Whether you're a working nurse aiming to advance your career with higher-paying positions or aspiring to take on roles beyond that of a registered nurse, a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program is a valuable step forward. Oregon offers a range of excellent MSN programs designed to help you achieve your professional goals. With a growing need for advanced nursing roles like nurse practitioners and nurse administrators, particularly in urban centers like Portland and Eugene and rural areas across the state, there are ample opportunities for career advancement. To learn more about specific programs or to find the most affordable and accelerated MSN options in Oregon, explore the details below.

RN to MSN Programs in Oregon

RN to MSN programs in Oregon offer a fast and affordable pathway for registered nurses ready to advance their careers. While a BSN is usually required for MSN admission, nurses with an ADN and relevant professional experience can often bypass this step, transitioning directly into an MSN program. This streamlined approach saves both time and money. Below is a comprehensive list of admission criteria for RN to MSN programs in Oregon:

  • Oregon 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, the only RN to MSN program in Oregon is offered by Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU).

Eugene, OR

828 E. 11th Ave.
Eugene, OR 97401
(541) 343-1641

Portland, OR

3455 SW US Veterans Hospital Rd.
Portland, OR 97239
(503) 494-8311

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 Oregon

For many nurses returning to school, the primary concerns are the cost and time commitment needed to complete the program. Fortunately, most MSN programs in Oregon are both affordable and faster to complete than doctorate programs. If you're seeking an efficient and budget-friendly way to advance your nursing career in Oregon, we've outlined several promising options below.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

Most MSN programs in Oregon generally take two to four years to complete. However, with careful planning, you can find programs that fall on the shorter end of this range—or even faster. Self-paced online options or taking advantage of summer courses can significantly reduce your completion time. For example, many students choose Oregon Health and Science University's (OHSU) online MSN which can take as little as 18 months to complete.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

Graduate school can be costly, but there are several strategies to help lower tuition expenses. One effective approach is establishing residency in Oregon, which can qualify you for in-state tuition rates, often significantly more affordable than out-of-state fees. Additionally, some institutions in Oregon naturally offer more budget-friendly tuition rates. Linfield University is one such option, offering a tuition of around $20,000 to $25,000 per year.

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

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Oregon offer a fast-track pathway for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees to enter the nursing field. These intensive programs combine foundational nursing coursework with advanced practice training, enabling students to earn an MSN and qualify for advanced roles, even without prior nursing experience. Below are some common admission 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

As of now, there is a limited number of MENP programs located in Oregon. There is currently one available which is offered by Linfield University.

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

A significant benefit of pursuing an MSN degree in Oregon is the ability to specialize in a nursing field that aligns with your passions and career aspirations. Many programs offer concentrations in areas such as informatics, public health, or other advanced practice specialties, allowing you to tailor your education to your professional goals. If you're looking for a specialized MSN program located in Oregon, take a look at the University of Portland's (UP) Family Nurse Practitioner program.

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation in Oregon guarantees that a program meets rigorous academic and professional standards set by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures the curriculum, faculty, and program outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced practice roles, licensure, and certification. Graduating from an accredited program boosts career opportunities, earns recognition from employers, and qualifies students for federal financial aid.

2024 List of MSN Programs in Oregon

Still looking for more options? Find more Oregon MSN programs listed below:

MSN Programs By City:

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.