The Master of Science nursing program is designed for professional nurses to prepare them to advance their nursing knowledge and abilities in the role of nurse educator and/or family nurse practitioner. The program is organized around key concepts of nursing, the individual, the environment, and health. The graduate student in the program will expand their knowledge base, synthesize knowledge into new concepts and apply theories, as they create new ideas and processes in nursing practice. The graduate student will learn strategies of leadership and change, to improve nursing practice and the health status of diverse populations. The program prepares its graduates to actively participate in improving the delivery of safe, patient-centered healthcare across the life span. The graduate student will be prepared to evaluate and conduct research for evidence-based practice and develop a foundation for doctoral studies.