Common Questions

What is the MSN Direct Entry program at RFU?

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)—Direct Entry program at Rosalind Franklin University (RFU) is designed for individuals who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and wish to become registered nurses. This program provides advanced education to prepare students for entry-level nursing practice with graduate training in quality and evidence-based

What does “non-nurse” mean? Who is eligible for this program?

“Non-nurse” refers to individuals who do not currently hold any nursing license (RN, LPN, or international nursing credentials). This program is designed for people new to nursing who want to enter the profession for the first time. Eligible candidates may include those with backgrounds in other healthcare fields, recent graduates from other disciplines, or career changers from any field.

What degree do I receive once I complete the program?

You will earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), which prepares you for entry into professional nursing practice.

Does this program prepare me to become an Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN)?

No. This program prepares students to enter the profession as entry-level Registered Nurses with advanced education. If you wish to become an Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN) or pursue another advanced practice role, you will need to apply to a school that offers the APRN role you are interested in.

Does RFU offer a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program?

RFU offers two options for Advanced Practice Nursing, which include Nurse Anesthesia and Psychiatric/Mental Health.

How often do you admit new students?

We admit students twice per year—in the summer and in the fall. Summer quarter begins at the end of May and fall quarter begins in August.

What elements are considered in a holistic application review for the MSN-ENP Program?

Our holistic review process considers both academic preparation and personal and professional experiences. To be competitive, applicants should have completed their prerequisite courses at the time of the application. It is strongly recommended that you apply with no more than TWO outstanding prerequisite courses. If you have more than two prerequisites in progress, the Admissions Committee may, in some instances, place your application on hold until you have successfully completed the coursework. Beyond coursework, essay questions in NursingCAS and the personal interview are critical components of the review process. These questions are designed to draw out concrete examples.

When do interviews begin, and what are they like?

Interviews for our program begin in late September or early October, following the application cycle opening in August, and will be conducted until all open seats are filled. , Applicants selected for interviews will receive a personalized email invitation with their details.

Each interview is scheduled in a two-hour block that begins with a welcome from faculty, introductions among applicants and interviewers, and a brief program overview with a message from leadership. During this time, applicants will participate in one-on-one interviews with faculty, connect with current students, and experience a virtual tour of the university.

How long after my interview will I learn if I have been accepted?

All applicants will be notified of their admission decision within 5–7 business days following their interview. You will receive communication regarding whether you have been accepted, waitlisted, or denied admission to the program.

After I interviewed, I received a 'waitlist' decision. What does that mean?

A ‘waitlist’ decision means that the program has received accepted offers of admission and paid deposits that fill the upcoming class. However, should a spot open up in the class, you may be contacted with an offer of admission.

After I interviewed, I received a 'deny admission' decision—what does that mean?

A ‘deny admission’ decision means that after careful review of your application and/or interview, the admissions committee has determined that we are unable to offer you admission to the program at this time. While we recognize your qualifications and interest, we have limited spots available and must make difficult decisions among many qualified candidates. In some cases, a denial may also reflect that your interview responses did not fully demonstrate the competencies or readiness the committee is seeking for this cohort.

If I am accepted, when do I need to accept my offer?

The acceptance deadline will be specified in your official offer letter and is measured in business days.

If I am not accepted this admission cycle, what can I do to strengthen my application?

Many applicants reapply in future cycles, and there are several ways to enhance your application:

• Complete all prerequisite coursework with strong grades, particularly in the sciences and math.
• Gain additional healthcare experience through direct patient care roles (i.e., Certified Nursing Assistant or Medical Assistant), which provide valuable perspective and authentic examples for essays and interviews.
• Reflect on these experiences to show how you think, problem-solve, and grow as a future nurse. Seek mentorship or feedback from faculty or supervisors for guidance.

Together, these steps can help you present a more competitive and well-rounded application when you reapply.

Will I be eligible to become a Registered Nurse after completing the program?

Yes. Upon successful completion, students will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination). Passing this exam is required to obtain RN licensure.

Will I be able to practice outside of Illinois after completing the program?

The MSN-ENP program is a full-time, in-person nursing program based in Illinois. Our program is designed to meet requirements outlined by the Illinois Board of Nursing, and we work closely with students to help them apply for the NCLEX-RN in Illinois.
If you are interested in practicing outside of Illinois, you should consult with the Board of Nursing in the state where you plan to work to ensure you meet local requirements.

Is there a campus orientation?

Yes, there is a mandatory university orientation one week before the start of the quarter. You will be expected to attend this orientation in person.

Is the MSN Entry into Practice program online?

No. All courses are offered in person on campus.

Can I enroll part-time?

No. The MENP program is an accelerated program that must be taken full-time. Students may only go off-sequence in the case of a significant life event and with approval from the program director.

Can I work while enrolled in the MENP?

The MENP is a full-time program. Some students are able to work part-time, but the job must be very flexible. Courses and clinicals occur Monday-Saturday during mornings, afternoons, or evenings. Your schedule will change every 10–12 weeks.

What clinical sites are used by the MSN-ENP Program?

Clinical sites are located throughout the Chicagoland area and Southern Wisconsin. Our goal is to provide a variety of experiences to ensure graduates are practice-ready.
Clinical sites may be up to 70 miles from the RFU campus. Reliable transportation is necessary to meet clinical requirements.

Will graduate-level classes taken at other universities transfer in for credit?

No. Graduate coursework that has already been credited toward a previous master’s degree cannot be transferred into the MENP program.