MSN Comprehensive Examination

To be eligible for the culminating experience, the Comprehensive Examination, the student will have:

1. Completed the Graduate Writing Exam (GWE) with a score of 8 or better (or equivalent).
2. Achieved an overall grade point average of 3.0 or better and a minimum of B grade in every graduate course.
3. Completed all courses required for the degree* or enrolled in the last semester of required coursework.
4. Applied for graduation the semester prior to taking the exam (see note below).
5. Submitted a Comprehensive Exam Eligibility Checklist to register for the Comprehensive Examination Workshop (posted to the nursing web under forms)
6. Attend the Comprehensive Examination Workshop (scheduled one month prior to the exam date)

*Note: If the student has completed all courses required for the degree the semester prior to taking the comprehensive examination, the student must register in either a continuation unit (MSN 600) or coursework in order to maintain continuous enrollment.

What is the Comprehensive Examination?

The Comprehensive Examination (Comp) consists of a written exam (academic paper) that reflects the graduate student's understanding and synthesis of theory, nursing research, and knowledge of the advanced practice nursing role gained during the course of graduate study. The student is asked to identify a problem/issue that is significant to nursing and the student's role option and propose an evidenced-based intervention to solve the problem. The Comp is offered on a pass/fail basis and is administered on campus in a computer lab as a written paper. An oral component follows the written component. There is one retake opportunity offered.

Click on the link to see the grading rubric for the exam. Grading Rubric

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Fall 2008 MSN Comprehensive Examination

If you intend on taking the comp exam in the fall 2008 term, you must submit the Comp Eligibility checklist (posted to the nursing web under forms) a minimum of one week prior to the Comp Workshop. Attendance at the Comp Exam Workshop is mandatory. However, on rare occasions, students are excused from attending the Comp Workshop due to serious and compelling reasons. If you want to be excused, email Dr. Welch to discuss your situation.

Dr. Welch will email your eligibility to attend the workshop and sit for the exam.

Directions to campus, campus map and parking information: 
http://www.csudh.edu/site/VisitUs/drivingdirections.shtml

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*Applying for graduation: Did you?

1. Complete the graduation application posted to http://www.csudh.edu/csudh/ar2000/pdf/appforgradma.pdf
2. Pay the $35.00 fee
3. Complete the MSN Program of Study, also known as Major Advisement Form (posted to the nursing web under forms). Send completed Program of Study form to:

College of Health and Human Services
Student Services Center
1000 E. Victoria St.
Carson, CA 90747