GEPN Landing Page

Why the GEPN Program at Yale?

YSN pioneered the direct-entry model for non-nurses — and has spent decades perfecting it. Here's what sets a Yale nursing education apart.

No Prior Nursing Experience Required

YSN was the first school to pioneer the direct-entry model. Become a board-certified nurse practitioner in just 3 years, regardless of your undergraduate background.

World-Class Faculty & Clinical Mentorship

Learn from distinguished faculty who maintain active clinical practices. With a 5:1 student-faculty ratio, you'll develop your skills alongside leaders at the forefront of nursing.

Technology-Enhanced Education

Over 8,000 sq ft of newly renovated simulation space and cutting-edge augmented reality technology give Yale students a distinct clinical advantage.

World-Renowned Yale Quality

Consistently ranked among the top nursing schools in the US, with multiple specialties in the top 10. Prospective employers actively seek Yale graduates.

A Curriculum to Fit Your Interests

Choose from six unique specialty tracks to align your studies with your passion — from pediatrics and midwifery to psychiatric-mental health and acute care.

Yale nursing student community and support

Unparalleled Academic Support

From academic advising to mental health resources, Yale is committed to your wellbeing and success throughout the program and beyond.

BY THE NUMBERS

NPs Are On-Call and In-Demand

96.2%

of US NPs prescribe medications

(American Association of Nurse Practitioners)

$129K

median NP salary in 2024

(US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

35%

projected job growth over 10 years

(US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

40.6%

of US NPs hold hospital privileges

(American Association of Nurse Practitioners)

Choose a Specialty Right for You

GEPN applicants select a specialty at the time of application. Research each track carefully — your chosen area shapes your entire advanced nursing focus.

Adult/Gerontology NP (Primary or Acute)

Care for adults and older adults in a variety of settings, including acute and critically ill patients.

Family Nurse Practitioner

Provide primary care across the lifespan — pediatrics, adolescents, adults, and older adults.

Nurse Midwifery

Assist with pregnancy and childbirth; provide family-centered primary health care.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary or Acute)

Provide comprehensive care to infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.

Psychiatric–Mental Health

Care for individuals with psychiatric needs using pharmaceutical and psychotherapeutic approaches.

Women's Health

Care for women from adolescence through later life — gynecology, prenatal care, and primary care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GEPN? +

The Graduate Entry Prespecialty in Nursing (GEPN) program is an accelerated pathway for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree to become registered nurses and advance into specialized nursing practice.

Who is eligible to apply? +

The GEPN program is designed for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and wish to become advanced practice nurses. No prior healthcare experience is required — only a strong academic background, genuine commitment to nursing, and the ability to articulate how your goals align with YSN's mission.

How do I apply? +

All GEPN applicants must apply via NursingCAS. You'll need to submit an application, official transcripts, a personal statement, resume/CV, and 3 letters of recommendation. For the complete requirements and deadlines, visit the program page.

How much does it cost? +

For a comprehensive breakdown of tuition costs, visit the tuition and fees page.

How long does the program take? +

The GEPN program consists of a full-time, intensive prelicensure year, followed by two additional years in your selected MSN specialty track — three years total to board certification.

Are scholarships available? +

Yes! Over 80% of our student body receives scholarship support. YSN offers both need-based and merit-based scholarships to domestic and international students. Scholarship consideration is built into the regular application process — no separate application required. Learn more on the financial aid page.

What clinical experience will I gain? +

GEPN students complete hands-on clinical placements at top hospitals, community health centers, and specialty care settings — ensuring comprehensive training across diverse patient populations.

Do I need to choose a specialty when I apply? +

Yes. Applicants must select an MSN specialty when applying. Your chosen specialty determines your advanced nursing focus after the prelicensure year. Admission is based in part on the fit between your background and your selected specialty, so take time to research each track carefully before applying.

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Yale Nursing for Non-Nurses