Master’s of Science in Nursing – MSN Degree Programs

Amanda Bucceri Androus, RN, BSN
Last Updated On Feb 4, 2025
Amanda Bucceri Androus, RN, BSN
12 Min Read
Master’s of Science in Nursing – MSN Degree Programs

The field of nursing is growing and changing. Nurses have worked hard over decades to create highly professional and educational standards. Choosing to earn a graduate degree in nursing is a great choice for RNs who want to make a big impact on patient care or even narrow their focus to a specific career path through one of many specialized nursing majors.

The Master's of Science degree in Nursing, or MSN, creates opportunities for working registered nurses and for those who have never worked in healthcare at all. MSN-educated nurses are among the highest paid in the field and are in a position to influence patient care in a whole new way.

2025 - Best Online MSN Programs

RegisteredNursing.org has ranked the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program nationwide for 2025. These programs are celebrated for their academic excellence, flexible learning options, and commitment to advancing nursing practice. Rankings are based on a comprehensive methodology that assesses program quality, accessibility, and student outcomes. For more details, visit our rankings methodology page.

1.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL

The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers online MSN nursing programs through its renowned School of Nursing. The department's philosophy is rooted in evidence-based practice, leadership, and collaboration to prepare nurses for advanced roles in healthcare. UAB is consistently ranked as one of the top nursing schools in the nation and boasts a high graduation rate and job placement rate for its online MSN graduates.

MSN Programs
2.

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL

University of South Alabama's online MSN nursing programs offer a rigorous curriculum with a focus on evidence-based practice and leadership development. The nursing department, known as the Pat Capps Covey College of Nursing, follows a philosophy of promoting health and wellness through compassionate and culturally competent care. Students have access to cutting-edge technology and experienced faculty in a flexible online learning environment.

MSN Programs
3.

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX

The University of Texas at Arlington offers highly reputable online MSN nursing programs through their College of Nursing and Health Innovation. Their philosophy centers around providing interactive and collaborative learning experiences, as well as preparing nurses to be leaders in the rapidly evolving healthcare industry. The programs also emphasize evidence-based practice and critical thinking skills.

MSN Programs
4.

Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor, MI

Spring Arbor University offers highly reputable online MSN nursing programs through their Department of Nursing, which follows a holistic nursing philosophy. Their rigorous curriculum includes evidence-based practice, leadership development, and ethical decision-making, preparing nurses to excel in a constantly evolving healthcare landscape. The programs are designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers while maintaining a flexible schedule.

MSN Programs
5.

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University offers highly accredited and flexible online MSN nursing programs through its College of Nursing and Health Professions. With a strong focus on evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration, Drexel's nursing philosophy emphasizes the importance of holistic care and leadership development for advancing the nursing profession. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and diverse clinical experiences.

MSN Programs
6.

Duke University

Durham, NC

Duke University offers an exceptional online MSN nursing program through its highly esteemed School of Nursing, known for its commitment to evidence-based practice and leadership in healthcare. The program equips nurses with advanced skills in patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention, preparing them to excel in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. The nursing department's philosophy emphasizes holistic, patient-centered care and the integration of technology and innovation into nursing practice.

MSN Programs
7.

Rivier University

Nashua, NH

Rivier University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing program designed to develop advanced nursing practice skills for compassionate and ethical patient care. The program is designed with a strong focus on evidence-based practice, leadership, and interprofessional collaboration. The School of Nursing at Rivier University is committed to providing a supportive learning environment for students to become well-rounded and highly competent nursing professionals.

MSN Programs
8.

Clarkson College

Omaha, NE

Clarkson College offers comprehensive online MSN nursing programs that integrate advanced nursing concepts, leadership, and evidence-based practice. The nursing department, known for its strong commitment to excellence and innovation, follows a patient-centered care philosophy and prepares students to excel in various clinical settings as advanced practice nurses.

MSN Programs
9.

University of St. Francis

Joliet, IL

The University of St. Francis offers a comprehensive and dynamic online Master of Science in Nursing program, designed for aspiring nurses seeking advanced knowledge and skills. The program is housed within the Leach College of Nursing, which follows the Franciscan philosophy of caring for the whole person and promoting social justice. With a focus on evidence-based practice and leadership, graduates are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field.

MSN Programs
10.

Georgia College

Milledgeville, GA

Georgia College offers highly reputable and rigorous online MSN nursing programs through the School of Health Sciences, dedicated to producing compassionate and competent nurse leaders through evidence-based practice, lifelong learning, and innovation. Students have the opportunity to specialize in various areas such as nursing administration, education, and informatics. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making to prepare nurses for advanced practice in a constantly evolving healthcare landscape.

MSN Programs
11.

Ohio University

Athens, OH

Ohio University offers exceptional online MSN nursing programs through its School of Nursing, which is dedicated to producing highly skilled and compassionate nurses. The programs are designed to equip students with advanced clinical knowledge and leadership skills, and are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. With a focus on evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration, Ohio University's nursing department prepares graduates to excel in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

MSN ProgramsGraduate Certificate Programs
    12.

    Winston-Salem State University

    Winston-Salem, NC

    Winston-Salem State University offers highly acclaimed online MSN nursing programs through the School of Health Sciences. The nursing department's philosophy focuses on developing compassionate and competent nurses who are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills to lead and innovate in the healthcare industry. The programs are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of evidence-based practices, health policy, and cultural competency, preparing nurses to excel in diverse healthcare settings.

    MSN Programs
    13.

    Maryville University

    St. Louis, MO

    Maryville University's online MSN nursing programs provide students with a comprehensive and innovative curriculum that equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the ever-evolving field of nursing. The nursing department, known as the Catherine McAuley School of Nursing, follows a philosophy of holistic care, promoting compassion, critical thinking, and leadership in the healthcare industry.

    MSN Programs
    14.

    La Salle University

    Philadelphia, PA

    La Salle University's online MSN nursing programs offer a comprehensive and flexible learning experience for aspiring nurses. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and patient-centered care, the nursing department's philosophy focuses on preparing highly skilled and compassionate nurses who can meet the ever-evolving healthcare needs of diverse populations. The program also offers a variety of specialized tracks, allowing students to tailor their education to their individual career goals.

    MSN Programs
    15.

    Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing

    Peoria, IL

    Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing offers top-notch online MSN nursing programs with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and patient-centered care. The college's nursing department, guided by the Franciscan philosophy of compassion and service, prepares nurses to be leaders in the healthcare industry through its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on clinical experiences.

    MSN Programs

    MSN Degree Programs

    Across the country, more than 2,000 graduate programs exist from more than 500 nursing schools. With so many options there is a good program for every student. While most MSN programs take approximately three years, many finish much sooner. The current trend for APRN programs is to combine the MSN and DNP programs so that graduates can earn a Doctorate degree in addition to a Master's degree. This is not true for every program and is not required at this time to begin practicing.

    MSN degree programs include:

    Direct Entry or Accelerated MSN

    The Direct Entry (also commonly referred to as a Master’s Entry to Nursing Practice – MENP) or Accelerated MSN program is available to students with a non-nursing Bachelor's or graduate degree. These programs assume general education requirements have been met and do not require repeating those courses. This program is for those without a degree in nursing.

    For APRN programs, upon completion of the first year, students will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam which allows licensure and is a requirement to begin working as an RN. However, most programs are much too time-consuming to balance both work and school so working is not recommended.

    This course is typically 60-75 credit hours and requires clinical hours. Clinical hours are required to become licensed as an RN by the State and consist of one-on-one healthcare experience with an instructor.

    Direct Entry or Accelerated MSN Tuition

    Tuition varies greatly by school, but typically runs about $500-$1000 per credit hour. Generally, the requirement is 60-75 credit hours.

    RN to MSN Bridge Program

    For current RNs with an Associate's degree or diploma, the RN to MSN bridge program is a convenient option. These programs are less common than BSN or Bachelor's to MSN programs but some schools do offer them for a more affordable rate.

    For students with an Associate's degree, many schools offer programs with as little as 51 credit hours.

    RN to MSN Bridge Program Tuition

    Credit hour cost varies considerably. Some programs offer a difference between lower-level and bridge courses while others have a flat fee for every course. Courses range from $500-$1000 per credit hour.

    BSN to MSN Online Degree Program

    For working RNs with a Bachelor's who want to advance to a higher level of education a bridge program is popular. The BSN to MSN program is available from many schools as in-classroom, online, and a combination of both formats.

    Clinical hours are required for APRN roles because these require state licensure. Preceptor hours are not necessarily required by the State for indirect patient care specialties even though most schools will require them.

    Online BSN to MSN program

    For many BSN to MSN programs courses are offered 100% online. Clinical hours or preceptor hours are in-person and often required. Each state requires clinical hours for APRN specialties, which require state licensure. Many schools require preceptor hours so the student can gain "real-world" experience even if the specialty does not require state licensure to practice. Many online schools require the student to arrange clinical or preceptor hours independently in his/her hometown.

    Popular Online BSN to MSN Programs Include:

    • Leadership and Management
    • Nursing Education
    • Nursing Informatics
    • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
    • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
    • Family Nurse Practitioner

    With a Bachelor's degree in hand, many online schools offer MSN programs that require as few as 36 credit hours.

    BSN to MSN Degree Program Tuition

    Tuition for the BSN to MSN program is similar to that of the RN to MSN program which is $500-$1000 per credit hour.

    MSN Degree Prerequisites

    Dual Master's Degrees

    For many graduate study specialties, a dual Master's degree is beneficial to be competitive in today's job market.

    Dual Master's Degree Programs in Nursing Include:

    • Master's of Science in Nursing/Master's of Business Administration (MSN/MBA)
    • Master's of Science in Nursing/Master's of Health Administration (MSN/MHA)
    • Master's of Science in Nursing/Master's of Public Health (MSN/MPH)

    MSN/MBA

    This program is designed for nurses who want to be Chief Nursing Officers (CNO), Director of Nursing, nurse manager, or nurse executive. Graduates may work in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, long-term care facilities, outpatient settings, and others. To uphold or gain the ANCC's Magnet status, nurse managers in hospitals are required to hold an MSN degree.

    Grand Canyon State University has a relatively short MBA and MSN in Nursing Leadership and Healthcare Systems.

    This dual Master's program is 18 credit hours and offers 5-week courses. The 6 required courses are:

    • NRS-430V: Professional Dynamics
    • NRS-434V: Health Assessment
    • HLT-362V: Applied Statistics for Health Care Professionals
    • NRS-433V: Introduction to Nursing Research
    • NRS-427V: Concepts in Community and Public Health
    • NRS-410V: Pathophysiology and Nursing Management of Clients’ Health

    Be sure to choose an accredited school. This ensures credits will be accepted by other schools and signifies a level of prestige as it pertains to education. Grand Canyon State University is accredited regionally by the Higher Learning Commission, Accreditation Council Business Schools and Programs, Arizona State Board of Education, Arizona Department of Education, Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education.

    Learn more about Dual MSN/MBA programs.

    MSN/MHA

    Master's of Science in Nursing/Master of Healthcare Administration is designed for nurses who want to be a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or other healthcare administrator. Working on the administrative side of healthcare settings such as hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, long-term care facilities, and outpatient settings.

    The University of Phoenix offers an online program and is accredited by the CCNE which allows the graduate to take the ANCC certification exam.

    Coursework includes finance, healthcare policy, and healthcare informatics. Required credit hours are based on location.

    Learn more about Dual MSN/MHA programs.

    MSN/MPH

    The Master's of Science in Nursing/Master's of Public Health is designed for nurses who want to work in leadership roles in public health. The educational focus is around epidemiology, health policy management, and social/behavioral science.

    Johns Hopkins University in Maryland offers a joint MSN/MPH program that can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis. Enrolled students only need to complete one 8-week term onsite – the remaining courses are completed online.

    Learn more about Dual MSN/MPH programs.

    Dual Master's Degree Tuition

    Credit hours for the Dual Master's programs range from 18 to 60. Tuition is usually per credit hour but may be a flat rate. Financial aid is available from accredited schools.

    • Requirements for MSN Degree
    • Cumulative GPA 3.0
    • Negative drug screen
    • BLS CPR Certification
    • Negative background check
    • Completion of Bachelor's or Associate's degree from an accredited school, where applicable
    • Many schools, but not all, require taking the GRE exam 

    MSN Degree Curriculum

    MSN curriculum can be very different depending on which specialty is chosen. APRN roles provide direct patient care so they have a curriculum that teaches the nurse to be a direct patient care provider. Learn more about APRN roles.

    APRN classes may include:

    • Anatomy and Physiology
    • Pharmacology
    • Advanced Practice Geriatric, Pediatric, Adult, and Newborn Nursing
    • Nursing Ethics
    • Research
    • Evidence-Based Practice
    • Public Health

    Nursing specialties that are not APRN specialties include several different classes that vary by specialty. Classes for these specialties may include:

    • Healthcare policy
    • Technology in nursing
    • Community health applications

    Exam and Licensing

    The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) is a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association (ANA). They are the authority on nursing certifications.

    "ANCC’s Certification Program enables nurses to demonstrate their specialty expertise and validate their knowledge to employers and patients. Through targeted exams that incorporate the latest nursing-practice standards, ANCC certification empowers nurses with pride and professional satisfaction."

    After graduation, APRNs are required to take the appropriate certification exam to be eligible for state licensure. Graduate's of non-APRN degree programs are necessarily required to take the exam but it is highly recommended to be competitive.

    From the ANCC website, available certifications include (note: some are "retired"):

    • Clinical Nurse Specialist Certifications
      • Adult Health CNS
      • Adult Gerontology CNS
      • Adult Psychiatric–Mental Health CNS
      • Child/Adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health CNS
      • Gerontological CNS
      • Home Health CNS
      • Pediatric CNS
      • Public/Community Health CNS
      • CNS Core
      • Diabetes Management—Advanced
      • Read more about CNS

    APRN Exams

    The NP certification exam is computer-based and consists of 200 questions, 25 of them unscored. The cost ranges from $270-$395 depending on whether the candidate is a member of the ANCC or not.

    The CNS and most other certification exams from the ANCC are computer-based and consist of 175 questions, 25 of them unscored. The cost is $270-$395 depending on whether the candidate is a member of the ANCC or not.

    Eligibility for APRN Certification

    Eligibility for the ANCC varies by specialty but some basics are:

    • Current RN license in good standing
    • Graduate from a Master's program which has been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) (formerly NLNAC | National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission)
    • Completion of the required amount of clinical hours, usually 500 clinical hours
      • State requirements may differ but the higher of the two must be satisfied
      • Completion of specific classes within the Master's program
        • Listed by certification

    What Are the Roles of an MSN Nurse

    MSN educated nurses are able to work from the top down to change healthcare policy, behind the scenes to advance research and technology, and side by side with patients as a provider, and many other roles.

    Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

    Working bedside RNs are able to change to a provider role as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or APRN. "Bedside" means working side-by-side with patients and carrying out a physician or practitioner's orders. But with a graduate degree, instead of taking orders, the APRN writes them. Read more about APRN careers.

    The term APRN is an umbrella term for 4 types of MSN specialties:

    Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

    Specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing a variety of patient populations with both chronic and acute disease processes. FNPs work with patients to promote disease prevention, wellness, and longevity. This is the most popular MSN degree path and FNPs are in high demand. The student is able to specialize in neonatal, pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations.

    Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

    Working with both gynecologic and obstetric patient populations the CNM largely focuses on sexually transmitted disease prevention in the community as well as the health of the newborn and mother before, during, and after birth.

    Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

    CRNAs provide anesthesia and related care to surgical patients, including epidurals and emergent intubation to non-surgical patients.

    Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

    Emphasizing research and evidence-based practice for the improvement of care, the CNS focuses on the prevention and treatment of diseases.

    But if direct patient care is not the ultimate goal many other roles are available for MSN-educated RNs.

    Nurse Researcher

    At the forefront of medical research, scientific nurse researchers are helping to test, monitor, record, and create cures for illness and disease.

    Nurse Educator

    Nurse educators teach nursing students and professional nurses about patient care and safety through quality education. The type of working environment varies depending on the area chosen.

    Public Health Nurse

    Public health nurses help prevent diseases within the community through education and treatment.

    Nurse Informaticist

    Technology and information are a cornerstone of the future of healthcare and nurse informaticists create, monitor, and maintain software development and healthcare systems.

    Public/Health Policy

    Creating healthcare policies within the government affects all patients, and health policy nurses work hard to promote and create policies that will be beneficial for patients both current and future.

    Nurse Administrator

    Working from the top to build policy and procedures for many patients, as opposed to helping just one at a time. Nurse administrators ensure the quality of care and good workflow for bedside RNs. They may hire and fire and maintain order in a nursing unit.

    Clinical Systems Leadership (CNL)

    The CNL role was created to meet the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's (AACN) call for higher quality and improved safety of patient care. Working with administration, but not as a part of it, the CNL communicates and monitors patient care along with the interdisciplinary team. Nursing education, coordination of care, collect and evaluate patient safety data to improve quality of care.

    MSN Jobs

    As providers, nurses with an MSN degree choose a specialty, and this dictates where they will work.

    A student can become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) which is an umbrella term for 4 different MSN specialties:

    • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
    • Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
    • Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
    • Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

    These are roles that provide direct patient care and providers may work in a variety of healthcare settings.

    • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
      • Private practice
        • Pediatrics
        • Geriatrics
        • Behavioral health
        • Women's health
      • Hospitals
        • Acute care
      • Urgent care
      • Community health
      • Long term care facility
      • Skilled nursing facility
    • Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
      • Birthing Center
      • Hospital
        • Labor and Delivery
        •  Mom/Baby
      • Private Homes
      • Community health
    • Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
      • Hospitals
        • Operating Room
        • Trauma
        • Labor and Delivery
      • Outpatient Surgical Center
    • Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
      • Hospital
        • Critical Care
        • Acute care
      • Community health
      • Adult health settings

    Indirect Care MSN Jobs

    Degree programs that are not included in the APRN umbrella are considered indirect patient care roles. Indirect patient care means the nurse does not work at the patient's bedside. These roles do not require licensure to practice and because of that many of these programs are offered 100% online with preceptor or clinical hours arranged by the student in his/her hometown.

    • Nurse Researcher
    • Nurse Educator
    • Public Health Nurse
    • Nurse Informaticist
    • Public Policy
    • Nurse Administrator
    • Clinical Systems Leadership

    Jobs for these roles include:

    • Nurse Researcher
      • Laboratory
      • Private research firm
      • Pharmaceutical company
    • Nurse Educator
      • University
      • Hospital
        • All areas
      • Community college
      • Private Colleges
    • Public Health Nurse
      • Community health
    • Nurse Informaticist
      • Hospital
      • Insurance company
      • Healthcare device company
      • Software company
    • Public Policy
      • Health services research firm
      • Public office
      • State legislature
    • Nurse Administrator
      • Hospital
        • Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)
        • Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
        • Nurse Executive
        • Director of Nursing
        • Healthcare Administrator
      • Skilled Nursing Facility
      • Long Term Care Facility
      • Outpatient settings
      • Public Health
    • Clinical Systems Leadership (CNL)
      • Hospital
      • Skilled Nursing Facility
      • Long Term Care Facility
      • Outpatient centers

    Find an RN Job.

    APRN Licensure

    Advanced-practice registered nurses (APRNs) provide direct patient care and are therefore required to be licensed by the State in which they will be working. Once the certification exam is passed the APRN will be able to apply for licensure.

    Each state has its own eligibility criteria but generally:

    • RN license in good standing
    • Graduation from MSN program
    • National certification exam passed
      • ANCC
    • Criminal background reported and free of incidents which will affect fitness to perform the role

    MSN FAQs

    Earning a master's degree in nursing is a momentous step in a nurse's career. However, some nurses who earn an MSN do not wish to leave bedside nursing. After all, caring for patients directly is why many nurses got into the field of nursing in the first place. So, does earning an MSN mean that nurses have to move up the clinical ladder and away from direct patient care?

    The answer is not necessarily. While many MSN-prepared nurses earn the degree to move up the ladder into management, executive, educator, or practitioner roles, not all have those goals in mind. Some nurses simply wish to expand their knowledge base to improve their bedside care. For example, a nurse can earn an MSN in education to be able to utilize their skills when teaching patients. MSN-prepared nurses can also become nurse practitioners and assume the role of a primary care provider for patients.

    Additionally, healthcare is continuously changing. MSN-prepared nurses are skilled in changing along with it and identifying healthcare-related issues along the way. They are proficient in problem-solving using evidence-based solutions. What better way to identify concerns than being on the front lines? In short, nurses can improve their bedside care dramatically by earning an MSN.

    An MBA and MSN in Health Systems Management are similar in that with both, nurses are considered advanced-level nurses, practicing at the executive level. Both roles involve supervising and developing healthcare-related workflows to improve both patient care and efficiency. However, there are differences between the degree types.

    A Master’s in Business Administration is a business degree, not a nursing degree. However, while the initial approach is broad and can encompass many types of businesses, nurses can earn a dual MSN/MBA degree to apply advanced-practice and executive-level nursing to the business aspect of healthcare.  Nurses with this degree type can become chief nursing officers, responsible for the oversight of large organizations.

    Those with an MSN in Health Systems Management are also in the nursing leadership chain. However, their focus is not only on budgets and cost. MSN-HSM nurses look at ways to develop and improve electronic medical records as well as utilize the latest research to develop and implement workflows and improve clinical decision-making. They also focus on project improvement, identifying risk concerns, and developing ways to improve quality.

    MSN Salary

    Salaries for MSN educated nurses vary by specialty and years of experience but below is the general range according to several commercial and government sources.

    Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
    $74,034 – $106,904

    Nurse Practitioner (NP)
    $77,000 – $111,385

    Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP)
    $72,629 – $115,152

    Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP)
    $77,633 – $118,252

    Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)
    $81,768 – $113,612

    Nursing Manager
    $69,105 – $118,258

    Registered Nurse (RN)
    $46,659 – $95,143

    Certified Nurse Specialist (CNS)
    $88,673-$107,398

    Certified Registered Nurse Anestethist (CRNA)
    $96,364 – $188,288

    Certified Nurse Midwife
    $62,000 – $120,500

    OTHER NURSING DEGREE PROGRAMS