The Best ADN-to-MSN Programs for 2025

Bridge programs help registered nurses (RNs) expand their clinical knowledge and increase their earning potential. If you earned an associate degree in nursing (ADN) while earning your RN license, you may be ready to take on new roles and responsibilities.

While the bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree is typically the next step forward for ADN-trained RNs, some nursing education programs allow qualified nurses with an ADN to pursue their master of science in nursing (MSN) graduate degree. The MSN can prepare nurses for new career paths, including nurse practitioners (NP), nurse educators, and nurse managers.

RNs that want to earn a master’s degree can speed up the process with an ADN-to-MSN program. These programs let you earn an MSN without completing a separate BSN program. Our ranking introduces the best ADN-to-MSN programs so you can find an option that works for you.

The right online ADN-to-MSN program fits your schedule, budget, and professional goals. When researching programs, factors, such as prerequisites, curriculum, accreditation, and length, can help you narrow your options. Here’s what to look for during your research.

Nursing school accreditation recognizes programs that meet quality standards. Nursing programs, including MSN and bridge programs, must apply for accreditation and complete a rigorous peer-review process that can last several years. Accredited nursing programs follow specific guidelines on clinical hours, faculty qualifications, and NCLEX pass rates.

Accrediting agencies, including the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), only accredit programs that follow the best practices for educating nurses. All the programs in our ranking hold accreditation.

ADN-to-MSN bridge programs include both BSN and MSN coursework, allowing students to graduate sooner than if they had completed the programs separately. However, the format, structure, and requirements vary by program. For example, some programs may require students to hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.

Online ADN-to-MSN bridge programs use several formats. In a fully online program, you typically complete courses in a virtual learning environment while meeting clinical requirements in your local area. Some programs use a hybrid format that requires in-person learning. Online classes may use live video conferencing tools or let students watch recorded lectures and complete requirements on their own schedule.

You need to meet the admission requirements before applying to an online ADN-to-MSN program. Typically, applicants must have an ADN degree and an RN license.

Holding an MSN can boost your earning potential, but you still need to pay for nursing school to earn the degree. An online format can help you save on tuition, living expenses, and transportation fees. You can also use financial aid to lower costs.

Nursing students can benefit from many scholarships and grants. Some healthcare employers also provide tuition assistance programs for nurses advancing their education.

By choosing an accredited institution, you can submit the FAFSA to receive federal, state, or institutional aid. Prioritize scholarships and grants, which do not require repayment, over loans that you need to repay. However, if you borrow loans, you may qualify for nurse loan forgiveness programs offered by your state. Your chosen nursing program is the best resource for learning more about financial aid options in your area.

An MSN prepares nurses for careers as NPs, nurse administrators, and nurse educators. These roles offer a significantly higher earning potential than ADN jobs. Similarly, a growing number of healthcare employers prefer to hire nurses with a BSN or higher.

Nurses with an ADN report an average base salary of $79,000 per year, according to December Payscale data. In contrast, nurses with an MSN earn an average base salary of $104,000 per year, according to Payscale.

MSN-prepared nurses also benefit from greater autonomy. Depending on their training, nurses with an MSN can educate RNs on evidence-based patient care, implement new nursing processes, and provide primary care to patients.