Best Online MSN Programs in North Carolina

The State of North Carolina is known for its beautiful landscapes and thriving cities, but what many residents may not realize is that the state is home to a growing number of nurses, with demand continuing to rise in the coming years. Opportunities for both entry-level and higher-level nursing positions, such as nurse practitioner or nurse executives, are expanding rapidly. These advanced roles offer higher pay and more independence compared to traditional RN positions, but they require specialized education and training. If you're looking for an affordable and efficient way to gain this training, Master of Nursing Science (MSN) programs are often the best option. Learn how to find the quickest and most affordable MSN programs, whether in cities like Raleigh, Charlotte, or beyond, by exploring the sections below.

2025 - Best Online MSN Programs in North Carolina

RegisteredNursing.org has identified the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in North Carolina for 2025. These programs are recognized for their academic excellence, flexible learning options, and commitment to advancing the nursing profession. Rankings are based on a comprehensive methodology evaluating program quality, accessibility, and student success. For more information, visit our rankings methodology page.

1.

Duke University

Durham, NC

Duke University's MSN programs, offered through the School of Nursing, provide students with a comprehensive education grounded in the school's philosophy of evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and leadership development. With a strong focus on clinical experience, Duke's MSN programs prepare nurses to excel in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape and make a positive impact on patient care.

MSN Programs

• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care Online/Hybrid
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care Online/Hybrid
• Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Health Informatics Online/Hybrid
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Nursing Education Online/Hybrid
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care Online/Hybrid
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care Online/Hybrid
• Psychiatric Mental Health NP Online/Hybrid
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• MSN - Health Informatics Online/Hybrid

2.

Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem, NC

Winston-Salem State University's MSN programs are highly regarded for their commitment to diversity, innovation, and excellence in nursing education. With a strong focus on evidence-based practice and community engagement, the nursing department prides itself on producing leaders who are equipped to address the complex healthcare needs of today's society.

MSN Programs

• Advanced Nurse Educators (ANE) Online/Hybrid
• Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) Online/Hybrid

3.

East Carolina University

Greenville, NC

East Carolina University offers a highly renowned MSN program through its esteemed College of Nursing, which follows a holistic approach to healthcare and emphasizes cultural competence and evidence-based practice. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, ECU prepares nurses to be leaders in the constantly evolving healthcare landscape.

MSN Programs

• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Nurse Midwifery Online/Hybrid
• Nursing Education (online) Online/Hybrid

RN to MSN Programs in North Carolina

An RN to MSN program is a specialized educational pathway designed for registered nurses who hold an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma. These programs allow nurses to earn an MSN more efficiently by building on their existing nursing education and experience resulting in a faster and more affordable MSN education. RN to MSN programs often include both undergraduate and graduate coursework, enabling nurses to seamlessly transition into advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or healthcare administrators.

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

• North Carolina 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 ready to start applying, you can find RN to MSN programs offered by the University of North Carolina, Pembroke (UNCP) and the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. Check out all RN to MSN options in the state below:

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 North Carolina

For full-time licensed nurses in North Carolina contemplating a career change, the cost of tuition and the time commitment required for graduate school are common concerns. Fortunately, North Carolina's MSN programs offer a significant advantage by addressing these challenges, making advanced nursing education more accessible and manageable.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

If you're pursuing a traditional MSN program in North Carolina, you can generally expect a commitment of 3 to 4 years. However, not all MSN programs in North Carolina require this much time. By exploring your options, you might find online MSN programs or those offering summer courses that allow for a faster timeline. Some programs are inherently shorter than others. Below are a few examples to consider.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

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

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs are designed for individuals who have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and want to transition into a nursing career. These programs combine the core components of both a BSN and an MSN into a comprehensive, fast-paced curriculum. By integrating foundational nursing education with advanced training, MENP programs offer a quicker and more economical route compared to earning each degree separately. Graduates are equipped for RN licensure as well as leadership or specialized positions in healthcare. Below are the common admissions requirements for MENP programs in North Carolina:

• 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 find MENP programs located in North Carolina, take a look at programs like University of North Carolina (UNC) and East Carolina University (ECU).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

When researching MSN programs in North Carolina, it’s essential to consider whether they provide options for specialization. Many programs allow students to focus their studies on areas such as family practice, psychiatric-mental health, or pediatrics. Choosing a specialization can elevate your career opportunities and tailor your education to match your professional aspirations. Below are examples of specialized MSN programs available in North Carolina.

What is MSN Accreditation?

One of the most critical factors to consider when selecting an MSN program in North Carolina is accreditation. MSN accreditation signifies that a program’s curriculum meets established quality standards set by the state board and national accrediting organizations. In the U.S., MSN programs are typically accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Completing an accredited program ensures eligibility for advanced nursing licensure and certification. Conversely, attending a non-accredited program may lead to complications in pursuing these credentials. Always confirm a program’s accreditation status before applying.

2025 List of MSN Programs in North Carolina

Still not sure which MSN program to go with? Keep researching the full list of MSN programs in the state:

MSN Programs By City:

• Charlotte MSN Programs
• Raleigh MSN Programs