University of Massachusetts-Amherst The University of Massachusetts-Amherst offers a top-rated nursing school with an excellent reputation for providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to become successful nurses.

About

Nursing education in the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is dedicated to preparing, promoting, and advancing the practice of professional nursing. The university's nursing program emphasizes academic excellence, evidence-based practice, innovative technologies and cultural competency in a collaborative learning environment. UMass Amherst offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree options in nursing including Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Post-Doctoral Certificate in Nursing. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses in anatomy and physiology, embryology, immunology, pharmacology and drug administration, pathophysiology and nutrition. Students also gain practical experience through clinical rotations in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and community health centers. The BSN program culminates in a senior practicum and capstone project in which students are required to demonstrate their preparedness and ability to practice as a professional nurse. At the graduate level, the MSN program prepares nurses for advanced practice and leadership roles in nursing. MSN students can choose from specialty tracks including Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Leader and Clinical Nurse Educator. The curriculum covers topics such as advanced health assessment, transitional care, public health nursing, epidemiology, population health, grant writing and research methods. The MSN program requires completion of 600 hours of practicum in the specialty area of choice. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares nurses for executive leadership and advanced clinical practice. The DNP curriculum includes courses in healthcare policy, healthcare economics, healthcare finance, informatics, change management and system improvement. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, the DNP program includes an intensive practicum experience in a specialty area. The program culminates in a scholarly project that is designed to improve a specific area of patient care. At UMass Amherst, nurses can pursue a career of excellence and service by taking advantage of the wide range of academic programs and resources. Through the school's commitment to experiential learning, innovative technologies and evidence-based practice, students are prepared to meet the challenges of today's healthcare landscape.