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Master of Science in Nursing Degree Online
Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Informatics
Request InformationBecome a catalyst for innovation in your healthcare organization with our MSN Nursing Informatics specialization.
Next start dates
- Course-Based Courses with a set schedule July 11, 2022
- Tempo Learning® Go at your own pace August 01, 2022
Accreditations
CCNE Accredited
No. 1 in Master of Science in Nursing graduates in the U.S.¹
Data and technology are changing how healthcare is delivered, providing the actionable insights clinicians need to deliver the highest levels of patient care. With an MSN in nursing informatics from Walden, you can be at the forefront of this exciting evolution.
In our MSN Nursing Informatics specialization, you’ll learn to harness innovation to support clinical decision-making and create more efficient healthcare processes. Leverage your nursing experience and serve as a bridge between your organization's technology systems and its clinical staff. Play a vital role in improving patient care and safety while reducing the burden on direct-care providers.
Why Choose Walden?
EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL FACULTY
Our didactic faculty—100% of whom hold doctoral degrees—are knowledgeable nurse informaticists who bring their insights and practical experience to the classroom.
Lead Innovation
Learn how to harness big data to improve patient care, including workflow and project management, electronic health records optimization, and systems evaluation.
HANDS-ON PRACTICE
State-of-the-art learning technologies, real-world practicums, engaging case studies, and interactive media bring classroom learning to life.
Practicum Advantage
Get the support you need for a successful experience at all stages of your nursing practicum.
IMPACT LIVES AND COMMUNITIES
Learn how to apply your new knowledge to make a positive impact in your community.
CONNECT WITH YOUR PEERS
Our Facebook communities, alumni associations, and chartered chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing make connecting easy.
PROGRAM SAVINGS
Speak with an Enrollment Specialist to learn about our current tuition savings.
Get Started Now
-
Choose the BSN to MSN track if you are a registered nurse (RN) and have already earned your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
Curriculum - Course-Based
Degree Completion Requirements
- 53 quarter credits
- Core courses (23 cr.)
- Specialization courses (30 cr.)
- Capstone course (5 cr.)
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
Course Code Title Credits Core Courses
NURS 6002/6003 Transition to Graduate Study for NursingIn this course students are introduced to Walden University and online learning. Students explore strategies for the successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also will receive a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments introduce students to resources that support success, development of graduate-level writing skills and use of APA Style, academic integrity, and the creation of a professional development plan based on each student’s chosen specialization. Additionally, information and requirements for the MSN Practicum are introduced.
3 cr. NURS 6050 Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population HealthIn today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agenda, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.
Prerequisites
MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations
- NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N
MSN Other Specializations
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6051 Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through TechnologyNursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. This course examines nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.
Prerequisites
MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations
- NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N
MSN Other Specializations
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6052 Essentials of Evidence-Based PracticeNurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students will examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They will also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students will explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice.
Prerequisites
MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations
- NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N
MSN Other Specializations
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6053 Interprofessional Organizational and Systems LeadershipStudents in this course will develop leadership skills to transform nursing and adapt organizations in response to the turbulent healthcare environment. They will develop and apply theory-based leadership competencies to create the organizational cultures needed to achieve quality patient outcomes. Students will also explore evidence-based strategies to create healthy work environments that empower nurses and build collaborative interprofessional teams.
Prerequisites
MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations
- NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N
MSN Other Specializations
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) Specialization Courses
NURS 6401 Informatics in Nursing and HealthcareNursing informatics is a rapidly evolving discipline that impacts all areas of nursing practice. Students in this course establish foundational knowledge for understanding and practicing nursing informatics in healthcare settings. Students increase their awareness of the innovative ways the informatics discipline is helping transform healthcare policies and procedures by appraising the many roles of nurse informaticists. Students explore models and theories that support nursing informatics and examine the use of information technology in support of decisions that promote safety and quality in patient-centered care. They also differentiate concerns about information protection and system integrity. Using concepts learned in the course, students engage in assignments through which they focus on healthcare applications, thus acquiring necessary skills to improve the management of healthcare through nursing informatics practice.
Prerequisites
MSN Nursing Informatics Specialization
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
- NURS 6050
- NURS 6051
- NURS 6052
- NURS 6053
Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6412 Information and Knowledge ManagementEffectively managing healthcare data is essential to the practice of nursing informatics. In this course, students examine database systems including the concept of data modeling and techniques of data definition, data manipulation, and data analytics and visualization. Students explore concepts of information and knowledge management in the healthcare practice setting, including issues related to Big Data. Course assignments provide students with the opportunity to build essential skills to manage the lifecycle of data from how it is captured to how it is managed, stored, interpreted, and applied. Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the skills needed to make informed decisions related to data management and the translation of data to improve patient care.
(5 cr.) NURS 6421 Supporting Workflow in Healthcare SystemsNurses are at the center of care coordination for patients, and informatics nurses are central to the design and development of information systems that support workflow in nursing practice. This course examines the analysis, design, development, and implementation of electronic information systems in health care. Students compare, contrast, and critique methods of system design. Course assignments focus on workflow modeling in systems design, including assessment of current-state workflow and design of future-state workflow. Through this course, students have the opportunity to apply workflow design best practices to support the implementation and optimization of electronic health records.
(5 cr.) NURS 6441 Project Management: Healthcare Information TechnologyProject management is the foundation of healthcare information technology and the implementation of electronic health records. In this course, students learn the foundational principles of health information technology project management and apply it to real-world experiences. Using project management software, students create a project management plan and schedule, and they control and close tasks related to a health informatics project. Through projects and applications, students build skills and confidence that support the implementation of healthcare information technology to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes.
(5 cr.) NURS 6451 Evaluation Methods for Health Information TechnologyHealthcare policy, including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (2009) and Meaningful Use demand that electronic documentation systems are interoperable, integrated, and effective. In this course, students explore the history, process, and methodology in evaluation of healthcare informatics. Through discussion of real-world practice that includes public health and community-based settings, students evaluate the impact of the implementation of information technology throughout the organization. Students create a plan for systems evaluation. Through individual applications, they build skills and confidence that support collaborative, interdisciplinary system evaluation plans to improve the effectiveness of care.
(5 cr.) Capstone
NURS 6461 Capstone Synthesis PracticumStudents in this course apply the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) curriculum experience by translating knowledge into practice through participation in professional activities and the development of a culminating project. Students apply theory, principles, and concepts related to their area of specialization in order to enhance nursing practice and promote positive social change.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6401
- NURS 6412
- NURS 6421
- NURS 6441
- NURS 6451
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES Curriculum - Tempo Learning®
The Tempo Learning® degree completion option is ideal for busy working professionals like you. Your progress is measured by the mastery or demonstration of skills, abilities, and knowledge in a particular area of expertise (AoE).
Each competency has been carefully designed by expert faculty with input from employers, with your education and future employment in mind.
Degree Completion Requirements
- 53 quarter credits
- Core Competencies (23 cr.)
- Specialization Competencies (30 cr.)
Courses
Course Code Title Credits NURS 6003TL Transition to Graduate Study for Nursing [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]In this course students are introduced to Walden University and online learning. Students explore strategies for the successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also will receive a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments introduce students to resources that support success, development of graduate-level writing skills and use of APA Style, academic integrity, and the creation of a professional development plan based on each student's chosen specialization.
Prerequisites
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): RN Track
- NURS 4221
All Other Programs
- None
Note: This version of NURS 6003 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(3 cr.) NURS 6050TL Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]In today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agendas, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
Note: This version of NURS 6050 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(5 cr.) NURS 6051TL Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]Nursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. Students in this course examine nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
Note: This version of NURS 6051 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(5 cr.) NURS 6052TL Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]Nurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
Note: This version of NURS 6052 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(5 cr.) NURS 6053TL Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]Students in this course develop leadership skills to transform nursing and adapt organizations in response to the turbulent healthcare environment. They develop and apply theory-based leadership competencies to create the organizational cultures needed to achieve quality patient outcomes. Students also explore evidence-based strategies to create healthy work environments that empower nurses and build collaborative interprofessional teams.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
Note: This version of NURS 6053 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(5 cr.) NURS 6401 Informatics in Nursing and HealthcareNursing informatics is a rapidly evolving discipline that impacts all areas of nursing practice. Students in this course establish foundational knowledge for understanding and practicing nursing informatics in healthcare settings. Students increase their awareness of the innovative ways the informatics discipline is helping transform healthcare policies and procedures by appraising the many roles of nurse informaticists. Students explore models and theories that support nursing informatics and examine the use of information technology in support of decisions that promote safety and quality in patient-centered care. They also differentiate concerns about information protection and system integrity. Using concepts learned in the course, students engage in assignments through which they focus on healthcare applications, thus acquiring necessary skills to improve the management of healthcare through nursing informatics practice.
Prerequisites
MSN Nursing Informatics Specialization
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
- NURS 6050
- NURS 6051
- NURS 6052
- NURS 6053
Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6412 Information and Knowledge ManagementEffectively managing healthcare data is essential to the practice of nursing informatics. In this course, students examine database systems including the concept of data modeling and techniques of data definition, data manipulation, and data analytics and visualization. Students explore concepts of information and knowledge management in the healthcare practice setting, including issues related to Big Data. Course assignments provide students with the opportunity to build essential skills to manage the lifecycle of data from how it is captured to how it is managed, stored, interpreted, and applied. Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the skills needed to make informed decisions related to data management and the translation of data to improve patient care.
(5 cr.) NURS 6421 Supporting Workflow in Healthcare SystemsNurses are at the center of care coordination for patients, and informatics nurses are central to the design and development of information systems that support workflow in nursing practice. This course examines the analysis, design, development, and implementation of electronic information systems in health care. Students compare, contrast, and critique methods of system design. Course assignments focus on workflow modeling in systems design, including assessment of current-state workflow and design of future-state workflow. Through this course, students have the opportunity to apply workflow design best practices to support the implementation and optimization of electronic health records.
(5 cr.) NURS 6441 Project Management: Healthcare Information TechnologyProject management is the foundation of healthcare information technology and the implementation of electronic health records. In this course, students learn the foundational principles of health information technology project management and apply it to real-world experiences. Using project management software, students create a project management plan and schedule, and they control and close tasks related to a health informatics project. Through projects and applications, students build skills and confidence that support the implementation of healthcare information technology to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes.
(5 cr.) NURS 6451 Evaluation Methods for Health Information TechnologyHealthcare policy, including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (2009) and Meaningful Use demand that electronic documentation systems are interoperable, integrated, and effective. In this course, students explore the history, process, and methodology in evaluation of healthcare informatics. Through discussion of real-world practice that includes public health and community-based settings, students evaluate the impact of the implementation of information technology throughout the organization. Students create a plan for systems evaluation. Through individual applications, they build skills and confidence that support collaborative, interdisciplinary system evaluation plans to improve the effectiveness of care.
(5 cr.) NURS 6461 Capstone Synthesis PracticumStudents in this course apply the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) curriculum experience by translating knowledge into practice through participation in professional activities and the development of a culminating project. Students apply theory, principles, and concepts related to their area of specialization in order to enhance nursing practice and promote positive social change.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6401
- NURS 6412
- NURS 6421
- NURS 6441
- NURS 6451
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES - 53 quarter credits
-
Choose the RN to MSN track if you are a registered nurse (RN) entering the MSN program with a hospital diploma or an associate degree in nursing.
Curriculum - Course-Based
Degree Completion Requirements
- 84 quarter credits
- Foundations courses (29 cr.)
- Core courses (20 cr.)
- Specialization courses (30 cr.)
- Capstone course (5 cr.)
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. Time to completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
Course Code Title Credits Core Courses
NURS 6002/6003 Transition to Graduate Study for NursingIn this course students are introduced to Walden University and online learning. Students explore strategies for the successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also will receive a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments introduce students to resources that support success, development of graduate-level writing skills and use of APA Style, academic integrity, and the creation of a professional development plan based on each student’s chosen specialization. Additionally, information and requirements for the MSN Practicum are introduced.
3 cr. NURS 6050 Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population HealthIn today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agenda, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.
Prerequisites
MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations
- NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N
MSN Other Specializations
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6051 Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through TechnologyNursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. This course examines nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.
Prerequisites
MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations
- NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N
MSN Other Specializations
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6052 Essentials of Evidence-Based PracticeNurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students will examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They will also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students will explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice.
Prerequisites
MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations
- NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N
MSN Other Specializations
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6053 Interprofessional Organizational and Systems LeadershipStudents in this course will develop leadership skills to transform nursing and adapt organizations in response to the turbulent healthcare environment. They will develop and apply theory-based leadership competencies to create the organizational cultures needed to achieve quality patient outcomes. Students will also explore evidence-based strategies to create healthy work environments that empower nurses and build collaborative interprofessional teams.
Prerequisites
MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations
- NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N
MSN Other Specializations
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) Specialization Courses
NURS 6401 Informatics in Nursing and HealthcareNursing informatics is a rapidly evolving discipline that impacts all areas of nursing practice. Students in this course establish foundational knowledge for understanding and practicing nursing informatics in healthcare settings. Students increase their awareness of the innovative ways the informatics discipline is helping transform healthcare policies and procedures by appraising the many roles of nurse informaticists. Students explore models and theories that support nursing informatics and examine the use of information technology in support of decisions that promote safety and quality in patient-centered care. They also differentiate concerns about information protection and system integrity. Using concepts learned in the course, students engage in assignments through which they focus on healthcare applications, thus acquiring necessary skills to improve the management of healthcare through nursing informatics practice.
Prerequisites
MSN Nursing Informatics Specialization
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
- NURS 6050
- NURS 6051
- NURS 6052
- NURS 6053
Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6412 Information and Knowledge ManagementEffectively managing healthcare data is essential to the practice of nursing informatics. In this course, students examine database systems including the concept of data modeling and techniques of data definition, data manipulation, and data analytics and visualization. Students explore concepts of information and knowledge management in the healthcare practice setting, including issues related to Big Data. Course assignments provide students with the opportunity to build essential skills to manage the lifecycle of data from how it is captured to how it is managed, stored, interpreted, and applied. Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the skills needed to make informed decisions related to data management and the translation of data to improve patient care.
(5 cr.) NURS 6421 Supporting Workflow in Healthcare SystemsNurses are at the center of care coordination for patients, and informatics nurses are central to the design and development of information systems that support workflow in nursing practice. This course examines the analysis, design, development, and implementation of electronic information systems in health care. Students compare, contrast, and critique methods of system design. Course assignments focus on workflow modeling in systems design, including assessment of current-state workflow and design of future-state workflow. Through this course, students have the opportunity to apply workflow design best practices to support the implementation and optimization of electronic health records.
(5 cr.) NURS 6441 Project Management: Healthcare Information TechnologyProject management is the foundation of healthcare information technology and the implementation of electronic health records. In this course, students learn the foundational principles of health information technology project management and apply it to real-world experiences. Using project management software, students create a project management plan and schedule, and they control and close tasks related to a health informatics project. Through projects and applications, students build skills and confidence that support the implementation of healthcare information technology to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes.
(5 cr.) NURS 6451 Evaluation Methods for Health Information TechnologyHealthcare policy, including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (2009) and Meaningful Use demand that electronic documentation systems are interoperable, integrated, and effective. In this course, students explore the history, process, and methodology in evaluation of healthcare informatics. Through discussion of real-world practice that includes public health and community-based settings, students evaluate the impact of the implementation of information technology throughout the organization. Students create a plan for systems evaluation. Through individual applications, they build skills and confidence that support collaborative, interdisciplinary system evaluation plans to improve the effectiveness of care.
(5 cr.) Capstone
NURS 6461 Capstone Synthesis PracticumStudents in this course apply the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) curriculum experience by translating knowledge into practice through participation in professional activities and the development of a culminating project. Students apply theory, principles, and concepts related to their area of specialization in order to enhance nursing practice and promote positive social change.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6401
- NURS 6412
- NURS 6421
- NURS 6441
- NURS 6451
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES Curriculum - Tempo Learning®
The Tempo Learning® degree completion option is ideal for busy working professionals like you. Your progress is measured by the mastery or demonstration of skills, abilities, and knowledge in a particular area of expertise (AoE).
Each competency has been carefully designed by expert faculty with input from employers, with your education and future employment in mind.
Degree Completion Requirements
- 78 quarter credits
- Foundation Competencies (25)
- Core Competencies (23)
- Specialization Competencies (25)
- Capstone Competencies (5)
Courses
Course Code Title Credits NURS 3100 Issues and Trends in NursingIn this course, students are provided with an overview of the evolution of nursing as a profession and introduced to their new role as scholar-practitioners. They examine changes in the U.S. healthcare delivery system, the importance of information technology, and measures that promote quality, safety, and better health outcomes in patient care. Students consider major issues and trends in contemporary nursing and healthcare practice, including the influence of socioeconomic, ethical, legal, and political variables and professional values. Through weekly discussions and assignments, students explore and share personal experiences in the context of contemporary nursing issues, such as the nursing shortage, workforce challenges, healthcare financing, professional organizations, and diversity. They are challenged to examine and propose solutions to these nursing issues in addition to those in their workplace. Students reflect on Walden's mission of social change and its impact on their future nursing practice as a scholar-practitioner. Because this is the first nursing course within the RN/BSN program, students learn to use Walden University's resources to enhance writing skills. Students are also introduced to the tools essential to success at Walden.
(6 cr.) NURS 3150 Foundations of Nursing ResearchNurses must understand research in order to effectively participate in the provision of evidence-based nursing care. Students in this course learn the foundational elements of the research process, refine information literacy skills, and develop an understanding of ethical research. Students investigate each step of the research process and complete a critical examination of quantitative and qualitative research relevant to their nursing practice. Students are given the tools to analyze nurse-sensitive indicators and clinical practice guidelines.
Prerequisites
RN-BSN Track Students
- STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002
RN-BSN-AIM Track Students
- STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; cannot be taken with NURS 5052
(5 cr.) NURS 4210 Role of the Nurse Leader in Population HealthStudents in this course focus on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status, preventing and controlling disease, and promoting a healthier population by working with families, aggregates, communities, and healthcare systems. Students apply system thinking by using epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine at-risk populations, health promotion, and levels of prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including communicable disease, chronic illness, environmental and occupational health, bioterrorism, emergency and disaster preparedness and response. Practice experiences provide learning experiences in population-based health promotion by collaborating with interdisciplinary public health partners in a local community.(1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.)
Prerequisites
- NURS 3150
- NURS 4100 or NURS 5052
Note: RN-BSN Track and RN-BSN-AIM Track students must complete NURS 4210 before NURS 4220.
(5 cr.) NURS 4005 Topics in Clinical NursingNurses play a critical role in the care of patients with major acute and chronic health problems. They are accountable for clinical outcomes and for promoting quality and safety in patient care through the use of information technology. Students in this course will examine their role in the evaluation of nurse-sensitive indicators, standards, and core measures to develop an evidence-based practice approach to care. Students explore the relationship of genetics and genomics to health and illness as well as infection-control issues. The nurse's role in palliative and end-of-life care and complementary and alternative therapies is also explored. Students apply course concepts and demonstrate an understanding of nursing interventions and agency policy to improve nursing practice.
(5 cr.) NURS 4220A Leadership Competencies in Nursing and HealthcareContemporary nurses who wish to influence the current healthcare system must equip themselves with the knowledge and competencies to lead in times of pressure, constant change, and innovation. Quality Improvement science provides a rich set of tools and techniques and has been adopted by most nursing leaders. Nurses are expected to lead with quality improvement knowledge and competencies. Students in this course work toward gaining these skills by focusing on real practice problems and developing evidence-based solutions. They also learn skills and techniques in team building; strengthening interpersonal, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration; promoting meaningful use of data to gauge improvements and problem solving; translating day to day practice problems to long term strategy for organizational growth; and identify strategies to manage organizational change. Students apply course concepts through case studies. Through this practice experience, students gain professional knowledge from nursing leaders in practice the application of quality improvement science. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.)
Prerequisites
- NURS 4210
Note: RN-BSN Track and RN-BSN-AIM Track students must complete NURS 4210 before NURS 4220.
(5 cr.) NURS 6003TL Transition to Graduate Study for Nursing [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]In this course students are introduced to Walden University and online learning. Students explore strategies for the successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also will receive a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments introduce students to resources that support success, development of graduate-level writing skills and use of APA Style, academic integrity, and the creation of a professional development plan based on each student's chosen specialization.
Prerequisites
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): RN Track
- NURS 4221
All Other Programs
- None
Note: This version of NURS 6003 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(3 cr.) NURS 6050TL Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]In today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agendas, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
Note: This version of NURS 6050 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(5 cr.) NURS 6051TL Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]Nursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. Students in this course examine nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
Note: This version of NURS 6051 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(5 cr.) NURS 6052TL Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]Nurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
Note: This version of NURS 6052 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(5 cr.) NURS 6053TL Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership [Tempo Learning®-Specific Course]Students in this course develop leadership skills to transform nursing and adapt organizations in response to the turbulent healthcare environment. They develop and apply theory-based leadership competencies to create the organizational cultures needed to achieve quality patient outcomes. Students also explore evidence-based strategies to create healthy work environments that empower nurses and build collaborative interprofessional teams.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
Note: This version of NURS 6053 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.
(5 cr.) NURS 6401 Informatics in Nursing and HealthcareNursing informatics is a rapidly evolving discipline that impacts all areas of nursing practice. Students in this course establish foundational knowledge for understanding and practicing nursing informatics in healthcare settings. Students increase their awareness of the innovative ways the informatics discipline is helping transform healthcare policies and procedures by appraising the many roles of nurse informaticists. Students explore models and theories that support nursing informatics and examine the use of information technology in support of decisions that promote safety and quality in patient-centered care. They also differentiate concerns about information protection and system integrity. Using concepts learned in the course, students engage in assignments through which they focus on healthcare applications, thus acquiring necessary skills to improve the management of healthcare through nursing informatics practice.
Prerequisites
MSN Nursing Informatics Specialization
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
- NURS 6050
- NURS 6051
- NURS 6052
- NURS 6053
Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics
- NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
(5 cr.) NURS 6412 Information and Knowledge ManagementEffectively managing healthcare data is essential to the practice of nursing informatics. In this course, students examine database systems including the concept of data modeling and techniques of data definition, data manipulation, and data analytics and visualization. Students explore concepts of information and knowledge management in the healthcare practice setting, including issues related to Big Data. Course assignments provide students with the opportunity to build essential skills to manage the lifecycle of data from how it is captured to how it is managed, stored, interpreted, and applied. Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the skills needed to make informed decisions related to data management and the translation of data to improve patient care.
(5 cr.) NURS 6421 Supporting Workflow in Healthcare SystemsNurses are at the center of care coordination for patients, and informatics nurses are central to the design and development of information systems that support workflow in nursing practice. This course examines the analysis, design, development, and implementation of electronic information systems in health care. Students compare, contrast, and critique methods of system design. Course assignments focus on workflow modeling in systems design, including assessment of current-state workflow and design of future-state workflow. Through this course, students have the opportunity to apply workflow design best practices to support the implementation and optimization of electronic health records.
(5 cr.) NURS 6441 Project Management: Healthcare Information TechnologyProject management is the foundation of healthcare information technology and the implementation of electronic health records. In this course, students learn the foundational principles of health information technology project management and apply it to real-world experiences. Using project management software, students create a project management plan and schedule, and they control and close tasks related to a health informatics project. Through projects and applications, students build skills and confidence that support the implementation of healthcare information technology to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes.
(5 cr.) NURS 6451 Evaluation Methods for Health Information TechnologyHealthcare policy, including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (2009) and Meaningful Use demand that electronic documentation systems are interoperable, integrated, and effective. In this course, students explore the history, process, and methodology in evaluation of healthcare informatics. Through discussion of real-world practice that includes public health and community-based settings, students evaluate the impact of the implementation of information technology throughout the organization. Students create a plan for systems evaluation. Through individual applications, they build skills and confidence that support collaborative, interdisciplinary system evaluation plans to improve the effectiveness of care.
(5 cr.) NURS 6461 Capstone Synthesis PracticumStudents in this course apply the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) curriculum experience by translating knowledge into practice through participation in professional activities and the development of a culminating project. Students apply theory, principles, and concepts related to their area of specialization in order to enhance nursing practice and promote positive social change.
Prerequisites
- NURS 6401
- NURS 6412
- NURS 6421
- NURS 6441
- NURS 6451
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES - 84 quarter credits
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If you are a registered nurse (RN) and have earned your bachelor's in nursing degree, you can use these tracks to get started on your doctoral nursing degree.
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Admission Requirements
Program Admission Considerations (RN-MSN): Registered nurses who hold a hospital diploma, associate degree in nursing, or bachelor’s degree (other than BSN).
Program Admission Considerations (BSN-MSN): A bachelor's degree or higher.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts.
- The Technical Standards Policy & Clinical Site Acknowledgement Form with:
- A statement of understanding of the MSN NP practicum requirements.
- Identification of potential clinical sites in your local area for each of the four practicum requirement.
- Additional Walden admission criteria required. Contact an Enrollment Specialist for more details.
More information for international applicants.
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Curriculum Component Requirements Cost AMOUNT Tuition 53 quarter credit hours $457 per quarter hour $24,221 Technology Fee Per quarter $165 $990
$25,211‡*
‡*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships, or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 25 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $1,500 to $2,000. Students may also incur additional costs related to practicum, including but not limited to costs of travel to their practicum site, practicum onboarding fees, per quarter practicum fees, and liability insurance costs.
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Curriculum Component Requirements Cost AMOUNT Tuition 26 RN Foundational quarter credit hours $401 per quarter hour $10,426 53 MSN quarter credit hours $457 per quarter hour $24,221 Technology Fee Per quarter $165 $1,320
$35,967‡*
‡*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships, or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 35 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $1,500 to $2,000. Students may also incur additional costs related to practicum, including but not limited to costs of travel to their practicum site, practicum onboarding fees, per quarter practicum fees, and liability insurance costs.
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Progress at Your Pace. Control Your Cost.
Walden’s Tempo Learning® program options follow a subscription-based pricing format. Students are billed a flat rate for each three-month subscription term. All pricing is represented in U.S. dollars and is subject to change.
Program Subscription Period Tuition Subscription Period Technology Fee Subscription Period Time Frame Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) $2,900 $165 3-month subscription period
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for this program. Our financial aid advisors can help you identify funding opportunities to help you pay for your education.
FINANCIAL AID
Many Walden degree-seeking students—67%—receive some form of financial aid.* Create a customized plan that makes sense for you.
*Source: Walden University’s Office of Financial Aid. Data reports as of 2018.
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Become a Nurse Leader in Information Technology
In Walden’s MSN in nursing informatics program, you’ll build a strong foundation in collecting, analyzing, and evaluating essential healthcare data. Learn to identify gaps in patient support and patient care and use information to make real-world improvements in those areas. Build the communication skills needed to translate the needs of direct-care providers to IT staff. Learn how to train and support nurses and physicians in new technology system implementations.
Optional Informatics Nursing Certification (RN-BC) is offered through the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC).
What’s the Career Impact of Earning an MSN in Nursing Informatics?
Nurse informatics specialists are in demand. With the rise of electronic health records (EHRs) and the need to drive down soaring healthcare costs, organizations need nurse informaticists to help them implement and adopt new and upgraded technologies.2
By earning your nursing informatics MSN online, you can open the door to new opportunities in this field. Define your path, expand your opportunities, and play a bigger role in healthcare’s transformation.
Career options for nurse informaticists:3
- Clinical analyst
- Informatics nurse specialist
- Director of clinical informatics
- Nurse educator/instructor
- Consultant
- Chief nursing informatics officer
- Associate professor/professor
- Manager of clinical informatics
- Clinical applications specialist
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
MSN Career Outlook
Learn more about top industry sectors, most in-demand job skills and top job titles for MSN grads.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completing this specialization, graduates will be prepared to:
- Synthesize organizational/systems leadership for cost-effective specialist nursing practice that contributes to high-quality healthcare delivery, advancement of the nursing profession, and social change.
- Critique evidence-based literature drawing from diverse theoretical perspectives and pertinent research to guide decision making that demonstrates best practices for specialist nursing practice in a global society.
- Integratively assess, diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate cost-effective healthcare strategies that reduce health disparities by patient/population advocacy for access to specialist nursing care.
- Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate using audience-specific oral, written, and information technology for professional delivery of specialist nursing care.
- Evaluate health needs of diverse populations for necessary teaching/coaching functions based on specialist nursing knowledge to restore/promote health and prevent illness/injury.
- Exhibit ongoing commitment to professional development and value of nursing theories/ethical principles (altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, social justice) in accordance with ethically responsible, legally accountable, specialist nursing practice.
- Implement specialist nursing roles to promote quality improvement of patient-centered care in accordance with professional practice standards that transform health outcomes for diverse populations.
Meet Your MSN in Nursing Informatics Academic Team
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Vincent Hall
Program DirectorAs a program director for the Master of Science in Nursing program, Dr. Hall supervises MSN core courses as well as the Nursing Education, Nurse Executive, Nursing Informatics, and Public Health Nursing specializations. Dr. Hall serves on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials Task Force and on the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Accreditation Review Committee. He has been an RN for more than 40 years and a nurse educator for more than 30 years.
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Tracy Scott
Academic CoordinatorDr. Scott is the academic coordinator for the Nursing Informatics specialization. She is a family nurse practitioner and is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in nursing informatics. She has more than 25 years of experience teaching in both on-campus and online classrooms.
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Cheryl Reilly
Core FacultyDr. Reilly is a full-time faculty member at Walden and has been involved in nursing education, health informatics, and research for more than 20 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Boston College and an MS in Nursing Administration and Child Mental Health and a PhD in Nursing with a focus in informatics, healthcare quality, health services research, and biostatistics from the University of California, San Francisco.
Testimonials
I had a great experience at Walden University. Online learning made it possible for me to complete my master’s degree. I am being mindful to pay it forward to the community we serve and to teach the next generation of students.
Armiel Suriaga Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Graduate
I chose Walden because it offered the MSN with a specialization in Nursing Informatics I was looking for, and it was all online. I was not in a position to be able to attend other graduate schools on-site like many programs required.
Phillip Odle MSN-Nursing Informatics Graduate
Resource Articles
What Does a Nursing Informatics Specialist Do?
Resource Articles
Best Practices for Nurses Using Electronic Healthcare Records
Resource Articles
Nurse Informaticists: What They Know That Other Nurses Don’t
Resource Articles
MSN Course Insight: The Value of Being Certified in Nursing Informatics
Resource Articles
5 Emerging Careers to Pursue With a Degree in Health Informatics
FAQ about MSN - Nursing Informatics
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Health informatics, also sometimes referred to as “medical informatics,” sits at the junction of two thriving industries: healthcare and information technology (IT). Professionals in this interdisciplinary field design and develop the information systems necessary for efficient acquisition, storage, and distribution of health-related data. Nurse informaticists are able to integrate data, information, and knowledge to support decision-making by patients, nurses, and other caregivers in all roles and settings.
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Due to recent legislation calling for healthcare organizations to adopt electronic health records, nursing informatics professionals are in high demand. Many work in hospitals, healthcare organizations, universities, consulting firms, or corporations that develop and market healthcare information systems. Some typical positions in the field include director of clinical information, clinical analyst, informatics researcher, and clinical informatics coordinator.
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According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, incorporating electronic health records (EHR) helps to “reduce paperwork and administrative burdens, cuts costs, reduces medical errors and most importantly, improves the quality of care.* From administrative offices to operating rooms, health informatics is the driving force behind enterprise-wide data systems that collect, store, and make EHR easily accessible to healthcare professionals.
*Source: HealthIT.gov, Medical Practice Efficiencies & Cost Savings
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A good nursing informatics master’s program provides students with in-depth knowledge of:
- Health information technology
- Health information systems management
- Quality assessment and improvement
- Strategic and tactical planning
- Evidence-based research and evaluation
- Business and financial aspects associated with health information
Questions about our Master of Science in Nursing?
Talk to your personal Enrollment Specialist for more information today.
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