Attention AZ MEPN 2013 and 2014 students and alumni ONLY! How do you explain your MS-RN ?

[NoTurningBack]

So Arizona is the only school with an MEPN program that leads to an MS-RN title/license. Let's face it... MS-RN is a very silly way to name this. It has already caused all kinds of confusion for me when it comes to talking with others. If they just official called it an MSN-RN, life would be easier for everyone. I am sure that there is some legal/technical reason as to why they can't do that but that doesn't make it any better!

Questions:

** What are they telling you to do when you are applying for another program that requires a BSN? I ask because one place already told me that I needed a BSN and an MS-RN won't work. That could be a part of confusion but it is still the decision.

** Are they still saying that you can't claim to have an MSN, meaning a Master's of Science in Nursing, even though you do? Is it really that bad (or illegal) to call this thing an MSN-RN on a resume? (You could just call it a typo if they ask right? )

** Are grads getting jobs?

Any AZ MEPN STUDENTS OR ALUMNI please give your two cents! Thanks!!

[Maycation]

Hi, I did not graduate from this program, but did research it extensively when I was considering options for nursing school and I know someone currently in the program. Are you in the program now? Because from what I understand, the degree you earn as an MEPN student is officially called "Master of Science, Entry to the Profession of Nursing", which gets you the MS-RN behind your name. A MSN is a "Master of Science in Nursing". From what I gathered they are not the same because of the different requirements and focus. This makes sense to me because the MEPN program at U of A is only 15 months compared to other Master entry level programs that are 3 years and you obtain your MSN, like at USF. That being said, I would not call myself a MSN if the program I graduated from did not call itself that. And the person I know in the program calls it "Master of Science, Entry to the Profession of Nursing" and will put MS-RN after their name. You can also check linkedin for graduates as they all do the same.

In terms of employment, I am not sure how that will affect you. The reason I chose to go the BSN route instead is because some advanced practice nursing programs outside of UA require a BSN. A Master's in nursing regardless of if its a MSN or a MS-RN cannot replace that requirement. However, if you were just looking to be a RN I don't think that would affect you since you will meet that requirement and some employers may even see it as a bonus over a BSN. However, some employers may have the same mindset as the programs who require a BSN. I can't really tell you either way.

I hope that helps! Maybe someone who has been in the program can chime in as I'd like to see their prospective. But like I said this is all from my research and understanding.