What is an Entry Level Master’s in Nursing Degree?
Are you passionate about healthcare but don't hold a nursing degree? The Entry Level Master's in Nursing, Clinical Nurse Leader (ELM-CNL) program at the Pepperdine College of Health Science's School of Nursing is designed for individuals just like you—those with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field who feel called to lead in healthcare and make a meaningful impact.
Whether you're a career changer or a recent graduate, Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program provides an accelerated path to a nursing career at the graduate level. Here's everything you need to know about what an entry level master's in nursing degree is, how it works, and why Pepperdine could be the right place for you to begin this rewarding journey.
What is an ELM degree?
ELM stands for Entry Level Master's in Nursing. It is a graduate-level nursing program designed for individuals who hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree but want to become registered nurses (RNs) and eventually pursue advanced roles in the field.
Instead of earning a separate bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), ELM students go directly into a master's program, combining foundational nursing education with advanced practice training.
Key Features of ELM Programs:
- Designed for Non-Nurses: Applicants typically hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field.
- Accelerated Curriculum: ELM programs are intensive and fast-paced.
- RN Licensure Eligibility: Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Graduate-Level Competencies: Students gain leadership, clinical, and critical-thinking skills often associated with Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs.
Pepperdine's Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Distinction
The Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certification sets Pepperdine's ELM program apart. The CNL designation is a nationally recognized distinction by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) that prepares graduates to serve not only as skilled registered nurses but also as healthcare leaders.
Graduates of Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between bedside nursing and administrative leadership, equipping them to step confidently into roles that require both clinical expertise and systems-level thinking. Students enter the nursing profession as innovators, ready to elevate patient outcomes and influence the future of healthcare.
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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Why Choose an ELM Over a BSN?
If you're starting from a non-nursing background, the ELM offers a direct route to becoming a nurse without first pursuing an additional bachelor's degree in nursing.
ELM vs. BSN: A Comparison
For students exploring nursing pathways, both BSN and ELM programs provide routes to becoming a registered nurse, but they differ significantly in entry requirements, length, and career outcomes. A BSN is designed for those entering directly from high school or with general college coursework and typically takes three to four years to complete. Graduates earn a bachelor of science in nursing and upon passing the NCLEX-RN exam, enter the field as registered nurses, though advanced roles may require further education. By contrast, an entry level master's in nursing (ELM) is tailored for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree. These programs can usually be completed in 20 to 24 months and award a master's degree equipping graduates to practice as registered nurses with graduate-level training. In addition to preparing students for direct patient care, ELM programs also position graduates for leadership opportunities and advanced practice roles earlier in their careers.
The ELM Advantage at Pepperdine University
The Pepperdine College of Health Science's School of Nursing offers a distinctive ELM program built on academic excellence, faith-based values, and real-world clinical preparation.
Program Highlights:
- Innovative Curriculum: Designed to prepare you for the complexities of modern healthcare with hands-on learning and cutting-edge resources.
- Faith-Driven Education: Grounded in Christian values, Pepperdine prepares you to transform healthcare systems, and impact communities locally and worldwide.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The 30,000 sq. ft. Calabasas campus features advanced simulation labs—including one of the West Coast's few dedicated ER spaces and a specialized OR training room—nursing skills labs, and the latest technology to enhance learning.
- Licensure Preparation: After two years of prelicensure preparation, students are equipped for the NCLEX-RN exam. Upon graduation, they will be prepared for the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) exam.
Who Should Apply to the ELM Program?
Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program is ideal for individuals who:
- Hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing
- Are passionate about helping others and improving community health
- Want to transition careers without starting over at the undergraduate level
- Aspire to leadership, education, or advanced practice roles in nursing
Career Outcomes and Opportunities
Graduating from an ELM program opens the door to a wide range of professional opportunities. While your first step is passing the NCLEX-RN exam and becoming a registered nurse, the master's-level training allows for faster advancement.
Possible Career Paths:
- Acute Care RN
- Public Health Nurse
- Case Manager
- Charge Nurse or Unit Leader
- Clinical Nurse Educator
- Health Policy Analyst
- Future Nurse Practitioner (with further certification)
- Foundations for Doctoral degree
Curriculum Snapshot: What You'll Study
The ELM curriculum at Pepperdine is thoughtfully structured to deliver both foundational nursing education and advanced coursework that aligns with today's healthcare needs.
Course Highlight: NURS 400: Advanced Adult Health Nursing
This course equips students to manage complex and chronic conditions in adult patients through advanced assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based interventions. Covering cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, endocrine, and neurological disorders, students refine their skills in long-term and interdisciplinary care through classroom learning, simulations, and clinical practice.
Clinical Rotations Include:
- Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Maternal and Child Health
- Community Health
- Mental Health Nursing
- Critical Care Settings
ELM Program FAQs
Q: How long does the ELMSN program take?
Most students complete the program in about 20 to 24 months, depending on the specific
curriculum and scheduling. Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program is designed to be completed
in 7 semesters.
Q: Will I become an RN through the ELM program?
Yes. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the
NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Q: Is work experience required before applying?
Not necessarily. While healthcare experience is a plus, it is not a prerequisite.
A strong academic record, motivation for nursing, and alignment with Pepperdine's
values are key.
Q: Can I work while in the program?
Due to the intensive nature of ELM coursework and clinicals, full-time work is generally
not recommended.
Why Now is the Time to Become a Nurse
The healthcare industry continues to evolve rapidly. With an aging population, expanded access to healthcare, and growing awareness of public health needs, the demand for skilled nurses has never been higher.
Nursing by the Numbers:
- 6% projected job growth for RNs through 2032
- Over 200,000 job openings for RNs annually in the U.S.
- Master's-prepared nurses often earn higher salaries and qualify for specialized roles
Key Takeaways
- ELM programs offer an accelerated pathway for individuals with non-nursing degrees to enter the nursing profession at a graduate level.
- Pepperdine's ELM-CNL program combines academic excellence, clinical immersion, and faith-based values.
- Graduates are prepared to become registered nurses and pursue advanced career opportunities.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're ready to answer the call to serve, the ELM-CNL program at the Pepperdine College of Health Science's School of Nursing can help you become the compassionate, competent, and confident nurse our world needs.