The Master of Science in Nursing Program

General Degree Requirements

Coursework

A program of study is planned individually to meet the particular needs of each student, in accord with the student's nursing major and career goals. Under the adviser's direction and with the approval of the dean, six semester hours of graduate work earned at another institution prior to initial enrollment at The Catholic University of America with a grade level of B or above may be applied toward degree requirements. Transfer of graduate work earned at another university will be considered only after the student has completed one full-time semester (or its equivalent) of graduate work at The Catholic University of America in accordance with the transfer policy of the university. Graduate courses in nursing are not open to challenge. While a graduate level course in statistics is a prerequisite to entering the program, it may be taken during the first semester of study.

Grading

A grade point average of 3.0 is required for retention. In general, a grade of C is passing but marginal at the graduate level. A grade of C in clinical courses is not acceptable; students who earn a C grade may repeat clinical courses once.

Residence

Students admitted to graduate study at the master's level must complete degree requirements within five years from the date of initial enrollment. Continuous enrollment must be maintained unless a written leave of absence has been granted.

Candidacy for the Degree

To be considered for admission to candidacy for the master's degree, the student must have:

1. Completed program requirements with a grade point average of 3.0.
2. Successfully written the comprehensive examination. This examination may be taken in the semester in which it is clear to the adviser and the student that the student will complete all course work and the theses (for thesis students).
3. Satisfactorily completed a thesis or capstone research project.