If you're a nurse in Mississippi aiming to enhance your resume, step into leadership positions, or become a nurse practitioner, enrolling in a graduate-level nursing program is a key step forward. Many nurses in Mississippi opt for Master of Nursing Science (MSN) programs due to their shorter duration and comparatively affordable tuition, making them an excellent choice for balancing career advancement with a busy work schedule.
In the sections below, we’ll discuss how to choose the right MSN program and highlight some of the most affordable and accelerated options available in the Southern State of Mississippi, whether you're based in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, or one of the state’s charming rural communities.
RN to MSN Programs in Mississippi
A traditional MSN program usually takes three to four years to complete, but many nurses in Mississippi find it challenging to balance full-time education with their demanding schedules. For those who have already earned an associate degree in nursing and hold an RN license, an RN to MSN program offers a more convenient and cost-effective alternative. These bridge programs enable nurses to gain the qualifications needed for advanced nursing roles in significantly less time, often cutting the duration in half.
Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:
- Mississippi 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
If you’re interested in applying to RN to MSN programs in Mississippi, check out University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) which offers the only one in the state.
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.Jackson, MS
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Jackson, MS 39216
(601) 984-6220
Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Mississippi
You don't have to give up your hard-earned income or precious time to pursue a graduate-level education. Mississippi offers a variety of affordable, fast-paced, and flexible MSN programs designed for working professionals. Here are some tips for finding the best MSN programs in Mississippi, along with examples to get you started.
What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?
MSN programs are inherently a quick choice for advancing your nursing career, but in Mississippi, some options are even faster than others. One way to streamline your education is by establishing residency in the state before applying, which can help you qualify for in-state tuition rates. Additionally, many programs offer online options, allowing you to complete coursework at your own pace. Here are a few examples of the fastest MSN programs in Mississippi.
School | Estimated Length | Online Option? |
University of Southern Mississippi (USM) | 5 Semesters | Yes |
Mississippi College (MC) | 18 – 24 Months | Yes |
Mississippi University for Women (MUW) | 12 Months | No |
What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?
While Mississippi is known for its relatively low cost of living, that doesn't always guarantee that local schools are budget-friendly. To locate the most affordable MSN programs in Mississippi, it's essential to do your research. Below are a few examples of schools in Mississippi that offer MSN programs with reasonable tuition rates.
School | Estimated Cost | Credits |
Mississippi University for Women (MUW) | $9,000 – $14,000 | 39 |
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) | $15,000 – $20,000 | 42 |
Delta State University (DSU) | $21,000 – $23,000 | 45 – 48 |
Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)
Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Mississippi provide a fast-track option for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field who wish to transition into the nursing profession. These direct-entry programs blend foundational nursing coursework with advanced practice studies, allowing students to earn both a BSN and MSN through a streamlined, intensive curriculum. Graduates of MENP programs are eligible for RN licensure and advanced practice positions, making these programs an excellent choice for career changers seeking a quicker route into nursing. Here are the full list of requirements:
- 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
Once you’re ready to start applying, consider looking at Mississippi State University (MSU), which offers the only MENP program in the state.
Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties
School | Specialty | Credits |
University of Southern University (USM) | Family Nurse Practitioner | 34 – 43 |
Delta State University (DSU) | Family Nurse Practitioner | 65 |
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) | Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | 39 |
What is MSN Accreditation?
As you explore MSN programs in Mississippi, it's crucial to verify that each one is accredited. MSN accreditation ensures that a Master of Science in Nursing program meets the rigorous standards set by organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accredited programs are designed to prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification, making them essential for career advancement. Additionally, accredited programs are widely recognized by employers and qualify for financial aid opportunities.
2025 List of MSN Programs in Mississippi
Are you looking for other options than the ones listed above? Take a look at the full list of MSN programs in Mississippi listed below:
MSN Programs By City:
Alcorn State, MS
Alcorn State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 44 credit hours total program
- Thesis or non-thesis option
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Six-year completion timeline
- Multiple clinical practicums included
- GRE requirement currently waived
- Leadership development focus
- Prepares primary care providers
Cleveland, MS
Delta State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online & Campus Based - Website
- MSN Program Multiple Tracks
- Requires 3.0 GPA
- GRE Score Required
- One Year Clinical Experience
- Current RN License Needed
- Interview with Faculty Required
- Graduate Level Pathophysiology Course
- Advanced Nursing Role Statement
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online MSN FNP program
- Two-year full-time study
- Part-time options available
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- One year clinical experience
- Graduate Record Exam needed
- Application deadline February 1st
- Online courses with seminars
- Master's - Nurse Administrator
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Requires BSN with 3.0 GPA.
- GRE scores needed.
- One year clinical experience required.
- Full-time or part-time study.
- Online courses with campus seminars.
- Clinical opportunities near home.
Clinton, MS
Mississippi College
- Master's - MSN Clinical Nurse Leader
Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible 7-week sessions
- Total tuition $27,000
- 36 total credit hours
- 18-24 month program duration
- Accredited nursing program
- RN to MSN pathway
- Leadership focused curriculum
- Choose own clinical site
Columbus, MS
Mississippi University for Women
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- Family Nurse Practitioner track
- 39 semester hours total
- 12-month program duration
- Requires BSN degree
- Two years nursing experience needed
- Full nursing accreditation status
- Patient-centered care approach
- Emphasizes evidence-based practice
Hattiesburg, MS
Mississippi University for Women
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- Family Nurse Practitioner track
- 39 semester hours total
- 12-month program duration
- Requires BSN degree
- Two years nursing experience needed
- Full nursing accreditation status
- Patient-centered care approach
- Emphasizes evidence-based practice