First group of Master of Science in Nursing students at MSU-Meridian starts weeklong orientation at new nursing school

Located in MERIDIAN, Mississippi, the inaugural Accelerated Master of Science in Nursing cohort at Mississippi State University-Meridian began their weeklong orientation on Aug. 5, marking the commencement of their enrollment in the demanding School of Nursing program aimed at achieving RN licensure in just 12 months.

A total of thirty-six students, including six from different states and all with diverse academic backgrounds, form the initial cohort of the School of Nursing, starting their classes on Aug. 12. This program stands out as the first direct-entry route to RN licensure available in the state.

The students were greeted at MSU-Meridian’s downtown Riley Campus by MSU President Mark E. Keenum and Nursing Dean Mary Stewart.

President Keenum expressed his gratitude towards The Riley Foundation, as well as the School of Nursing’s faculty, staff, and students for their dedicated efforts in launching the program and contributing to the betterment of society through their service.

President Keenum commended Nursing Dean Stewart and the entire AMSN faculty and staff for crafting an exceptional program that equips students to enter the workforce, care for patients effectively, and enhance healthcare outcomes for Mississippians.

“At Mississippi State, we cherish three timeless values—integrity, hard work, and respect,” said President Keenum. “Our School of Nursing embodies these values and has worked diligently to establish a comprehensive curriculum to prepare you for your nursing careers.”

The students will initiate the accelerated program with an intense weeklong course, Professionalism I: Socialization into Nursing, before proceeding to courses covering physical examination, foundational clinical skills, and foundational clinical judgment.

Program Director Kayla Carr mentioned that the class predominantly consists of individuals transitioning from other careers, with backgrounds in healthcare professions such as education, social work, speech language pathology, dental assisting, respiratory therapy, and sports training. Additionally, there are several licensed practical nurses and students with diverse backgrounds in marketing, sales, anthropology, research, and natural sciences.

According to Carr, seven students hold master’s degrees, two have doctorates, and the class boasts an average GPA of 3.3.

Students will engage in supervised clinicals from the outset of the program to mid-semester, followed by mentored clinicals at facilities within Lauderdale County. The fall term will culminate in another intense course, Nursing Science.

AMSN students will have access to MSU-Meridian’s Interprofessional Simulation Program, which includes various clinical exam rooms, medical surgical rooms, computer learning stations, and advanced facilities for learning and observation.

The MSU-School of Nursing received approval from the Board of Trustees of the State of Institutions of Higher Learning in May to address Mississippi’s healthcare staffing shortages through education expansion.

The program’s journey towards national accreditation continues this fall, with plans to expand to cater to a maximum of 60 students.

For further details about the Accelerated Master of Science in Nursing degree at MSU-Meridian, contact 601-696-2277 or visit www.meridian.msstate.edu.