Nurse Executive
Nurse executive

Online MSN Nurse Executive

Lead the Way to a Brighter Future in Healthcare

Program Details

Completion: 
As few as 2 years

Next Start Date: 
May 05

Accreditation: 
CCNE

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"Practicum Commitment - Chamberlain University 1889"
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MSN Nurse Executive at a Glance

Our MSN Nurse Executive specialization is designed by working nurses for working nurses. In this specialization, you’ll prepare to lead the future of nursing. 

Dedicated Practicum Support

Chamberlain’s Practicum Commitment® helps ensure you successfully secure any needed practicum site and/or preceptor to complete your degree.

Flexibility for Working Nurses

In our non-clinical tracks, deadlines flex to fit your schedule. Receive a three-day grace period after major assignment due dates.

Up to 6 Transfer Credits  

Transfer a maximum of 6 semester credits toward your core MSN courses.

Healthcare Leadership Skills 

Learn to be a nurse leader from a 100% doctorally trained faculty who have served as CNOs, deans, hospital managers and more.

The Nurse Executive specialization prepares you for roles including1:
  • College nursing program dean
  • Director of nursing
  • Educational leadership
  • Healthcare administrator  
  • Nurse coordinator  
  • Nurse manager 

1Some careers may require several years of experience in addition to educational credentials. 

Nurse Executive MSN Overview 

Learn the art and science of nursing leadership. 

Overview: Shape the future of nursing by developing the skills to drive essential decisions in your organization. 

What You’ll Learn: Apply real-world skills through case studies, interactive lessons and self-reflection activities that challenge you to practice key concepts. 

What You’ll Do: Unlock your leadership potential by building stackable skills designed to help anyone excel as a caring leader. 

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Mentor Collaboration

Collaborate with an experienced nurse leader to identify a problem and propose an actionable solution. 

Applied Learning

Implement concepts, principles and skills learned during the program in a real-world setting. 

Expand Your Network

Build relationships with professionals in the healthcare community while completing your practicum project. 

Impact Your Organization

Work on real problems affecting your practicum organization. 

Nurse Executive Practicum  

In this 144-hour practicum, you’ll partner 1:1 with your practicum site mentor and interdisciplinary teams to identify a senior leadership project that fits your interests.  

Here’s how it works: Work with a vetted leader in a healthcare organization to identify an organizational leadership or quality improvement project. Then learn how to effectively lead a team or organization through a project management process.  

Examples of past projects include fall prevention, discharge planning and nurse residency initiatives. 

MSN Nurse Executive Track Courses

The MSN Nurse Executive program consists of six MSN core courses and six Nurse Executive specialization courses.  

View the Curriculum Grid

Year 2 Courses

6 Courses

Nurse Executive Specialization Courses

NR-531: Nursing Leadership in Healthcare Organizations (3 credits)

In this course, the student focuses on leadership and management of healthcare organizations, emphasizing organizational structure, processes and outcomes. 

NR-532: Healthcare Operational Planning and Management (3 credits)

In this course, the student focuses on synthesizing organizational and management theories in relation to strategic planning and management, changing care-delivery systems, human and financial resource management, decision making, professional practice, management information systems and meeting accreditation and legal standards. 

NR-533: Financial Management in Healthcare Organizations (3 credits)

In this course, the student examines concepts and issues in budget formulation, decision making, variance analysis, financing in healthcare, models for forecasting, addressing throughput issues, implementing professional practice models and program planning. The emphasis is on practical methods and techniques within a wide variety of healthcare situations. 

NR-534: Healthcare Systems Management (3 credits)

The purpose of this course is to discuss utilizing a systems-theory approach in providing patient-centered and value-added care. Functioning within a system, the individual healthcare practitioner learns to utilize critical thinking and decision making to coordinate and deliver quality and cost-effective patient care. The content serves to develop an understanding of different modes of organizing nursing care within the unit environment, managing care within a multidisciplinary-team framework and promoting effective teamwork that enhances patient outcomes, improves staff vitality and reduces costs. Emphasis is placed on concepts related to systems theory, problem solving and decision making, nursing-care delivery models, delegation and team strategies. 

NR-631: Nurse Executive Concluding Graduate Experience I (3 credits)

In this course, the student begins an intensive experience in critical analysis, designed to broaden perspectives and support the integration of knowledge gained throughout the curriculum. In collaboration with a nurse-leader mentor, the student demonstrates application of leadership and management theories and concepts and essential competencies in the role of nurse executive in an academic or clinical practice setting, where the student develops and implements evidence-based leadership and management strategies. The student begins a scholarly project involving critical analysis of an issue relevant to professional nursing in leadership. The student is introduced to the planning phase of project management and develops tools to assist them in planning to lead an organizational practice change project. 

NR-632: Nurse Executive Concluding Graduate Experience II (3 credits)

In this course, the student continues their intensive experience in critical analysis, designed to broaden perspectives and support the integration of knowledge gained throughout the curriculum. In continued collaboration with a nurse-leader mentor, the student demonstrates application of leadership and management theories and concepts and essential competencies in the role of nurse executive in a variety of practice settings. The student moves their project from the planning phase begun in NR-631 to the phases of execution and evaluation in this course. The student also expands and broadens their understanding of several key nursing roles as they apply to senior leadership positions in organizations. 

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"Practicum Commitment - Chamberlain University 1889"

Chamberlain's Practicum Commitment® 

Dedicated support when you need it most. 

The Practicum Commitment® is designed to ensure that you receive the essential practicum experiences needed on your path to completing your MSN Nurse Executive degree. To help prepare you for your practicum courses, you will be paired with our Experiential Learning Coordination team, who will provide resources throughout the process, including coaching sessions and tips on how to approach a potential site. We are committed to helping you successfully secure any needed practicum site and/or preceptor to complete your degree. 

Practicum Commitment® supports you with:

  • Comprehensive practicum readiness tools  
  • A streamlined contracting procedure for sites, preceptors and Chamberlain University
  • A dedicated team of academic support advisors available for student assistance 

See full Practicum Commitment®.

Learn more about our Practicum Commitment®. 

Practicum Commitment® Support Qualifications

You may be eligible* if you meet the following requirements:

  1. Request assistance at least three sessions (approximately six months) prior to starting each practicum course for which you are requesting support 
  2. You can document at least three sites that have denied your practicum requests
  3. Complete any professional preparation tasks (if applicable) as assigned by an Experiential Learning Specialist (ELS) or other member of the Clinical Operations team. 
     

*This service is for students in post-licensure nursing programs, graduate certificate programs and College of Health Professions. The Practicum Commitment excludes pre-licensure programs, BSN online, and Master of Physician Assistant.. If the preceptor, mentor and/or field instructor you are submitting for Chamberlain University’s review and approval was found using a student-arranged third-party preceptor matching service, please be advised that Chamberlain University will not reimburse any fees you may have incurred.

Let us help you find the right MSN track for you.

 

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Why MSN to DNP
  • Cost- and time-effective way to earn an MSN and get a head start on a DNP
  • Good option for busy professionals
  • Choice of one of three DNP elective focus areas
  • Path to becoming the nurse leader you were meant to be
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Go From MSN to DNP Faster

Are you a nurse looking to further advance your education and career? As a Chamberlain MSN Nurse Executive student, you can earn credits toward your DNP while completing your MSN (ST specializations), making it more cost- and time-effective than completing each program separately. Starting in the May 2025 session, take up to three DNP courses to fulfill your MSN course requirements. Dean approval is required. Simply let your Enrollment Representative know you’re interested, and they will guide you through the process. If you are a nurse who values efficiency, has considered earning your DNP, and wants to evolve your nursing practice to the highest level, this path is for you. 

Learn more about our DNP program.

 

Eligibility Criteria

  • Enrollment in one of our MSN non-clinical specializations 
  • Completion of the Prerequisite Waiver Request form 
  • Minimum cumulative grade-point average (CGPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Program dean approval via the Prerequisite Waiver Request

What can I do with a DNP?

A doctorate in nursing prepares you for a wide range of roles in a variety of healthcare settings. Gain skills to lead, analyze, and influence nursing practice to prepare you for advanced roles such as chief nursing officer, healthcare consultant, quality improvement specialist, nurse executive, or clinical nurse practitioner.
 

“What inspired me to be a nurse leader is the desire to provide the leadership that I needed when I was a new grad to my nursing staff. Chamberlain gave me a lot of good tools in my toolbox as far as transformational leadership and having emotional intelligence and being available for my staff.”
Angela Majied,MSN ’23, RN-BSN ’22"
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You’re more than just a GPA or an application

If your CGPA falls below our requirements - in the range of 2.5 to 2.99 - you may still be considered for provisional acceptance into the online Master of Science in Nursing program.

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MSN Nurse Executive Admission Requirements 

How do I get started?  

For your MSN program application, you should have:

  • A degree in nursing at the bachelor’s level or higher from an accredited institution
  • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • A current active and unrestricted RN license in the U.S. or in a jurisdiction that is an associate member of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

Can I transfer credits into the MSN Nurse Executive specialization?

  • Yes, but there are guidelines, requirements and restrictions. General guidelines for transfer credits include:
  • A maximum of six semester hours may be accepted toward your MSN degree.
  • Core coursework must have been completed within the past seven years for transfer.
  • A grade of B or higher is required for transfer credits.

Our Enrollment team can get you started on a transcript evaluation so you’ll know exactly what will transfer in before making your enrollment decision. 

Nurse Executive Admission FAQ

Is the online MSN Nurse Executive program accredited?

Chamberlain’s MSN program, including its specializations, is among the university’s accredited nursing programs. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program and post graduate APRN certificate program at Chamberlain University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE). In addition, Chamberlain University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For the most updated accreditation information, visit chamberlain.edu/accreditation. 

How long does it take to complete the MSN Nurse Executive program?

The MSN Nurse Executive program can be completed in as few as two years, or six semesters, with full-time enrollment, taking two courses per semester for three semesters each year. Some students choose to space out the program requirements and take longer to complete their studies. 

What if I don’t meet the minimum GPA requirement?

If your cumulative GPA falls below our requirements — in the range of 2.5 to 2.99 — you may still be considered for provisional acceptance into the online MSN Nurse Executive program. Speak with our Enrollment team for more information. 

Want to know more? We’re here to help. 

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Need help creating a financial plan for your graduate nursing program?

We’re here to help. Contact our admissions team to discuss your financial options.

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Tuition & Expenses

Your Investment in Yourself 

Enrolling in an MSN Nurse Executive program is a significant investment in your future, and we’re here to help guide you in creating a financial plan that will help you achieve this important goal. More than 90% of Chamberlain students receive some form of financial assistance. 

Trying to save money? Here are some great options to help you cover the cost of tuition: 

  • Grants and Scholarships 
    View Graduate and External Scholarship opportunities. 
  • Special Tuition Rates
    Chamberlain University offers special tuition rates to [custom:partner_count] partner locations across the U.S. 
  • Tuition Savings for Chamberlain Grads  
    Earning your MSN is closer than you think. Chamberlain alumni are eligible to save 20% on tuition.  

View tuition and expenses information for the MSN degree program.

Many Ways to Save 

Explore a wide range of financial aid available to Chamberlain students. 

Become Extraordinary Grant 

The Become Extraordinary Grant offers 15% tuition savings for MSN students who qualify.  

Become Extraordinary Grant

DAISY Honoree Scholarship  

Every DAISY Award recipient is eligible to receive tuition savings of 5%. 

DAISY Honoree Scholarship

Military Rates 

Special rates are reserved for members of our nation’s military community and their spouses. 

Resources for Military

How to Apply 

If you are interested in attending our MSN program, we are here to help. We are committed to providing you a seamless and enjoyable experience, and we understand your busy lifestyle. 

Apply Now
Speak with our Enrollment Reps. 

Our Enrollment team is here to support you and will help determine which specialization fits your goals, walk you through the application process and answer your questions.  
Start or complete your application.  

Applications can be submitted online. Your Enrollment representative will help you through the process. To apply over the phone or get help with your online application, call 630‐317‐9310. 
Complete your admission steps. 

Your Enrollment Representative will guide you through completing your registration documents and steps.  
Register for courses! 

Following acceptance and completion of your registration documents, you will register for courses and start once the session begins. 

Join a Proudly Accredited Institution

Are you looking for an accredited MSN degree program?

Chamberlain University accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.com  an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Chamberlain University confers online degrees from its Main Campus in Addison, IL.

Practicum option availability varies by state/location. Chamberlain reserves the right to update information as it becomes available. For a complete list, and to learn more, check out our authorizations or view our approvals in your state. 

 

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Nurse Executive FAQ

What can you learn in an MSN Nurse Executive specialization?

Curriculum in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Nurse Executive specialization focuses on the foundational skills essential to nurse leaders. Coursework covers the foundations of organizational leadership, including managerial communication, organizational change and decision making. Students also complete a 144-hour practicum with the support of an experienced nurse executive, allowing them to further develop leadership skills. 

What does it mean to be a nurse executive?

A nurse executive is a nurse who leads teams, departments, service lines or even entire organizations in fulfilling the vision, mission and values of the organization. This is often a senior-level leadership position.  

Which MSN specialization prepares nurses for executive leadership?

Chamberlain’s MSN specialization in Nurse Executive focuses on executive leadership in nursing. The curriculum is designed to apply relevant concepts and principles to prepare you for senior-level leadership positions within a variety of different healthcare organizations. It can prepare you for roles such as director of nursing, healthcare administrator and other leadership roles. 

Looking for something else?

Explore our related programs.

MSN Nurse Educator Program

Masters in Nursing Population Health (MSN)

Masters in Nursing Health Policy (MSN)

Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN)