The Granite State of New Hampshire, known for its picturesque landscapes and charming small towns, provides an incredibly idyllic opportunity for nurses seeking to advance their careers through graduate education. With the growing demand for advanced practice nurses, including nurse practitioners, due to the state's mix of rural and urban communities, pursuing a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program is a smart choice. An MSN is often the minimum requirement for many advanced nursing roles, and these programs are designed to be both time-efficient and cost-effective. Whether you’re located in vibrant cities like Manchester or Concord or in quieter rural areas, New Hampshire offers a variety of MSN programs to suit your needs. Below, explore guidance on navigating your path to success, including tips for finding affordable and fast MSN programs, as well as opportunities to accelerate your education through bridge programs.

2025 - Best Online MSN Program in New Hampshire

RegisteredNursing.org has identified the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in New Hampshire for 2025. The program below is recognized for its academic rigor, flexible learning opportunities, and commitment to advancing nursing practice. Rankings are based on a thorough methodology evaluating program quality, accessibility, and student success. For more details, visit our rankings methodology page.

1.

Rivier University

Nashua, NH

Rivier University's MSN programs are highly regarded for their emphasis on creating leaders in the nursing profession. The nursing department, known as the Division of Nursing and Health Professions, follows a philosophy of holistic care, promoting compassion and critical thinking in nursing practice. Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings.

MSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs in New Hampshire

While a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often required for entry into an MSN program, New Hampshire offers an RN to MSN pathway designed specifically for working nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). This option allows you to bypass the BSN and advance directly to earning your MSN, saving both time and money. If you hold a current nursing license and an ADN, you may qualify for this efficient route to career advancement. Additional requirements typically include:

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

  • New Hampshire 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

As of now, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) currently offers the state's only RN to MSN program.

Manchester, NH

2500 N River Rd.
Manchester, NH 03106
(888) 387-0861

Nashua, NH

420 South Main Street
Nashua, NH 03060
(603) 888-1311

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 New Hampshire

Whether you’re currently working as a nurse or planning for your future, selecting the right MSN program often boils down to two key factors: how quickly you can graduate and how much it will cost. If you’re seeking the fastest and most affordable MSN programs in New Hampshire, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Below are some examples to help guide your decision:

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

Typically, a full-time student must dedicate at least four years to complete an MSN program, but there are several options in New Hampshire that allow you to finish in less time. To find the fastest MSN programs in New Hampshire, consider exploring online programs or those that offer summer courses. One great option for fast MSN programs in New Hampshire is Southern New Hampshire University, which offers an online program.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

For students, the program’s cost is often a bigger consideration than the duration. While New Hampshire may not be the cheapest state for education, there are still several MSN programs that can fit within your budget. You can further reduce tuition costs by establishing state residency before applying to MSN programs, among other strategies. Additionally, some programs offer in-state tuition rates for New Hampshire residents, providing an opportunity for significant savings. One good example is Colby Sawyer College, which has a tuition range between $8,000 and $15,000.

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

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in New Hampshire offer a fast-track route for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who are eager to enter the nursing profession. These programs blend foundational nursing education with advanced coursework, equipping graduates for licensure as registered nurses and for leadership or specialized roles. Students engage in rigorous studies, clinical rotations, and courses in areas such as health policy, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Typical admissions requirements include the following:

  • 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 interested in applying to MENP programs located in New Hampshire, see schools such as the University of New Hampshire (UNH) and Franklin Pierce University (FPU).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One of the key benefits of pursuing an MSN in New Hampshire is the opportunity to specialize in a field that aligns with your career goals. Specializing enhances your skills, strengthens job security, and boosts earning potential. New Hampshire's MSN programs offer pathways in areas such as family practice, mental health, pediatrics, and nursing leadership, enabling nurses to tailor their education for specific healthcare roles. Specializing provides advanced expertise, paving the way for leadership, clinical, and administrative positions. One great option in New Hampshire is Rivier University, which offers an MSN program specializing in Family Nurse Practice.

What is MSN Accreditation?

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

2025 List of MSN Programs in New Hampshire

The list of MSN programs mentioned above is not complete. Check out the remainder of these programs below:

MSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Durham, NH

University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

  • Master's - Clinical Nurse Leader

    Campus Based - Website

    • Online Master's degree format
    • 500 clinical hours required
    • 36 total credit program
    • RN license prerequisite
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • National certification eligibility
  • Master's - Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (M.S.)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's degree program
    • 50 total credit hours
    • 30-month program length
    • 750 clinical practice hours
    • Full and part-time options
    • ANCC certification preparation
    • Experienced nursing faculty
    • Minimum 1 year RN experience required
  • Master's - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's degree program
    • 46 total credit hours
    • 24-month program length
    • 500 clinical practice hours
    • National certification preparation
    • Prescriptive authority possible
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • One year nursing experience preferred
  • Master's - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's Degree
    • 52 Credit Hours
    • 27-Month Program Length
    • 750 Clinical Hours
    • 3.0 GPA Requirement
    • RN License Needed
    • Fall Deadline: June 15
    • Spring Deadline: November 1

Manchester, NH

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Master's - MSN in Healthcare Quality and Safety

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible 10-week terms
    • CCNE accredited program
    • 135 clinical practicum hours
    • Cost per credit: $637
    • 12 total courses required
    • Active RN license required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
    • Interprofessional course design
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

    Online Learning - Website

    • 51-credit online MSN program
    • $637 per credit tuition
    • 2-3.5 years completion time
    • 750 clinical practicum hours
    • Multi-day immersion experience
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Two years RN experience needed
  • Master's - MSN in Nurse Executive Leadership

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN Leadership Track
    • 12 total courses
    • $637 per credit
    • Prepare for nurse leadership roles
    • 135 clinical practicum hours
    • Career growth potential 28%
    • Nationally recognized program
    • Flexible 10-week terms

University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online

  • Master's - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online 27-month MSN program
    • 52 credit hours total
    • 750 clinical hours required
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Advanced practice nursing focus
    • GPA requirement 3.0+
    • Unencumbered RN license needed
    • Comprehensive health management curriculum
  • Master's - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online 30-month masters program
    • 750 total clinical hours
    • ANCC board certification eligible
    • Full and part-time options
    • Minimum 1 year RN experience required
    • Across lifespan mental health focus
    • Three program intensives
    • Advanced practice nursing leadership
  • Master's - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's degree program
    • 46 total credit hours
    • 500 clinical practice hours
    • 24-month program length
    • Prepares for AACN/ANCC certification
    • Minimal work experience required
    • Focuses on acute care settings
    • Nationally accredited nursing program

Nashua, NH

Rivier University

  • Master's - MSN: Leadership in Health Systems Management

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible program format
    • 36-42 total credit hours
    • Finish in 18 months
    • Per credit cost: $691-$1,132
    • Leadership career preparation
    • Ranked #1 Nursing School NH
    • 14-week nursing courses
    • 7-week business courses
  • Master's - Adult Gerontology – Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Ranked #6 national NP program
    • Multiple entry paths
    • Online with 10-day campus residency
    • 48-54 total credit hours
    • 3.5-5 year program length
    • Per credit cost $725-$1,132
    • Prepares for AGACNP certification
    • Low 6.1% nationwide certification rate

New London, NH

Colby-Sawyer College

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing Education

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous format
    • 8-week course modules
    • NLN Nurse Educator certification
    • Rural Health Scholarship available
    • Dartmouth Health partnership
    • Advanced clinical foundations
    • Teaching and learning focus
    • For practicing nurses
  • Master's - Clinical Nurse Leader

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN program
    • Dartmouth Health partnership
    • Advanced nursing skills
    • Rural Health Scholarship
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Clinical coordination emphasis
    • Unit-level leadership training
  • Master's - Nursing Management and Executive Leadership

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online asynchronous 8-week format
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Rural Health Careers Scholarship
    • Partnership with Dartmouth Health
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • Prepares for executive roles
    • Flexible for working nurses

Rindge, NH

Franklin Pierce University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Website

    • Online Nursing Education MSN
    • Prepares for Nurse Educator Certification
    • Part-time and full-time options
    • Specialized teaching concentration courses
    • Flexible four-term program
    • Advanced clinical teaching skills
    • Evidence-based curriculum design
    • Learning assessment strategies
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration Dual Degree

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online dual degree program
    • 60 total graduate credits
    • Nursing and business core courses
    • Leadership and management focus
    • Flexible part-time study options
*Based on: IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/