
Bridge MSN: Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems Emphasis
journey today.

The Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems Bridge pathway at Grand Canyon University helps registered nurses (RNs) with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree in a health-related field make the transition to master’s degree studies. Explore modern nursing theory and evidence-based research in a curriculum that pairs instructional classes with experiential learning. Join leaders and change-makers on the forefront of nursing advancement by completing your bridge pathway and advancing to graduate-level nursing studies.

Our College of Nursing and Health Care Professions is committed to promoting the strength and integrity of the healthcare profession by educating professionals who provide highly competent, patient-focused care. With a priority on patient health and safety, we strive to prepare our students to make a positive impact.
This MSN bridge pathway is designed to prepare you to tackle graduate-level nursing curriculum with confidence. Examine the core competencies of leadership and management in healthcare, all through the lens of the Christian worldview. Prepare to apply evidence-based research in clinical care scenarios and work toward more favorable outcomes for your patients.
GCU understands that working professionals can benefit from flexibility in scheduling and geographic location. You can complete this online(See disclaimer 1) MSN bridge pathway through online classes, connecting to your instructors and peers. Access your coursework through our intuitive e-learning platform.
In this RN to MSN bridge pathway online,(See disclaimer 1) you can work to develop your skills in critical thinking, effective communication, leadership and administration of resources to help you position yourself for potential management roles in today’s complex healthcare environments. Upon completing the courses in the nursing bridge pathway, you may be prepared for entry into the MSN in leadership program. This bridge pathway offers focused preparation that may enable you to meet prerequisite requirements.
Through the Bridge MSN: Nursing Leadership emphasis, you can build on your existing nursing foundation by completing coursework from the BSN curriculum. You will also be required to complete a practicum course. Practicum experiences enable you to work with a preceptor who will support your education and guide your connection of theory and practice. You will be encouraged to take advantage of opportunities to demonstrate your knowledge of patient care and organizational leadership.
Explore core competencies such as:
Dynamics of nursing practice
Health assessment methodologies and health promotion strategies
Applied statistics
Nursing research methodologies and applications
Concepts in public health
Pathophysiological processes of diseases in patients across the lifespan
As an institutionally accredited university, we prioritize the quality of education and comprehensiveness of the curriculum with the goal of better preparing our students to step into leadership positions with integrity. The Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968. The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Following the completion of this bridge, you may decide to apply to one of our online(See disclaimer 1) master’s in nursing degrees that have received programmatic accreditation.

If you’re a current nurse looking to further your studies and prepare yourself to pursue leadership positions, this bridge pathway may be the right fit for you. Read through our frequently asked questions to learn more about this bridge pathway.
Can you get an MSN degree without a BSN?
What is the difference between a bridge and traditional MSN program?
What are the admission requirements for the Bridge MSN: Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems emphasis?

Interested in making a positive impact on healthcare systems and patients? Further your nursing education at GCU today.
Online: $340 per credit [More Info]
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission.
Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.