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Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)
Canada's longest-standing graduate nursing program.
Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)
Canada's longest-standing graduate nursing program.
Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)
Canada's longest-standing graduate nursing program.
About Our Program
Western's Master of Science in Nursing (MScN) program is the longest standing graduate nursing program in Canada and provides the basis for leadership in professional nursing and the foundation for doctoral studies.
This flexible thesis-based program is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study or three to four years of part-time study. It also provides the option to fast-track into the PhD program after the first year of full-time study. Applicants to the MScN program are encouraged to contact individual faculty members to discuss their research interests and potential research projects.
- Program Name: Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)
- Faculty: Health Sciences
- Contact: gradnurs@uwo.ca
- Application Deadline: February 1
Why Students Choose Western Nursing
Research-Driven Learning for Future Leaders
Build a strong foundation in nursing research through a thesis-based program designed to develop advanced knowledge and leadership in professional practice.
Flexible Pathways to Fit Your Goals
Complete your degree in two years of full-time study or three to four years of part-time study. With the option to fast-track into a PhD after your first year, the program adapts to your career ambitions.
Launchpad for Doctoral and Advanced Careers
As Canada’s longest-standing graduate nursing program, the MScN prepares you for doctoral studies and advanced roles in research, academia, and healthcare leadership, setting you up for long-term career growth.
Admissions & Applications
The deadline to apply for the MScN program is February 1. All application documents (i.e., transcripts, letters of reference, and supplemental materials) must be received by the deadline. Review of complete application files begins after February 1 and continues until spaces in each program are filled. Late applications will only be reviewed if space remains in the program. Incomplete applications cannot be reviewed, and it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that the application file is complete. Detailed information for international applicants can be found below in the 'International Applicants' section.
Admission Requirements
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree in nursing (e.g., BScN, BSN, BN)
- GPA of 78% (B+) or higher
- Admission averages are based on the last two years of full-time study or the last 10 part-time credits
- Undergraduate preparation in research and statistics
- Canadian applicants must be registered with their provincial nursing regulatory body as a Registered Nurse (RN) with no practice restrictions
- International applicants: see 'International Applicants' tab
Application Requirements
- Two academic references
- Referees are contacted after their names are submitted in the online application
- Transcripts of all postsecondary coursework (including bachelor’s degree in nursing)
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Personal essay
- The applicant should explain their reasoning for pursuing this program of study
- Maximum length: Four double-spaced pages
- Supplemental Application Form (PDF)
International applicants to the MScN program should be aware of the following important information related to the application/admissions process and studying in Canada.
Admissions Requirements
- Internationally educated nurses may be asked to submit a World Evaluation Services (WES) report to confirm degree equivalence
- Meet English language proficiency requirements
- Show proof of eligibility to practice as an RN in their home country
- International students enrolled in the MScN program are not required to hold registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), provided they are currently qualified to practice nursing in their home country
- Prospective students must provide this information when applying to the program
- Students who do not hold a CNO license will not be permitted to enroll in courses that include a clinical practice component or supervise undergraduate students in clinical practice
Tuition and Cost of Living
In addition to tuition and fees, students are required to have enough funding to support their needs for housing, food and other essentials. This Affordability Calculator provides an idea of the full cost of studying at Western as an international student.
Tuition and Fees
The annual cost of tuition and fees for the Master of Science in Nursing (MScN) program is approximately $31,000 CAD (subject to change) per year. The MScN program is a two-year program, making the total cost of tuition approximately $62,000. This does not include the cost of living expenses. Tuition payment is due in three installments throughout the academic year.
Scholarships
A limited number of scholarships are available for international graduate students through Western’s School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. However, these scholarships require an application and are competitive. Not all who apply will receive scholarship funding. International students coming to Western should not rely on funding from these scholarships to support their studies in Canada.
Study Permits
Information about obtaining a permit to study in Canada is available through Western’s International Student Services.
The Graduate Program Admissions Committee reviews all applications meeting the minimum academic average of 78% (B+) and determines whether to offer admission based on a number of factors, including:
- Past academic achievement
- Quality of referee assessments
- Clarity and fit of the applicant’s written goals with the program goals
- Alignment of the applicant's research interests with the School's areas of strength
- Evidence of engagement in professional activities
- Evidence of leadership
- Quality of oral and/or written communication
Offers of admission are made as applications are considered, with the first offers being made in April. Successful applicants may accept their offers of admission online.
Program Structure
The MScN program offers baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses the opportunity to advance their education, research, and scholarly practice through graduate education. It is ideal for students with a strong interest in research, and also students who may be considering the possibility of advancing their knowledge and research through the pursuit of a doctoral degree. Working closely with their supervisor(s), students develop and complete a research proposal that enables them to gain an in-depth understanding of a selected area of nursing science. Available on both a full- and part-time basis, the program gives preference to applicants pursuing full-time study.
Individuals with a passion for scientific inquiry that aligns with the research strengths of the school are potential candidates of this program. Graduates of the MScN program are equipped to engage in opportunities, including:
- Leadership roles in healthcare organizations (e.g., coordinator, manager, and director)
- Faculty/education roles in college and university
- Doctoral studies
- Policy developments
Students in the MScN program will work with their supervisor(s) to develop a research proposal. Information about the strategic research themes in the School of Nursing can be found here. As the MScN is a 2-year program, students are strongly encouraged to consider secondary analysis of existing research data, which could be from their supervisor or others within the School of Nursing, for their thesis research. While students are permitted to collect primary data in a thesis, you should be aware that this can include extra time to clear ethics and collect data.
Program Objectives
The goals of the program are to facilitate leadership in the:- Development of in-depth understanding of a selected aspect of nursing science
- Analysis and integration of theory and research from nursing and related disciplines as a basis for enhancing understanding of significant issues
- Valuing of differing approaches to knowledge development in the nursing discipline
- Engagement in research inquiry that is significant to the nursing discipline
- Upholding of principles of ethical inquiry in advancing knowledge in the discipline of nursing
- Evolution of health care and health policy through the use of research findings and the development of collaborative partnerships
This program is offered on both a full- and part-time basis, with preference given to applicants desiring to study on a full-time basis. This program is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study or three to four years of part-time study.
For more detailed information about graduate courses offerings in the Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, visit the Course Offerings page.
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*Courses have weekly synchronous classes
Questions about writing a thesis? We've got answers.
Supporting Your Success at Western
Student Success
Learning Development & Success helps students succeed in graduate school. We cover areas such as time management, goal setting, research organization, habit creation, reading and note-taking strategies, motivation and positive mindsets, and so much more!
Tuition Fees & Affordability
Western releases Fee Schedules to itemize the fees and tuition rates associated with your studies.
Use the Graduate Student Affordability Calculator to estimate how much money you will need to pay for your tuition, fees, housing, food, and other necessities.
Financial Supports
As one of Canada's leading research institutions, Western places great importance on helping students finance their education. While at Western, students are encouraged to devote their full energy to the successful completion of their studies, and the university works to ensure the availability of stable funding.
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