Pre-Accelerated Direct-Entry MSN
Our Pre-Accelerated Direct-Entry MSN program includes the prerequisite coursework needed for individuals applying to UC's Accelerated Direct-Entry Master of Science in Nursing program.
Students who complete the Pre-Accelerated Direct-Entry MSN program are guaranteed admission to our Accelerated Direct-Entry MSN program, access financial aid opportunities and receive advising and support throughout both programs.
Pre-Accelerated MSN Curriculum
Students can complete the pre-accelerated MSN curriculum in three semesters with a part-time courseload.
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| BIOL 2001C |
Anatomy & Physiology I | 4 |
| BIOL 2002C |
Anatomy & Physiology II | 4 |
| BIOL 2031C | Microbiology | 3 |
| NBSN 2105 | Pathophysiology and Pharmacology for Nursing I | 4 |
| NBSN 2106 | Pathophysiology and Pharmacology for Nursing II | 4 |
| NBSN 2107 | Nutrition in Health Care | 3 |
Pre-Accelerated MSN Tuition & Fees
Campus/Cohort |
Enrollment |
Ohio |
Metro |
Non-Resident |
Program Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Uptown/Clifton
|
Per Credit Hour |
$600 |
$625 |
$1,239 |
$29 |
Per Full-time Term |
$7,197 |
$7,397 |
$14,864 |
$338 | |
Per Full-time Year |
$14,394 |
$14,794 |
$29,728 |
$676 |
Important Information about Tuition and Fees
The rates provided are based on 2025-26 totals set by the university and could change in future academic years. Estimates also could change based on the following:
- Change of state of residence
- Change in enrollment status (i.e., full time or part time)
- Other unforeseen circumstances
Pre-Accelerated MSN Application Deadline
| Semester Start | Application Open | Application Deadline | Class Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | June 1, 2025 | Aug. 15, 2025 | Jan. 12, 2026 |
| Summer 2026 | Sep. 1, 2025 | Jan. 15, 2026 | May 11, 2026 |
| Fall 2026 | Feb. 1, 2026 | Aug. 29, 2026 | Aug. 24, 2026 |
Pre-Accelerated Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in any area of study from an accredited institution and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) for the bachelor's degree earned. Applicants may apply to the Pre-Accelerated MSN program while still completing their bachelor's degree, but must receive their degree prior to beginning the Accelerated MSN program.
Pre-Accelerated Application Process
All information required to apply to our Pre-Accelerated MSN program should be submitted through NursingCAS.
- Official transcript verifying a previous bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing, conferred by an accredited institution and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) for the bachelor's degree earned.
- Official transcripts from all schools previously attended, including community colleges and two- and four-year colleges and universities should be sent directly to NursingCAS.
- International transcripts must be evaluated by World Education Services (WES) (preferred), or another NACES member.
Changes to Transcript Requirements due to COVID-19
UC College of Nursing maintained the traditional grading process for Spring 2020 courses. Applicants to the Accelerated Direct-Entry MSN program who completed coursework during the Spring 2020 semester and have a Pass/Fail grade listed on their transcript should submit a letter from their instructor or the university/college informing the letter grade earned in the courses required for admissions.
Provide your CV or resume in PDF format.
Make sure that your CV or resume provides relevant work history and reflects any contributions beyond normal job expectations. Include military service, community service, membership in professional associations and any certifications that you currently hold. Please also include any scholarship, such as publications or presentations.
Three letters of reference from individuals who can attest to your academic and professional skills.
Your goal statement should:
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of the specialty area you are applying for;
- Explain your interest in the specialty;
- Highlight your preparedness and reasons for pursuing the program;
- Describe your goals after graduation.
This statement, which should be between 500-700 words in length, will also serve as an academic writing sample.
The International Student Services office provides assistance to international graduate students and supplies additional information upon receipt of the university application. This information addresses how to obtain a visa, anticipated expenses, health and accident insurance (required), housing and general information concerning the university, as well as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Upload English Proficiency Scores to your NursingCAS application. Do not send scores to the University of Cincinnati. (This requirement is waived, if you have a U.S. higher education degree or were born in a country where English is the first language.)
TOEFL, IELTS and Duolingo Score Requirements:
- Internet based TOEFL: 100 or higher
- Computer based TOEFL: 250 or higher
- Paper based TOEFL: 600-603
- IELTS Overall: 7.0 or higher
- Duolingo - 120 or higher
This program does not require enough credit hours for international students to qualify for a Form I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. To complete prerequisite courses and apply for admittance to the Accelerated Direct-Entry MSN program, international applicants can complete prerequisites at another institution.