Anyone thinking about switching careers to become a nurse but unsure about where to begin is in good company. Many individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree find themselves drawn to the healthcare field, but hesitate due to concerns about time, accessibility or whether it’s “too late” to make the leap.
The good news? It’s never too late to pursue one’s nursing career goals, especially with the Alverno College Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing (DEMSN) online program in Milwaukee. This program is built specifically for career changers who are ready to enter the field of nursing with purpose and speed. Below are five key benefits of nursing education through the Alverno Direct Entry online MSN program — and why it might be the right fit for those interested in advancing their career.
1) Accelerated Path to Licensure
One of the most significant barriers for career changers is time commitment. Traditional nursing paths can take years, but the Alverno DEMSN program is designed to fast-track the journey. In as few as 18 months of full-time study, students can earn both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and complete the program eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
This accelerated nursing education model also enables nurses to leverage their existing bachelor’s degree, eliminating the need for students to start from scratch. Whether one’s background is in business, biology or the arts, they’ll build on what they already know to gain the advanced nursing knowledge needed to practice with confidence.
2) Military-friendly Recognition
Alverno College is nationally recognized for its support of military-affiliated students. Whether active-duty military, a veteran or a military spouse, Alverno College’s nursing school is committed to making the transition to civilian healthcare as smooth and successful as possible.
The Alverno MSN program offers benefits like GI Bill acceptance, dedicated support services and flexible entry points. That makes this program an innovative and inclusive option for those with a military background who are ready to embark on a meaningful new career.
3) Opportunities for Men in Nursing
Historically underrepresented in the profession, men are increasingly finding their place in the world of nursing. The Alverno nursing degree helps open those doors.
As gender parity becomes a greater focus in healthcare, Alverno fosters a welcoming, supportive environment for men in nursing. The program emphasizes collaboration, leadership and clinical excellence — helping male students feel both seen and supported. With a national nursing shortage, the industry is actively seeking diverse perspectives. Male nurses not only bring value to the profession. They are essential to building a more equitable healthcare system.
4) High-demand Job Market
The nursing profession isn’t just meaningful — it’s growing fast. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the role of nurse practitioner (NP) is projected to increase by 40% from 2024 to 2034, making it one of the fastest-growing occupations in the country. Registered nurse (RN) roles are also in high demand, with thousands of job openings anticipated each year due to workforce retirements and expanding healthcare needs.
Graduates of the Alverno Direct Entry MSN program are uniquely positioned to take advantage of this booming job market. Whether a person’s goals include bedside care, advanced practice or nurse leadership, Alverno equips them with the clinical and interpersonal skills to thrive.
And, it’s not just about getting hired. It’s about getting hired fast. A 2023 survey from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) found that 95% of new MSN graduates secure employment within 4–6 months of graduation.
5) Supportive, Accessible Program Design
Going back to school can feel intimidating, especially if it has been years since someone last attended a classroom. That’s why the Alverno DEMSN program is built around an individual’s needs as an adult learner.
From small class sizes to personal faculty mentorship and career guidance, the program is known for its supportive learning environment. As a leader in women’s education and adult learning, Alverno College prioritizes communication, emotional intelligence and real-world application — skills that make a difference in today’s dynamic healthcare settings.
With multiple start dates per year, no waitlist and a Milwaukee location that provides both clinical access and convenience, Alverno makes it easy for nurses to start when they are ready.
An Advanced Nursing Career Starts Here: With Support, Speed and Purpose
So, is nursing a promising career? If someone is looking for purpose, stability, growth and the chance to truly impact lives, the answer is a resounding yes.
Whether driven by a calling to care, a desire for a career change or a vision for healthcare leadership, the Alverno College Direct Entry MSN program offers a great opportunity to start strong and graduate career ready. Explore options for getting into nursing school at Alverno College and discover how to start an advanced nursing career anytime — with support, speed and purpose.
Learn more about Alverno’s online DEMSN program.