Review the Top Online RN to MSN Programs in TN
Are you looking to do more in your nursing career? Grow your expertise and explore leadership opportunities by completing one of these online RN to MSN programs in Tennessee. This guide will break down how RN to MSN programs work and how they accommodate students who work full time. We’ve also provided details on tuition, financial aid opportunities, and potential earnings after graduation. Begin your journey to an advanced nursing degree in Tennessee today!
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Unpacking Online RN to MSN Degrees in Tennessee
Tennessee is also home to some of the highest-ranked nursing programs in the country, including East Tennessee State University College of Nursing and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga School of Nursing. These programs allow you to become a nurse practitioner in various fields from psychiatric to family care. If you are interested in the nonclinical side of nursing, there are even concentrations in nursing education and medical administration. While most of the coursework on theory will be conducted online, there might be in person clinicals depending on the program and concentration you chose.
Whether you are a nurse looking for future leadership positions or feel it’s time to invest in the best courses that help you meet modern health demands, exploring today’s RN to MSN bridge programs in Tennessee is a great way forward. In this section, we’ll highlight three programs that let you expand your RN career by giving you an MSN degree, often with online courses, and share more about what to expect about each degree program.
East Tennessee State University
The RN to MSN program at East Tennessee State University has a solid reputation for graduating students in as little as five months with full-time status, although part-time options are available. The program includes between 420 and 540 clinical hours, and the majority of the courses can be completed online.
In addition to earning a fully accredited MSN degree, you’ll get to choose from one of four concentration areas: family nurse practitioner, nursing administration, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and nursing education. Students need permission to change between concentrations, however, as this may change how long it takes them to finish their required coursework.
Duration: 5–8 months
Mode: Online with local clinicals
Cost: $646 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- Active and unencumbered RN license
- Non-nursing BA/BS degree from an accredited institution
- Personal Essay
- Transcripts of previous coursework
- Completion of the 12-credit RN/MSN nursing bridge sequence with a “B” or better
Curriculum:
Core Requirements:
- Conceptual Systems for Advanced Nursing Practice
- Nursing Research for Evidence-based Practice
- Advanced Role Development
- Health Policy Leadership
- Health Policy Leadership
- Interprofessional Experiences & Collaboration
Specialization Tracks:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
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Tennessee Tech
The Whitson-Hester School of Nursing at Tennessee Tech University offers flexible, fully online MSN programs tailored to working nurses. With two advanced specializations—Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)—these programs prepare graduates to excel in leadership roles and provide expert care to diverse populations. Students benefit from 100% online coursework, local clinical preceptorships, and no required campus visits, making it an ideal choice for busy professionals.
Graduates of these programs are equipped with advanced skills in healthcare policy, research, and clinical practice, allowing them to work in a wide variety of healthcare settings, including primary care clinics, hospitals, schools, and private practices.
With part-time and full-time enrollment options, you can complete their degree in as little as two years or spread it out over six years. Tennessee Tech’s programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring rigorous academic and clinical training for all enrollees.
Duration: 2–2.5 years
Mode: Online with local clinicals
Cost: $730/credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- An unencumbered license to practice as a Registered Nurse in Tennessee or in the state in which your clinical assignments will be completed
- A Bachelor’s degree and an Associates Degree in Nursing
- Provisional admission for students with below a 3.0 may be considered only on a case-by-case basis
- Completion of or planned enrollment in a statistics course
- Three letters of reference
- Resume/CV with a cover letter explaining your interest in the program
- Transcripts for any previously attended schools
Curriculum:
Core Requirements:
- Health Care Policy
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Adult Health Primary Care I & II
- Advanced Nursing Research
- Advanced Role Development
- Role Transition to Certification and Practice
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Healthcare of Communities
Specialization Tracks:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
Union University
With three available RN to MSN programs to choose from, Tennessee’s Union University may be a top pick for those looking for ultimate flexibility. Pick the nursing administration, education, or nurse practitioner track, and get your full MSN degree even without a BSN.
Both the nursing administration and education tracks are available for full-time and part-time students and give you access to online coursework. The nurse practitioner track is full-time only and requires in-person classes on Thursdays.
The program has fall admission only, but degrees can be earned in as little as four semesters for full-time students (or seven for part-time students).
Duration: 4-7 semesters
Mode: Online
Cost: $712/credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- Current unencumbered Tennessee or compact state RN licensure at the time of the application deadline.
- Completion of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, from an accredited and state approved nursing program
- GPA of at least 3.0
Curriculum:
Core Requirements:
- Advanced Statistics for the Health Sciences
- Informatics and Healthcare
- Clinical Prevention and Population Health in Advanced Nursing Practice
- Theory and Ethics for Advanced Nursing Practice
- Advanced Nursing Research and Evidence-Based practice
- Health Systems and Leadership for Advanced Nursing Practice
- Role Development and Collaborative Strategies in Advanced Nursing Practice
Specialization Tracks:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
Answering Your Questions about RN to MSN Online Programs
If you’re considering advancing your nursing career with an RN to MSN program in Tennessee, you probably have questions about what to expect. From program requirements to cost, online learning formats, and career outcomes, we’ve curated this FAQ to address the most common concerns of working RNs like you.
We’ll break down essential details about program duration, admission criteria, online vs. in-person components, and the opportunities an MSN degree can unlock. Let these answers guide you as you take the next step in your nursing journey.
What can you do with an MSN in Tennessee?
MSN degrees offer many opportunities to treat patients and lead other healthcare professionals in Tennessee. What you choose to do with your degree depends on your personal interests and the concentration in which you earned your online degree. Some choose to go on to get their nurse practitioner license, but this is just one avenue to explore.
Other career options for online RN to MSN graduates in Tennessee include nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse educators. For those who don’t mind taking even more coursework and testing, the doctorate of nursing degree is also an option.
Keep in mind that only some schools that offer online RN to MSN programs in Tennessee offer doctorate nursing degrees.
Will I earn my bachelor’s degree during my RN to MSN program?
Not every online RN to MSN program in Tennessee offers BSN degrees. Some don’t require a bachelor’s to enroll, while others require a bachelor’s in any field. Every school is different, so it’s important to research carefully. Here are some examples to help:
East Tennessee State requires prospective students to hold a bachelor’s degree in any field to enroll in their online RN to MSN program.
Union University doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree to enroll in its RN to MSN program. Still, you will have to take general education requirements such as Christian studies, English Composition I and II, and certain humanities to earn your MSN degree.
What additional nursing skills and knowledge will I gain in an RN to MSN program in Tennessee?
Not only do the RN to MSN bridge programs in Tennessee give you quality learning time with knowledgeable professors and nurses in your field, but you’ll also gain experience in clinical settings to help you care for patients.
Some of the courses you’ll take in your program include scientific writing and research, healthcare policy, and leadership courses. Most of the programs available today also spend some time discussing the different healthcare needs of various people groups, such as pregnant women, those in urban areas, or the aging population.
Expect to see other courses offered depending on the concentration you choose as well.
In Tennessee, how long does it take to complete an RN to MSN program?
Your completion time in an RN to MSN bridge program will vary depending on whether you pursue full-time or part-time enrollment. The program at Tennessee Tech, for example, can be completed in eight semesters, with two courses a semester.
East Tennessee State University gives full-time students a program that can be done in just five months. Those taking just one or two courses a year, however, will need to spend much longer in school to complete their RN to MSN bridge program.
In Tennessee, how much do RN to MSN programs cost?
Just like any program of study, there is a wide range of costs associated with completing any of the RN to MSN programs in Tennessee. Private schools may charge more, and you’ll also have higher costs if you didn’t get your bachelor’s degree before starting. In this case, you’d also need to fill in some holes in your course requirements.
You do have access to a wide range of financial aid no matter your chosen school or program, so be sure to explore your options. Additionally, there are some scholarships designed just for MSN students for you to consider.
Student Resource: Tennessee RN vs. MSN Salary & Career Comparison
| Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | Tennessee | $55,510 | $76,200 | $98,090 |
| Nurse Practitioners | Tennessee | $53,450 | $105,420 | $132,190 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Occupation ↕ | Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | Tennessee | 60,020 | 67,720 | 7,700 | 12.80% | 4,200 |
| Nurse Practitioners | Tennessee | 13,620 | 21,500 | 7,880 | 57.90% | 1,570 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Best Online RN to MSN Bridge Programs in Tennessee
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Southern Adventist University
- The RN to MSN Bridge program at Southern Adventist University offers an accelerated pathway allowing registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma to earn a master’s degree without first obtaining a BSN, reducing time and tuition costs.
- The program features graduate nursing classes scheduled on Tuesdays to accommodate working nurses balancing work, life, and education, providing flexibility for busy students.
- Southern’s MSN graduates have an excellent job placement record and strong success passing certification exams, positioning students for career advancement and leadership opportunities in nursing.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Union University
- The RN to MSN Bridge program at Union University offers specialized career tracks such as Nurse Practitioner concentrations that align education with individual career goals and prepare students with advanced clinical skills.
- The program provides accelerated completion options and personalized advising that create efficient pathways tailored to busy working nurses' schedules, facilitating timely progression and degree completion.
- Union University emphasizes high-quality clinical placements and networking opportunities through faculty expertise and employer partnerships, enhancing student preparedness and job readiness in advanced nursing roles.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Cumberland University
- The University of the Cumberlands RN to MSN Bridge program offers a 12-month accelerated completion option enabling working RNs to earn their MSN quickly without extended time away from work.
- The program features a tuition rate of $220 per credit hour, which is competitive and affordable compared to other nursing graduate programs in the region.
- Students benefit from a clear pathway to MSN with leadership skill development and professional advancement opportunities, designed specifically for working nurses seeking career growth through higher education.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lincoln Memorial University
- The RN to MSN Bridge program at LMU offers a 30% tuition discount for online graduate nursing courses, making advanced education more affordable for working nurses.
- Students benefit from faculty with extensive clinical expertise and personalized mentoring, supporting high-quality education and career growth.
- The program provides flexible, fully online coursework allowing nurses to complete the MSN degree while balancing work and life commitments.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Memphis
- The RN to MSN Bridge program at the University of Memphis allows licensed RNs with a non-nursing bachelor's degree to bypass earning a BSN and directly pursue an MSN with specialized concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Education, or Nursing Leadership.
- The program offers rolling admissions, with application reviews by graduate directors and faculty, providing timely acceptance notifications to encourage early application.
- Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and earn a grade of “B” or better in clinical courses, ensuring rigorous academic and clinical competency standards that prepare graduates for advanced nursing roles.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 53% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 59% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Tennessee Technological University
- The RN to MSN Bridge program at Tennessee Tech offers tuition discounts and scholarship opportunities that make advanced nursing education more affordable.
- The program provides accelerated completion options allowing students to earn their MSN degree efficiently while balancing work commitments.
- Students benefit from specialized career tracks with expert faculty guidance, preparing them for leadership roles and advanced practice nursing.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 59% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Austin Peay State University
- The APSU RN to MSN Bridge program offers primarily online coursework with only two brief on-campus visits to enhance hands-on skills and professional networking opportunities.
- The program is designed specifically for working professional nurses, allowing completion in about two years by taking approximately two courses per semester.
- Graduates are fully prepared and eligible to sit for national certification exams and advanced practice licensure as Family Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Educators, or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected East Tennessee State University
- East Tennessee State University’s RN to MSN Bridge program offers a fully online, flexible learning environment with asynchronous courses tailored for working professionals, enabling students to study at their own pace.
- The program accepts students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree by requiring only four bridge courses before starting the MSN curriculum, eliminating the need to earn a BSN first.
- ETSU RN to MSN graduates report an excellent pass rate on national certification exams, demonstrating strong program outcomes and preparation for advanced nursing roles.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 93% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Vanderbilt University
- Vanderbilt's RN to MSN Bridge program features actively practicing faculty who bring current clinical expertise directly into the classroom, enhancing learning relevance and quality.
- The program offers hundreds of clinical practice hours across specialties, ensuring extensive hands-on experience that prepares graduates for advanced practice roles.
- With most specialties delivered online featuring brief on-campus sessions, the program provides flexibility for working RNs to advance their education without relocating.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- 93% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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