum of specializations, allowing students to customize their education to align with specific areas of interest within nursing.
– Holistic Approach: Direct Entry MSN programs typically embrace a holistic educational approach, amalgamating nursing practice with leadership and management skills for a comprehensive learning experience.
– Integrated Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees: Direct Entry MSN programs streamline the educational journey by seamlessly integrating bachelor’s and master’s degrees, potentially saving time and resources.

Direct Entry MSN Cons

– Intense Pace and Potential for Burnout: The accelerated nature of Direct Entry MSN programs demands significant dedication, potentially leading to a heavy workload within a relatively condensed timeframe and an increased risk of burnout.
– Limited Professional Experience: Critics argue that individuals entering nursing through Direct Entry MSN may lack the depth of professional experience compared to those following traditional nursing pathways.
– Transition Challenges: Students in Direct Entry MSN programs may encounter challenges adapting to the rapid-paced nature of healthcare environments, given their entrance into the field with less practical experience compared to traditional nursing students.
– Cost Considerations: Direct Entry MSN programs often entail substantial costs, and the financial burden can be a significant consideration for prospective students.
– Limited Flexibility: The structured nature of these programs may limit flexibility in terms of course sequencing and scheduling, potentially constraining students’ ability to balance education with other commitments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the NCLEX-RN, and is it a requirement for Direct-Entry MSN graduates?
– The NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is a standardized exam essential for nursing degree graduates to acquire licensure as registered nurses. Yes, Direct-Entry MSN graduates must take and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN to practice as registered nurses.

2. How long does a typical Direct-Entry MSN program last, and is it possible to pursue it full-time?
– The duration of a Direct-Entry MSN program varies based on the institution and chosen concentration, typically spanning between 2 to 3 years. Most schools offer both full-time and part-time options to accommodate the diverse needs of students.

3. Are there different concentrations available within the Direct-Entry MSN degree program?
– Many Direct-Entry MSN programs provide various concentrations, such as Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Practitioner with a focus on lifespan care (Family Nurse Practitioner), and more. The chosen concentration can shape coursework, clinical placements, and required credit hours.

4. Is accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) essential for a Direct-Entry MSN program?
– Accreditation by the CCNE or similar bodies is crucial, ensuring that the master’s degree program meets specific quality standards and adequately prepares students for advanced practice nursing roles. Prospective students should prioritize programs with recognized accreditations to ensure a high-quality education and eligibility for licensure and certifications.

5. What are the typical admission requirements for Direct-Entry MSN programs, and is on-campus attendance necessary?
– Admission requirements can vary by institution but generally include a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, prerequisite coursework, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. While many programs offer some online coursework, on-campus attendance is often mandatory for specific classes, labs, and practicum experiences.