Montana State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core biological and behavioural sciences with progressive clinical nursing coursework and extensive supervised practicum. Early study focuses on anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology and health assessment. Upper‑division nursing modules commonly include adult health nursing, maternal and child health, paediatric nursing, mental health/psychiatric nursing, community and public health nursing, and care of the older adult.

Across the programme students engage with courses in evidence‑based practice and nursing research, quality and safety, ethics and legal aspects of care, and leadership/management of nursing services. Clinical skills are developed in campus simulation laboratories and in clinical placements across hospitals, primary care, long‑term care and community settings; many students complete a senior capstone or practicum project that integrates research, administration or advanced clinical practice.

Students seeking particular emphasis in administration, nursing research or advanced clinical practice typically select elective modules and placement experiences that align with those pathways—examples include nursing leadership and finance, programme evaluation and research methods, or advanced clinical practicum in specialty areas.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with requisite science preparation. Typical prerequisites include courses in biology (with laboratory), chemistry and college‑level English; mathematics and psychology coursework are often recommended. Admission to the upper‑division nursing sequence is competitive and normally requires completion of specified general education and science prerequisites, a demonstrated academic record, and fulfilment of clinical clearance requirements such as immunisations, background check and basic life‑support certification.

There are pathways for students who are already licensed RNs (RN‑to‑BSN) and for second‑degree applicants; RN applicants must hold an active nursing licence. Exact documentation, application steps and any interview or testing requirements are provided by the College of Nursing during the application process.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to sit national licensure examinations where applicable and enter roles as registered nurses in acute care hospitals, community and public health agencies, primary care clinics, long‑term care facilities and home health services. With electives or practicum emphasis in administration, graduates move into charge nurse and unit management roles and into quality improvement, case management and healthcare administration positions.

Those who focus on nursing research gain skills to work as research assistants, clinical trial coordinators or to support evidence‑based practice initiatives within health systems. Clinically focused graduates may pursue specialty practice areas or prepare for graduate clinical programmes (such as advanced practice nursing). The degree also provides a foundation for careers in health policy, education and informatics and for further study at the master’s and doctoral levels.

Why study at Montana State University

Montana State University’s nursing education emphasises hands‑on learning and preparation for practice in a range of healthcare environments, including rural and frontier settings characteristic of the region. Students benefit from modern simulation facilities, interprofessional learning opportunities and clinical partnerships with regional hospitals, community health organisations and long‑term care providers.

The College of Nursing places particular emphasis on community engagement, rural health and preparing nurses who can adapt to workforce needs across Montana and beyond. Faculty are experienced clinicians and researchers who supervise clinical placements and support undergraduate research and leadership activities, helping graduates transition into professional practice or further study.