Direct Entry MSN Programs for Non-Nursing Majors: Launching Your Nursing Career with Pepperdine
For those with a passion for healthcare but an undergraduate degree in another field, the journey into nursing may seem unclear—but it doesn't have to be. Direct entry MSN programs, such as the Entry Level Master's in Nursing, Clinical Nurse Leader (ELM-CNL) at the Pepperdine College of Health Science's School of Nursing, offer an accelerated, comprehensive path for those with degrees in non-nursing fields to become advanced practice nurses.
If you're ready to make a career shift into a meaningful and in-demand profession, Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program is designed to help you succeed.
What Is a Direct Entry MSN Program?
A Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing program—also called an Entry Level MSN—is tailored for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing discipline but wish to enter the nursing profession at a graduate level. These programs integrate foundational nursing education with advanced coursework, preparing students for licensure and advanced clinical roles in one streamlined path.
Key Features of Direct Entry MSN Programs:
- No prior nursing experience required
- Accelerated, intensive format
- Prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam
- Leads to a master of science in nursing degree
- Combines clinical, leadership, and research-focused coursework
Why Choose Pepperdine's ELM-CNL Program?
Pepperdine University's Entry Level Master's in Nursing, Clinical Nurse Leader (ELM-CNL) program offers a faith-based, values-centered approach to nursing education. Grounded in academic excellence, compassionate care, and servant leadership, this program equips students to lead and serve in a wide range of healthcare settings.
The ELM-CNL program is based at Pepperdine's Calabasas campus in Los Angeles County, California, and is designed to be completed in 7 semesters of full-time study. Students gain more than 850 hours of hands-on clinical experience, ensuring they are well-prepared to provide high-quality patient care in diverse healthcare settings. Upon graduation, they are eligible to sit for both the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and the Clinical Nurse Leader certification exam, positioning them to enter the profession as registered nurses and emerging leaders in the field.
Is This Program Right for You?
Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program is designed for driven individuals seeking to:
- Make a career change into nursing from another field
- Fast-track their entry into a clinical healthcare role
- Gain advanced knowledge and leadership skills in nursing
- Learn in a supportive, mission-driven academic environment
Ready to take the next step toward a rewarding nursing career?
The Entry Level MSN, Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) program at Pepperdine offers a direct pathway for those with a non-nursing degree to enter the nursing profession. Gain hands-on clinical experience, leadership training, and advanced nursing skills to improve patient outcomes and elevate healthcare service.
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Fill out the Request Information form to learn about the opportunities that await you.
Start Your Application
Begin your application to Pepperdine today through NursingCAS.
Curriculum Overview
The ELM-CNL curriculum prepares compassionate nurse leaders to impact healthcare and communities locally and globally. The courses build a strong foundation in critical thinking, communication, and evidence-based practice, equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to meet RN competency standards. Rooted in the University's Christian mission, the curriculum emphasizes servant leadership and holistic care across the lifespan in diverse healthcare settings.
Course Highlight: NURS 580: Health Systems Leadership
In this course, students are introduced to the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) role and the core principles of effective leadership. With a focus on communication, ethical decision-making, and leading change, the course helps future nurses learn how to guide teams, coordinate patient care, and improve outcomes. Along the way, students build practical skills in patient safety, evidence-based practice, and collaboration—while also exploring the business side of healthcare, including financial and operational decision-making. Upon completion, they're equipped with the leadership tools needed to thrive as clinical nurse leaders in today's complex healthcare settings.
Clinical Experience: Learning by Doing
Students are immersed into over 850 clinical hours across diverse settings such as hospitals, community health centers, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics. These rotations are guided by experienced preceptors and designed to develop well-rounded, confident nurse leaders.
Pro Tip: Start building professional connections during your clinicals—they can open doors to future employment opportunities.
Admissions Requirements
To apply for Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program, you'll need:
- Two reference letters
- Two personal essays
- Valid CPR certification from the American Heart Association (AHA) in Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Completion of an undergraduate degree (BA/BS) with an overall GPA of 3.300 or higher from a regionally accredited educational institution
- Official transcripts for the past 7 years from all colleges or universities attended
- Completion of the required prerequisite courses or their equivalents with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
FAQs: Pepperdine's ELM-CNL Program
Q: Can I apply if I don't have healthcare experience?
Yes! While some applicants have experience in healthcare settings, it is not required.
The program is designed for career changers.
Q: Will I be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN?
Yes. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the
NCLEX-RN for licensure as a registered nurse.
Q: How competitive is the program?
Pepperdine takes a holistic approach to admissions. While academic performance is
important, so are your personal qualities, commitment to service, and readiness for
the intensity of the program.
How This Degree Can Transform Your Career
Graduates of Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program will be equipped for a variety of roles in the nursing field, including:
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
- Public Health Nurse
- Nurse Educator (with additional credentials)
- Nurse Manager or Administrator
The ELM-CNL also serves as a springboard for future doctoral study (DNP or PhD) or advanced practice certifications (such as Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist).
Ready to Begin? Here's How to Apply
- Review admissions requirements and deadlines
- Complete prerequisite coursework (if needed)
- Gather materials and submit your online application
- Stay connected with your admissions advisor
Explore the ELM-CNL program page to get started—and take the first step toward a career that makes a difference.