New AMSN program reaches Troy Dothan campus

Troy University recently launched a new Accelerated Master of Science in Nursing (AMSN) program at its Dothan campus, allowing students who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field to enter and earn an AMSN. 

“Troy’s Dothan campus has ample space, resources, and faculty to support this expansion,” said School of Nursing Director Dr. Wade Forehand. “The AMSN track will give potential students a pathway to enter the nursing workforce for the first time while advancing their degree.”  

According to Dean of the College of Health Sciences Dr. LaGary Carter, the launch of an Accelerated MSN reflects Troy University’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Alabama’s healthcare system. 

“As we continue to enhance advanced nursing education across all campuses – including our cornerstone BSN program in Dothan – we are preparing graduates who will elevate patient care and lead in a rapidly changing healthcare environment,” Carter said for troy.today. 

Forehand explained further. 

“Nursing shortages are one of many needs that face our state’s healthcare system, and really the nation,” Forehand said. “Therefore, it makes good sense to support programs that will increase the nursing workforce.” 

Upon completion of the AMSN, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination, also known as the NCLEX.  

“AMSN graduates will be prepared to practice as nursing generalists and have expanded competencies in nursing leadership,” Forehand said. 

To be eligible for further credentialing opportunities through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), nurses must have experience in practice, Dr. Forehand explained.  

“In terms of practice and preparation, the AMSN will share many common elements with the BSN program,” Forehand said. “The AMSN curriculum is designed to prepare individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful on the NCLEX and enter RN practice.” 

The AMSN is a 63-credit program including a traditional preceptorship and an additional nurse leader internship.  

“These courses are a mix of lecture, lab and clinical to ensure that AMSN graduates are ready to enter the nursing workforce and excel,” Forehand said. 

He further explained that earning an MSN rather than a second bachelors will create greater opportunities and lead to increased job mobility. With some practical experience, MSN graduates can begin to move into nurse leadership or serve as clinical instructors. 

For students interested in advanced degrees, it does not stop at MSN.  

“An AMSN graduate can certainly seek advanced roles just as any BSN graduate can,” Forehand said. “To become a nurse practitioner, the student would need to complete a post-master’s NP track in their chosen specialty. 

“At Troy University, an AMSN graduate could enter the post-MSN DNP track.” 

Additionally, it is important to consider the financial impact of the AMSN compared to that of an accelerated BSN or traditional BSN.  

“In terms of financial advantages, I believe the AMSN program will allow someone to earn more over their lifetime compared to a BSN-only graduate,” Forehand said. “The upfront cost will be a bit more to pursue the AMSN, but the earning potential will be greatly influenced by having an MSN degree.”  

Grace Deshetler, a junior nursing major from Frisco, Texas, considered completing her bachelor’s degree and pursuing an accelerated program, but ultimately decided to pursue a BSN at Troy.   

“I think an MSN program is great for people who decide later in life they want to become nurses,” Deshetler said. “An MSN would definitely introduce you to the fast-paced environment that healthcare workers have to deal with.”  

This accelerated program looks to offer an amazing and unique opportunity for any student interested in beginning their career as a nurse with an advanced degree.