Iowa State University launches new online master of science in nursing, expanding nursing education offerings
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Iowa State University is expanding its nursing education pathways with the launch of a new online master of science in nursing program, beginning in fall 2026. Intentionally designed with flexibility for working nurses seeking to advance their careers, the fully online master of science in nursing offers flexible graduate education with two specialized tracks and prepares nurses to meet growing workforce needs across Iowa.
The two tracks serve varied career goals and statewide workforce needs: a nurse educator track and a population health track.
The nurse educator track prepares nurses to teach in academic or clinical settings, expanding instructional capacity and supporting the education of future generations of registered nurses.
“To educate more nurses, we must grow the number of nurse educators — and that’s precisely the need the nurse educator track is designed to meet,” said Dawn Bowker, director of nursing education. “Nurses will graduate prepared to teach, mentor and lead across academic and clinical settings, strengthening the current nursing workforce and ultimately improving patient care.”
The population health track focuses on prevention, data-driven decision-making, and addressing the social and environmental factors influencing health across communities.
“The population health track prepares advanced practice nurses to provide evidence‑based, prevention‑focused care that addresses root causes of health outcomes,” Bowker said. “Our graduates will be equipped to lead system-level improvements, translate data into action and partner with communities to advance health equity.”
In addition to the new online master of science in nursing, Iowa State is also launching an on‑campus Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (A‑BSN), further strengthening the university’s commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. The A‑BSN is an intensive, second-degree pathway designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want to enter the nursing profession.
Prospective students interested in learning more can visit online.iastate.edu or contact Sarah Miller, nursing@iastate.edu
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