Ferrum College Master of Science: Clinical Nurse Leader (MSN CNL) students enjoy a fast paced 100% online curriculum that can be completed in 12 months and prepares nurses to take the national Clinical Nurse Leader credentialed exam. Ferrum CNL graduates are prepared to be leaders in nursing as expert clinicians, educators, advocates, as well as outcome and information managers.
The Ferrum MSN CNL program includes summer sessions and clinical leadership experiences. The course of study includes didactic courses and 540 hours of clinical practicums to be eligible to sit for the CNL Certification Examination.
As a Ferrum MSN CNL student, you will attain proficiency in systematic inquiry with the use of evidenced-based knowledge. We believe the MSN CNL prepares graduates to assume advanced roles in nursing improving healthcare outcomes through quality management and evidence-based practice. In alignment with the Ferrum College’s mission and strategic goals, the program is designed to develop partnerships and outreach programs as it strengthens ties to this rural community to meet the workforce need of nurses with a higher level of education for leadership roles. You will graduate equipped to apply your acquired knowledge of leadership skills in both organizational and practice settings.
Benefits of the MSN CNL program:
The Clinical Nurse Leader is a master’s educated nurse. Graduates are not nurse practitioners, but are prepared for practice across the continuum of care within any healthcare setting and tend to rise quickly in whatever environment they choose.
The CNL was developed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing in collaboration with leaders from healthcare practice and education to address the critical need to improve the quality of patient care outcomes. The CNL is a clinical leader at the point of care focused on the following:
Learn more about the role of the CNL and the CNL Competencies and Curricular Expectation on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing website.
The Ferrum College CNL is an exceptional program for motivated, high-achieving nurses interested in pursuing graduate study to prepare for nursing leadership. As an accelerated/fast-paced one year program available to those who already have at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing, the Ferrum CNL is a supportive online community where students received guidance from chair of nursing Dr. Melody Sharp and Ferrum’s dedicated faculty, staff and clinical partners. Ferrum MSN CNL graduates are eligible to assume positions in a wide variety of clinical settings.
To be considered for the MSN: CNL Program, applicants must:
Accreditation: We have been deemed eligible on 2/6/24 to participate in the candidacy process with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This eligibility for the master’s program is valid for one year and will expire on February 6th, 2025. Ferrum College will submit a Candidacy Presentation for the nursing program prior to this date.
View the catalog for all program courses and degree requirements.
