The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2025
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Credit: AJ_Watt / E+ / Getty ImagesIf you’re a registered nurse (RN), a master of science in nursing (MSN) can open new career doors and increase your earning potential. You don’t need to earn a separate bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) before starting an MSN degree.
RN-to-MSN bridge programs streamline your path to a graduate degree in nursing and help save you time and money in the process. We’ve identified and ranked the nation’s top RN-to-MSN programs to help you make the best decision for your nursing career.
The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2025
Northeastern University
Boston, MA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Northeastern University’s nursing direct entry program contains two parts: pre-licensure and MSN. The pre-licensure part combines undergraduate and graduate courses, preparing students to pass the NCLEX-RN licensure exam to become RNs. After licensure, they must gain 1-2 years of experience before resuming the program.
The second part is the MSN track, which usually takes 4-6 semesters. Courses and clinical hours include core and specialty education and experiences.
We like this program because it stresses the importance of nursing experience before entering an advanced practice role. The program also offers students seven advanced practice specialty options.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the master's and post-graduate advanced practice registered nurse certificate programs.
Highlights:
- Offer scholarships and assistantships to lower costs
- Students can start core non-clinical courses while gaining nursing experience
- Students can complete the MSN portion full or part-time
Considerations:
- Second-most expensive program on this list
- Requires at least eight semesters of study and one year of RN experience
- Must meet Northeastern University’s School of Nursing Technical Standards for Admission, Academic Progression, and Graduation
- In-State$59,100
- Out-of-state$59,100
- In-State$26,715
- Out-of-state$26,715
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate6%
- Students Enrolled38,760
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
University of California-Los Angeles
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The University of California, Los Angeles, offers a master's entry in clinical nursing (MECN). It's a two-year, pre-licensure program, after which graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and may apply for a public health nursing certificate from the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Coursework stresses patient safety, health promotion, risk reduction, and evidence-based practice. Clinical experiences include traditional, inpatient, ambulatory care, and public health training to meet the public health nursing certification requirements.
We like the UCLA program because it emphasizes leadership, requiring a clinical immersion experience and a leadership project. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the UCLA master's degree programs in nursing.
Highlights:
- Qualified applicants with military experience and documented equivalency courses are eligible for credit by challenge examination
- Hospital-based clinical immersive experience to rapidly build confidence, critical thinking, and proficiency
- 93% graduation rate
Considerations:
- Prepares you for bedside nursing, not an advanced practice role
- All prerequisites must be completed in December before fall admission
- Full-time program with no online options
- In-State$14,478
- Out-of-state$47,052
- In-State$11,700
- Out-of-state$26,802
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate9%
- Students Enrolled48,046
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
University of California-Irvine
- Irvine, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UCI's master’s entry in nursing is a two-year, full-time program that provides students with the necessary education and clinical hours to become an RN. Students build research skills and learn in a small cohort alongside undergraduate and graduate students in other health-related professional programs.
The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN to work as bedside nurses. The curriculum includes education in quality improvement, safety, health policy, advocacy, and disease prevention.
We like the UCI program because it offers students mixed-learning communities and has a concentration in community and population health nursing, which is not a common offering.
UCI is a member of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- High-tech clinical simulation
- Immersive clinical opportunities in community settings, including emergency shelters and schools
- Eligible for certification as a public health nurse
Considerations:
- Has one of the lowest percentages of student loans
- No part-time or online options
- In-State$12,522
- Out-of-state$45,096
- In-State$11,700
- Out-of-state$26,802
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate26%
- Students Enrolled36,587
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Emory University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Emory University's fast-track RN-to-MSN program is designed for students with bachelor's degrees in disciplines other than nursing. Students first earn a master of nursing (MN) degree in about 15 months, which qualifies them to take the NCLEX-RN and earn their RN license. Candidates then complete a two-semester MSN program.
The school offers four specialty areas, with one cohort beginning each year during the summer semester. The MN degree is only offered in person, while the MSN degree has a significant online component with some on-campus intensives.
We like the Emory program because students can earn an RN license and complete an MSN for advanced practice work.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the MN and MSN programs.
Highlights:
- About 92% of students receive financial assistance
- Flexible online schedule in the master's portion of the program
- Clinical placement team places students in healthcare environments
Considerations:
- Three specialty study tracks require at least one year of RN experience
- Must complete seven prerequisite courses in math and science before program orientation
- Highly competitive program; students may be waitlisted
- In-State$57,120
- Out-of-state$57,120
- In-State$45,800
- Out-of-state$45,800
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled14,830
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- AccreditationYes
Fairfield University
- Fairfield, CT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Fairfield University's MSN program has four tracks for students, including leadership, family nurse practitioner, and psychiatric-mental health. These require a BSN and active RN license. The master's entry to practice nursing (MEPN) program offers students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree the option of entering nursing.
This was the first program in Connecticut to equip students with a bachelor's degree to be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN in two years and work as a bedside RN.
We like the Fairfield University program because the program emphasizes cultural diversity and care for underserved populations, and each student has a faculty advisor who offers individualized attention and career planning.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies.
Highlights:
- 90% graduation rate
- Fosters community relationships to improve healthcare
- Focuses on person-centered, evidence-based care using current medical technologies
Considerations:
- Most expensive program on this list
- Full-time program without a part-time option
- Competitive admission requires a minimum GPA of 3.3
- In-State$53,630
- Out-of-state$53,630
- In-State$20,034
- Out-of-state$20,034
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled6,289
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment21%
- AccreditationYes
University of Vermont
- Burlington, VT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The University of Vermont’s direct-entry MSN program offers students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree an accelerated route into the field. Students complete the first part on-site, which qualifies them for the NCLEX-RN. After licensure, they complete master's-level coursework in an asynchronous online program. Students can choose a specialty and earn a "micro-certificate" in their area of interest. Each part requires clinical hours.
We like the University of Vermont program because it combines an RN license with an MSN, allowing graduates to practice as advanced practice registered nurses.
The master of nursing program is currently under review in the accreditation process. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the BSN, DNP, and postgraduate APRN certificate programs.
Highlights:
- Micro-credentialling or specialization unavailable at other local institutions
- More affordable than many local programs
Considerations:
- Lower graduation rate compared to other programs on this list (77%)
- You do not earn a degree after the pre-licensure year
- You must complete the program as NCLEX-RN eligibility is only in Vermont
- In-State$16,280
- Out-of-state$41,280
- In-State$12,204
- Out-of-state$30,960
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled14,320
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Anthony College of Nursing
- Rockford, IL
- 4 year
- Campus
Why We Chose This School:
Saint Anthony’s MSN program requires applicants to have a current and unencumbered RN or APRN license. The program offers candidates several options, including three nurse practitioner specialties, clinical nurse leaders, or nurse educators.
We like Saint Anthony’s MSN program because students can pursue a curriculum based on their interests. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the master's degree program and postgraduate APRN certificate programs.
Highlights:
- 100% graduation rate
- Lower GPA requirement than other programs
- Part-time classes designed for working adults
Considerations:
- Must hold an RN license
- Program takes four years to complete
- In-State$26,368
- Out-of-state$26,368
- In-State$18,252
- Out-of-state$18,252
- Retention Rate100%
- Acceptance Rate100%
- Students Enrolled242
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment5%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Louis University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
SLU’s accelerated MSN program takes 21 months or five semesters. This is Missouri's first direct entry program designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in another field. Graduates prepare for the NCLEX-RN and certification as a clinical nurse leader. Applicants must complete four prerequisite courses and the highly competitive program requires a GPA of 3.2 or higher in previous college work.
We like the SLU’s program because it offers students a seamless transition to become a nurse practitioner after graduation and demonstrates a high degree of student preparation.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has accredited the master's program and the Missouri State Board of Nursing has approved it.
Highlights:
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Clinicals begin in the first semester
- Rolling admission; decisions made within four weeks
Considerations:
- Completely in-person, with no online options
- Graduates are prepared as staff nurses, not for advanced practice roles
- No specialty or focus options
- In-State$49,800
- Out-of-state$49,800
- In-State$22,500
- Out-of-state$22,500
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled14,079
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Montclair State University
- Montclair, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Montclair State University’s RN-to-MSN bridge program allows RNs with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing discipline to complete an MSN degree. Students first demonstrate baccalaureate competency through relevant experience, challenge examinations, or previous coursework. Once completed, the status changes to acceptance in the MSN program. Students must complete an undergraduate statistics course within five years of the first graduate-level nursing course.
We like the Montclair State University program because it's highly competitive and rigorous, educating students within the school of nursing that also supports MSN programs in administration, education, and clinical research coordination.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the RN-to-MSN bridge program.
Highlights:
- Faculty focus on healing, shared decision-making, and trans-professional collaboration
- Admit students in the Spring and Fall
- One of the most affordable education options in New Jersey
Considerations:
- Lowest graduation rate on this list (64%)
- RN license required
- In-State$12,755
- Out-of-state$21,465
- In-State$13,740
- Out-of-state$13,740
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled22,570
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
University of St Thomas
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The University of St. Thomas offers an entry-level MSN program for non-nurses with a bachelor's degree in another field. The 21-month program prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN and work as generalists at the bedside.
Students must complete four of the six prerequisite courses before applying. Clinical placement stresses community/public health, and up to 50% of clinical experiences are in the simulation center, reducing experiences in the acute-care setting.
We like the TCNJ”s MSN program because it stresses systematic assessment and diagnostics alongside social justice and health equity to ground graduates in respect and dignity of each person.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the MSN program.
Highlights:
- Fosters academic excellence through a caring culture
- Provides D-1 options for graduate student-athletes
- High-fidelity clinical simulation center
Considerations:
- Low graduation rate (66%)
- No part-time or flexible scheduling options
- In-State$31,724
- Out-of-state$31,724
- In-State$20,934
- Out-of-state$20,934
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled3,691
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list is from 2025.
Using Our Rankings: What To Look For in an Online RN-to-MSN Program
What should you look for when choosing an online RN-to-MSN program? Here are the major factors that should guide your search.
Admission Requirements
Check whether you meet the program’s education and clinical experience requirements.
Specializations
Nursing schools offer multiple MSN specializations, so make sure the programs on your list feature concentrations in your chosen areas.
Program Curriculum
Review the program’s course requirements to see what you’ll study and learn more about whether the program aligns with your professional interests.
Clinical Experience
Look at the clinical requirements and the format, including whether the school assists with clinical placements, to find a good fit.
Accreditation
Licensure requires an accredited nursing degree, so restrict your search to programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Program Length
RN-to-MSN programs typically require 24-36 months. However, APRN programs, including MSN degrees for nurse practitioners, may take more than 36 months.
School NCLEX Pass Rate
While RNs have already passed the NCLEX exam, checking a school’s pass rate can provide valuable information on how well it prepares graduates for nursing careers.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Online RN-to-MSN programs offer flexible online methods with accelerated, synchronous, and asynchronous course options. Choose a learning format that fits your schedule.
Why Is Online RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?
Nursing school accreditation recognizes programs that meet national quality standards and follow industry best practices. Choosing an accredited RN-to-MSN program is crucial for your career and ensuring your eligibility for licensure. Credits from non-accredited curriculums rarely transfer to programs with accreditation.
Additionally, the government only offers federal grants and loans to students in accredited nursing schools and programs. So, enrolling in an RN-to-MSN program with accreditation is the most economical and efficient course. Our guide lists only accredited programs.
How Online RN-to-MSN Programs Work
A growing number of RN-to-MSN programs offer online options. Depending on your circumstances and needs, there are advantages and disadvantages to online courses.
Some online RN-to-MSN programs require you to be physically present for onboarding, practicums, or other components of the program, while others offer coursework entirely online. Programs also set technology requirements for distance learners.
MSN programs, including those with 100% online coursework, often require hands-on clinical hours to develop experience with supervised patient care in a skills lab. Some schools help you find clinical placements in your local area, while others may rely on you to make the arrangements. Ensure that you can coordinate clinicals in your local community if necessary.
Applying to an Online RN-to-MSN program
Applying to an RN-to-MSN program is the first step in taking your career to the next level and earning a master’s degree. Admission requirements vary depending on the school, but most programs require the following:
- ADN from an accredited institution (bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields are sometimes acceptable)
- GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Academic transcripts
- Current, unencumbered RN license
- At least one year of clinical nursing experience
- Criminal background check and fingerprinting
- Personal essay
- Letters of recommendation
- TOEFL or IELTS (English proficiency tests for non-native English speakers)
- Interview
- GRE or MAT scores (requirement of some schools)
Prerequisite classes ensure prospective MSN students are adequately prepared for the rigor of a master’s degree. Here are the seven most common prerequisites:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Microbiology
- Nutrition
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Psychology
- Statistics
Institutions commonly offer these classes through online learning, including lab requirements.
Paying for Your Online RN-to-MSN Program
Earning an MSN is an excellent investment in your future but can carry a large price tag, making it challenging to pay for your RN-to-MSN program with savings or current earnings. Fortunately, plenty of organizations and institutions understand the importance of this issue and want to set you up for success.
Identifying available financial aid options, including grants and scholarships, can help lower your financial burden. After meeting eligibility requirements, you do not have to pay back these forms of aid. Be sure to check with your employer to see if they offer financial assistance programs, including tuition reimbursement or education funds.
Nursing student loans, on the other hand, must be paid back — often with interest. The federal government offers loans to graduate students attending accredited institutions.
You can also pursue loan forgiveness and consolidation programs as a nursing student, including offers that require you to work for a period in an underserved area. Some nurse-specific loan forgiveness options include:
- Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program
- National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program
- Army Nurse Corps Benefits/ Health Care Professions Loan Repayment Program
When estimating costs beyond tuition, consider whether you must adjust your work schedule during clinicals or when studying for exams. Factor in other program expenses, such as textbooks and any additional equipment. You may also have expenses related to clinical placements, including tolls, gas, parking, and meals on clinical days.
RN-to-MSN Salary and Career Outlook
Compared to their peers with bachelor’s and associate degrees, nurses with MSNs can benefit from much higher earning potential. Payscale data from June 2025 show that, on average, master’s-level nurses earn almost $30,000 more annually than ADNs.
| Nursing Degree | Average Annual Salary (June 2025) |
|---|---|
| MSN | $106,000 |
| BSN | $98,000 |
| ADN | $79,000 |
Most MSN graduates become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to work as nurse practitioners (NPs), clinical nurse specialists (CNS’), and nurse-midwives. Still, there are other possibilities for RN-to-MSN graduates, including nurse educator, nurse informaticist, and nurse administrator roles. Many nurse leadership positions require at least a master’s degree.
With the need for mental healthcare on the rise, psychiatric nurse practitioners may experience strong demand and lucrative salaries. You may also consider earning a doctor of nursing practice (DNP), which is the highest degree in nursing and a requirement for becoming a nurse anesthetist.
While a nurse anesthetist is the highest-paid nurse specialization, NPs also earn an average six-figure income.
Although Payscale reports an average annual MSN salary of $106,000 as of June 2025, income varies according to specialty, geographic area, work setting, and other factors.
| Nurse Specialty | Average Annual Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| Nurse Anesthetist | $190,054 |
| Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $124,113 |
| Nurse-Midwife | $109,995 |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | $107,373 |
| Clinical Nurse Specialist | $105,057 |
| Nursing Manager | $98,848 |
| Nurse Educator | $86,301 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online RN-to-MSN Programs
RN-to-MSN programs typically require a minimum of two years, during which you’ll complete undergraduate and graduate nursing courses. If you’re enrolling part-time or specializing as a nurse practitioner, you’ll likely spend 3-4 years in an RN-to-MSN program.
Related RN-to-MSN Career Resources
RN-to-MSN Degree Overview
RN-to-MSN programs can boost career advancement and salary potential. Learn more about these nursing bridge programs in this guide.
BSN vs. MSN: How to Choose as an RN
ADN-prepared nurses considering a BSN vs. MSN program find more career opportunities and higher salary potential. Use this guide to evaluate your options.
How a Direct-Entry MSN Program Can Reset Your Career
Direct-entry MSN programs help nurses get their master’s degrees more quickly. Here’s how this program can help you reset – or reinvent – your nursing career.