College of Nursing

Master of Science in Nursing
Clinical Nurse Leader Emphasis

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Clinical Nurse Leader Emphasis blends the most current theoretical foundations of advanced nursing with evidence-based practice to prepare bachelor’s degree-holding nurses for advanced nursing roles. This emphasis is offered as a full time (two year) or part-time (three year) plan of study.

Developing caring and scholarly nurse leaders

The Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) emphasis equips nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. CNLs oversee the care coordination of a distinct group of patients, actively provide direct patient care in complex situations, evaluate patient outcomes and have decision-making authority to change care plans when necessary. Graduates of the Clinical Nurse Leader emphasis are required to pass the CNL Certification examination in order to be credentialed as a CNL. CNL students who pass the exam demonstrate a high level of clinical competence and knowledge to the point of care and serve as a resource for the nursing team. The exam can be taken during the student’s last semester.

Courses in the MSN CNL emphasis are charged at the UWO Graduate per credit rate.  This rate and tuition and fees information can be found on the Student Financial Services website.