Best Online MSN Programs in Connecticut

The New England state of Connecticut is a great state for anyone looking to reap the benefits of small-town living but still have access to the convenience of living in close proximity of New York City. It's also a great state for nurses looking to go back to school and enroll in a graduate program and seek opportunities as a nurse practitioners or another higher-level nursing career. One popular option is a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program, a short-length, cost-effective degree program that allows students to complete the minimum requirements for these careers. These programs exist state-wide and can be found in places such as New Haven or Hartford or somewhere else entirely. Below is some information that can help you on this exciting career journey including how to find the cheapest and fastest MSN programs in Connecticut and some potential shortcuts you can take advantage of through the use of MSN bridge programs.

2025 - Best Online MSN Program in Connecticut

RegisteredNursing.org has recognized the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in Connecticut for 2025. These programs excel in delivering high-quality education, flexible learning options, and a commitment to preparing advanced nursing professionals. Rankings are calculated using a detailed methodology that considers academic excellence, accessibility, and student success. For more information, visit our rankings methodology page.

1.

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT

Sacred Heart University's nursing programs are highly regarded, with the College of Nursing being ranked in the top 5% nationally. The department offers a variety of programs, including a traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, and RN to BSN, all of which are located on the main campus in Fairfield, CT. Nursing students have access to state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical experiences at top hospitals in the area.

MSN Programs

• Clinical Nurse Leader Specialization Online/Hybrid
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Online/Hybrid
• Nursing Education Specialization Online/Hybrid
• Nursing Management & Executive Leadership Specialization Online/Hybrid
• Online MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

RN to MSN Programs in Connecticut

While the primary requirement for enrolling in an MSN program is a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), an RN to MSN program is designed for working nurses who skip this requirement allowing them to achieve their MSN in a shorter amount of time. If you have a current nursing license and an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), you will likely qualify for this convenient nursing path. Other requirements include:

• Connecticut RN license
• ADN or nursing diploma
• GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
• Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
• Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume

Looking for a few options in Connecticut? Check out Goodwin University (GU) and Sacred Heart University (SHU) both of which offer these fast and affordable options.

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Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Connecticut

Whether you’re currently working as a nurse or simply considering the future, narrowing down the best options for an MSN program typically comes down to how fast you can graduate and how much it’s going to cost. If you’re looking for the fastest and most affordable MSN programs in Connecticut, there are plenty of considerations. See the examples below:

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

In most cases, a full-time student will need to commit at least four years to complete an MSN program, however, there are actually several MSN programs that can be completed in level less time. To find the fastest MSN programs in Connecticut, it helps to be open to online MSN programs or summer programs. Here are a few examples of the best MSN programs in Connecticut that can be completed in a short amount of time.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

For students, the cost of the program is much more of a consideration than the length. While Connecticut isn’t the most affordable state in the country, you can certainly still find a number of MSN programs that can fit within your budget. You can also compound your savings by establishing residency in the state before you start applying to MSN programs, among other strategies. Here are a few of the cheapest MSN programs in Connecticut:

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Connecticut offer a fast-track path for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees who want to enter the nursing profession. These programs blend foundational nursing education with advanced coursework, preparing graduates for licensure as registered nurses and roles in leadership or specialized areas. Students engage in intensive studies, clinical rotations, and courses in health policy, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Typical admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree, prerequisite courses, and a competitive GPA

• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
• GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
• Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
• Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
• Admissions interview

If you’re looking for a few options for accelerated MSN programs in Connecticut, you can find them offered at schools like Fairfield University (FU) or Yale School of Nursing (YUN).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One of the key benefits of pursuing an MSN is the ability to specialize in a field that aligns with your career goals. Specializations not only enhance your skills but also boost job security and increase earning potential. Connecticut's MSN programs offer pathways in areas like family practice, mental health, pediatrics, and nursing leadership, allowing nurses to tailor their education to meet the demands of specific healthcare roles. Specializing equips nurses with advanced expertise, opening doors to leadership, clinical, and administrative positions. Here are a few examples in the state:

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation in Connecticut ensures that programs meet high standards set by bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). It confirms the curriculum, faculty, and outcomes prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Accredited programs are recognized by employers and qualify for financial aid, making them essential for career advancement and affordability.

2025 List of MSN Programs in Connecticut

Looking for other options for MSN programs? Take a look at our list below:

MSN Programs By City:

• Hartford MSN Programs