2025 – Dual MSN/MBA Degree Programs Online & Campus
- Which MSN/MBA Program Is Right for Me?
- 2025 Best Dual Degree MSN/MBA Programs
- Online MSN/MBA Program Advantages
- MSN/MBA Program Curriculum
- MSN/MBA Specialty Tracks
- Dual MSN/MBA FAQs
- What Are the Tuition and Costs of an MSN/MBA Program?
- What Are the Career Options for Nurses With an MSN/MBA Degree?
- Organizations and Helpful Resources
- List of Dual MSN/MBA Programs
Nurses who have mastered bedside nursing and who strive to facilitate change from a higher leadership role would benefit from looking into earning a dual MSN/MBA degree. This degree combines the traditional Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to demonstrate that the nurse has leadership as well as business skills. It prepares the nurse to assume roles in leadership, management, and at the executive level. The role of the MSN/MBA nurse is to utilize nursing leadership skills and principles of finance and economics to facilitate change within a healthcare organization and improve efficiency and patient care outcomes.
Which MSN/MBA Program Is Right for Me?
So how do nurses choose the right program? There are many considerations that prospective students should look into based on their individual career goals and needs. Some of the frequently-researched considerations include the following:
- Do MSN/MBA Programs Offer Campus or Online Options? – MSN/MBA programs are offered in both online and in-person/campus formats. Online learning is beneficial for working nurses as it provides flexibility as well as self-paced learning.
- Is the MSN/MBA Program Accredited? – Accreditation is critical when choosing an MSN/MBA program. Nursing programs in the United States must be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). A school might be locally accredited, but national certification is usually required for licensure, and it ensures that the school has met educational standards based on the degree type.
- MSN/MBA Program Course Topics – Students can expect to take courses in advanced practice nursing and nursing leadership, as well as courses in the field of business. Business courses may include accounting, marketing, and finance.
- Associated Tuition Costs – The cost to complete an MSN/MBA program greatly varies by state and by the school. Base tuition can cost several hundred dollars to around a thousand per credit hour. It's important to remember that the cost of books and supplies, as well as university fees, are added.
2025 Best Dual Degree MSN/MBA Programs
RegisteredNursing.org highlights the best dual degree MSN/MBA programs for nurses aiming to blend clinical expertise with business skills. These programs prepare graduates for leadership roles in healthcare. Our rankings focus on quality, affordability, and outcomes. We evaluate each program carefully to help you make an informed choice. Learn more about how we rank these programs here.
Cedarville University
Cedarville, OH - Private 4-year - cedarville.edu
Master's - MSN + MBA Dual Degree
Concentration: Nursing Leadership in Healthcare Improvement - Online Learning - Visit Website
Cedarville University's MSN + MBA Dual Degree program, with a concentration in Nursing Leadership in Healthcare Improvement, is tailored for nursing professionals aiming for executive roles. This online program merges advanced nursing practices with critical business acumen, preparing graduates for leadership positions such as Clinical Administrator and Chief Nursing Officer. Unique to Cedarville, the program incorporates a Christian perspective into healthcare leadership, offering a blend of flexible online coursework, cost-effective dual degree completion, and practical MBA case studies. It stands out for its biblical worldview integration, scholarship opportunities, and preparation for leadership careers in healthcare. No GRE Required.
- Online flexible completion options
- Biblical worldview integration
- Cost-effective dual degree
- Top 5 in Ohio MSN program
- Advanced practice nurse training
- Scholarship opportunities available
- Leadership career preparation
- Short-term medical missions possible
- Hands-on MBA case studies
Union University
Jackson, TN - Private 4-year - uu.edu
Master's - MSN/MBA Dual Degree Option
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Union University offers a unique MSN/MBA Dual Degree Option designed for nursing professionals aiming to merge clinical expertise with business leadership skills. This hybrid program seamlessly blends online MBA coursework with nursing administration studies, enabling students to apply 12 MSN credits towards their MBA. Tailored for aspiring healthcare leaders, the curriculum emphasizes the integration of nursing and business principles to excel in hospital or academic leadership roles. With tuition at $739 per credit for nursing and $750 for MBA courses, the program is both accessible and rigorous. Admission criteria include a BSN, a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credit hours, and current RN licensure, with the added benefit of no GRE or GMAT requirement.
- Hybrid program format.
- Fully online MBA option.
- $739 per credit hour nursing.
- $750 per credit hour MBA.
- No GRE or GMAT required.
- 12 MSN credits apply to MBA.
- 36 total MBA credit hours.
- Requires BSN and RN licensure.
- 3.0 GPA in last 60 hours.
- Prepares for healthcare leadership.
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, NC - Private 4-year - gardner-webb.edu
Master's - Nursing/Business (MSN/MBA)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Gardner-Webb University's dual MSN/MBA program is tailored for nursing professionals seeking to merge clinical expertise with business acumen. This 54-credit online program, starting in August or January, uniquely combines 24 credits in nursing with 30 in business, focusing on healthcare leadership and management. Graduates are equipped to tackle healthcare challenges with strategic decision-making and business principles, preparing them for high-level roles in diverse healthcare settings. The program's flexibility and online format make it accessible for working professionals aiming to advance their careers in healthcare administration.
- 54-credit hour program.
- Combines nursing and business.
- 24 nursing credit hours.
- 30 business credit hours.
- Start in August or January.
- Online program format.
- Focus on healthcare leadership.
- Enhances decision-making skills.
- Prepares for diverse healthcare roles.
- Integrates business concepts in healthcare.
Nebraska Wesleyan University
Lincoln, NE - Private 4-year - nebrwesleyan.edu
Master's - MSN/MBA Joint Degree
Online Learning - Visit Website
Nebraska Wesleyan University's MSN/MBA Joint Degree program is tailored for nurses seeking to merge clinical expertise with business leadership. This 55-credit online curriculum is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, offering flexibility with August or January starts. It uniquely prepares graduates for high-demand roles in healthcare management and entrepreneurship, focusing on transcultural nursing, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based research. Admission is streamlined for BSN holders, with the program priding itself on faculty mentorship and a practical approach to healthcare challenges. 'Requires BSN for admission' underscores the program's commitment to advancing nursing professionals into leadership positions without the need for additional entrance exams.
- 55-credit-hour online program.
- Combines nursing and business education.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Flexible August or January start.
- Designed for working nurses.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Focus on transcultural nursing.
- Emphasizes ethics and research.
- Personal attention from faculty.
- Requires BSN for admission.
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME - Private 4-year - sjcme.edu
Master's - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Joseph's College of Maine presents an exceptional online MSN/MBA Dual Degree program tailored for registered nurses aiming to ascend into leadership roles within the healthcare and business sectors. This program merges the clinical expertise of a Master of Science in Nursing with the strategic acumen of a Master of Business Administration, offering a robust 60-credit curriculum. Ideal for RNs holding a bachelor's degree and possessing a minimum of two years professional experience, it equips graduates for top-tier positions such as nursing directors and healthcare administrators. With a total cost of $42,240, students can choose between flexible full-time or part-time schedules, completing the program in 3 to 5 years.
- Online dual degree program
- 60 total credit hours
- Total cost $42,240
- Flexible full-time/part-time
- For experienced RNs
- Leadership career preparation
- Two graduate degrees concurrently
Messiah University
Mechanicsburg, PA - Private 4-year - messiah.edu
Master's - MSN MBA Dual Degree
Concentration: Nursing Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Messiah University's MSN/MBA Dual Degree program, with a concentration in Nursing Leadership, is tailored for nursing professionals aiming to merge clinical expertise with business acumen. This online program equips students with the skills to lead in dynamic healthcare settings, emphasizing strategic management and leadership within a Christian ethical framework. At $780 per credit, the 56-credit curriculum is designed for completion in four years, offering flexibility with multiple start dates. Notably, the program boasts no additional tuition fees, accreditation, and personalized faculty support, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to advance their careers in nursing leadership without the need for entrance exams.
- Online dual degree program
- $780 per credit
- 56 total credit hours
- 4-year completion path
- Multiple start options
- No additional tuition fees
- Accredited program
- Christian university setting
- Individualized faculty attention
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX - Public 4-Year - lamar.edu
Master's - MSN-MBA Dual Degree
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lamar University's MSN-MBA Dual Degree program is a comprehensive online offering designed for nurses aspiring to leadership roles in healthcare administration. The program requires 61 semester hours, integrating 37 MSN credits with 21 business credits and 9 overlapping credits towards the MBA. This unique blend of nursing and business education prepares graduates for high-level administrative positions, offering flexibility for working professionals. Admission necessitates an MSN application and meeting MBA standards, with advising provided by both departments. The program's focus on nursing administration makes it ideal for those looking to advance in healthcare leadership.
- 61 semester hours total.
- 37 credits for MSN.
- 9 credits overlap with MBA.
- 21 business credits required.
- Online program format.
- Focus on nursing administration.
- Admission requires MSN application.
- Must meet MBA standards.
- Advising by both departments.
- Ideal for healthcare leadership.
Master's - Dual Degree Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lamar University presents a Dual MSN and MBA online program tailored for nurses aiming for executive healthcare roles. This 61-credit curriculum, achievable in 36 months, marries advanced nursing practices with essential business acumen, covering healthcare technology, strategic management, and financial accounting. With a total tuition of $25,219 and no minimum work experience requirement, the program is accessible to RNs with a BSN and a 3.0 GPA. Offering flexible 8-week courses and multiple start dates annually, it prepares graduates for impactful positions such as Chief Nursing Officer or Medical Services Manager, emphasizing leadership and management skills.
- Online dual degree program
- 61 total credit hours
- Complete in 36 months
- Total tuition $25,219
- No minimum work experience
- RN license and BSN required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Flexible 8-week courses
- Leadership career preparation
- Multiple start dates annually
Baker University
Baldwin City, KS - Private 4-year - bakeru.edu
Master's - MSN + MBA Dual Degree
Concentration: Transformational Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Baker University offers a distinctive MSN + MBA Dual Degree program with a concentration in Transformational Studies, tailored for healthcare professionals aiming to merge clinical expertise with leadership skills. This online program, requiring around 50 credit hours, is designed for those seeking to influence healthcare positively through strategic leadership and innovation. Accredited by CCNE and ACBSP, it provides a flexible learning environment with small class sizes and semester schedules that accommodate working professionals. Students benefit from a 10% alumni tuition discount and emerge prepared for high-level roles in healthcare management. The program emphasizes practical problem-solving to navigate and transform the healthcare landscape effectively.
- Online dual degree program
- 50 total credit hours
- Transformational Studies track
- CCNE and ACBSP accredited
- Flexible semester schedules
- Small class sizes
- 10% alumni tuition discount
- Career paths in healthcare management
Miami University-Oxford
Oxford, OH - Public 4-Year - miamioh.edu
Master's - MSN-MBA Dual Degree
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner Track - Online Learning - Visit Website
Miami University-Oxford's MSN-MBA Dual Degree program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner Track is tailored for nursing professionals seeking to merge clinical expertise with business leadership. This online program equips students with the skills to lead healthcare practices, focusing on patient care management and business strategies. Ideal for working professionals, it requires a BSN, RN licensure, and a minimum GPA, offering a curriculum that blends advanced nursing practices with essential business administration courses. Highlights include its online flexibility, dual degree advantage, and preparation for leadership roles in healthcare. Requires GMAT.
- Online program delivery.
- Combines MSN and MBA degrees.
- Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Requires BSN and RN licensure.
- Covers advanced nursing topics.
- Includes business strategy courses.
- Designed for healthcare leadership.
- Enhances clinical and business skills.
Master's - MSN-MBA Dual Degree
Concentration: Nurse Executive Leadership Track - Online Learning - Visit Website
The MSN-MBA Dual Degree at Miami University-Oxford, with a Nurse Executive Leadership Track, is designed for nurses aiming for top-tier healthcare leadership positions. This program merges nursing excellence with business acumen, offering courses in healthcare systems, leadership, and data analytics. Available online, it provides flexibility for professionals, featuring 36 credit hours and practical experiences. Students gain the skills to lead organizational change and enhance patient care outcomes. Highlights include specialized track options, a focus on leadership and business, and preparation for executive roles in healthcare. Requires GMAT.
- Online flexible degree program
- Two specialized track options
- 36 total credit hours
- Leadership and business focus
- Advanced clinical skills development
- Practicum and clinical experiences
- Prepares for executive healthcare roles
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL - Private 4-year - mckendree.edu
Master's - Dual MSN/MBA
Online Learning - Visit Website
McKendree University's Dual MSN/MBA program merges advanced nursing practice with business acumen, tailored for nurses aiming for leadership in healthcare administration. This online program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to balance studies with professional commitments. It features a curriculum that covers both nursing specialties and essential business strategies, preparing graduates for high-level roles in healthcare management. With accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the program ensures a quality education. Admission requires a BSN and a 3.0 GPA, offering a pathway for nurses to elevate their careers without the need for a GRE.
- Online flexible program format
- Three specialized nursing tracks
- Completed in 5 semesters
- Accredited nursing program
- Small class sizes
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Dual MSN/MBA option available
- Experienced nursing faculty
- Practicum and thesis opportunities
Online MSN/MBA Program Advantages
Flexible Schedule
Online nursing programs have many advantages. Many nurses, especially those pursuing advanced-level roles, must continue to work while attending school. As many nurses are aware, nurses often work around-the-clock, and on weekends and holidays. Therefore, the more flexible a program, the better. Online learning allows for nurses to complete coursework when they can. They can also arrange for mentorship or clinical hours to work with their current work schedule.
Nurses can also work at their own pace. Many programs allow for self-paced learning, but some schools place caps on the time frame in which the program must be completed. For example, a school may require all coursework to be completed within six years. Self-paced learning is beneficial for those who learn best by alternative methods (such as reading as opposed to listening to lectures).
Tuition and Costs
As stated earlier, tuition is variable depending on several factors. One factor is location. Tuition varies based on the state and even the city in which it is located. Some states are more expensive than others.
Residency status is another factor that can affect tuition. Out-of-state residents may be required to pay higher tuition. Again, this depends on the school. However, some online programs charge a flat rate for programs regardless of residency status.
The good news is that most schools offer financial aid options as well as incentives when enrolling. Additionally, banks and other financial institutions offer tuition aid/loans, so students needing financial aid are encouraged to shop around for the best offers. Some employers offer nurses tuition reimbursement as well.
Accessibility and Convenience
Online programs are extremely convenient; nurses can study when and wherever they can. They can access learning content anywhere there is a computer and internet, and at any time. A night shift nurse may wish to study at three in the morning, while another nurse may need to cram on a Saturday after working full-time during the week.
Additionally, online programs are beneficial for those living in more remote or rural areas. Commuting long distances to campus, sometimes in terrible weather, finding parking, and racing to get to class on time is a thing of the past with online programs.
Fast Completion
Since online learning allows for self-paced study, nurses can get through the program faster. This helps get the nurse out into the workforce and into their new advanced-level role sooner. The program usually takes around three years to complete if attending full-time, four or five years if part-time. When possible, nurses can attend full time and finish in as early as two years when enrolled in an online program.
MSN/MBA Program Curriculum
The core concepts for dual MSN/MBA programs are standardized, although the learning format is different in online programs. Rather than in-person lectures, learning content can be in module formats online or broadcast at predetermined times (i.e., a distance lecture). Campus visitation requirements may vary between schools- sometimes programs are 100% online, some require "blocks" of time, for example, a few days in a row per semester. Students are encouraged to review campus visitation requirements before enrollment.
Online learners can also expect to find they have peer, faculty, and tech support when enrolled in online programs. Even though coursework can be completed in the privacy of one's home, the student is never alone.
Additionally, practicum hours may be required based on the specialty track and school. This requirement cannot be fulfilled online, but the faculty is available to provide supervision.
MSN/MBA Classes and Courses
MSN/MBA programs have core courses that nurses must start with before choosing a specialty track. Core courses may include:
- Nursing theory for advanced-practice
- Role development
- Leadership in nursing
- Advanced physiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Advanced physical assessment
- Population health
- Policy
- Ethics
- Project management
- Financial accounting
- Business analysis
- Accounting
In addition to the didactic courses, dual MSN/MBA students must complete supervised clinical practicum hours. This requirement is designed to ensure the nurse applies what is learned in the healthcare setting. While required practicum hours may vary, around 500 hours may be needed to graduate.
MSN/MBA Specialty Tracks
Following the core courses of study, students may select available specialty tracks (depending on the school). Concentrations for MSN/MBA students may include:
- Health Systems Management – focuses on proper management and business leadership to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and address strategic, ethical, and HR issues.
- Healthcare Administration – focuses on policy, economics, and other administrative issues to optimize best healthcare practices.
- Human Resources – focuses on personnel development, organizational behaviors, and promoting workplace satisfaction and performance.
- Organizational Development – focuses on analyzing and predicting behaviors to enhance efficiency in medical environments.
- Strategic Leadership – focuses on strategic planning, development, and growth of healthcare environments and organizations.
Dual MSN/MBA FAQs
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.
What Are the Tuition and Costs of an MSN/MBA Program?
The specific costs and tuition rates for a dual MBA/MSN degree are variable. Base tuition can range from the hundreds to the low thousands per credit hour. Students should be aware of the following costs associated with the program:
- Base tuition
- University fees
- Supplies
- Graduation fees
- Residency fees
- Room and board
- Transportation
- Parking
For online programs, some costs do not apply, such as parking and transportation fees. However, students may need to invest in equipment to be able to utilize online learning. An example would be a laptop or webcam.
What Are the Career Options for Nurses With an MSN/MBA Degree?
Nurses who hold an MSN/MBA degree can take on different roles, mainly in healthcare leadership and management as well as nursing administration. Examples include:
- Chief Nurse Executive– A chief nurse executive is a high-level, senior management position. Responsibilities include supervising patient care throughout a healthcare facility, developing ways to improve efficiency, and creating workflows and policies to improve patient care outcomes.
- Nurse/Healthcare Manager– A nurse manager or healthcare manager is responsible for a specific department or department within a healthcare facility. They work directly with staff and patients to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently in a specified work area. They supervise staff and implement established workflows.
- Chief Executive Officer– A chief executive officer is similar to a nurse executive and with similar job responsibilities. The difference is in title only- a CEO of an organization may or may not be a nurse while a nurse executive is.
- Director of Nursing Practice– A director of nursing is also a higher-level management position. Nurse managers often report to directors. Nurse directors provide patient care oversight. Directors of nursing practice may also develop and implement evidence-based organizational policies and procedures.
- Consulting– A nurse consultant or entrepreneur assists outside agencies, such as government entities and insurance companies. They can assist in:
- Insurance claims
- Healthcare reform
- Legal issues, such as developing healthcare-related laws/regulations
- Improving patient care and financial efficiency
Organizations and Helpful Resources
Other Nursing Degree Programs:
List of Dual MSN/MBA Programs
Dual MSN/MBA programs are available across the country. To find the options nearest to you, we’ve compiled a state-by-state list of schools that offer this growing pathway. You can be on your way to a high-level nursing leadership career before you know it!
Jump to Your State Listings
Arizona
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ 85017
(855) 428-5673
Delaware
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE 19720
(877) 967-5464
Florida
Jacksonville University
- Dual MSN/MBA Online
Jacksonville, FL 32211
(904) 256-8000
Georgia
Thomas University
- MSN-MBA Dual Degree Online Campus
Thomasville, GA 31792
(229) 226-1621
Illinois
Benedictine University
Lisle, IL 60532
(866) 295-3104
Lewis University
- Dual MSN/MBA Program Campus
Romeoville, IL 60446
(815) 838-0500
McKendree University
- Dual Online MSN/MBA Online
Lebanon, IL 62254
(800) 232-7228
Indiana
Indiana Wesleyan University
- MS Nursing - MBA Campus
Marion, IN 46953
(866) 468-6498
Kansas
MidAmerica Nazarene University
- MSN/MBA Dual Degree Hybrid
Olathe, KS 66062
(913) 782-3750
Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD 21205
(410) 955-4766
Michigan
Spring Arbor University
- BSN-MSN/MBA Dual Degree Online
Spring Arbor, MI 49283
(844) 657-2525
New Hampshire
Franklin Pierce University
- MSN and MBA Dual Degree Online
Manchester, NH 03101
(603) 647-3500
North Dakota
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND 58504
(701) 355-8030
Ohio
Kent State University
- Online MSN-MBA Dual Degree Campus
Kent, OH 44242
(330) 672-7930
Xavier University
- Dual MSN/MBA Campus
Cincinnati, OH 45207
(151) 374-5300 x0
Pennsylvania
California University of Pennsylvania
- MSN MBA Dual Degree Online Online
California, PA 15419
(724) 938-4000
Carlow University
- MSN-MBA Dual Degree Online
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
(800) 333-2275
DeSales University
- MSN/MBA Dual Degree Online Campus
Center Valley, PA 18034
(610) 282-1100 x2838
Moravian College
- MSN/MBA Dual Degree Campus
Bethlehem, PA 18018
(610) 861-1660
Robert Morris University
- M.S.N./M.B.A. Dual Degree Online
Moon Township, PA 15108
(800) 762-0097
Texas
Lamar University
- MSN/MBA Dual Degree Hybrid
Beaumont, TX 77710
(409) 880-8817
University of Texas at Tyler
- MSN / MBA Degree - Online Online
Tyler, TX 75799
(903) 566-7128
Virginia
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA 24515
(800) 424-9595
West Virginia
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV 26506
(304) 293-6607
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.