Master of Science in Nursing (MScN) Program

The longest standing graduate Nursing program in Canada, the research-based Master of Science in Nursing (MScN) program provides the basis for leadership in professional Nursing and the foundation for doctoral studies.

Today’s knowledge-driven, information rich health care environment requires nurses in all roles and settings to have a broad knowledge base for effective evidence-based practice. Students in the MScN program are admitted to 1 of 3 unique fields of study but are encouraged to take courses from other nursing fields and disciplines to broaden their knowledge base.

All students complete a thesis within a selected field of study. Our flexible program provides opportunities for co-op study as well as the option to fast-track to the PhD Program after the first year of full-time study. Students normally complete this program in 2 years of full-time or 3 years of part-time study. 

The goals of the program are to facilitate leadership in the:

  • Development of in-depth understanding of a selected aspect of nursing science.
  • Analysis and integration of theory and research from nursing and related disciplines as a basis for enhancing understanding of significant issues.
  • Valuing of differing approaches to knowledge development in the nursing discipline.
  • Engagement in research inquiry that is significant to the nursing discipline.
  • Upholding of principles of ethical inquiry in advancing knowledge in the discipline of nursing.
  • Evolution of health care and health policy through the use of research findings and the development of collaborative partnerships.

Applicants may choose to focus in one of three fields of study:

Western provides the best student experience among Canada's leading research-intensive universities.