The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs

​​This guide features information and program listings for students interested in earning a combined master of science in nursing (MSN) and master of business administration (MSN/MBA). The dual degree program targets nurses interested in the business side of healthcare, nurses seeking a career change within healthcare, and nurses looking for career advancement and higher salaries.

MSN/MBA degrees can open doors to leadership positions, such as nurse managers and administrators, healthcare and health information managers, directors of nursing, and chief nursing officers and executives.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online MSN/MBA 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.

Keep reading to learn more about MSN/MBA programs or go straight to our list of the best online MSN/MBA programs.

What Can You Do With a Dual MSN/MBA Degree?

While there are different types of master's degrees in nursing, earning an MSN/MBA dual degree helps you develop clinical leadership and business management proficiency.

This combined degree opens the door to opportunities with the highest profile positions nursing offers. You can work in prominent roles, such as chief nurse executive, chief nursing officer, nurse administrator, healthcare executive, or healthcare administrator.

There are advantages to this online dual degree program compared to on-campus options. The online track is more affordable, permits scheduling flexibility, and allows students to continue working while attending classes virtually.

The ease of accessibility to instructors through this forum facilitates stronger relationships and interactions.

Three potential careers with an MSN/MBA degree include:

What to Look For in an Online MSN/MBA Program

Before enrolling in an MSN/MBA online program, prospective students should research schools to identify curricula that align with their goals.

Key metrics to look for include:

Applying to an Online MSN/MBA Program

With an online dual degree program, you can advance your education and knowledge in a virtual learning environment.

Although the process varies by school, there are some general application requirements. Specifics for the nation's ten leading online MSN/MBA programs include:

Why Is Online MSN/MBA Program Accreditation Important?

Choosing an accredited online dual MSN/MBA curriculum benefits learners in many ways.

• Accreditation ensures that programs have quality standards.
• Accredited schools offer leading-edge and current nursing theory and practice.
• Employers typically want to confirm the validity of MSN/MBA online programs and prefer nurses from accredited programs.
• Unaccredited undergraduate degrees may not be valid when applying to graduate programs.
• Having a degree from an accredited school can lead to higher job prospects.
• Some state boards of nursing only grant licensure to graduates from accredited institutions.
• Attending an unaccredited institution can disqualify you from being eligible to receive federal financial aid.

Paying for Online MSN/MBA Programs

Factors that may affect the ability to pay for school include program cost, program length, in-state vs. out-of-state tuition, and the ability to continue to work while in school.

You should weigh different ways to pay for your nursing degree for online MSN/MBA nursing programs.

This level of education offers financial resources for nurses through programs, such as:

• Nursing scholarships
• Grants
• Loans from the federal government, private funding, or public sources
• Federally funded work-study programs that allow you to work part time

Learn More About the Best Online MSN/MBA Programs and Schools

Frequently Asked Questions About Online MSN/MBA Programs

Is a dual MSN/MBA degree program more difficult?

Pursuing an MSN/MBA nursing degree can pose many challenges for a student in graduate school because a dual program comprises courses in two distinct advanced fields.

It also takes longer than a single degree in the MSN or MBA programs. However, holding a dual degree qualifies you for better positions with extensive growth opportunities.

How long does it take to get an MSN/MBA?

Typically, a full-time student can graduate in three years. MSN/MBA programs tend to take longer than a single degree due to the higher volume of coursework. Some schools offer accelerated programs.

What are some popular MSN/MBA program concentrations?

Some of the more popular concentrations include CNO, healthcare executives/healthcare administrators, or nurse administrators. Other positions include nurse informatics, director of compliance, human resources manager, and director of care management.

What courses can you expect to take while earning an MSN/MBA degree?

Courses for an MSN/MBA nursing degree emphasize leadership and management in healthcare and theories, nursing administration, accounting, operations management, and law and ethics in healthcare.

While getting knowledge of advanced nursing practice, you gain an edge on the business aspect of healthcare.