St. Edward’s University Launches New Master of Science in Nursing Program
AUSTIN, Texas — St. Edward’s University is launching its first-ever Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program through its School of Health Sciences, designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers and take on greater leadership or clinical responsibilities.
The flexible, online program supports working professionals to pursue their degree full-time or part-time.
“Our new MSN program reflects our deep commitment to serving the healthcare needs of the Austin community and beyond,” said Donna Beuk, Founding Dean of the School of Health Sciences. “By preparing nurses for advanced roles in leadership and practice, we are strengthening the pipeline of highly skilled professionals who will expand access, improve outcomes, and advance health equity across Texas and the nation.”
The MSN program will prepare graduates to make an impact at both the systems and patient-care levels. Graduates develop the advanced clinical expertise, leadership skills and evidence-based practice competencies needed to improve patient outcomes, strengthen healthcare delivery and influence policy and organizational decision-making.
Applications are now open for the Healthcare Leadership concentration, a 32-credit program launching in Fall 2026. This track equips healthcare professionals with advanced skills in leadership, healthcare strategy, policy and quality improvement, preparing them to guide teams and strengthen healthcare delivery.
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration, a 47-credit program, is currently in a development phase and seeking initial approval from the Texas Board of Nursing. Once approved, it will prepare nurses to provide comprehensive primary care for adolescents, adults and older adults through advanced coursework and supervised clinical experiences.
Students who begin in the Healthcare Leadership track will be able to apply completed credits toward the AGPCNP concentration once it receives approval, offering a clear pathway for continued advancement.
In addition to the launch of the MSN program, the School of Health Sciences is planning to offer a direct entry-level Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program that is anticipated to begin in Fall 2026. Additional future programs planned include a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) and a Master of Physician Associate Studies (MPAS).
The School of Health Sciences has experienced significant momentum since its official launch in 2023, marked by the successful rollout of its inaugural undergraduate nursing programs, national accreditation achievements in 2024, and a first-time 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2025. The school has also received recognition from state lawmakers, along with transformative support from St. Edward’s alumni, faculty, the Board of Trustees, community members and nonprofit organizations such as The Ladies of Charity of Austin. Through innovative, student-centered education and a commitment to addressing critical workforce needs, the school continues to expand its impact and strengthen its role in preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders and practitioners.
About St. Edward’s University
St. Edward’s University is a private university in the Catholic, Holy Cross tradition with approximately 3,000 students. Located in Austin, Texas, it is one of the top universities in the state and offers more than 55 undergraduate, seven master’s degree programs and a doctorate program. St. Edward’s delivers a premier, highly personalized education that provides students distinctive academics and extensive internships, research and service learning opportunities on a vibrant and inclusive hilltop campus in a world-class city. St. Edward’s has been recognized for 22 consecutive years as one of “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report. In the 2026 Best Colleges rankings, St. Edward’s ranked #5 in the Best Regional Universities in the West.