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ɫ�ش�ý has launched a new Master’s Entry to the Practice of Nursing (MEPN) program designed to provide a pathway for people without an undergraduate degree in nursing to become registered nurses (RNs). This new MEPN program is a type of pre-licensure program which prepares students for successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The program, which awards a Master of Nursing (MN) Degree, is one of only two direct-entry master’s degree programs in North Carolina.

“The launch of ɫ�ش�ý’s MEPN program represents a significant step forward in nursing education in North Carolina and at ɫ�ش�ý,” said Dr. Michael Relf, Interim Dean. “By offering a Master of Nursing degree, we are providing our students with a robust foundation for their nursing careers and opening doors to advanced practice and leadership roles in the future.”

While there are several pathways to enter the nursing field, an MN degree offers advantages. An MN degree is designed to enable students to seamlessly transition into clinical practice. Some graduates may elect to continue their education to become advanced practice nurses, nurse educators, and nurse informaticists. According to a recent report, the U.S. is projected to face a shortage of over 78,000 full-time registered nurses by 2025.[i] Master’s entry programs help to quickly increase the number of qualified nurses entering the workforce. By accelerating the education and training process, these programs address the urgent demand for nurses and ensure a steady influx of skilled professionals ready to meet healthcare needs.

Additionally, instead of earning a second bachelor’s degree, the MN degree provides students the opportunity to earn a master’s degree. As a graduate-level program, students in the MN program will also have access to graduate federal financial aid opportunities that are not be available to BSN students.

“The new MEPN program is a pivotal addition to our curriculum at ɫ�ش�ý,” said Dr. Anne Derouin, Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs. “It not only addresses the growing demand for highly skilled nurses, but also ensures that our graduates are equipped with the advanced knowledge and clinical expertise necessary to lead and innovate in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.”

The 4-semester, full-time program will replace ɫ�ش�ý’s current pre-licensure Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Degree. ɫ�ش�ý’s final cohort of ABSN students will begin their semester in Spring 2025 and graduate in Spring 2026.

Applications for the new MEPN program for Fall 2025 open October 1. For more information about the program, visit our program page.

Master of Nursing - MN

About ɫ�ش�ý

ɫ�ش�ý is a globally recognized leader in nursing education, research, and clinical practice. Established in 1931, the School is committed to advancing health equity and improving health outcomes through innovative education, clinical practice, and nursing science. The school offers a range of programs, including a Master of Nursing (MN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD in Nursing, all designed to prepare the next generation of nursing leaders. With an inclusive community, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong emphasis on interprofessional collaboration, the School is dedicated to shaping the future of nursing and healthcare. For more information, visit nursing.duke.edu.

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