Nursing was an integral part of the Parker Memorial Hospital Training School, which served as the University’s first hospital in 1901. Although a nursing program was not officially established until 1920 within the School of Medicine, MU graduated its first nursing class in 1904. Sixteen years later, the Curators approved a Graduate Nursing designation. Today, the Sinclair School of Nursing provides a rich and rewarding learning environment for our students. Our faculty include knowledgeable and skillful teachers, respected scholars and researchers in the nursing profession, and experienced, caring practitioners. The master’s and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC, 20001, 202-463-6930.
Degrees Offered
Doctoral
Requires Campus Visits
The distance mediated Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares graduates to fulfill and excel in advanced nursing practice roles requiring advanced skills in Nursing Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist in delivery of health care to individuals, communities and populations.
Admission Criteria for the Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Submission of all official transcripts documenting a baccalaureate or master degree in Nursing from a program accredited by a national organization responsible for nursing accreditation (i.e. National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE))
- A grade point average (GPA) of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale based on the last 60 hours of undergraduate nursing course work for applicants with less than a master’s degree.
- A cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale for applicants with a master’s degree in nursing.
- Successful completion of a graduate level statistic course (eg. STAT 7020, ECP 7170) within 5 years or can be taken/completed in the first semester of enrollment.
- Submission of copies of current, unencumbered Registered Nurse license(s).
- Submission of copies of all advanced practice nursing certification and/or credentialing/recognition documents for applicants with a master’s degree.
- Submission of three (3) professional recommendations supporting the applicant’s potential success in the DNP program.
- Submission of curriculum vitae using the official MU Sinclair School of Nursing format (https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/doctor-of-nursing-practice/dnp-forms/).
- Documentation of English-language proficiency (of non-native English speaking applicants), demonstrated through a satisfactory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score within the last two years.
Application Deadlines for All DNP Programs
| Entrance Term | Application Deadline |
| Summer | February 15 |
| Fall | February 15 |
| Spring | September 30 |
Minimum Language Requirements
Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores
Required Application Materials
For the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
- The DNP program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the DNP program directly for application process.
- Kira Talent is being used in place of a live or in-person interview and is accessed through NursingCAS. Kira Talent consists of a series of written and recorded responses to a series of questions.
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the DNP program)
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
On Campus Requires Campus Visits
The MU Sinclair School of Nursing (MU SSON) is one of a handful of PhD programs in the U.S. open to nurses and non-nurses. The interprofessional aspect of our PhD program is made possible by the wide range of academic backgrounds our MU SSON faculty have and well as our strong, interdisciplinary research connections across the campus including but not limited to biostatistics, education, family and community medicine, health informatics, human development and family science, journalism, public health, social work, and veterinary medicine.
MU SSON offers a challenging and yet enriching PhD program with two options: Online PhD Option and International Residential PhD Option. The PhD curriculum, program requirements, and program outcomes are the same whether you choose the Online PhD option or the International Residential Nursing PhD option. Only the method of course delivery varies.
Career Preparation
Our doctor of philosophy in nursing (PhD) program prepares clinical scholars, educators, and researchers for leadership roles in a variety of academic, industry, and healthcare settings. Because the knowledge and skills needed to produce excellent health-related research is not discipline specific, the PhD program does not require a prior degree in nursing. Indeed, we have had PhD students with academic preparation in health administration, health education, medical ethics, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, public health and social work.
International Admission for Nursing PhD Program
All international admissions are initially the responsibility of the MU Coordinator of International Student Programs. The PhD Program Committee of the School of Nursing may not act upon any international application for admission until the applicant has been cleared through the office.
Non-native English speaking applicants need documentation of English-language proficiency, demonstrated through a satisfactory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score within the last two years.
Minimum Language Requirements
Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores
Depending upon English-language proficiency, you may be required to enroll in English Language Support Program courses along with a reduced academic course load. You must pass these courses within the first calendar year of enrollment.
Overview of the PhD Application Process
- The PhD application is fully online via the MU Graduate School website.
- You will submit a fee to MU Graduate School when you apply.
- You will not send any items to the MU SSON at the time of application.
- Competitive applicants with a strong research mentor match are invited to participate in an interview.
- Early acceptance applicants are notified in the later part of February.
- Regular acceptance applicants are notified no later than mid-April. All new PhD cohorts start in the summer session.
Application Deadlines
| Entrance Term | Priority Deadline | Final Deadline |
| Summer | December 1 (for early acceptance and international applicants) | February 1 (for regular acceptance) |
Application Requirements for the PhD in Nursing
PhD applicants entering with a bachelor’s degree: Bachelor’s degree in nursing from NLNAC, ACEN, CNEA or CCNE-accredited school OR equivalent for non-nurse applicants; 3.3 minimum GPA (4.0 scale).
- Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements OR do not have a cumulative GPA must submit acceptable scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and the exam must have been taken within the last five years.
PhD applicants entering with a graduate degree: Master’s or doctoral degree in nursing from NLNAC, ACEN, CNEA or CCNE-accredited school OR equivalent for non-nurse applicants; minimum 3.5 GPA (4.0 scale).
- Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements or do not have a cumulative GPA must submit acceptable scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and the exam must have been taken within the last five years.
Recommended minimum GRE scores (if required)
| Test Type | Verbal | Quantitative | Analytical |
| GRE | 153 | 144 | 4.0 |
- Completed MU Graduate School Online Application
- Current curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
- Three (3) professional recommendations
- Personal statement of research goals and interests – Describes what you want to study, who you want to study with, and why you want to study at the Sinclair School of Nursing
- Writing sample (if available; Post-DNP applicants need to include an artifact of their DNP scholarly project)
- Registered Nurse (RN) license – Does not apply to non-nurse PhD applicants; international nursing applicants should submit license from their country
- Satisfactory TOEFL or IELTS scores within last 2 years (non-native English speaking applicants only)
Note: As of April 2016, a graduate level statistics course is no longer required as a prerequisite for the PhD program.
Holistic Review
The MU SSON PhD program uses a comprehensive, holistic review process. In a holistic review process, we consider the applicant as a whole individual, not merely select parts, such as GPA or GRE test scores. In doing so, we evaluate applicants based on who will contribute to the MU SSON’s academic community in meaningful ways.
Holistic review takes into account factors such as a research mentor match, academic and professional goals, student’s strength of undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) coursework, grade trends, special circumstances, and ability to enhance the diversity of the program. By evaluating the applicant from a holistic perspective, we take the time to get to know applicants as people, not as numbers.
Master's
Requires Campus Visits
Admission Criteria
The distance mediated master of science (MS(N)) program prepares graduates to fulfill and excel in advanced nursing practice roles requiring advanced skills in Nursing Education, Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist in delivery of health care to individuals, communities and populations.
Application Deadlines for All MSN Programs
| Entrance Term | Application Deadline |
| Summer | February 15 |
| Fall | February 15 |
| Spring | September 30 |
Requirements
To be considered for admission to the Sinclair School of Nursing’s master’s degree program, students must meet the following requirements:
- A degree from a nationally accredited baccalaureate nursing program.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 credit hours of the baccalaureate program.
- Current licensure as a registered nurse.
- Resume or curriculum vitae.
International Student Admission for Nursing MS
- All international admissions are initially the responsibility of the MU Coordinator of International Student Programs. The MS/DNP Curriculum Committee of the School of Nursing may not act upon any international application for admission until the applicant has been cleared through the office.
- Non-native English speaking applicants need documentation of English-language proficiency, demonstrated through a satisfactory Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score within the last two years.
Minimum Language Requirements
Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores
- International students must submit a photocopy of a current RN license from their home country with their Masters application.
- International nurses must obtain a Missouri RN license prior to beginning coursework.
Required Application Materials
For the Nursing Program
- The MSN program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the MSN program directly for application process.
- Kira Talent is being used in place of a live or in-person interview and is accessed through NursingCAS. Kira Talent consists of a series of written and recorded responses to a series of questions.
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the MSN program)
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
Graduate Certificate
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 18.5
Certificate Description: Students who pursue the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner area of study will be prepared as expert clinicians to deliver evidence based advanced primary mental health care to individuals of all ages (e.g., children, adolescents, adults) and their families in a variety of healthcare settings, including in rural and underserved populations. The student will engage in independent and interdependent decision-making, managing psychotropic medications, and delivering psychotherapeutic, and psychoeducation interventions.
Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/
Admission Criteria
| Entrance Term | Priority Application Deadline | Final Application Deadline |
| Fall | September 30 | February 15 |
A holistic review process is utilized for admission, however, students interested in the Graduate Certificate program should meet the following admission criteria:
- Advanced practice nursing certification and/or credentialing.
- Master degree nursing from a program accredited by a national organization responsible for nursing accreditation (i.e. Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- The program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the Nursing program directly for application process.
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the Graduate Certificate program)
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 22.5
Certificate Description: Student who pursue the PCNS will be prepared provide direct patient care from wellness through acute care with a focus on complex and vulnerable pediatric populations. The Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist student will also be prepared to influence care outcomes by acting as a resource and providing expert consultation for nursing staff and other health professionals by implementing evidence based practice initiatives to support improvements in health care delivery systems.
Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/
Admission Criteria
| Entrance Term | Application Deadline |
| Fall | February 15 |
| Spring | September 30 |
A holistic review process is utilized for admission, however, students interested in the Graduate Certificate program should meet the following admission criteria:
- Advanced practice nursing certification and/or credentialing.
- Master degree nursing from a program accredited by a national organization responsible for nursing accreditation (i.e. Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- The program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the Nursing program directly for application process.
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the Graduate Certificate program)
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 19.5
Certificate Description: Students who pursue the Family Nurse Practitioner area of study will be prepared to deliver evidence based comprehensive primary healthcare to individuals of all ages, from birth through older adulthood. he FNP role includes the diagnosis and treatment of common acute and episodic health problems as well as the management of chronic diseases. The student will utilize current research to provide health education to individuals and families and demonstrate expertise in health promotion and disease prevention. In addition, the student will be prepared to work independently and collaboratively to integrate advanced knowledge in the delivery of care to all populations including rural and other underserved communities.
Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/
Admission Criteria
| Entrance Term | Application Deadline |
| Fall | February 15 |
| Spring | September 30 |
A holistic review process is utilized for admission, however, students interested in the Graduate Certificate program should meet the following admission criteria:
- Advanced practice nursing certification and/or credentialing.
- Master degree nursing from a program accredited by a national organization responsible for nursing accreditation (i.e. Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- The program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the Nursing program directly for application process.
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the Graduate Certificate program)
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 22.5
Certificate Description: Student who pursue the AGCNS will be prepared as expert clinicians to provide direct patient care from wellness through acute care with a focus on complex and vulnerable adult and older adult populations. The AGCNS student will also be prepared to influence care outcomes by acting as a resource and providing expert consultation for nursing staff and other health professionals by implementing evidence-based practice initiatives to support improvements in health care delivery systems.
Certificate Web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/
Admission Criteria
| Entrance Term | Application Deadline |
| Fall | February 15 |
| Spring | September 30 |
A holistic review process is utilized for admission, however, students interested in the Graduate Certificate program should meet the following admission criteria:
- Advanced practice nursing certification and/or credentialing.
- Master degree nursing from a program accredited by a national organization responsible for nursing accreditation (i.e. Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- The program application process begins in the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS). Please contact the Nursing program directly for application process.
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the Graduate Certificate program)
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 15
Certificate description: The graduate certificate in Participatory Health Research confirms the completion of graduate level training in the rationale, theoretical underpinnings, methods, and applications of participatory approaches for health and health systems. This methodology strives to develop equitable partnerships among host communities, stakeholders, policy makers, health care providers and researchers in an effort to work together to develop strategies and interventions that will enhance the health of a population.
Certificate web site:
https://nursing.missouri.edu/academic-programs/
Application Deadlines
| Entrance Term | Application Deadline |
| Summer | March 1 |
| Fall | June 1 |
| Spring | October 1 |
Application Process
- Current Mizzou Graduate Students: Complete the Change of Program Form and submit the form directly to the Participatory Health Research program.
- New/Returning Mizzou Graduate Students: Students new to Mizzou or former Mizzou graduate students returning after a semester break or longer, should complete the Graduate Application for Admission. Please include the application materials listed below in your online application.
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application (After acceptance to the Care Management program)
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae
- Essay
- Nursing supplemental information (built into the Graduate School application)
- Writing sample (optional)
- A copy of license for licensed health care professionals only (e.g. R.N., M.D.)
Minor
The minor is open to graduate students in the Sinclair School of Nursing as well as nurses interested in teaching in a school of nursing who are graduate students in other departments on campus (e.g. Health Education, Public Health, Health Management and Informatics, Human Development and Family Studies, etc.). Graduate nursing students who already have a MS in Nursing Education or a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education will not be eligible for a graduate minor in nursing education as their prior graduate coursework is substantively identical to the required courses.
The graduate minor in nursing education consists of a minimum of 10 graduate credit hours of nursing education coursework.
All students are required to take two core courses for graduate minor:
- N8854 Teaching Strategies in Nursing (3 cr)
- N8864 Curriculum Development in Nursing (3 cr)
- N8874 Evaluation Strategies in Nursing and Healthcare (3cr)
After completion of the two core courses, students will complete a faculty supervised 4 credit teaching nursing practicum. Students may select from two practicum courses which best meet their learning needs and professional goals:
- N8950 Teaching Nursing Practicum (4 cr) or N8954 Distance-Mediated Teaching Nursing Practicum (4 cr).
These aforementioned courses also can be supplemented by problems courses.
100% Online
Healthcare is experiencing a tremendous growth of innovation in products and services to improve the healthcare industry. As innovation has expanded so has the need for health care leaders to understand growing innovative trends, determine how to integrate innovation into health system organizations, and determine which innovative practices are financially viable to support health care institutions.
To support this growing trend of innovation the graduate Minor in Health System Innovation offered by the Sinclair School of Nursing will provide advanced learners with the skills they need to lead organizations, understand emerging technologies, and determine how to care for individuals using innovation and technology.
Students with graduate standing may select 9-12 credit hours from the designated courses listed below to be awarded the graduate minor.
N8820 Healthcare Financial Management (4 credits)
N8830 Nursing Application and Innovation in Informatics (3 credits)
N8840 Nursing Leadership, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (3 credits)
N8860 Organizations & Human Resource Management in Nursing (3 credits)