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.

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

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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 will need to 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 cost of the program 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 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 not only enhances your skills but also 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 that specializes 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.

2024 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:

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