Applying to a master’s program (MSN) to become an advanced practice nurse takes time and effort. Part of the application process at some schools, including the University of Colorado Anschutz College of Nursing, requires applicants to take part in an interview. Dr. Krista Estes, Assistant Dean of Master’s Programs at CU Anschutz Nursing, gives her insight into what applicants should know to put their best foot forward.
An Overview of the Interview Process
At CU Anschutz Nursing, you typically won’t hear back about an interview until after the deadline for their program has closed. The college’s Admissions and Student Affairs Team reviews the applications for required components and, once complete, sends them to each program’s Specialty Director. Each Specialty Director meets with their faculty team to review applicants and decide who will be selected for an interview (interviews are typically done over Zoom).
When the interview is complete, the Specialty Director and faculty team will review each applicant holistically — considering the written application, interview performance, and any additional admissions requirements — before submitting their final recommendations to the Admissions and Student Affairs team, who will then contact you directly with a decision, or notify all applicants of the outcome.
After the application deadline, the process usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the program.
What You’re Evaluated OnDuring an interview, you may be evaluated on multiple attributes, including:
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Know What to Expect
Interviews are conducted individually, but you may be speaking with several people from the college at the same time. This can range from the Specialty Director, faculty, current students, or alumni.
We include these people in the interview process because they bring different – and valuable – perspectives, as they know the program and what it takes for prospective students to succeed. I’ve noticed that when we have students or alumni interview, most of the applicants' questions are directed at them.
Why Interviews Are Necessary
Sometimes it’s hard to assess a candidate based solely on written materials. We’re looking to see if you’re a good fit for the program or if this is the right environment for you. You have an opportunity to expand on your experiences or clarify anything in your application. The interview provides an opportunity for you to understand us better and for us to better understand you.
Interviews Start From Day One
The whole interview process begins with your initial outreach to the college and program you’re interested in. Every interaction, every email, any communication with staff and faculty…it’s all an informal part of the interview. So keep that in mind, because every single person in this college matters in your interactions with them.
Am I a Strong Candidate?
We want you to be authentic in your application and interview. Don’t portray something you’re not.
What makes you a strong candidate is being someone who has clarity about the role you’re applying for. You have to be thoughtful about your long-term and short-term goals and have a realistic understanding of the profession and its scope of practice. You need a clear plan for success, as graduate education is rigorous.
How to Prepare
It’s important you shadow a professional who has the type of job you want after earning your master’s degree. It allows you to truly understand the field you want to go into.
Present yourself professionally and be in a professional setting. We’ve seen people in bedrooms or in distracting environments like coffee shops, so make sure you’re in a quiet place.
Don’t Do This
Don’t use AI to write your essay. We want to hear your authentic voice. If someone uses AI, it comes off very generic. During the interview, make sure you answer your questions thoroughly, but don’t be overly long or unfocused. This happens quite a bit, so keep your answers succinct and genuine.
You should also come up with some thoughtful and genuine questions about the program you’re applying for. Replies to interviewers' questions shouldn’t be memorized or overly rehearsed.
The Interview Goes Both Ways
You need to approach this as a two-way interview or evaluation. We’re not only determining if you’re a good fit, but you are also trying to figure out if we’re right for you. You want to make sure the program aligns with your career goals and your preferred learning style. Take time to reflect on your goals and how the program you’re applying for will support them.
About the author: Dr. Krista Estes serves as the Assistant Dean of Master’s Programs and is an Associate Professor at the University of Colorado Anschutz College of Nursing. She actively practices as a Family Nurse Practitioner and previously held the role of Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty Director for eight years.
