The fastest MSN program is a Master of Science in Nursing graduate-level degree program for those already practicing as professional nurses. These programs offer many areas of concentration and will help students seek leadership roles within many healthcare settings or to pursue a career in nursing education.
Because of the hands-on nature of the profession, most programs will have online coursework but will also require a clinical practicum. Here, we’ve shared 25 of the most affordable accelerated online MSN degrees with our methodology listed below.
In this ranking of the affordable MSN program and fastest online Master’s in Nursing, we will examine the following degrees:
- Online Master of Science in Nursing
- Online Dual MSN/MBA in Nursing Administration
- Online Family Nurse Practitioner (NP) MSN
- Online Education and Leadership Nursing MSN
- Online Women’s Health NP MSN
- Master of Nursing in Adult-Gerontology NP
Methodology
To rank the most accessible online Master’s in Nursing programs, we scored the schools based on 3 criteria: their Student to Faculty ratio, the school’s graduate/in-state graduate tuition, and the duration of the program. We used the school’s website for information and the National Center for Education Statistics. If any information didn’t fit within the scoring parameters, zero points were awarded for that category. In the case of a tie, the school with the lower tuition pulled the higher rank.
Student to Faculty ratio:
- 13:1 or less- 3 points
- 14:1 to 20:1- 2 points
- 21:1 and above- 1 point
Average Graduate Tuition Rate:
- Less than $8,000- 5 points
- $8,000 to $18,000- 3 points
- Greater than $18,000- 1 point
Minimum Time to Completion:
- 12 months or less- 5 points
- 13-18 months- 3 points
- 19-24 months- 1 point
25. Southern New Hampshire University
The accelerated online MSN at Southern New Hampshire University offers 4 different tracks. Options include:
- Online Advanced Pathway RN to MSN
- Online Clinical Nurse Leader MSN
- Online Nursing Educator MSN
- Online Nursing Patient Safety and Quality MSN
The 39-credit program requires a clinical element and also a capstone project. Graduates of the program will be ready for careers as:
- Clinical Nurse Leaders
- Nurse Administrators
- Nurse Educators
- Nurse Informaticists
- Public Health Nurses
Additionally, SNHU’s MSN program has accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 3
Student-Faculty Ratio: 24 to 1
Degree: Master of Science in Nursing Online
Location: Manchester, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition: $18,810
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
24. University of Pittsburg
The University of Pittsburg offers the registered nurse (RN) five options for an accelerated online MSN degree.
- RN to MSN – Clinical Nurse Leader
- RN to MSN – Informatics
- Clinical Nurse Leader
- Nursing Leadership and Administration
- Nursing Informatics
In addition, students can earn one of 4 online graduate certificates. Online services for students include peer and faculty interaction, academic advisors, technology support, library services, and also the Book Center. Also, the classes are presented asynchronously to offer more flexibility. Additionally, this MSN program has accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 4
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $23,530
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
23. Pennsylvania State University World Campus
Pennsylvania State University’s World Campus offers a 36-credit MSN online that prepares nursing leaders of tomorrow. Students will begin by taking a nursing core curriculum, then choose between two tracks: Nursing Administrator or Nursing Educator.
Typically, students will take 2 classes in both the fall and spring semester and also classes in the summer. Prospective applicants must already be a licensed nurse. Additionally, this MSN program has accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 4
Location: University Park, Pennsylvania
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $21,682
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
22. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University offers a fast-track online MSN with three track options. Students can choose between a concentration in Executive Nurse Leadership, Nursing Education, and Nursing Informatics.
To be admitted into any program, students must hold a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and also have a BSN from a school accredited by the ACEN or CCNE. Students must also hold RN licensure before and during the entire program. Additionally, the US News and World Report ranked NSU’s online MSN among the best schools.
Points: 4
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Degree: Online MSN with options
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $19,665
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
21. Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University offers an accelerated MSN online with three tracks. Students can choose Clinical Nurse Leader, Nursing Education, and also Nursing Management and Executive Leadership.
Graduates of this program are ready for careers are program managers, clinical directors, directors of nursing, and also clinical nurse specialists. Additionally, the MSN program has accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 5
Location: Fairfield, Connecticut
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $30,427
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
20. University of Michigan
The University of Michigan offers an accelerated online MSN degree through the UM School of Nursing. Furthermore, students can choose from 3 tracks. The specializations include Family Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and also Leadership, Analytics, and Innovation.
Students can expect a rigorous, quality online education taught by esteemed faculty. A virtual community is an added benefit and allow students to connect with like-minded peers. The online program allows for maximum flexibility. Additionally, this MSN program has accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 5
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $23,890
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
19. Carlow University
Carlow University offers multiple online MSN degrees, which include:
- Online Family Nurse Practitioner MSN
- Nursing Education and Leadership
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner MSN
In addition, post-graduate certificates are available. Programs vary in length and delivery, so make sure you check the details of each program before you apply. Some are fully online, while some follow a hybrid system. Additionally, no GRE is required for admittance.
Points: 5
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Degree: Online MSN with multiple options
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $18,766
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
18. University of South Carolina
At the University of South Carolina, students can earn one of 5 different nursing degrees. Options include Entry to Practice Nursing (MEPN), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administrator, and also Nursing Informatics.
All classes can be taken online, except there could be an on-campus requirement for the advanced practice specialty program. All graduates will be ready for national certification exams. Additionally, the online MSN degree programs at the University of South Carolina have accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 6
Location: Columbia, South Carolina
Degree: Online MSN program with options
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $13,737
Learn More: here about this online MSN program!
17. University of Cincinnati
Students at the University of Cincinnati have five quick online MSN degrees to choose from. Options include:
- Online MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Online MSN Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
- Online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
- Online MSN Nursing Leadership and Administration
- Online MSN Nursing-Midwifery
The design of the programs caters to busy, working professionals. The University of Cincinnati has accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Additionally, the online MSN nursing programs have accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 6
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
Degree: Online MSN program with 5 options
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Graduate Tuition: $16,090
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
16. University of Arizona
Through the College of Nursing, the University of Arizona offers a fast online MSN degree worth checking into. The program will result in a Master of Science in Nursing Clinical Systems Leadership and is also perfect for students who desire leadership in the field.
Sample courses include Health Information and Patient Care Technologies, Leadership for Patient-Centered Care, Quality and Safety Management, and also Foundations of Systems Leadership. The online MSN in Clinical Systems Leadership is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing.
Points: 6
Location: Tucson, Arizona
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $11,938
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
15. Ohio State University
Ohio State University offers an affordable online MSN program through the College of Nursing. OSU’s Master of Science in Nursing degree offers students 4 tracks of study. The include Family Nurse Practitioner (NP), Neonatal NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and also Clinical Nurse Leader.
Coursework is presented in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Sample classes include Quality Improvement and Informatics, Innovation Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice, and also Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Across the Life Span. Graduates will be ready to pursue careers in settings like private practices, clinics, hospitals, and businesses to managed care organizations and governmental agencies.
Points: 6
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Degree: Online Master of Science in Nursing
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $11,560
Learn More: here about this school’s online MSN programs!
14. Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University offers an accelerated MSN online with an emphasis on Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. Note that this program does have on-site requirements as well. A background in Nursing is required, but conditional acceptance is possible. Those students must turn in a clinical nursing portfolio to demonstrate competency. Courses include Clinical Pathobiology, Statistical Methods & Schokly Inquiry, Health Care Policy and Advocacy, and also Quality Improvement, Safety, & Health Care Technologies.
Points: 6
Location: Stony Brook, New York
Degree: Hybrid MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $11,310
Learn More: here for more about affordable online MSN programs!
13. Old Dominion University
Students enrolled in Old Dominion University’s accelerated online MSN degree program can customize their degrees. There are 8 available tracks, including:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Midwifery
- Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist/Educator
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
No matter the program, students will take 7 core nursing courses before moving into the specialization. Some courses include Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice, Ethical Concepts of Advanced Practice Nursing, the Business of Advanced Nursing Practice, and also Introduction to Healthcare Disparities, Vulnerable Populations, & Epidemiology.
Points: 6
Location: Norfolk, Virginia
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $10,207
Learn More: here for more about affordable online MSN programs!
12. California University of Pennsylvania
When it comes to fast-track online MSN programs, options abound at the California University of Pennsylvania.
Students can choose between an MSN in Nursing Administration and Leadership (a 30-credit program) and a dual MSN-MBA degree (a 54-credit program). The latter would be an excellent fit for nursing who seek leadership roles in the business sector. In addition, those with an MSN can pursue a 24-credit MBA in Administration. A post-graduate certificate in Nursing Administration and Leadership is also available.
Points: 6
Location: California, Pennsylvania
Degree: Online MSN/MBA in Nursing Administration
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $9,288
Learn More: here for more about accelerated online MSN programs!
11. Ball State University
At Ball State University, students can choose from multiple online MSN programs. The fully online program offers three areas of concentration.
- Nursing Education / Nurse Educator
- Nursing Administration
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Each program’s curriculum consists of a research core, a nursing core, and also concentration work. Classes are presented asynchronously, but weekly assignments will be due at a specific time. Additionally, BSU’s online MSN has accreditation from the CCNE.
Points: 6
Location: Muncie, Indiana
Degree: Online Master’s Degree in Nursing with options
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $8,850
Learn More: here for more about this accelerated MSN online degree!
10. Jacksonville University
Online MSN students at Jacksonville University can choose from a variety of paths. An online RN to MSN degree is an option, as well as an online MSN in 3 areas.
Options include Clinical Nurse Education, Leadership in Healthcare Systems, and also Informatics. Applicants must hold a 3.0 GPA or higher from an accredited BSN program. But, GRE scores are required for admittance.
Points: 7
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $14,706
Learn More: here for more about this accelerated MSN online degree!
9. Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health
Students can earn one of several online MSN degrees at Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health. Options include tracks in:
- Online Nurse Educator MSN
- Online Nurse Executive MSN
- Online Nursing Informatics MSN
Furthermore, graduates of the programs can apply for executive certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Applicants are required to have a BSN undergrad GPA of 3.0 or higher. The CCNE-accredited MSN program can be completed in just 21 months.
Points: 7
Location: Omaha, Nebraska
Degree: Online MSN with options
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $11,955
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
8. Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers 3 online Master of Science in Nursing options, including:
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Informatics
- Nursing Leadership and Management
You can complete your coursework entirely online, but about 40% of the degree will be a hands-on clinical experience, given the nature of the career. Related Master’s degrees in Health Leadership and Health Management are also available. Additionally, the Commission accredits the online MSN option at WGU on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 7
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 41 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $7,500
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
7. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida offers an online 31-36 credit hour accelerated MSN. The program offers three tracks in Nursing Leadership and Management, Nurse Educator, and also Nursing & Healthcare Simulation. Graduates of the program will be ready for careers as:
- Chief Nursing Officer
- Director of Nursing
- Nurse / Health Care Administrator
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Simulation
- Nursing Manager
Additionally, related degrees in Healthcare Informatics and Healthcare Administration are available. The US News and World Report ranked UCF among the most innovative colleges.
Points: 7
Location: Orlando, Florida
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 30 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $6,916
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
6. Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic University offers an online MSN through the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Areas of concentration include:
- Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
- Advanced Holistic Nursing
- Clinical Nurse Leader
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership
- Nurse Educator
- and also Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Additionally, the flexible online MSN offer part-time and full-time options.
Points: 7
Location: Boca Raton, Florida
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 21 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $5,467
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
5. Boise State University
For students seeking to enter the Adult-Gerontology nursing sector, then look at Boise State University’s online MSN option. Students can specialize in either acute or primary care.
While all coursework can be taken online, it is essential to note that an on-campus residency will be required. Students participate in 3 on-site summer intensives lasting 5-7 days. Additionally, there is a required clinical component. BSU’s online MSN has accreditation from the CCNE.
Points: 8
Location: Boise, Idaho
Degree: Online Master of Nursing in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $7,110
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
4. University of Texas at Tyler
For students seeking an administration position, check out the University of Texas at Tyler’s online Master of Science in Nursing. Students will pursue a specialization in Nursing Administration.
A 112.5-hour clinically-based practicum is required. Students must hold a 3.0 GPA from undergrad and a BSN from an accredited school. However, no standardized testing scores are required.
Points: 8
Location: Tyler, Texas
Degree: Online Master of Science in Nursing
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $5,850
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
3. East Carolina University
When it comes to fast online MSN degrees, East Carolina University has a myriad of options there are 7 programs to choose from, including:
- Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Midwifery
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Leadership
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Two doctoral-level degrees are available for those seeking to continue their education further. Requirements vary from program to program, so check the details to see which best fits your goals. Some require a GRE score, and some do not.
Points: 8
Location: Greenville, North Carolina
Degree: Online MSN with options
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $4,749
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
2. University of West Georgia
The University of West Georgia offers an accelerated online MSN of 35-38 credits. The 5-semester program will take 2 years to complete. Two tracks are available in education and also health systems leadership. Post-graduate certificates are also available in those areas.
For students seeking a part-time program, that is an option at UWG but will take 8 working semesters to complete. Sample classes include Epidemiology for Nursing Education and Practice, Scholarly Inquiry and Data Analysis in Nursing, and also Informatics, Technology, & Healthcare Outcomes. Additionally, this online MSN program has accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Points: 8
Location: Carrollton, Georgia
Degree: Online MSN
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $4,338
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
1. Fort Hays State University
For those seeking careers related to education, check out Fort Hays State University’s online Master of Nursing Education. Designed for working RNs, this program is entirely online. Benefits include small class sizes, personal advising, asynchronous course delivery, and also flexibility.
After taking the foundational nursing core, students focus on the Nursing Education Track. Sample classes include Teaching Strategies in Nursing, Curriculum Planning, and also Curriculum Evaluation. Additionally, students complete an evidence-based project.
Points: 8
Location: Hays, Kansas
Degree: Online Master’s in Nursing Education
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $3,582
Learn More: here about this school’s nursing programs!
What is a Fast Online Master’s in Nursing
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate-level degree for professional nurses desiring leadership and also teaching roles. Most programs vary from 30 to 50 credit hours in length and take anywhere from 1 to 3 years to complete. The time it takes to finish depends on factors like enrollment status, educational background, and also program details.
Types of Master’s in Nursing Online Programs
To get a master’s degree in nursing, students earn a Master of Science in Nursing, sometimes with an area of concentration. Below are some standard types of online graduate nursing programs.
Accelerated Degree Program
Accelerated online MSN programs have the same curriculum as other programs but move much faster.
MSN in Clinical Nursing
This degree is for professional nursing practice. The more general degree will be able to earn Clinical Nurse Leader certification.
MSN in Advanced Practice Nursing
This program is for nursing students who desire a nurse administrator role.
RN to MSN Program
An RN to MSN program is a two-year program that offers BSN coursework and leads to an MSN degree. Applicants must have an RN license and an associate degree.
BSN to MSN
Often a little shorter in length, maybe 12-18 months, designed for RNs who already hold a BSN degree and seeking career advancement.
ADN to MSN
Like an RN to MSN program, these students hold an associate degree in nursing and licensure as an RN. But they earn a BSN degree and an MSN simultaneously or as part of the same program. ASN to MSN programs online are similar, but students hold different two-year degrees. They start with an associate degree of science in nursing (ASN).
Coursework for MSN Graduate Degree Programs
Coursework in nursing programs will significantly vary based on the actual program and the area of concentration you choose. Most MSN online programs have a similar format with core nursing classes in various topics like:
- physiology/pathophysiology
- health assessment
- pharmacology
- population health
- quality and safety in nursing
- principles in nursing management
- healthcare policy and ethics
- nursing research and nursing theory
- advanced health assessment techniques
- organizational leadership
Additionally, after core competencies are met, students will engage in electives or possibly an area of concentration. All work focuses on evidence based practice improvement.
Areas of Concentration for Nursing Graduate Degrees
An area of concentration helps to focus your studies even more and can give you additional expertise in your given field. Many MSN degrees require you to specialize.
Choosing a specialization means that students will take elective coursework in the area and complete their clinical work. After they complete the degree, candidates apply for a higher license or credential through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Concentration options could include:
- Midwifery
- Family nurse practitioner
- Nurse Anesthetist
- Neonatal nurse practitioner
- Psychiatric nurse practitioner
- Nursing Education
Related Masters in Nursing Degree Programs Options
If you are interested in the field, you might also be interested in a few nursing-related degrees:
- Public Health
- Health Administration
How Long is an Online Masters in Nursing Degree?
The length of your Master’s in Nursing program will depend on your specific programs’ details, whether you are a part-time or full-time student, your educational background, and your obligations.
But, generally speaking, most online MSN programs take about 2 years to complete if you are a full-time student or longer if you are a part-time student. With that said–most programs are designed for you to work and go to school simultaneously.
Note that programs can range in length depending on the student’s background (for example, is the program a BSN-to-MSN or ADN-to-MSN?)
Culminating Work for an Online Master’s in Nursing
Your culminating element will depend on your specific program, but generally, you can expect some clinical requirements since MSN degrees are hands-on, practice-based programs. Some programs could include a thesis, however, or even a project or grant proposal in your given field, especially in education-based problems. Check the details of your program for more information.
What are the Graduate Nursing Program Admission Requirements?
Before getting admitted to a fast online MSN degree, you need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a CCNE-accredited program. Some programs also require you to have and maintain current RN licensure. When applying for a fast online Master’s in Nursing, you might need some or all of the below components.
- a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing
- unrestricted nursing license – RN
- possible additional prerequisite coursework
- a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 or higher
- standardized test scores, if required
- letters of recommendation
- entrance essay
- professional experience/licensure
A handful of programs do not require a BSN, but they will be a little longer in length and offer the appropriate prerequisite work.
*Note that some schools do not require standardized testing for admission, and some do. So, if that matters for your application process, choose schools whose admission guidelines match your credentials.
What Can You Expect as an Online Graduate Student?
Type of Classes
When it comes to classes, take a look at how the program is set-up. The classes will either be presented synchronously (at a specific date/time) or asynchronously (no set log in times). Neither is better, but you’ll need to decide what path works best for your situation. Some people love synchronous classes because it holds them accountable and on a schedule. Others prefer the flexibility and freedom of asynchronous coursework.
Length of Classes
Again, this will depend on the program. Some classes are 4, 5, or 6 weeks long, while others are 8 or 10 weeks long. Some programs even follow a traditional semester schedule.
Student Services
Online schooling is perfect for those already working professionally in the nursing field. You’ll be able to juggle work and school at the same time. But it’s always nice to know that you’ll also have support to help you through. Many schools have the same services for students, just online! Those could include access to online libraries, online advisors, and also online career services. In addition, several schools on this list also utilize a cohort-style program so you can connect with like-minded peers.
Is an Online Master’s in Nursing Worth it?
Most nurses earn an MSN because these advanced degrees qualify them for career advancement and roles with more responsibility. Additionally, MSN degree holders earn a higher salary than their BSN counterparts. So earning an MSN can help get you a better job and paycheck.
When evaluating whether or not MSN online programs are worth it, consider the pros and cons. What does the future trajectory of a nursing career look like? Do the job descriptions of the potential careers match what you want in life? How could the salary increase help? Once you can answer these questions, you will organize your thoughts and be able to decide.
Does my Online MSN Program Need Special Accreditation?
Yes, if you want to get a job and a license, then you must earn a degree from an accredited university and a nursing program. One reputable nursing accrediting agency is the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). According to the website, CCNE assesses and identifies programs that engage in effective educational practices. In addition, it’s important to note that many master’s level programs like the ones listed above require applicants to have a BSN from a CCNE-accredited program.
Is an Online MSN Program a Good Fit for You?
There are two basic types of online graduate nursing programs. There are programs for working nurses and individuals new to the nursing profession. Once you determine which group of degrees to examine, you can better understand how each program may fit into your life.
Nurses working in the field know what the industry entails. So, they should consider the possibility of a leadership role or advanced practice. You’ll be able to pursue careers that allow you to manage other nurses or teach those who want to become nurses. You may have less patient interaction and more with staff and nurses. If that fits what you’re desiring, then go for it!
Can You Earn a Doctoral Degree in Nursing?
Yes, you can! There are two kinds of doctoral degrees in nursing: a Doctor of Nursing (PhD) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The PhD option is for nursing educators, while the DNP is for practitioners in the field.
Job Outlook with an Online Master’s in Nursing
Students who graduate with an MSN degree can pursue leadership and also education roles within the nursing profession and in various healthcare settings. Below are some sample careers for individuals with an MSN degree.
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Informatics Specialist
- Geriatric/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
- Clinical Nurse Researcher
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
- Director of Nursing
- Nurse Ethicist
- Nurse Educator
- Legal Nursing Consultant
Average Master of Science in Nursing Salary
*Career and salary data is compiled from the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
- Postsecondary Nursing Teacher: $83,160 per year
- Nurse Practitioner: $115,800 per year
Professional Organizations for Nursing
Professional organizations for nursing professions provide continuing education, mentoring, certification opportunities, role-related competencies, and also educational conferences. So, they are an excellent resource for students and professional nurses. Below are some of the popular professional organizations for nurses.
- National Student Nurses Association (NSNA)
- Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma)
- American Nurses Association (ANA)
- National League for Nursing (NLN)
- American Board of Nursing Specialties (ABNS)
- Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN)
- The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA)
- American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN)
- American Academy of Nursing
Related:
- Top 25 Most Affordable Accelerated Master’s in Nursing Administration Online
- 25 Most Affordable Accelerated Master’s in Healthcare Administration Online
- Top 15 Most Affordable Accelerated Master of Health Sciences – Physician Assistant Online
- 20 Most Affordable Accelerated Master’s in Gerontology Online
