Northeastern State University expands graduate nursing degree options with two specialized healthcare concentrations

Veterans Health and American Indian Health concentrations join MSN lineup

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) announced the expansion of its online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program by adding two new concentrations: Veterans Health and American Indian Health. The programs are designed to prepare nurses to address the unique healthcare needs of veterans and American Indian communities while strengthening the healthcare workforce in Oklahoma and beyond.

The new concentrations will expand nursing opportunities for nurses seeking advanced education while addressing healthcare workforce needs through specialized preparation to serve diverse populations, including veterans, tribal nations and the communities they support.

The Veterans Health concentration focuses on the physical, psychological, social and long-term healthcare needs of military veterans. The American Indian Health concentration explores culturally responsive care practices while addressing health disparities that tribal communities face. Both programs emphasize nursing leadership, policy navigation and development, and healthcare improvement.

Dr. Heather Fenton, director of nursing, explained the need for these specific programs and the impact they will have on the nursing communities.

“There is a growing need for nurse leaders with specialized knowledge in these populations,” Fenton said. “Our hope is that these programs will create a new generation of nurses who are equipped to address the unique healthcare needs of veterans and American Indian communities while improving health outcomes across Oklahoma, the region and the nation.”

Each program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences, evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary teamwork to prepare students to serve in these populations.

Courses are delivered primarily online with practicum experiences that provide opportunities for hands-on training and professional engagement.

NSU President Rodney Hanley said the new concentrations reflect the university’s commitment to addressing workforce needs and improving access to specialized healthcare education.  

“Our institution has long been committed to preparing nurses to meet Oklahoma’s evolving healthcare needs,” Hanley said. “These new programs build on that commitment by preparing graduates with the knowledge and cultural understanding to provide care for veterans, American Indian communities and patients across the state and beyond.”

NSU was the first institution in Oklahoma to offer a stand-alone program for registered nurses to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Since then, the RN to BSN and MSN nursing programs have transitioned completely online and expanded to include graduate concentrations such as Nursing Education, Administrative Leadership and Nursing Informatics. A pre-licensure BSN was also added and will welcome its inaugural cohort this fall.

Applications for the Fall 2026 MSN cohort are open through Aug. 1, 2026, with classes beginning Aug. 17. Learn more or apply at nsuok.edu/nursing.

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