Programs that offer a master of science in nursing (MSN) alongside a master of business administration (MBA) can offer nurses a variety of new employment opportunities and a higher earning potential.
Whether you are looking for a new avenue to explore in healthcare or want to qualify for leadership roles and increased responsibilities, MSN/MBA dual degree programs offer registered nurses (RNs) the opportunity to advance their professional careers.
Explore the process of earning an MSN/MBA and review some of the best program options.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best ADN-to-MSN (RN to NP) 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.
At a Glance: The Top 10 MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs
- 1. Johns Hopkins University
- 2. Purdue University—Main Campus
- 3. Messiah University
- 4. Liberty University<
- 5. West Virginia University
- 6. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- 7. Union University
- 8. The University of Texas at Tyler
- 9. Lewis University
- 10. Drexel University
Learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program or go straight to our ranking of the best MSN/MBA dual degree programs.
Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an MSN/MBA DUal Degree Program
To choose the right MSN/MBA dual degree program, you should consider several factors. Exploring each program’s admission requirements, accreditation, curriculum, specialization, and program length can help you determine the one that best fits your academic and professional goals.
1. Admission Requirements
Specific admission requirements can vary from one institution to the next; therefore, it is important to review each school’s acceptance guidelines to determine if you meet their standards. Doing so will allow you to avoid wasting time applying to a program for which you do not qualify.
2. Specializations
MSN programs require students to select a specialization, even for those enrolled in a dual degree program. If you know the specialization you want to pursue, make sure it is available at the schools that interest you. If you are unsure of one that interests you, identify programs that allow you to explore the available options.
3. Program Curriculum
Reviewing a program’s curriculum allows you to determine if it offers courses that will help you meet your goals. While core courses may be similar from one school to the next, some may offer electives or other opportunities that interest you.
4. Clinical Experience
All MSN/MBA programs require their students to complete a clinical rotation; however, the specifics of the experience may differ. To make sure you can meet the requirements, be sure to identify the length of the school’s clinical requirement, when it needs to be completed, and whether or not you need to find your own placement.
5. Accreditation
Ensuring a program is appropriately accredited ensures it will provide you with a high-quality education. Graduating from an accredited program benefits both you and your future employer, offering opportunities for higher earning potential and better employment opportunities.
6. Program Length
MSN/MBA dual programs typically take three years for full-time students to complete. If you can only enroll as a part-time student, explore the options the school offers to make sure the program can work for your schedule.
7. School Graduation Rate
Most post-secondary schools base their graduation rates on their undergraduate programs, identifying the percentage of students who graduated on time based on a four-year program. Although rates may not be directly connected to graduate programs, it still indicates the quality of the school.
8. Online Learning Format and Requirements
Exploring the format of a school’s online programs allows you to choose one that makes sense for your learning style and schedule. Schools may offer synchronous courses (real-time), asynchronous courses (on your own time), or a combination of the two. Programs may also include on-campus requirements for their online students.
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Why Is MSN/MBA Dual Degree Program Accreditation Important?
Attending an institution with an accredited program provides various benefits for both nurses and their future employers:
- Accreditation showcases the high-quality standards the program offers.
- Organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing only give accreditation to programs that provide students with the highest quality preparation.
- Employers prefer to hire graduates with a degree from an accredited program and typically offer higher salaries.
- Students enrolled in an unaccredited program may not be eligible for federal financial aid, certification opportunities, or licensing exams.
- Accredited programs may not accept transfer credits from unaccredited ones.
- Doctoral programs typically only accept applicants who hold degrees from accredited institutions.
Learn More About the Best MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs & Schools
See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.
#1 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Started in 1876, Johns Hopkins has built a reputation for research and scholarship. The healthcare organizational leadership MSN/MBA program prepares graduates to give top patient care while bringing change in healthcare leadership.
Students can complete Johns Hopkins' healthcare organization leadership track online. Graduates qualify to earn their nurse executive certifications.
- Program(s): MSN/MBA-Healthcare Organizational Leadership
- Campus: Baltimore, MD
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,790 per credit hour full-time; $1,688 part-time
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes, occasional face-to-face classes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.5% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $95,359 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
Purdue University-Main Campus
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Purdue has become a leader in innovation since its founding in 1862. Purdue's online MBA nursing program builds on this trend and prepares healthcare leaders for complex business issues.
Remote learners take classes 100% online, and the program may let RNs satisfy on-site clinical requirements at their workplaces.
- Program(s): MSN/MBA-Executive Leadership
- Campus: West Lafayette, IN
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $420 per credit hour MSN courses; $485 MBA
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 2.5 GPA; RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 30 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98% first-time pass rate
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
Messiah University
- Mechanicsburg, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Christian-based Messiah's enrollment includes students from 60 denominations, 41 states, and 24 countries.
Messiah's nursing administration MSN/MBA dual degree program features 100% online coursework. The curriculum includes business and leadership electives, 180 clinical practicum hours, a capstone project, and a management field project.
- Program(s): MSN/MBA-Nursing Administration
- Campus: Mechanicsburg, PA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $725 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license; One year professional nursing practice
- Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.3% first-time pass rate
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty celebrates its 50th birthday this year with the theme "Training Champions for Christ." Liberty's dual MSN/MBA program combines nursing and business classes, focusing on practicing ethically and using resources effectively.
Students earn their degree through 100% online coursework and graduate with advanced leadership skills. On-site practicum clinical hours require students to get preceptor contracts.
- Program(s): MSN/MBA
- Campus: Lynchburg, VA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $565 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license; One year professional nursing practice
- Minimum Time Commitment: 30 months (average)
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $80,964 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
West Virginia University
- Morgantown, WV
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
WVU's flagship Morgantown campus offers many distance education programs, including an MSN (executive focus) and MBA degree.
The blended MBA nursing degree includes asynchronous and synchronous online learning and offers full- or part-time study. Classes cover managerial and team skills, evidence-based practice, and systems-based decision-making. Students do leadership practicums as part of the program.
- Program(s): MSN-Executive Focus/MBA
- Campus: Morgantown, WV
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $6,192 per semester resident; $14,202 non-resident
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license; Two years professional, full-time work experience
- Minimum Time Commitment: 8 semesters
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $94,763 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Greensboro, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Part of the 17-campus UNC system, UNCG offers online degrees across seven colleges, including an MSN/MBA program in health management.
To complement fully online coursework, the program arranges clinical practicums based on students' interests and location. Graduates finish the program prepared for healthcare administration leadership positions or doctoral study.
- Program(s): MSN/MBA-health management
- Campus: Greensboro, NC
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $336-$536 per credit hour NC resident; $626-$826 out-of-state resident; $1,098-$1,298 non-NC resident studying in NC
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.2 GPA; RN license; One year full-time RN experience preferred
- Minimum Time Commitment: 10 semesters
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $139,500 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
Union University
- Jackson, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Christian-focused Union offers an online MSN/MBA dual degree requiring 12 MSN-nursing administration credits toward the 36-credit MBA total.
MBA classes cover human behavior in organizations and production operations management. The MSN curriculum includes role development and collaborative strategies in advanced nursing practice, as well as nurse administration practicums.
- Program(s): MSN-Nursing Administration/MBA
- Campus: Jackson, TN
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $645 per credit hour MSN courses; $655 MBA
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.0 GPA; Tennessee or Nurse Licensure Compact state RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: Not specified
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $90,412 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
The University of Texas at Tyler
- Tyler, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
As it marks its 50th anniversary, UT Tyler educates almost 10,000 students in six colleges, including remote learners.
UT Tyler's MBA nursing administration online program combines online instruction with hands-on practicum hours. Students graduate ready for certification as nurse executives and career advancement in nursing administration.
- Program(s): MSN Administration/MBA
- Campus: Tyler, TX
- Type: Public
- Accreditation(s): Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $987 per semester in-state; $1,469 out-of-state
- Admission Requirements: Candidates apply to both nursing and business schools. MSN: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license; Undergraduate statistics with C or higher. MBA: GMAT scores.
- Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.9% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $98,213 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
Lewis University
- Romeoville, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located about 40 minutes from Chicago, Lewis started in 1932. The school currently enrolls 6,200 students and offers 37 graduate programs.
Lewis' MSN/MBA dual degree provides flexible, accelerated online learning for working professionals. The curriculum focuses on designing and running specialized healthcare systems, identifying and resolving challenges within organizations, and managing finances.
- Program(s): MSN/MBA
- Campus: Romeoville, IL
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $820 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license; Undergraduate statistics and nurse research courses with B or higher.
- Minimum Time Commitment: Not specified
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $101,168 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs of 2022
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Drexel features some of the oldest online programs, including an online MSN in nursing leadership in health systems management/MBA dual degree.
The MSN/MBA program serves working nurses, offering a flexible, part-time curriculum. The program focuses on advanced nursing skills, strategic business practice, and transformational leadership. Distance learners can take advantage of internships, practicums, and residencies.
- Program(s): MSN in Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Management/MBA
- Campus: Philadelphia, PA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,037 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 15 quarters
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.5% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $102,258 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
How Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs Work
In comparison to in-person programs, online MSN/MBA programs are offered either entirely online or require minimal campus visits. Online programs often provide various benefits for students with personal or professional obligations, allowing them to select a program that fits their schedule. These programs are usually less expensive than their in-person counterparts.
Online programs offer courses that are synchronous, asynchronous, or a combination of both. Synchronous courses occur in real-time, with students and instructors meeting virtually at a set time; students can complete asynchronous courses on their own time through the use of podcasts, videos, web quests, and other online tools.
Online students still need to complete their clinical rotation in person. Some programs require students to arrange their own placement while others help you if needed.
Applying to an MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Before applying to an MSN/MBA dual degree program, review the admission requirements and application materials to ensure you have the background needed for acceptance. Many institutions seek applicants who meet the following general requirements:
1. Admission Requirements
Applicants must hold an unrestricted and unencumbered RN license, an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited program, and at least one year of clinical experience.
2. Admission Materials
General admission materials include transcripts from your BSN program, 2-3 letters of recommendation, an admissions essay, and a resume.
3. GPA Requirement
3.0 GPA or higher
Paying for an MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Tuition can vary depending on the program's length, school's reputation, in-state vs. out-of-state enrollment, online vs. in-person format, and part-time vs. full-time status. The cost of a program can often deter you from applying to certain schools. Luckily, there are financial aid opportunities available that can help reduce the graduate school costs.
Students who need financial support to pay for their nursing degree can apply for scholarships, grants, and loans to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Scholarships and grants provide funds based on merit, need, or academic performance, while loans are borrowed money that must be paid back upon completion of the program.
What Can You Do With an MSN/MBA Dual Degree?
Nurses with an MSN and MBA can pursue a variety of administrative roles in the healthcare field, including executive nursing roles.
With a dual degree, nurses can work in leadership roles in healthcare administration. The program prepares nurses for work in human resources, healthcare informatics, public health advocacy, and hospital finance, among others.
- Nursing Director: Nursing directors are responsible for leading an entire nursing department. Duties include oversight of a department or multiple units, implementing new policies and procedures, developing a budget plan for the nursing unit, and ensuring the department is compliant with all local and national regulations.
Average Salary: $93,940 (October 2022)
- Medical or Health Services Manager: Services managers can manage a department, clinical area, or entire facility. Their responsibilities include improving the efficiency of healthcare services; developing goals and objectives; ensuring the facility is meeting all laws and regulations; preparing and monitoring budgets; and recruiting, training, and supervising staff.
Median Salary: $101,340
Job Outlook (2021-2031): +28%
- Chief Nursing Officer: Chief nursing officers are the highest-ranking executive leadership positions available to nurses. Their work focuses on developing, organizing, and supervising a facility’s nursing services, which includes coordinating daily operations and implementing changes to patient care.
Average Salary: $135,560 (October 2022)
Frequently Asked Questions About MSN/MBA Dual Degrees
What is the difference between MSN and MBA?
A master's of science in nursing degree allows current nurses to advance their nursing knowledge while focusing on a chosen specialty. Nurses with MSN degrees can become licensed nurse practitioners by passing an exam. Master's in business administration programs focus on key business principles in marketing, finance, and accounting. MBA graduates can pursue management positions in healthcare, technology, human resources, and finance.
What can nurses with an MBA do?
Nurses with MBAs can pursue a variety of careers in the healthcare industry that extend beyond clinical work. Options include managerial roles, public health advocacy work, healthcare administration, or information management.
Is an MSN/MBA dual degree worth it?
Nurses interested in advancing their careers in healthcare administration may consider an MSN and MBA dual degree. Graduates with clinical experience and business expertise makes them a desired addition to the healthcare setting. The dual degree also provides career advancement, allowing nurses to pursue leadership roles that have high earning potential.
How long is an MSN/MBA?
It takes full-time students approximately three years to complete an MSN/MBA program. Many programs also offer part-time enrollment, which can increase the program's length by at least one year.
Page Last Reviewed: November 2, 2022
Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.
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