Best Online MSN Programs in Iowa

The Midwestern state of Iowa is one of many states that have a promising future for nurses in the US. The state's aging population is a strong indicator that the job market has plenty of room for growth ensuring plenty of opportunity for nurses for the years to come. This is especially true if you're seeking a Master of Nursing Science (MSN), the minimum requirement for most clinical and executive-level nursing careers such as nurse practitioners or nurse admins. This guide offers several tips for locating these graduate-level nursing degrees in Iowa and how you can sniff out the cheapest and fastest MSN programs, whether you're based in Iowa City, Des Moines, or another community within the state.

2025 - Best Online MSN Programs in Iowa

RegisteredNursing.org has recognized the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in Iowa for 2025. These programs are praised for their academic rigor, flexible learning options, and dedication to preparing advanced nursing professionals. Rankings are based on a thorough methodology evaluating factors like program quality, accessibility, and student success. Learn more on our rankings methodology page.

1.

Morningside University

Sioux City, IA

Morningside University's MSN programs offer a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that is grounded in evidence-based practice and focused on preparing nurses for advanced roles. The nursing department, known for its commitment to patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration, provides students with hands-on clinical experiences and opportunities for leadership development.

MSN Programs

• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Clinical Nurse Leader Online/Hybrid
• Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

2.

Briar Cliff University

Sioux City, IA

Briar Cliff University's MSN programs, offered through the College of Nursing, are designed to provide advanced education and practical experience to aspiring nurses. With a focus on holistic patient care, the nursing department's philosophy is rooted in the belief that health and healing are dynamic processes influenced by environmental, cultural and social factors.

MSN Programs

• Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Online/Hybrid

3.

Graceland University

Lamoni, IA

Graceland University's MSN programs offer students a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that is rooted in the university's nursing department's philosophy of holistic care, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations and have access to state-of-the-art simulation labs. Graceland's MSN programs prepare nurses to become leaders in the ever-evolving healthcare industry.

MSN Programs

• MSN: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• MSN: Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

RN to MSN Programs in Iowa

While the role of a registered nurse is a perfectly rewarding career on its own, many RNs decide after many years that they want to pursue more challenging and independent roles as practitioners or in administrative roles. If this sounds like you, you may be interested in pursuing an MSN through a bridge program called an RN to MSN program. If you’re accepted into an RN to MSN program, you will be able to skip over the BSN requirement needed to apply to a traditional MSN program and graduate with your MSN in as little as 2 years. Here is the full list of requirements to apply:

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

• Iowa 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

Check out the available RN to MSN option within Iowa:

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Iowa

The two main factors most MSN applicants consider when applying to various schools are how much the program will cost and how long the program will take. While going back to school is never cheap or easy, there are plenty of options in Iowa that meet the cost and time commitment requirements that students may have. Here are some suggestions on how to locate these options.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

Through advanced technology, such as online classes and other flexible learning options including summer school, there are plenty of ways to shorten the amount of time enrolled. Outside of this, some MSN programs are simply shorter than others, especially if you can transfer credits from a different nursing program. Here are a few of the fastest MSN programs in Iowa:

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

Beyond taking advantage of in-state tuition (if you’re an Iowa resident), there are a few other ways to minimize the amount of money you spend while attending an MSN program, such as choosing schools with smaller nursing programs and areas of the state that have a lower cost of living. Here are a few of the cheapest MSN programs located in the state:

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

For bachelor-level graduates who have a degree in an area other than nursing, there is a unique option to get your MSN in an even shorter amount of time without having to get an additional bachelor’s degree. These programs are referred to as accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs, and they combine a bachelor’s curriculum with an MSN curriculum to provide a faster, more affordable education. Here are the typical requirements of a MENP program:

• 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

To learn more about available MENP programs and what they have to offer, check out the University of Iowa (UI) which offers the only one in the state.

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One final advantage worth noting when it comes to MSN programs is the number of exciting specialties offered to students hoping to get certified in an area that they’re passionate about. These specializations could be nurse practitioner programs or nurse educator curriculums for those hoping to get into teaching upon graduation. Here are some examples located in the state:

What is MSN Accreditation?

If you’re ready to start applying, the final thing you’ll need to be familiar with is MSN accreditation. In your search, make sure that each program you apply to is accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), otherwise, you may not be eligible for licensure or certification. When an MSN program is accredited, it means that the state board has approved of its curriculum.

2025 List of MSN Programs in Iowa

Want to see the other types of MSN programs located in the state? See the list below:

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.