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Fall 2026 admission opens on August 7

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Take Your Next Step at Yale

Advance with purpose and become a Yale-trained Nurse Practitioner in just two years

If you're already a registered nurse ready to deepen your clinical expertise and pursue a career as an advanced practice nurse practitioner, Yale School of Nursing’s MSN program offers a powerful next step. The 2-year program builds on your nursing experience while preparing you for advanced roles in areas of specialty such as primary care, mental health, women’s health, and midwifery.

Why the MSN Program at Yale?

Choose your own
clinical pathway

With eight advanced practice specialties to choose from, the curriculum is designed to align with your professional goals - whether that’s mental health, midwifery, primary care, or beyond. Whichever specialty you choose, your YSN degree opens doors.

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.

Faculty mentorship
at the highest level

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 five unique concentrations 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. You’ll have access to comprehensive services that ensure your academic success and personal well-being throughout the program.

Yale NPs are On-Call and In-Demand

96.2%

of nurse practitioners in the US prescribe medications

$132,050

the median salary for NPs in 2024, according to the US Bureau for Labor Statistics

40%

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

Who is eligible for the MSN program?

The MSN program is designed for registered nurses who wish to obtain the training necessary to become advanced pracrtice nurse practitioners. Applicants must be registered nurses (or in the process of finishing a program leading to sitting for the NCLEX and obtaining licensure). Applicants who do not have a bachelor's degree in nursing must have graduated with a credential (such as ASN or AA) from a school of nursing approved by the licensing board of the state in which it is located.

How do I apply to the Yale MSN?

All applicants 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 the program cost?

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

How long does the program take to complete?

The MSN program can be completed in two years of full-time study. Part-time study is available in selected specialties.

Are scholarships available?

Yes! Over 70% 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?

MSN 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 MSN program must select specialty when applying. 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.

I have questions, can someone help me?

Absolutely! We’re here to support you throughout the application process. You can contact the Office of Admissions at ysn.admissions@yale.edu or call us at 203-737-1793. We’re happy to answer your questions, connect you with resources, or schedule a time to speak one-on-one.

Choose a specialty area right for you:

Adult/ Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

Care for adults and older adults across the health spectrum—from outpatient clinics to hospitals and intensive care units. Specialize in primary or acute care, depending on your clinical interests and career goals.

Family
Nurse Practitioner

Deliver primary care across the lifespan, managing health for individuals and families in a wide range of settings. Build lasting relationships while promoting wellness and preventing disease.

Nurse
Midwifery

Provide holistic, evidence-based care during pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Serve people across the reproductive lifespan in hospitals, birth centers, and community-based practices.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Specialize in the physical, emotional, and developmental needs of children and adolescents. Focus on either primary or acute care in clinics, hospitals, and pediatric specialty settings.

Psychiatric-
Mental Health

Assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions in patients of all ages. Practice in outpatient, inpatient, telehealth, or community settings. Available in both on-campus and hybrid formats.

Women's
Health

Deliver primary and reproductive health care with an emphasis on prevention, wellness, and equity. Prepare to care for patients across the reproductive lifespan in diverse clinical environments.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Yale Nursing Journey?

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