MS Nursing

The Master of Science (MS) in Nursing program at Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses with the skills necessary for leadership, clinical expertise, and evidence-based practice in the nursing profession. The program offers a comprehensive education that integrates advanced clinical practice with management, research, and policy-making. Students benefit from a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, positioning them for impactful roles in various healthcare settings.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MS in Nursing program at HPU is structured to provide a robust foundation in advanced nursing practice. Core courses cover essential areas such as Advanced Health Assessment, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, and Nursing Theory. Students also engage in specialized coursework depending on their chosen track, which may include Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) roles. The program emphasizes clinical practice, with students completing supervised clinical hours to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The curriculum is designed to meet the standards set by accrediting bodies and to prepare graduates for certification exams.

Research Focus: The research focus in the MS Nursing program at HPU is centered on advancing nursing practice through evidence-based research. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects that explore various aspects of nursing care, healthcare delivery, and patient outcomes. Research areas may include topics such as chronic disease management, health promotion, patient safety, and healthcare disparities. Faculty members are actively involved in research and mentor students in developing their research skills, contributing to the advancement of nursing science and practice.

Industry Engagement: HPU’s MS in Nursing program emphasizes strong industry engagement, connecting students with healthcare professionals and organizations. The program includes opportunities for internships, clinical placements, and collaborative projects with local hospitals, clinics, and healthcare agencies. This engagement allows students to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and stay current with industry trends. Additionally, the program facilitates interactions with guest speakers and industry experts who provide insights into the latest developments in nursing and healthcare.

Global Perspective: The MS in Nursing program at HPU incorporates a global perspective by examining nursing practices and healthcare issues from an international viewpoint. Students explore global health challenges, such as infectious diseases, health disparities, and healthcare access. The program also offers opportunities for international field experiences or partnerships, allowing students to gain exposure to global health practices and understand how different countries address healthcare issues. This global perspective enriches students' understanding of nursing and prepares them to work in diverse and international healthcare environments.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 100 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 135.

Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) offers various scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are intended to help ease the financial burden of higher education and are awarded based on a range of criteria, including academic achievement, financial need, and specific program requirements.

HPU International Scholarship: HPU provides merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students based on their academic performance and potential. The HPU International Scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and have strong potential for success in their chosen field of study. This scholarship can significantly reduce the cost of tuition and other academic expenses.

Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The Presidential Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards offered by HPU. It is designed for high-achieving international students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, and extracurricular activities. This scholarship is highly competitive and offers substantial financial support to help cover tuition fees and other related costs.

Need-Based Scholarships: HPU also offers need-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate financial need. These scholarships are intended to provide additional support to students who require financial assistance to meet their educational expenses. Eligibility for these scholarships is determined through a review of the student’s financial situation and academic performance.

Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic programs at HPU may have their own scholarship opportunities for international students. These program-specific scholarships are awarded based on criteria related to the student’s field of study, research interests, or professional goals. Students are encouraged to check with their specific program department for available scholarships and application procedures.

Graduates of the Master of Science (MS) in Nursing program from Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) are well-prepared for a wide range of advanced roles within the healthcare sector. The program equips them with the expertise and skills needed for leadership, clinical excellence, and specialized practice. 

Nurse Practitioner (NP): Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary and specialty care to patients. They diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and manage patient care across various settings such as clinics, hospitals, and private practices.

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL): Clinical Nurse Leaders coordinate and manage patient care at the point of care, focusing on improving patient outcomes and ensuring high-quality care delivery. They work in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health centers.

Nurse Educator: Nurse Educators teach and train future nurses in academic or clinical settings. They develop curricula, conduct lectures, and mentor students in nursing programs, contributing to the advancement of nursing education and practice.

Nurse Administrator: Nurse Administrators manage nursing departments or healthcare facilities, overseeing operations, budgeting, and staffing. They play a crucial role in strategic planning, policy development, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.

Healthcare Consultant: Healthcare Consultants provide expert advice to healthcare organizations on improving efficiency, patient care, and operational practices. They analyze data, develop strategies, and implement solutions to enhance healthcare delivery.

Clinical Research Coordinator: Clinical Research Coordinators manage and oversee clinical trials and research studies. They ensure compliance with research protocols, recruit participants, and collect and analyze data, contributing to advancements in medical science.

Public Health Nurse: Public Health Nurses focus on community health and disease prevention. They develop and implement public health programs, conduct health assessments, and educate communities about health and wellness.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN): APRNs encompass various specializations, including Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Clinical Nurse Specialists. They provide specialized care in areas such as anesthesia, women’s health, and acute care.

Health Policy Analyst: Health Policy Analysts evaluate and develop healthcare policies and programs. They work with government agencies, non-profits, or research organizations to analyze healthcare issues and advocate for policy changes that improve health outcomes.

Patient Safety Officer: Patient Safety Officers focus on improving patient safety and quality of care within healthcare facilities. They develop safety protocols, conduct risk assessments, and work to reduce medical errors and enhance patient care standards.