Learn More About North Park University’s DEMSN Program
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20-month program -
Chicago, IL
Why Choose North Park University’s DEMSN Program?
Commit to a career that serves to promote better health for all with North Park University’s intensive Direct Entry MSN program.
Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), the DEMSN received a 100% first time pass rate (2024).
Based on the North Side of Chicago, IL, the North Park DEMSN program offers you:
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Expert InstructionBuild advanced skills across five nursing domains with support from clinically experienced faculty members who are committed to their mission as educators.
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State-of-the-Art Campus FacilitiesBuild hands-on patient care skills in our advanced nursing simulation labs.
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A Thriving, Vibrant Urban SettingGain experience and insight into healthcare for diverse populations thanks to our location in Chicago.
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Varied Clinical ExperiencesNorth Park University’s regional network of affiliated clinical sites helps you explore a variety of care settings.
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Education Rooted in Christian PrinciplesFounded in 1891 by the Evangelical Covenant Church, North Park University encourages students from all backgrounds to pursue academic excellence in service of others.
Program Structure
The 70-credit North Park University DEMSN helps you progress from basic nursing knowledge to master’s-level concepts and skills in 20 intensive months of study. The program features:
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Core Curriculum
Including nursing and
related health science foundations, nursing leadership, research and leadership, ethics, policy and more. -
Clinical Training
Build your patient care skills in advanced simulation labs on the North Park campus.
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Clinical Practicum Experience
Complete clinical rotations in a range of practice settings throughout the Chicago area.
Courses
NURS 5205 Professional Development 1: Identity and Communication
NURS 5230 Pathophysiology I
NURS 5240 Pharmacology I
NURS 5255 Holistic Health Assessment
NURS 5310 Health and Illness: Foundations of Nursing
NURS 5311 Health and Illness: Foundations of Nursing Practicum
NURS 5225 Professional Development 2
NURS 5235 Pathophysiology II
NURS 5245 Pharmacology II
NURS 5320 Health and Illness: Nursing Across the Lifespan
NURS 5321 Health and Illness: Nursing Across the Lifespan Practicum
NURS 5260 Development of a Microsystem Leader
NURS 5275 Evidence Based Practice and Quality Improvement
NURS 5350 Health and Illness: Diverse Populations 1
NURS 5351 Health and Illness: Diverse Populations 1 Practicum
NURS 5030 Professional Communication and Collaboration
NURS 5280 Nursing in an Evolving Healthcare System
NURS 5360 Health and Illness: Diverse Populations 2
NURS 5361 Health and Illness: Diverse Populations 2 Practicum
NURS 5010 Scientific Inquiry and Knowledge Development
NURS 5380 DEMSN Immersion Practicum
NURS 5395 Integration and Role Transition Seminar
NURS 5015 Health Care Systems: Organizations and Resources
NURS 5020 Population-Based Health Care
Admission Requirements
Application Requirements
North Park University requires applicants to the DEMSN program to hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university (or international equivalent) in any academic major other than nursing. Applicants must have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
A completed NursingCAS application
Contact North Park University to learn more about their admission requirements.
Prerequisite Courses
Students admitted after Spring 2025: North Park requires DEMSN applicants to have completed the following prerequisites with a 2.75 GPA or better within seven years of beginning the program:
- Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs
- Microbiology with lab
- Chemistry with lab
- Statistics
Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 for prerequisite courses; science courses must have a grade of “C” or better; non-science courses must have a grade of “C-“ or better; no “D”s, “F”s, and no more than one “W” (withdrawal).
You may be required to take or re-take prerequisite courses prior to beginning Direct Entry MSN courses.
Accreditation
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at North Park University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
North Park University DEMSN Program FAQ
How long is North Park University’s DEMSN program?
The North Park DEMSN program takes as few as 20 months to complete.
How much does the North Park University DEMSN program cost?
As of 2025-2026, tuition for the North Park DEMSN is $925 per credit hour. The total tuition cost for the 68-credit program is $62,900.
Additional fees may apply, and you will also need to purchase books and materials. Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Tuition costs are subject to change.
Is a DEMSN at North Park University worth it?
Yes. When you earn your Direct Entry MSN with North Park, you’re developing advanced skills with a school known for its dedication to evidence-based care, diversity, and faith. Learn more about what a DEMSN can offer you here.
How much can you make with a Direct Entry MSN degree from North Park University?
Salary varies by employer and by region. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that May 2021* salaries for registered nurses (RNs) of all education levels in Illinois in were:
- Median annual salary: $77,580
- Lowest 10%: $59,640 or less
- Highest 10%: $100,650 or more[1]
We do not guarantee employment or salary.
*The most recent year for which data is available from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).