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Graduate Entry Prespecialty in Nursing
Yale Nursing for Non-Nurses
Earn a Master of Science in Nursing and become a nurse practitioner in just three years!
The demand for nurse practitioners is growing and the field offers countless rewarding and well-compensated opportunities. The Graduate Entry Prespecialty in Nursing (GEPN) program at Yale allows those without a nursing background to become Yale trained nurse practitioners in just 3 years. Our state-of-the-art clinical education, taught by world class faculty who maintain active clinical practices, gives Yale graduates the advantage in this exciting field.
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Why the GEPN Program at Yale?
No prior nursing
experience required
YSN was the first school to pioneer the direct entry model, allowing non-nurses to become advanced practice nurse practitioners. Now you can take advantage of this opportunity to become a board-certified nurse practitioner in just 3 years!
Technology-enhanced education
YSN students benefit from a state-of-the-art education, including over 8,000 square feet of newly renovated simulation space and cutting edge artificial reality technology.
World-class faculty and clinical mentorship
You'll learn from Yale’s distinguished faculty and clinical leaders who are at the forefront of practice and education. With a student faculty ratio of just 5:1, you'll work closely alongside them as you develop your own portfolio of clinical skills.
A curriculum to fit your interests
By adding one of six unique concentrations or tracks to your studies, you can explore an area of care you're passionate about or discover entirely new populations, problems or approaches you may be interested in.
World-renowned
Yale quality
YSN is consistently ranked among the top nursing schools in the United States and globally, and has a number of specialties ranked in the top 10 in the US. Whether a large hospital system or a small practice, prospective employers look for Yale graduates.
Unparalleled academic support
Yale students can access a range of support services tailored to help you succeed academically and personally. From academic advising to mental health resources, we are committed to your well-being and success in the program.
Yale NPs are On-Call and In-Demand
96.2%
of nurse practitioners in the US prescribe medications
$126,260
the mean salary for NPs in 2023, according to the US Bureau for Labor Statistics
38%
projected growth in jobs over 10 years, much faster than other occupations
46.5%
of full-time nurse practitioners hold hospital privileges across the US
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?
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 good academic background, commitment to nursing, and an ability to articulate how your academic and professional goals align with YSN's mission.
How do I apply?
All applicants to GEPN must submit an application via NursingCAS, the centralized application service for nursing schools and programs. You'll need to submit an application, official transcripts from all institutions you've attended, a personal statement, resume/CV, and 3 letters of recommendation. For a complete list of requirements and deadlines, please visit the How to Apply 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 to complete?
The GEPN program consists of a full-time, intensive prelicensure year, followed by two additional years in the selected Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) specialty track.
Are scholarships available?
Yes! Over 80% of our student body receives scholarship support and YSN offers a comprehensive program of need-based and merit-based scholarships to both domestic and international students. Consideration for these awards is typically made as part of the regular application for admission and no separate application is required. For more information on financial aid options, please visit the financial aidpage.
What kinds of clinical experience will I get?
GEPN students gain hands-on experience through diverse clinical placements, including top hospitals, community health centers, and specialty care settings, ensuring comprehensive training across different patient populations.
Do I have to choose a specialty when I apply?
Yes, applicants to the GEPN program must select a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) specialty when they apply. Your chosen specialty determines your advanced nursing focus after completing the prelicensure year. While specialty changes may be possible in extremely rare cases, admission is based on alignment with your selected specialty and your demonstrated commitment to that field.
Choose a specialty area right for you:
Adult/ Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
Care for adults and older adults in a variety of health care settings, including acute and critically ill patients.
Family
Nurse Practitioner
Provide primary care across the lifespan, including pediatrics, adolescents, adults, and older adults.
Nurse
Midwifery
Assist with pregnancy and childbirth and provide family-centered primary health care.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Provide complex, comprehensive care to infants, children, adolescent 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.
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Yale Nursing Journey?
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