MSN Degree Programs in Connecticut

The New England state of Connecticut has an increasing number of choices for registered nurses looking to advance their careers. Right now, there is no better time than to study for a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to help you achieve that goal. There are two types of these graduate programs - designed with both Associate’s and Bachelor’s graduates to help you niche and work in a specialist area.

Nursing schools in Connecticut offer both online and campus-based study, standard-paced and accelerated, to help springboard your career. Our handy guide helps you get started.

RN to MSN and BSN to MSN Programs

Master of Science in Nursing programs in Connecticut currently offer two pathways. The first is for ADN graduates who work as licensed Registered Nurses (RNs). The second is for the more academic path of BSN to MSN. Schools in the state offer both online and campus programs, while some increasingly offer hybrid programs – blending the preferred elements of both. The ADN to MSN option is more involved and will naturally take longer as BSN graduates would have covered many elements that ADN students did not during the course of their studies. Nevertheless, the eventual outcomes are the same.

Typical Program Length

• 12-14 months of study of approximately four semesters (full-time)
• 24-30 months of study of approximately six semesters (part-time)

Typical Admission Requirements

• RN license with an impeccable record
• An accredited ADN or BSN
• Most will require a GPA of 3.0 though some may be higher
• Either three recommendation letters or a resume listing clinical experience
• Current CPR certification
• Complete any stated prerequisite courses with minimum grades (usually C)

Accelerated & Master's Entry Nursing Programs

Accelerated Nursing Master's, also known as an MENP (Master's Entry Nursing Program) among others, are programs for graduates in subjects other than nursing looking to convert existing qualifications for this exciting new career. They are designed to be much faster than taking a full master's. In Connecticut, Fairfield University is one of several universities offering this program. It will allow you to work as a nurse in the state even if you didn't previously have a nursing background, so long as you have a bachelor’s degree.

Typical Program Length:

Fairfield University's Master's Entry into Professional Nursing will take around 12-15 months studied at a full-time pace. Part-time study varies.

Typical Admissions Requirements:

• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited four–year college
• A GPA of 3.3 or above on the 4.0 scale
• Academic transcripts
• A resume and/or three relevant references
• CPR certification
• Completed CNA course
• Some students may be requested to attend an interview
• International students who speak English as a second or third language may be required to provide certification evidence

2024 List of MSN Programs in Connecticut

Connecticut has several RN to MSN programs and in a multitude of modalities, whether it be traditional or flexible learning, you can find options within one of these programs offered throughout the state. Not only can MSN degrees be learned in an array of different ways, but they can offer graduates a number of benefits, including being able to gear your career to a desired specialty. Specialties can include educator, administrative, advocacy, etc., and with these specialties comes the added bonus of increased salaries.

MSN Programs By City:

• Hartford MSN Programs

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