DES MOINES, IOWA, January 24, 2022 — Mercy College of Health Sciences has received approval from the Higher Learning Commission and the Iowa Board of Nursing to offer a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an emphasis in Organizational and Systems Leadership. This graduate program, the first in the College’s 123-year history, expands upon a legacy of healthcare and nursing education. 

“This is a monumental milestone in the long history of Mercy College of Health Sciences,” said Tom Leahy, JD, Interim President. “Being recognized by our accrediting bodies to offer a master’s program acknowledges the diligence, dedication, and commitment of our entire College community to prepare students to provide the highest quality of care.”  

The hybrid online and in-person MSN program is designed for baccalaureate-prepared nurses to advance their skills in leadership and management. Incorporating feedback from local and national nurse executives, the program will expand on the knowledge and theories necessary to be a successful servant nurse leader in today's healthcare settings. Combined with the College’s Catholic heritage, the MSN curriculum prepares graduates to be experts in the operations, finances, and evolution of healthcare delivery systems. 

“We’ve heard from nurse executives about the complexities of being a nurse leader in today’s healthcare environment,”
acknowledged Nancy Kertz, PhD, FNP-BC, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost.

“Our MSN in Organizational and Systems Leadership recognizes these changes and offers students a relevant curriculum and empowers them with the necessary tools to become the next generation of nursing leaders.”

1.5 years and offers full-time and part-time options

The program can be completed in as little as 1.5 years and offers full-time and part-time options. Graduates will be prepared to serve in positions of advanced practice, administration, education, and research.

The first MSN cohort will start in the fall of 2022. To learn more about Mercy College’s MSN program, visit www.mchs.edu/msn.

About Mercy College of Health Sciences
Mercy College of Health Sciences is the only private Catholic college in central Iowa and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Located in downtown Des Moines, Mercy College prepares graduates for service and leadership in the healthcare community with a wide range of bachelor, associate, and certificate programs. Mercy College’s liberal arts and sciences education develops compassionate caregivers and leaders. Visit www.mchs.edu or call (515) 643-3180 to learn more.