Admission Requirements

Admission to the Indiana University Northwest School of Nursing (IUNSON) Master’s Degree Program requires approval by the faculty and is based on the applicant’s qualifications as evidenced by grade point average, statement of professional aspirations, official transcripts, references, etc. Acceptance into the program is competitive.  The following criteria must be met for unconditional admission:

• Admission to Indiana University Northwest:  Submission of an Official College Transcript (Degree granting and graduate courses if applicable). Transcripts from all colleges and universities attended are required.
• Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing GPA of 2.8 or higher on a 4.0 scale from an NLN CNEA, ACEN, or CCNE accredited program.
• Copy of current RN license. Current unencumbered license or multistate license as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the states where practicum experiences will be completed.
• Statistics grade (by transcript or current completion at IU campus): Applicants need to have a grade of C or higher in a three credit, undergraduate college credit statistics course (or successfully complete prior to Research, R500).
• Personal Statement (goal statement): An essay that addresses the following:
  o Identify your academic goals, career objectives, why you are applying to this program and the qualifications you have that make you a strong candidate for admission. (200-word count limit)
  o Describe significant professional and life experiences that have prepared you for a master’s education. Please discuss these experiences in detail. (400-word count limit)
  o All students contribute to creating a diverse and inclusive environment when diversity is broadly defined. Whether by a personal attribute, characteristic, culture, experience, or behavior, please tell us how you believe you will contribute to the diversity of Indiana University and the nursing profession. The concept of diversity includes the following dimensions: race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, and religious beliefs. (200-word count limit)
• Essential Abilities. Applicants must agree to the Essential Abilities Policy of the School of Nursing. The policy states that students must demonstrate Essential Abilities in a variety of areas (judgment, neurological function, emotional coping skills, intellectual/conceptual skills, and other behavioral attributions) as well as meeting all progression criteria.
• Criminal Background Check and Urine Drug Screen.
• CV/Resume: May upload via online application
• References. Applicants must provide two professional references via online application (academic references are acceptable but at least one clinical reference should be submitted).
• Clinical practice. For the FNP track, two years of relevant full-time clinical practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) and currently working as an RN is preferred. For the education or administration track, one year of clinical experience as an RN is preferred.

Note:  An applicant who does not meet one or more of the above criteria may be admitted with conditions or on probation.