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Shannon Lee
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Expert Contributor
Stephanie Johannsen
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last updated
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a top choice for current nurses looking to move their careers forward. In addition to enhancing knowledge and gaining skill, nurses can use MSN programs to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) – also known as nurse practitioners – in about two years. Some programs can be completed in as little as 18 months.
This career advancement can be excellent for earning potential, as well. APRNs earned a median salary of $111,680 as of May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with top APRNs pulling in $156,160. What’s more, the BLS estimates a 45% growth in APRN job openings from 2019 – 2029, much faster than average.
With online MSN programs available at dozens of schools nationwide, and growth in APRN/NP jobs on the rise, now is a great time to earn an advanced credential. Check out EduMed’s best schools for online MSN programs in 2023, and see which specializations a master’s in nursing could lead to.
| # | School Name | Type | Cost | Online Programs | More Details | School Information | Online Students | Academic Counseling | Career Placement | Students w/Institutional Aid | Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southwest Baptist UniversityBolivar, MO | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 2 | Study convenience and flexibility are key features of the Master of Science in Nursing program at Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri. The curriculum combines fully-online didactic coursework with in-person clinical experiences at program-approved practice facilities. Two concentrations are available. The nurse educator (NE) concentration prepares graduates to take on roles in academia, staff development and patient education. The nurse administration (NA) concentration is designed for students interested in developing communications, management, and business skills to become leaders in any number of health care services settings. Students in both concentrations have the choice of full-time accelerated, full-time standard, and part-time study pace options. Courses are presented in eight-week blocks allowing students to begin their programs at any of several points throughout the year. Program Highlights: Master of Science in Nursing
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio12/1 |
AccreditationHLC | |||
| 2 | Georgia College & State UniversityMilledgeville, GA | Public | $$ | 2 | Georgia College & State University (aka Georgia College) is a public university located in the central Georgia community of Milledgeville. With five online concentrations, specialization is among the most notable features of Georgia College’s Master of Science in Nursing program. Online concentration choices include: nurse educator, nurse midwifery, family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and women’s health nurse practitioner. The bulk of coursework in all concentrations is accessed and completed online. However, a limited number of trips to campus, including an immersion experience held at the beginning of the program, are required. Additionally students in all concentrations must complete substantial clinical hours (total hours vary by concentration) in program-approved practice settings. Both full-time and part-time study options are available for all concentrations. Programs start each summer. Program Highlights: Master of Science in Nursing
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | |||
| 3 | The University of Texas Medical Branch at GalvestonGalveston, TX | Public | $$ | 2 | The Master of Science in Nursing program at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston is another MSN program with an abundance of concentration track options. Four nurse practitioner tracks are available: family nurse practitioner, neonatal nurse practitioner, adult/gerontology primary care, and adult/gerontology acute care. Three nurse education/leadership tracks are also offered: clinical nurse leader, executive nurse leader, and nurse educator. The majority of coursework in all concentrations is delivered online. All students are, however, required to come to campus at the beginning of their programs for an orientation session and for two-to-three-day sessions each semester. In-person clinical experiences attended at sites in the student’s local area are additionally required. All MSN programs are available part-time only. Program Highlights: Master of Science in Nursing
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio10/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | |||
| 4 | Colorado State University PuebloPueblo, CO | Public | $$ | 2 | Colorado State University Pueblo offers two options that feature fully-online coursework in its Master of Science in Nursing program. The 31-credit nurse educator option prepares students for faculty and staff development educator positions in universities and technical schools, as well as hospitals and other health care facilities. The 34-credit nurse manager and leader option is for current RNs seeking to move into administration and management positions (coordinator, director, chief nursing officer, etc.) in the full range of health care settings. Both options feature fully-online coursework along with in-person practicums/field experiences. In addition to the two online programs, CSUP also offers three hybrid-formatted nurse practitioner options: adult/gerontology acute care NP, adult/gerontology acute care & family NP, and psychiatric-mental health NP. Program Highlights: Master of Science in Nursing
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
AccreditationHLC | |||
| 5 | University of Southern MainePortland, ME | Public | $$ | 2 | The University of Southern Maine features several degree programs with fully-online coursework, including two online Master of Science programs for RNs with a previously-earned BSN degree: the MSN in nursing education and the MSN in nursing administration and leadership. All didactic coursework (lectures, readings, assignments, etc.) are delivered 100% online in an asynchronous format allowing students to access and complete their studies at their convenience. However, both programs do require students to complete in-person practicums at program-approved practice settings typically in the student’s local area. USM additionally offers RN to MSN programs in nursing education and nursing administration and leadership. Both of these programs feature fully-online didactic coursework and can be completed in as few as 24 months. Program Highlights: MSN – Nursing Education Online; MSN – Nursing Administration and Leadership Online
|
Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio12/1 |
AccreditationNECHE | |||
| 6 | Frostburg State UniversityFrostburg, MD | Public | $$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementImplied no |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
AccreditationMSCHE | ||||
| 7 | Campbellsville UniversityCampbellsville, KY | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementImplied no |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 8 | Liberty UniversityLynchburg, VA | Private not-for-profit | $$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 9 | Ohio University-Main CampusAthens, OH | Public | $$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 10 | University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationNWCCU | ||||
| 11 | Ohio State University-Main CampusColumbus, OH | Public | $$$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 12 | University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences CenterOklahoma City, OK | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio8/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 13 | Denver College of NursingDenver, CO | Private for-profit | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 14 | Xavier UniversityCincinnati, OH | Private not-for-profit | $$$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio11/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 15 | University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical CampusDenver, CO | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 16 | Texas Tech University Health Sciences CenterLubbock, TX | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio7/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 17 | Georgia Southwestern State UniversityAmericus, GA | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementImplied no |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 18 | SUNY College of Technology at DelhiDelhi, NY | Public | $$$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
AccreditationMSCHE | ||||
| 19 | Fayetteville State UniversityFayetteville, NC | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 20 | Indiana University-Purdue University-IndianapolisIndianapolis, IN | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 21 | University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro, NC | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 22 | Grand Canyon UniversityPhoenix, AZ | Private for-profit | $$$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementImplied no |
Student/ Faculty Ratio21/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 23 | Western Carolina UniversityCullowhee, NC | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 24 | Appalachian State UniversityBoone, NC | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 25 | Texas Woman’s UniversityDenton, TX | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 26 | Texas A & M University-Corpus ChristiCorpus Christi, TX | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio20/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 27 | University of Central ArkansasConway, AR | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 28 | Fort Hays State UniversityHays, KS | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 29 | Midwestern State UniversityWichita Falls, TX | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 30 | New Mexico State University-Main CampusLas Cruces, NM | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio16/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 31 | West Texas A & M UniversityCanyon, TX | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio15/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 32 | Arkansas State UniversityJonesboro, AR | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 33 | University of West GeorgiaCarrollton, GA | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 34 | University of North GeorgiaDahlonega, GA | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 35 | University of Arkansas GranthamLittle Rock, AR | Private for-profit | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio18/1 |
AccreditationDEAC | ||||
| 36 | University of St FrancisJoliet, IL | Private not-for-profit | $$$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio13/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 37 | Missouri State University-SpringfieldSpringfield, MO | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio20/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 38 | University of Nevada-Las VegasLas Vegas, NV | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio18/1 |
AccreditationNWCCU | ||||
| 39 | Texas A & M International UniversityLaredo, TX | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio24/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 40 | Wichita State UniversityWichita, KS | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio18/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 41 | Montana State UniversityBozeman, MT | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationNWCCU | ||||
| 42 | Florida Agricultural and Mechanical UniversityTallahassee, FL | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio14/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 43 | University of KansasLawrence, KS | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 44 | Tarleton State UniversityStephenville, TX | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio21/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 45 | Arkansas Tech UniversityRussellville, AR | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 46 | Jacksonville UniversityJacksonville, FL | Private not-for-profit | $$$ | 2 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio11/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 47 | Eastern New Mexico University-Main CampusPortales, NM | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio17/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 48 | Georgia Southern UniversityStatesboro, GA | Public | $ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio22/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC | ||||
| 49 | University of ArkansasFayetteville, AR | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementImplied no |
Student/ Faculty Ratio19/1 |
AccreditationHLC | ||||
| 50 | Kennesaw State UniversityKennesaw, GA | Public | $$ | 1 | Academic CounselingYes |
Career PlacementYes |
Student/ Faculty Ratio22/1 |
AccreditationSACSCOC |
Inside Look: Online MSN Profiles
With so many schools and programs offering the online MSN, it can be tough to choose. You can review the best institutions and compare and contrast their stats, but to truly find the right program, you need to dig deeper. Which programs have the most online courses? How many credits until you graduate? Do they offer specializations? We’ve researched three leading online MSN programs to give you an inside look on what you can expect.
University of Central Florida
Located in Orlando, Florida, the University of Central Florida (UCF) boasts one of the largest student populations of any school in the nation. UCF offers a robust online program and with a variety of undergraduate and graduate program options, including an online a master’s of science in nursing degree.
Specifically, UCF offers its MSN program in three online formats across three specializations. Students can choose to pursue their degree in cohort, full-time, or part-time formats. This maximizes flexibility and allows students to tailor learning to fit their personal needs. Depending on the format, students will take between four and seven semesters to complete their degree.
The three specializations offered are: Nurse Educator, Leadership and Management, and Nursing and Healthcare Simulation. The latter is particularly unique in that it’s the shortest UCF online MSN program at 31 credit hours. It’s designed to train nurses in healthcare simulation for education, quality improvement, and training purposes. The Nurse Educator and Leadership and Management specializations are longer, at 35 and 36 credit hours, respectively. Each specialization consists of the same four core MSN courses, along with seven or eight track-specific courses.
Jacksonville University
Jacksonville University is a small private university with a student body of about 4,200 undergraduate and graduate students. Students interested in earning a master’s of science in nursing degree can enroll in one of the Keigwin School of Nursing’s several Online Master of Science in Nursing programs.
This university offers two online MSN programs. The first is the RN to MSN, which allows currently practicing registered nurses to earn both their BSN and MSN degrees at the same time. This can be done by completing between 141 and 144 credit hours.
Next there’s the traditional MSN online program, intended for students who already have a BSN degree. In addition to earning their MSN, these students can choose from three majors: Clinical Nurse Educator, Leadership in Healthcare Systems, and Informatics Specialization. For maximum flexibility, students complete their projects and practicums close to home or work. They can even take off 8 to 16 weeks at a time if they need a break or have to focus on personal or professional obligations.
Both online MSN programs at Jacksonville University are offered with 8-week course sessions. Students can choose between full-time or part-time pacing.
Queens University of Charlotte
Queens University of Charlotte is a small, private liberal arts university situated in the suburbs of Charlotte, North Carolina. Besides providing a world class education, Queens University of Charlotte prides itself on the idea of serving one’s community. With more than 90 percent of its student body participating in service, Queens University of Charlotte has a robust nursing school, which includes an online Master of Science in Nursing program.
In recognition of the shortage of nurses in the United States, Queens University of Charlotte’s online MSN program is designed for maximum accommodation of talented students. For example, there is no GRE requirement or application fee. Students can complete their clinicals at a healthcare facility close to them; they are responsible for choosing a suitable location and qualified preceptor. Additionally, all classroom curriculum components can be completed online and asynchronously. This means that outside of completing assignments and exams at certain intervals, students can progress through each class on their own schedule.
Most classes are eight weeks in length, although a few can last as long as 16 weeks. Students can complete their MSN degree in as little as two years of full-time study in one of three MSN specializations: Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Administrator, or Nurse Educator.
Types of Online MSN Programs
There are lots of options for those who want to earn their master’s degree in nursing. Each program is specifically designed for a differing experience, and suits a different set of educational backgrounds of applicants. Some MSN programs are intended for registered nurses without a bachelor’s degree, while others require a bachelor of science in nursing for admission. Here’s more on the most popular types of MSN degree tracks:
Direct Entry MSN Programs
These are relatively new to academia and were created to help alleviate the shortage of health professionals within the United States. Direct entry MSN programs are designed for students who already have a bachelor’s degree, but in an area of study other than nursing. Programs differ in format, but usually begin with taking pre-licensure nursing courses during the first year and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Once that is completed, students move onto the MSN related coursework. Students can choose from traditional campus-based programs or flexible online direct entry MSN programs.
The benefits
- Time savings: Depending on the school, many direct entry programs take about three years. This is a far less time than going back to school to earn a BSN or associate degree in nursing, then obtaining an MSN (4-6 years).
- Financial savings: Not having to earn a second undergraduate degree, whether it’s at the bachelor’s or associate level, can save tens of thousands of dollars on schooling.
The drawbacks
- Background research required: Prospective direct entry students need to do careful background research to choose the right concentration for their MSN degree, yet do so without any prior knowledge.
- Academic intensity: Because direct entry programs are open to students from any academic background, those with degrees that have less of a mathematical or scientific basis may have to spend extra time on those skills, and on an accelerated basis.
Best for… Direct entry programs are perfect for students who want an MSN degree, but do not want to earn a second bachelor’s or associate degree in nursing first.
Accelerated MSN Programs
Accelerated MSN programs include a curriculum set up so that that students can complete their MSN degree as quickly as possible, each unique. Some schools allow students to use their prior education or experience to help them move more quickly through a particular course. Other programs allow students to take as many courses as they want within a certain time period. Finally, some programs are extra flexible in allowing students to structure their degree requirements in the most efficient and practical way possible.
The advantages
- Academic efficiency: Many accelerated programs allow students to take courses all year. Instead of taking off during the winter and summer breaks, you can continue with course work.
- Potential to save money: Accelerated MSN programs reduce the amount of time a student spends in school working toward the degree. Depending on the school tuition rates, students can potentially reduce the overall cost of earning an MSN degree by reducing the time in school by an entire term.
The disadvantages
- Higher initial cost: Accelerated programs can save time on an MSN degree in several ways, but typically allow more courses within a shorter period of time. As most schools charge per class or credit, this can result in a higher tuition cost in the short term.
- Requires a full-time commitment: To allow students to finish their degree as quickly as possible, program administrators have set up accelerated programs such that there is little time for students to do anything else other than attend class online, study and complete clinicals.
Best for… Accelerated programs are ideal for students who want to earn their MSN as quickly as possible, and have the time and money to devote 100% of their attention to their goal.
RN to MSN Programs
Many registered nurses earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree. But many others become licensed RNs with just an associate degree or a diploma from an approved nursing program. However, a master’s degree traditionally requires incoming students to have a bachelor’s degree. To accommodate this need, many nursing schools have created special programs for non-BSN prepared RNs who want to get an MSN by building on their real-world clinical experience. Many RN to MSN programs are available online, as well.
The benefits
- Still earn a BSN: RN to MSN programs vary, but many of them will include earning a BSN in addition to the MSN degree.
- Large professional growth potential: For RNs who want to transition to management, education, or a specialized area of practice, a RN to MSN program is probably the most cost-effective way of getting there.
The drawbacks
- Length of program: Because students are typically earning both a BSN and MSN degree, many RN to MSN programs last three or more years. For some nurses, it might not be worth the added time and expenses.
- Challenging coursework: Many RN to MSN programs require students to take bachelor’s and master’s level courses at the same time. This can present an extra set of learning challenges for some.
Best for… Practicing nurses who want to advance their nursing career but don’t already have a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
BSN to MSN Programs
Getting an MSN degree after first earning a BSN is a traditional academic degree path. Therefore, the BSN to MSN route is the most common type of online MSN program available. Most BSN to MSN programs consist of about 35 credit hours and last about two years, if the course-load is full-time. Given how well-established these MSN programs are, students usually have the greatest opportunity to pursue a particular specialization or concentration this way.
Pros
- Plenty of program options: Because the BSN to MSN is so common, almost every nursing school with a graduate program has this degree path, meaning there are many programs to choose from.
- Speed of completion: Of all of the major types of MSN programs, the BSN to MSN path is the fastest. This is due to students not only having the requisite nursing background, but having already completed all foundational and general education undergraduate coursework as well.
Cons
- Clinicals still required: Even though incoming students have already completed the clinicals necessary for earning a BSN and have real world clinical experience, BSN to MSN programs still have clinical requirements.
- Lower return on investment: Because incoming nursing students already have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, the return on investment for an MSN degree isn’t always as good when compared to other MSN programs that accept students with little to no background.
Best for… Nurses with a bachelor’s degree in nursing who would like to move on to the next level of their nursing career, whether in management, leadership, education or a nursing specialization.
Dual Master’s: MSN/MBA
The MSN degree is typically intended for those who want to take on lower to middle level management or leadership positions within a department or healthcare organization. For those who want to enter the corporate or executive leadership roles at the highest level, some schools have created dual degree programs. These combine the master of science in nursing degree with the master of business administration.
Why it’s a good idea
- Create change at the highest level: With the addition of the MBA degree, nurses earn the ability to take on roles that create policy changes at the top of organizations.
- Networking opportunities: With the combination of the MBA and MSN degrees, students will have opportunities to create connections with individuals work in both the healthcare and executive realm of an organization.
The disadvantages
- Time commitment: Depending on the program, obtaining two degrees at once can add an extra year or more to the time it takes to graduate.
- Admissions requirements: While it’s not impossible to gain acceptance into a joint MBA/MSN degree program, the admissions requirements are more involved and rigorous.
Best for… Anyone with a nursing background who wants to reach the highest levels of leadership within a healthcare organization.
Exploring the Online MSN Curriculum
The majority of curriculums in online MSN programs consist of three parts. The first part includes the core MSN courses that all students take, regardless of concentration. The second portion are courses specific to the student’s concentration of choice, such as nurse educator or informatics. The third part is clinicals or practicums that students must complete at an approved healthcare site.
This curriculum structure changes slightly for students without a BSN degree or nursing background. In those cases, there is an additional portion of the curriculum to cover the missing coursework, such as foundational and prerequisite nursing courses. The following sample timeline is for MSN students who already have their BSN degree and choose to take a leadership and management area of specialization.
| Term | Courses | # Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Nursing Informatics, Advanced Practice Nursing Theories, and Dynamics within a Healthcare Organization. | 9 |
| Semester 2 | Nursing elective, Research Methods, and Nurse Management. | 9 |
| Semester 3 | Healthcare Resource and Financial Management, Legal and Ethical Behaviors for Advanced Practice Nurses. | 6 |
| Semester 4 | Leadership and Management for Nurses and Leadership and Management Clinical. | 6 |
| Semester 5 | Evidence Based Practice and Leadership and Management Internship. | 6 |
How Do Master’s in Nursing Programs Work Online?
In most cases, all the coursework in an online MSN program will be delivered through distance learning technology. Depending on the program, the bulk of the course material is delivered and managed by learning management software. This can include handouts, tests, assignments, and lectures. The software is also used to coordinate interactions between students and educators. Some programs supplement the collaborative learning with tools like Skype or Facetime.
The exact online education process depends on the preferences of school administrators, professors, and the educational format. For example, with asynchronous learning, interactions among students and between students and the professor are not as likely to be in real time. Instead, there will probably be message boards where students can access as it’s convenient to them. If a program contains synchronous learning, it is conducted primarily in real time.
Clinicals & Labs for the Online MSN
Even though many programs tout 100% online curriculums, that doesn’t mean MSN students have no in-person education elements. In nursing school, the most significant hands-on education requirements are clinicals or practicums.
Online MSN programs also have these requirements, but because the majority of students do not live or work close to the school, they have special procedures in place for reviewing and approving clinical sites chosen by the students. These locations can be either the same place where the student currently works as an RN or a potential future employer. It’s quite common for those who make a great impression during their clinicals to have their job applications receive special consideration during the post-graduate job search.
Students should be selective in choosing a preceptor, or healthcare professional, who helps find teaching opportunities for students during the clinical. In addition to clinicals, some programs may also have on-campus intensives, immersions, or labs that students must complete.
Specializing as a Master’s in Nursing Student
One of the key benefits of studying for a master’s level nursing degree is the ability to specialize. Most schools with MSN programs have several concentrations to choose from. By opting for an appropriate concentration, nurses can receive a tailored education designed to most effectively prepare them for career advancement.
Care coordination: A lesser known MSN specialization, care coordination refers to the process of providing the most effective nursing care possible by taking into account factors which affect a patient’s health. Students learn how to manage the various medical providers and professional organizations that can affect treatment plans.
Forensic nursing: The forensic nursing concentration teaches how law enforcement and the justice system interact with medical professionals. Students will learn about topics from gathering evidence and treating victims of sex crimes to the fundamentals of providing expert medical testimony in court, as well as crime prevention. Learn more about online forensic nursing MSN programs and find top schools.
Nursing education: Also known as a Nurse Educator, this is one of the more commonly found MSN majors, partially because of a pressing need for more teachers to help train nurses and meet the rising demand for healthcare. Students will learn the skills necessary to teach in both an academic and clinical setting. Review top online MSN programs in nursing education.
Nursing informatics: Nursing informatics is a type of information engineering subfield within healthcare. It involves using information systems to improve health outcomes in patients. In this concentration, students learn how to use computer hardware and software to tackle some of the most challenging problems in patient care management. Learn more about online nursing informatics MSN programs.
Nursing leadership and administration: Nursing leadership and management is a commonly available MSN major. It combines the clinical experience and management training necessary to properly lead and manage a group or department in a healthcare organization. Read more about the online MSN in nursing administration.
Public health: This specialization deals with providing care to patients within a community setting. Students learn how to apply epidemiological theories to keep a community healthy, as well as maximize their roles as health evaluators and policy creators.
Online MSN Program Admissions
Graduate-level nursing programs can be competitive. Applicants are often concerned with more than just a high GPA, and those with a non-nursing background applying to direct entry MSN programs may have to compete harder. Below we identify the parts of an application candidates should be especially focused on, and ways in which to stand out.
Entrance Exam Scores
Many MSN programs require applicants to take an entrance exam, such as the GRE, and submit their scores. These exams provide an objective measure of a student’s potential success in graduate school.
How to stand out
A strong GRE or other entrance exam score can help convince an admissions committee that a student can handle the rigors of graduate school, especially if you do not have a nursing background.
Personal statement
Outside of the interview, the personal statement provides the only opportunity for applicants to present a side of themselves they can’t otherwise show.
How to stand out
Applicants should carefully consider what to write and spend plenty of time revising the essay. Admissions officials will notice if an essay contains mistakes.
Prerequisites
Non-nursing applicants should pay close attention to prerequisites. Without having any academic or clinical nursing experience, admissions officers want some way to ensure incoming students have the fundamentals necessary.
How to stand out
You may have already taken these courses, and if you’re your grades are already established. But most non-nursing students will need to take most or all of these courses. This is actually a great opportunity for you to show what you’re capable of and what kind of academic performance the program can expect from you once you’re admitted.
Cost and the MSN Online
The cost of an online MSN degree is comparable to many other graduate level degrees, including traditional on-campus MSN programs. In some cases they are about the same price. The exact cost for each student depends on many factors, one of the largest being whether the you have in-state status for tuition purposes. In some schools where online students all pay the same rate, this doesn’t matter. At other schools, in-state residency may significantly lower tuition. The following are examples of what you can expect to pay for an MSN degree.
| 1 | 1. University of Central Florida, Nursing, MSN | $5,073.46/year (in-state) and $10,769.71/year (out-of-state) or $327.32/credit (in-state) and $694.82/credit (out-of-state). |
| 2 | 2. University of Cincinnati, Master of Science in Nursing | $15,594.00/year (in-state) and $15,894.00/year (out-of-state) or $724.00/credit (in-state) and $739.00/credit (out-of-state). |
| 3 | 3. Duke University, Master of Science in Nursing | $21,228.00/year and $1,769.00/credit. |
| 4 | 4. University of Alabama in Huntsville, Master of Science in Nursing | $12,360.00/year and $412.00/credit. |
| 5 | 5. University of Arizona, Online RN to MSN | $17,200.00/year and $800.00/credit. |
For information on how to save on the cost of your online MSN program, check out the following pages: