THE ACCEPTANCE AND GROWTH OF MSN MBA PROGRAMS

The value of graduate programs that enable nurses to earn masters degr ees in nursing (MSN) and business administration (MBA) through coordin ated courses of study has been debated repeatedly. This article descri bes the subsequent development of the dual degree option (MSN/MBA) wit hin US nursing graduate programs, explores the opportunities and probl ems reported by programs offering this form of education, and consider s the future development of these types of programs. The article is ba sed on a survey of 167 schools of nursing offering graduate programs. The authors describe the challenges to these programs' continued expan sion and the role that healthcare reform may have in shaping the educa tion market.