The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

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Updated January 23, 2024

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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Nurse smiling at computer desk Credit: AJ_Watt / E+ / Getty Images

If you are an experienced registered nurse with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and want to earn a master of science in nursing (MSN), an ADN-to-MSN program can be a strong choice.

Enrolling in an ADN-to-MSN program (also known as RN-to-MSN) lets you apply your experience and finish your degree faster than if you went back to school for a bachelor of science in nursing.

Learn more about the best ADN-to-MSN programs for your needs, interests, and background.

Featured Online RN-to-MSN in Nursing Programs

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

RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) Rankings Summary

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 New York University
New York, NY
$35,982 $35,982 13%
#2 The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
$12,050 $22,944 29%
#3 University of Rochester
Rochester, NY
$46,779 $46,779 41%
#4 Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY
$11,310 $23,100 48%
#5 University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN
$17,844 $27,612 73%
#6 DePaul University
Chicago, IL
$17,951 $17,951 69%
#7 University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
$8,100 $19,188 89%
#8 Montclair State University
Montclair, NJ
$12,978 $12,978 91%
#9 Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
$36,234 $36,234 83%
#10 University of Maryland, Baltimore
Baltimore, MD
$15,140 $32,979 Not provided

The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

#1 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

New York University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New York University's master's programs in nursing appeal to registered nurses interested in advanced nursing roles, nursing administration, and informatics. The program features eleven concentrations based on nursing theory, research, statistics, population-focused care, and issues and trends in healthcare delivery. All specializations require clinical RN experience. In addition to the eleven concentrations, the program offers specialties in holistic nursing, substance abuse disorders, and palliative care.

  • Program: Master's program in nursing: adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner; adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner; clinical research nursing; family nurse practitioner; nursing administration; nurse-midwifery; nursing education; nursing informatics; pediatrics nurse practitioner primary care; pediatrics nurse practitioner primary/acute care; psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner
  • Campus: New York, New York
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $1,983 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing and a BS/BA in a non-nursing field; 3.0 GPA; New York RN license; minimum one year of clinical experience
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months 
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2019): 99%
  • Median Earnings Four Years After Graduation: $80,000 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,770
Out-of-state
$53,770
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,982
Out-of-state
$35,982
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
58,226
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

The University of Texas at Austin

  • Austin, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

RNs with an associate degree or nursing diploma and a non-nursing bachelor's degree may apply for admission to the master of science in nursing at the University of Texas at Austin. The program prepares graduates for advanced nursing practice in the following concentrations: adult-gerontology, family nurse practitioner, primary care pediatric nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and leadership.

Students may enroll part time, taking eight credits or less each semester, but they must complete all degree requirements within six years.

  • Program: Master of science in nursing: adult gerontology; family nurse practitioner; primary care pediatric nurse practitioner; psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner; leadership
  • Campus: Austin, Texas
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $1,418 per credit for Texas residents; $2,035 for out-of-state students
  • Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing or nursing diploma and a non-nursing bachelor's degree; 3.0 GPA; GRE scores; Texas RN licensure or a license from a Nurse Licensure Compact state
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 90.0%
  • Median Earnings Four Years After Graduation: $73,000 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,752
Out-of-state
$40,996
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,050
Out-of-state
$22,944
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
29%
Students Enrolled
51,991
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

University of Rochester

  • Rochester, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Rochester's RN-to-BS-to-MS program provides a pathway for RNs licensed in New York to pursue a career in advanced and specialized nursing roles. Students can choose from nurse practitioner, nursing education, clinical nurse leader, and leadership tracks. The flexible format admits learners at both the bachelor's and master's levels, applying credits toward both degree requirements. The curriculum comprises online and in-person evening classes to accommodate students with work or personal commitments.

  • Program: RN-to-BS-to-MS program: nurse practitioner; nursing education; clinical nurse leader; leadership in healthcare systems
  • Campus: Rochester, New York
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $1,740 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing or nursing diploma; 3.0 GPA; statistics course with a grade of C or above; New York RN license
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 80.11%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,276
Out-of-state
$58,276
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,779
Out-of-state
$46,779
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
12,039
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

Stony Brook University

  • Stony Brook, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The registered nurse BS/MS program at Stony Brook University admits RNs with clinical nursing experience to the bachelor of science program in nursing. Upon meeting progression criteria, learners continue to the master of science program in their intended specialty. Students in the MSN program may pursue the following specialties: adult gerontology, pediatrics, neonatal nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, nurse midwifery, family nurse practitioner, nursing leadership, and nursing education. All specialties are offered online with on-site requirements.

  • Program: Registered nurse BS/MS program: adult gerontology; pediatrics; neonatal nurse practitioner; psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner; nurse midwifery; family nurse practitioner; nursing leadership; nurse education.
  • Campus: Stony Brook, New York
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $471 per credit for New York residents; $1,020 per credit for out-of-state students
  • Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing; 3.0 GPA; New York RN license; one-year RN clinical experience; 60 undergraduate credits
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 91.3%
  • Median Earnings Four Years After Graduation: $71,000 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
26,608
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master of nursing program at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities offers an accelerated option for students who have earned a non-nursing bachelor's degree and have an RN license in Minnesota.

Students can complete the 500 hours of required practicum placements at over 250 health and community organizations in the Minneapolis/Saint Paul area. The MSN is a full-time program completed over four consecutive semesters, including a summer session. 

  • Program: Master of nursing
  • Campus: Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $1,593 per credit for Minnesota residents; $2,465 per credit for out-of-state students
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in a non-nursing area; 3.0 GPA; Minnesota RN license, grade of C+ or better in all prerequisites
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 96.07%
  • Median Earnings Four Years After Graduation: $65,000 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,532
Out-of-state
$32,096
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,844
Out-of-state
$27,612
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
52,376
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

DePaul University

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

RNs with an associate degree or those with an associate degree and a non-nursing bachelor's degree may apply for admission to DePaul University's RN-to-MS in nursing program. Admitted students work with advisors to tailor curriculum requirements to their educational background. Graduates pursue careers as nurse administrators, nurse educators, family nurse practitioners, or adult-gerontology nurse practitioners. The program is completely online except for clinical placements, which students may complete in or near their home communities.

  • Program: RN-to-MS in nursing
  • Campus: Chicago, Illinois
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $780 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: An associate degree in nursing, or an associate degree in nursing and a bachelor's in a non-nursing field; 2.75 GPA; completion of statistics prerequisite with a grade of C or better; RN license in the state where you will complete your clinical practicum
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 81%
  • Median Earnings Four Years After Graduation: $67,000 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,361
Out-of-state
$41,361
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,951
Out-of-state
$17,951
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
21,670
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

University of Alabama at Birmingham

  • Birmingham, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The RN-to-MSN pathway at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is an alternative pathway to a master's degree in nursing for RNs with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field. The nurse practitioner pathway features several advanced practice nursing tracks. A health systems leadership pathway offers nurse educators, administrators, and informatics tracks. All pathway tracks use an online delivery format with on-campus intensives to accommodate the needs of students with work or personal responsibilities. 

  • Program: RN-to-MSN pathway: nurse practitioner; health systems leadership
  • Campus: Birmingham, Alabama
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $682 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in a non-nursing area; 3.0 GPA on the last 60 hours earned; RN license in the state in which you will complete your clinical practicum; prerequisites in human anatomy, physiology, statistics, and microbiology with a grade of C or above
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • Median Earnings Four Years After Graduation: $51,000 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,568
Out-of-state
$20,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
22,289
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

Montclair State University

  • Montclair, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

RNs with a non-nursing bachelor's degree can earn a master's in nursing through Montclair State University's RN-to-MSN bridge program. Accepted students who begin the program with deferred status must demonstrate competency or complete up to four upper-division undergraduate nursing courses in information technology and nursing practice, evidence-based practice, leadership, and population and global health.

Once students fulfill the bachelor-level nursing competencies, they enter the MSN program. The MSN offers three specialty concentrations: nursing administration, education, and clinical research coordination.

  • Program: RN-to-MSN bridge program: nursing administration; education; clinical research coordination
  • Campus: Montclair, New Jersey
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $809 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in a non-nursing area; 3.0 GPA; New Jersey RN license or eligibility for licensure if a new graduate
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 71.43%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,323
Out-of-state
$20,443
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,978
Out-of-state
$12,978
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
20,744
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Drexel University's RN-BSN-MSN program provides an accelerated path to an MSN in online and on-campus formats. Designed for RNs with a bachelor's in a field other than nursing, the program requires students to take 15 quarter credits at the BSN level before matriculating into the MSN tracks. Students may select advanced role concentration tracks in nursing education; nursing leadership; public health nursing; and quality, safety, and risk management. Graduates of the program are awarded a BSN at the same time they complete the requirements for their MSN degree.

  • Program: Online RN-BSN-MSN program
  • Campus: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $888 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field; 3.0 GPA; RN license
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 87.20%
  • Median Earnings Four Years After Graduation: $80,000 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,766
Out-of-state
$54,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,234
Out-of-state
$36,234
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
23,216
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

University of Maryland, Baltimore

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The RN-to-MSN program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore offers nurses an accelerated path to earning both BSN and MSN degrees. The program allows students to complete master's-level core courses instead of BSN electives to shorten the time needed to earn both degrees. Students may choose from three specializations. The community/public health nursing track is available in a blended format with on-campus requirements. The health services leadership and management and the nursing informatics concentrations are fully online, except for field placements.

  • Program: RN-to-MSN: community/public health nursing; health services leadership and management; nursing informatics
  • Campus: Baltimore, Maryland
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
  • Tuition: $873 per credit for Maryland residents; $1,549 per credit for out-of-state students
  • Admission Requirements: Associate degree or nursing diploma, or bachelor's in a non-nursing area; RN license; 59 credits of prerequisites; 2.5 GPA overall and 2.75 GPA in undergraduate science courses
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 78.6%
  • Median Earnings Four Years After Graduation: $84,000 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,446
Out-of-state
$38,822
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,140
Out-of-state
$32,979
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,244
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

How We Rank Schools

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best ADN-to-MSN bridge 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.

Why Is RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?

Accreditation is the most important factor for an RN-to-MSN nursing program. Accreditation means that a third-party agency has reviewed the program and determined that it meets quality standards and follows industry best practices.

This guide lists only accredited programs. Attending an unaccredited program is an unnecessary risk of your time and money.

While an unaccredited program may look easier or cheaper, employers will consider graduates from only accredited programs. Attending an accredited program also ensures your eligibility for licensure. Credits from non accredited programs almost never transfer to an accredited program, so joining an accredited program is more efficient.

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

The right RN-to-MSN program depends on your career goals, background, finances, location, learning style, and the program itself.

Program considerations include admission requirements, academic reputation, available specializations, and class format. While there are grants, loans, and scholarships, you still want the best value for your investment of time and money.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements tell you how likely you are to gain acceptance into a program. They also indicate what the school culture values and what your classmates will be like.

ADN-to-MSN admission requirements may be flexible, depending on the school. If you need more information, contact one of the school's admission counselors.


Specializations

Unlike undergraduate nursing programs, RN-to-MSN programs prepare students for a particular nursing specialty, such as family practice, nurse midwifery, or nurse education. Demand is high for all of these specialties.


Program Curriculum

Another important factor in considering different ADN-to-MSN programs is the curriculum. While most of the content and skills are standard, it can also indicate the program's focus.


Clinical Experience

Especially if you are attending an online ADN-to-MSN program, the logistics of clinical placement can be a major factor in your success. Make sure that the schedule and format work with your existing responsibilities and that you can find placement in your community.


Accreditation

Accreditation is the most fundamental measurement of a program's quality. To qualify for board certification, you must graduate from an accredited program. All programs featured on this site, including ADN-to-MSN programs, are accredited, so you can browse confidently.


Program Length

RN-to-MSN programs vary in length and intensity. Decide on your optimal program pace after reflecting on your other responsibilities, such as whether you will continue working as an RN full-time or part-time while studying.


School Graduation Rate

The graduation rate and the board examination pass rate are excellent indicators of program quality.


Online Learning Format and Requirements

If you plan to attend your ADN-to-MSN program online, ensure the format works for your learning style and life logistics.

For example, asynchronous classes may be easier if your schedule is unpredictable. But synchronous classes may be a better match if you want to participate in live discussions.

How Online RN-to-MSN Programs Work

A growing number of RN-to-MSN programs have online options. Online programs have advantages and disadvantages, depending on your circumstances and needs.

Some online ADN-to-MSN programs require in-person onboarding or have in-person components for some classes, while others offer coursework entirely online.

However, all MSN programs, even virtual ones, require in-person clinical hours. Make sure that you can find placement in your community.

Applying to an RN-to-MSN Program

Give yourself plenty of time to prepare your application. Some ADN-to-MSN programs accept applications throughout the year, while others have a specific application period. Ask a mentor or colleague you trust to review your application to ensure you've effectively highlighted your strengths.

  • Admission Requirements

    ADN degree, current and unencumbered RN license, often at least one year of experience as a full-time RN
  • Admission Materials

    An essay or a personal statement, a copy of your nursing license, confirmation of your malpractice coverage for clinical hours, a transcript for your ADN program, and at least two professional references
  • GPA Requirement

    Minimum 3.0

Paying for RN-to-MSN Programs

Earning an MSN can be an excellent investment in your future, but like other investments, it can have a high initial cost.

Most RN-to-MSN students will pay from savings or current earnings, financial aid from their school, and external loans, scholarships, or grants. Your employer may also have a tuition reimbursement program.

When estimating costs beyond tuition, consider whether you must adjust your work schedule during clinicals or when studying for exams. Remember to factor in other program expenses, such as textbooks.

What Can You Do With a Degree from an RN-to-MSN Program?

Most MSN graduates become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, or clinical nurse specialists. However, other RN-to-MSN specialties exist, such as nurse educator or nurse administrator programs.

You may also consider earning a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). A DNP is the highest degree in nursing and is required to become a nurse anesthetist.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners are primary care providers who work in a variety of settings. Depending on the state's practice authority, nurse practitioners may collaborate with or work under the supervision of a physician.

Median Salary
$121,610

Job Outlook (2022-2032)
+45%

Learn More About NPs

Nurse Educator

Nurse educators teach other nurses in an academic nursing program or as a staff member in a healthcare facility. This occupation requires skills in pedagogy, adult learning, and measuring the results of educational programs.

Median Salary
$78,580

Job Outlook (2022-2032)
+22.5%

Learn More About Nurse Educators

Certified Nurse Midwife

Certified nurse midwives care for pregnant people before, during, and after childbirth. These professionals also provide primary care, including gynecological and family planning services.

Median Salary
$120,880

Job Outlook (2022-2032)
+6%

Learn More About CNMs

Source: BLS, Projections Central

Frequently Asked Questions About RN-to-MSN Programs

Can you become a nurse practitioner online?

Many schools have online nurse practitioner programs, including ADN-to-MSN programs. However, you will need to complete your clinical hours in person. Ensure you can find local placement if you plan to attend an online school.

Can you go from ADN to MSN?

Several schools offer ADN-to-MSN programs so you can earn your master's degree without completing a BSN. However, remember that these programs are often demanding and fast-paced.

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

Depending on the RN-to-MSN program, earning your degree can take two to three years. It can take even longer if you enroll on a part-time basis.

Are nurse practitioners in high demand?

Nurse practitioners are in very high demand due to an increasing need for healthcare services and to replace those who retire or leave the workforce. Demand is especially high in underserved areas, and you may be eligible for scholarships if you commit to practice in one of these.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by NurseJournal. Page last reviewed November 26, 2023.

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