The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

by

Updated November 30, 2023

check mark Reviewed by

Our Integrity Network

NurseJournal.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for NurseJournal.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

Online RN-to-MSN programs can trim years off the time needed to earn an advanced nursing degree. This guide explains how and helps you decide if an RN-to-MSN program is right for you.
mini logo
NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Nurse working on a laptop in the library Credit: BongkarnThanyakij / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Earning a master’s of science in nursing (MSN) may seem like an insurmountable obstacle for registered nurses (RN). However, online RN-to-MSN programs offer nurses the flexibility to pursue a graduate degree while working. These bridge programs also cost less than earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and MSN separately.

Learn more about the best online RN-to-MSN programs and what to consider when choosing one that is right for you.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online RN-to-MSN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including: Academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Featured Online RN-to-MSN Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an Online RN-to-MSN Program

When determining the best RN-to-MSN program, it is crucial to choose the right fit. By researching factors such as admission requirements, curriculum, and accreditation, you can find the program appropriate for your academic and professional goals.

Admission Requirements

Reviewing the admission requirements provides insight into whether or not you qualify for the program. Although many institutions have similar entrance criteria, you do not want to waste time applying for a program for which you are not qualified. If you feel passionate about a program whose prerequisites you do not meet, consider completing those before applying.


Specializations

As an MSN student, you will need to select a specialization. Therefore, you want to make sure the program offers the one you are interested in completing. For those who are unsure of their specialization area, many programs offer the ability for their students to explore their options when starting the program.


Program Curriculum

Checking a program’s curriculum will help you determine if the material covered is appropriate for your academic and professional goals. Although many courses will be similar from one institution to the next, some may offer different academic opportunities, such as specific electives, that may be important to your academic growth.


Clinical Experience

Every MSN program will require practicum or clinical hours. With online master’s programs, many schools expect their students to find this experience on their own. It is important to make sure you can complete your clinical experience based on the guidelines provided by the school.


Accreditation

Enrolling in an accredited program benefits you and your current or future employer. Accreditation indicates that the school meets educational standards. Programs that are not accredited may limit a student’s professional opportunities and earning potential, as most employers look for graduates from accredited programs.


Program Length

The program length for an online RN-to-MSN program is typically similar between institutions. However, the time it takes to complete varies depending on your enrollment (full-time vs. part-time) and whether or not you work while attending class.


School Graduation Rate

Most post-secondary schools base their graduation rates on four-year, undergraduate programs. However, these numbers still provide insight into the success of the institution. A school’s undergraduate graduation rate offers insight into the institution as a whole, indicating if it can successfully prepare their students in a set amount of time.


Online Learning Format and Requirements

Programs may offer courses synchronously (real-time), asynchronously (on your own time), or a combination of the two. They may also include in-person requirements, such as labs or lectures. Knowing a program’s format helps you understand if it works for you and your schedule.

Why Is RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?

Attending anaccredited program provides the following advantages:

Learn More About the Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs & Schools

See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.

#1 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Founded in 1968, UCF features an online registered nurse to master of science in nursing (RN-to-MSN) program for licensed RNs who have a non-nursing bachelor's degree with three tracks in nursing and healthcare simulation, nurse education, and nursing leadership and management.

Over 4-7 semesters, you can explore courses in advanced theory, health promotion, and research methodology. The 31-36 credit program requires a clinical rotation that you can complete in your community.

To apply, you must reside in Florida or live in a National Council of State Boards of Nursing compact state.

  • Program: Master of science in nursing 
  • Campus: Orlando, Florida
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $327 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree from an accredited program; completed undergraduate statistics course; admission interview; one-page essay; resume; RN license; transcripts
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2019): 95% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $91,360 for master's degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
71,881
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

Johns Hopkins University

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At Johns Hopkins, America's first research university, nurses who hold a bachelor of science in nursing degree can earn a master of science in nursing with a concentration in organizational leadership or an MSN/MBA degree. 

The curriculum and clinical rotation lets you tailor your learning to your career interests with options to focus on management and administration, information technology, health policy, or case management and population management. 

Full-time students complete 35 credits to graduate in four semesters, while part-time learners take seven semesters. If you meet admissions requirements, faculty may request an interview. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: Baltimore, Maryland
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $1,826 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: BSN or master's in nursing from an accredited program; RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; resume; goal statement; transcripts; three letters of recommendation; undergraduate course in statistics
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 85.71% first time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $95,359 for master's degree graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,160
Out-of-state
$54,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,010
Out-of-state
$57,010
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
28,890
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Los Angeles-based USC, a private research institution founded in 1880, offers an online RN-to-BSN program for aspiring family nurse practitioners that takes under two years to complete. 

Full-time students take 21 months to graduate, but studying part time requires a 33-month commitment. Lessons cover pathophysiology and pharmacology — the program's two most rigorous courses. The program emphasizes community-based research and teaches you how to diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications and educate people about health and wellness. 

While lessons take place online, you must complete skills assessments in person.

  • Program: Master of science in nursing 
  • Campus: Los Angeles, California
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $2,137 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: BSN or MSN from an accredited college; minimum 3.0 GPA; one year clinical nursing experience; undergraduate statistics course with a minimum "C" grade; RN license 
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 21 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $163,225 for master's degree graduates, according to College Scorecard 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,260
Out-of-state
$59,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,880
Out-of-state
$47,880
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
46,287
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#4 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

Ohio State University-Main Campus

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

With six campuses, Ohio State's RN-to-MSN online program trains you for advanced practice nursing as a certified family nurse practitioner, neonatal nurse practitioner, or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. 

This program — featuring part-time and full-time options — emphasizes an evidence-based practice with courses in innovation leadership, quality improvement and informatics, and health promotion and disease prevention.

Over 24-36 months, nursing students gain knowledge and clinical experience in a specialty to prepare for certification. Out-of-state residents must secure their own clinical placements.

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: Columbus, Ohio
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $972 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: BSN or MSN degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; letters of recommendation; purpose and goals statement; recorded video interview; resume; RN license; transcripts
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $89,089 for master's degree graduates, according to College Scorecard 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,615
Out-of-state
$32,599
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,560
Out-of-state
$36,276
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
61,369
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students enrolled in UWF's RN-to-MSN online program prepare for a career in nursing education.

This 39-credit online program incorporates two seminars and three practicum experiences. Common core courses focus on foundations in nursing science, building an evidence-based practice, leadership and policy, and health promotion. 

Courses function over 8-16 weeks and cover curriculum development and pedagogy. Specialization courses include pharmacology, pathophysiology, and advanced nursing practice for nurse educators. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: Pensacola, Florida
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $425 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: BSN degree from an accredited nursing school; complete undergraduate statistics course with a "C" grade; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; transcripts; resume 
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2019): 91.45% first time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
13,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

Appalachian State University

  • Boone, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

With more than 80 graduate programs, Appalachian offers a part-time RN-to-MSN online program with a focus on nursing education.

To train for careers in nursing education, students take courses in educational theory, instructional strategy, educational tests and measurement, and a nursing practicum. 

The 39-credit program tasks students to complete 120 hours of clinical rotations and culminates with a thesis or research project. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: Boone, North Carolina
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $304 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: BSN from an accredited college; GRE scores; minimum 3.0 GPA; one year nursing experience; resume; RN license from North Carolina or a compact member state; three letters of reference; transcripts
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 97.22% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,049
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$18,271
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
20,023
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

Michigan State University

  • East Lansing, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Founded in 1855, MSU delivers a hybrid RN-to-MSN online program that trains the next generation of nurse practitioners in three years with concentrations in family nursing and adult gerontology. 

This 54-credit program aims to train RNs to deliver high quality and effective nursing care while collaborating with other practitioners to make clinical diagnosis and manage care. Nursing students learn both health promotion, advanced physical assessments, pharmacology, and clinical diagnosis and management for specific populations, such as adult gerontology and family nursing. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: East Lansing, Michigan
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $44,130 per year
  • Admission Requirements: BSN degree; current RN license; letters of recommendation; minimum 3.0 GPA; personal statement; resume; transcripts
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $96,183 for master's degree graduates, according to College Scorecard 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,555
Out-of-state
$40,384
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,858
Out-of-state
$37,056
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
49,695
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

California State University-Chico

  • Chico, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Chico State — which has offered its MSN program since 1970 — prepares you to become an administrator or faculty member with nurse educator and nursing leadership tracks.

Over five semesters, you complete 30 credits. The core curriculum in this online RN-to-MSN degree covers information and technology, research and theory, and issues and ethics. While theory courses function online, students complete clinical and teaching practices in person. 

To graduate, you must complete a nursing professional paper, a master's project, or a thesis. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: Chico, California
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $3,199 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: BSN degree from an accredited nursing program; completed undergraduate statistics course; minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license to practice in California
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021-2022): 92.7% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
16,746
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#9 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

University of Arkansas

  • Fayetteville, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students enrolled in U of A's RN-to-MSN program can opt for full-or part-time formats. 

It takes 39 credits to complete the RN-to-MSN program, with thesis and non-thesis options. Lessons focus on health promotion within diverse populations, evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, curriculum development, and advanced pharmacology and pathophysiology. 

Studying full time takes four semesters and part-time students can graduate in six semesters. Aside from a two-day health assessments course, learners do not need to travel to campus. Clinical rotations require in person work, but students can make local arrangements. 

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: Fayetteville, Arkansas
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $583 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: BSN or MSN degree from an accredited nursing program; candidate interview; letters of recommendation; minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 83.1% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,568
Out-of-state
$24,056
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,752
Out-of-state
$21,032
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
27,562
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs

Gonzaga University

  • Spokane, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Founded in 1887, Jesuit institution Gonzaga features an online RN-to-MSN degree with a nursing leadership in healthcare track. 

The program requires 180 undergraduate clinical hours and 360 graduate hours. An MSN degree prepares graduates to enter Gonzaga's doctorate in nursing program. It takes three years on average to complete this program, but students can take up to five years to finish requirements. 

Nurses can continue working throughout the program, although the nursing school recommends only working part time during the clinical experience.

  • Program: Master of science in nursing
  • Campus: Spokane, Washington
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $990 per credit hour
  • Admission Requirements: ADN degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; phone or Skype interview; resume; RN license; statement of purpose; transcripts; two letters of recommendation
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 89.02% first-time pass rate 
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $105,418 for master's degree graduates, according to College Scorecard 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$46,060
Out-of-state
$46,060
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,296
Out-of-state
$17,296
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
7,295
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

How Online RN-to-MSN Programs Work

When compared to in-person programs, you can typically complete RN-to MSN programs entirely online with little to no campus visits, providing you with optimal flexibility. However, not everyone prefers to complete everything remotely. If you are looking for on-campus opportunities, some programs offer options for on-site learning. These opportunities allow you to develop relationships with other nursing students and instructors.

Online courses are either offered synchronously, asynchronously, or as a combination of the two. Synchronous learning happens in real-time with students and instructors connecting live. Asynchronous learning happens on the student's own time, usually through taped lectures, podcasts, and other online tools. Regardless of the program, you must complete clinical experiences in person.

Applying to an Online RN-to-MSN Program

Before applying to an online RN-to-MSN program, your first step is to make sure you meet application requirements. While specific prerequisites may vary, many programs accept applicants who meet the following general requirements:

  • Admission Materials

    Applicants must hold an unrestricted and unencumbered RN license and have an ADN from an accredited hospital-based program. Some also require previously completed coursework in microbiology, anatomy, chemistry, and statistics, among others.
  • GPA Requirement

    General admission materials include transcripts from your ADN program, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay.
  • Other Requirement

    3.0 GPA or higher

Paying for Online RN-to-MSN Programs

Choosing the right program can often come down to cost. Students who enroll in an online program often avoid certain costs associated with on-campus ones. The cost of operating buildings, maintaining on-site faculty and staff, providing health-related services, etc. are often included in the cost of tuition for on-campus students. However, online programs minimize these added costs, allowing them to offer lower tuition rates.

Even without these costs, attending an online program can still be financially problematic. Luckily, there are financial aid options available to students who need help paying for their program. Applying for scholarships, grants, and/or loans can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Loans consist of borrowed money that must be paid back upon completion of the program, while scholarships and grants provide funds based on merit, need, or academic performance.

What Can You Do After an RN-to-MSN?

After you finish yourRN-to-MSN program, you may choose to continue working as an RN or nurse leader and pursue higher salaries and levels of responsibility. Those interested in becoming nurse practitioners (NPs) must pass a national board certification exam to earn an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license.

NPs' autonomy differs depending on the state in which they practice. Full-practice states allow NPs to prescribe medication and controlled substances without physician oversight. Reduced practice states allow them to prescribe certain medications under the supervision of a physician. Restricted practice states require NPs to work entirely under a physician's supervision.

While all NPs share similar responsibilities, such as evaluating patients, ordering and interpreting diagnostics screenings, and diagnosing and treating chronic and acute conditions, their specific roles change based on their specialization. Specializations include education, anesthesia, pediatrics, gerontology, and mental health.

Three popular specialties after earning an RN-to-MSN include:

Nurse Practitioner

NPs can fill a wide range of roles in primary, chronic, acute, and specialty care. They use their clinical knowledge and experience to diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and other medical conditions.

Median Salary
$120,680

Job Outlook (2020-2030)
+22.5%

Learn More About NPs

Source: BLS

Nurse Educator

Nurse educators are responsible for developing, teaching, and evaluating courses and programs that educate future nurses. They can either teach general courses or focus on specific specialization areas.

Median Salary
$77,440

Job Outlook (2020-2030)
+22.5%

Learn More About Nurse Educators

Source: BLS

Certified Nurse Midwife

Certified nurse midwives provide essential services including gynecological exams, wellness education, family planning, and prenatal care. They also assist pregnant individuals during and after childbirth.

Median Salary
$112,830

Job Outlook (2021-2031)
+7%

Learn More About CNMs

Source: BLS


Frequently Asked Questions About Online RN-to-MSN Programs

What percentage of nurses have an MSN?

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 17.1% of nurses have an MSN, while 45.2% have a bachelor's and 1.2% have a doctorate.

Can you earn an MSN online?

Yes, you can earn an MSN online. However, some online programs may involve on-campus requirements, such as attending lectures, meeting with instructors, or completing labs. All online MSN programs also require students to complete their clinical experience in person.

How long does it take to go from RN to MSN?

RN-to-MSN programs typically take 30-36 months to complete. Program length can vary depending on whether you enroll part time or full time.

Can I skip my BSN and get my MSN?

Yes, you can earn an MSN without completing a BSN program. Available options include bridge and accelerated programs. Bridge programs allow nurses with a diploma or ADN to earn their MSN in less time than it would take to earn their BSN first. Accelerated programs allow individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to enroll in an MSN program.


Page last reviewed on October 9, 2022. Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.


Related RN-to-MSN Resources

Popular Resources

Resources and articles written by professionals and other nurses like you.