Become an NP
Graduate Entry Prespecialty in Nursing (GEPN)
For students without prior nursing training who want to become nurse practitioners. Choose whether the MSN or DNP pathway is right for you.
Academic programs
Discover your Yale Nursing pathway
No matter where you're starting from, YSN has programs and pathways that meet you where you are and help you take the next step in your nursing journey. Learn more about potential pathways below.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few questions to identify the programs that may fit your background and goals.
Open the Program Explorer →For Non-Nurses
Holding a bachelor's degree, with no prior nursing experience requiredBecome an RN
Master of Nursing (MN)
A residential program for bachelor's-degree holding non-nurses preparing for RN licensure and future opportunities as educators or in doctoral study.
For Licensed RNs
Seeking advanced practice preparation to become a board-certified nurse practitionerRN to DNP
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
For registered nurses seeking advanced doctoral training to become board certified nurse practitioners.
RN to MSN
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
For RNs seeking specialty preparation as nurse practitioners and advanced clinicians.
Flexible PMHNP
Hybrid MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health
Interactive online coursework with immersive on-campus experiences in small cohorts.
For Advanced Practice Nurses
Interested in further doctoral study, adding new practice areas, or researchMSN to DNP
Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
For advanced nurses pursuing leadership or advanced clinical practice pathways.
Expand your scope
Post-Master's Certificates (PMC)
For certified nurse practitioners seeking certification in a new specialty area of practice.
Research & scholarship
Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
Full-time training for nurse scientists conducting original research and innovation.
Yale GSAS admissionsReady to apply?
Each program has its own requirements, materials, and submission process. Review the full application instructions before you begin.
Financial aid
Financing your YSN education
A Yale nursing education is an important investment, and most students finance it through a combination of sources. Over 85% of YSN students receive scholarship funding, awarded at admission with no separate application, and our financial aid team works with you one-on-one to build a plan from scholarships, federal and private loans, and outside funding.
85%+
Scholarship support
Many YSN students receive merit- or need-based scholarship funding, awarded through a holistic admissions review. Domestic and international applicants are considered automatically, with no separate scholarship application required.
1:1
A plan built with you
Our financial aid specialist meets with you individually to model your full cost, walk through federal and private loan options, and surface funding students often miss, so you have a strategy in place before the first bill arrives.
Beyond loans
Ways to borrow less
Service programs like the National Health Service Corps and Nurse Corps, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, veterans benefits including the Yellow Ribbon Program, and external scholarships can meaningfully offset your degree. Our team can help you explore your options.
Explore financial aid →Questions about paying for YSN? Email ysn.financialaid@yale.edu.
Why Yale School of Nursing
Preparation Grounded in Practice and Scholarship
At Yale School of Nursing, students learn from actively practicing clinicians and scholars, develop skills through advanced simulation and clinical experiences, and join a global community committed to improving health and reducing health disparities in the communities they serve.
Excellence recognized worldwide
YSN graduates are sought out across leading health systems, supported by Yale's global reach. Join a network of over 6000 YSN alumni worldwide.
Career readinessDedicated clinical support
Placement coordination and advising so you can focus on learning, growth, and patient care. Our Clinical Support Unit has your back.
Student supportFaculty grounded in practice
Learn from expert clinicians and scholars who connect evidence, innovation, and real-world care. The real world is your classroom.
Practice + scholarshipTechnology-rich training
Simulation and technology mirroring real care settings so practice is purposeful and confident. Over 10k square feet of highly advanced sim technology is an investment in your future practice.
Skills practice
Connect with us
Connect with us to learn more
Have questions about program fit, prerequisites, financing, student life or anything else? Connect with admissions staff or a current student.
Information sessions
Join a live virtual session with admissions staff and faculty to learn about programs, the application process, and next steps.
View information sessionsMeet the admissions team
Schedule a one-on-one conversation about your background, goals, and program options.
Schedule a meetingStudent ambassadors
Hear directly from current students about coursework, clinical experiences, and life at Yale School of Nursing.
Connect with a student ambassadorStill have questions? Email ysn.admissions@yale.edu or submit the request information form, and our admissions team will follow up.