The Best Online MSN/MBA Dual Degree Programs
January 24, 2022 · 6 Min Read
Learn how an online MSN/MBA dual degree program can help you understand the business side of healthcare and lead to career advancement.
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
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.
Featured Online 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:
Medical and Health Services Manager
Medical and health services managers are also known as healthcare executives or healthcare administrators. They regulate and direct operations in a healthcare setting. Roles include nursing home administrators, clinical managers, and health information managers.
- Salary: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median base salary is $104,280
- Job Outlook: 32% growth from 2020-30
Chief Nursing Officer
CNOs are the highest-ranking management position in nursing. They plan, organize, and direct operations related to nurse practice.
- Salary: Payscale data from January 2022 lists the average salary at $120,000 annually.
Nurse Administrator
Nurse administrators oversee the nursing staff in healthcare settings. They can function in hospitals, physicians' offices, and residential care establishments.
- Salary: The average salary is $88,620, according to Payscale data from January 2022.
Learn more about Nurse Administrators
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:
GRE/GMAT test scores and a minimum GPA of 3.0 may be required.
Courses focus on leadership in healthcare, nursing administration, accounting for management, and legal, regulatory, and economic management.
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:
- Online application
- Official transcripts
- BSN or ADN from an accredited program
- An unencumbered state RN license or enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC)
- NCLEX-RN pass rate ranging from 87-100%
- Specific number of non-nursing credits and nursing prerequisite courses
Minimum overall GPA ranging from 2.75-3.5
- Background check
- Fingerprinting
- Drug screening
- Immunization verification
- Proof of health insurance
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
Based in the Chapel Hill region of North Carolina, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers online MSN/MBA dual degrees. By recognizing the ever-changing medical landscape, UNC prepares students for the sophisticated practice roles associated with the modern healthcare systems.
The UNC boasts accreditations from the North Carolina Board of Nursing (NCBON), the American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC), the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Applicants need a GPA of at least 2.75, but those with a GPA of 3.0 or better stand a better chance of getting admitted. Full-time in-state students pay a tuition of $9,670 every semester, while out-of-state students pay a tuition fee of $19,530. Additionally, the university charges $5,329 for part-time in-state students and $9,760 for part-time out-of-state students.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $9,670 for in-state students and $19,530 for out-of-state students.
- Admission Requirements: 2.75 GPA, bachelor’s degree from accredited institutions, personal statement, and resume
- Minimum Time Requirements: Three academic years
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 86.84%
- On-Campus Requirement: No
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
A public institution of higher education based in Boone, North Carolina, Appalachian State University offers online MSN nursing programs. The program prepares students for various educator roles in academic positions related to nursing programs and practice settings.
The MSN program comprises 39 credits and costs $300 per credit for NC residents. Non-NC residents pay $1,140 dollars for every credit. The MSN programs last a total of two years.
To qualify for the online MSN program, students need a bachelor of science in nursing from an accredited institution. Graduates of accredited associate degree programs or diploma nursing programs with a baccalaureate in a different field also qualify. Prospective students must show a minimum GPA of 3.5 or 3.0-3.5 with above-average performance in GRE within the last five years.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Boone, North Carolina
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $300 per credit for in-state students and $1,140 for out-of-state students.
- Admission Requirements: 3.5 GPA or 3.0-3.5 with above-average performance in GRE, a bachelor of science degree, or an associate degree
- Minimum Time Requirements: 1 calendar year
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
The University of Maryland-College Park sits on 1335 acres of suburban land between Baltimore and Washington DC. Online MSN program specialties available at UMD include the health sciences leadership and management master's specialty and the nursing informatics master's specialty. Maryland allows students to study as generalists and direct patient care or forecast in various specialized fields.
The University of Maryland-College Park is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for all nursing programs. The MSN program at Maryland lasts a maximum of two years. For out-of-state students, the tuition fee of $1,416 applies for every credit, while in-state students pay $824 per credit.
Many students looking to get admitted into the online MSN/MBA dual degree programs available at Maryland must earn a degree with a major in nursing from a college or university accredited by the CCNE. Students should also submit official transcripts and an essay covering various topics.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: College Park, Maryland
- Type: Public land-grant university
- Accreditations: Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $824 for instate students and $1446 for out-of-state students.
- Admission Requirements: Degree from CCNE accredited institutions, official transcripts, and an essay
- Minimum Time Requirements: 2 years
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
Founded in 1876 as a Baltimore-based private research university, Johns Hopkins University offers a dual-degree MBA program through the Carey business school and Johns Hopkins School of Nursing to prepare graduates for exceptional patient care and safety.
Students need a bachelor of science in nursing from an accredited college or university to get admitted into the dual degree program, as well as a minimum GPA of 3.0. Prospective students must provide official transcripts from higher education institutions. Additional admission requirements include two years of work experience and an RN license from an authorized state for online students.
Students pay a tuition fee of $56,030 for annual full-time classes. The price accounts for 12 full-time credits per year, which breaks down to $1,730 for each credit. Students can inquire with the university for more details about part-time tuition fees.
- Program(s): Dual degree master of business administration
- Campus: Baltimore, Maryland
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $56,030
- Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA, bachelor's degree from accredited institutions, official transcripts, and 2 years work experience as an RN
- Minimum Time Requirements: 3 years
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.22%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
A public land-grant research university based in Auburn, Alabama, Auburn offers MSN programs from the Montgomery College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Students enrolling for the MSN programs at the university can choose from two options: the nurse educator for interprofessional practice or family nurse practitioner.
Although students can access both programs online, they must also visit campus for pre-arranged intensive simulation experiences and activities such as orientation and evaluation.
To qualify for any of the MSN programs, students need a BSN degree from a Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited program. Applicants must submit official transcripts from any universities or colleges they attended and show a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 GPA scale.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Auburn, Alabama
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $11,492
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing, a 3.0 GPA, and official transcripts
- Minimum Time Requirements: 2 years
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.72%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
Founded in 1965, the California State University, San Bernardino operates as a public university that makes up one of the 23 California State University general campuses. CSUSB uses a hybrid system where online classes blend with limited physical sessions to provide MSN programs. Students can schedule face-to-face courses at either the Palm Desert or San Bernardino campuses as the university looks to serve students from both the Coachella Valley and the inland empire region.
For students to qualify for admission into the CSUSB MSN program, they need a baccalaureate in nursing from a program accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Regionally accredited bachelor's degrees in disciplines connected to nursing also qualify one for admission. Applicants with bachelor's degrees in fields with no connection to nursing need to meet competencies in research, health assessment, community and public health, and nursing. Additionally, they should hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 based upon the recommended practice of the graduate council at the university.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: San Bernardino, California
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $6,886
- Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA or competencies in research, health assessment, community and public health, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum Time Requirements: 22 months
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.87%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
The University of North Carolina Wilmington operates as a public research university and a part of the University of North Carolina. UNCW offers an MSN educator program that provides students with the required knowledge and tools to teach the next generation of nurses. The skills acquired through this program put students in a position to teach clinical, distance, and didactic nursing education programs.
By completing this program, students qualify for the certified nurse educator test. They also gain their confidence, skills, and knowledge to take on leadership roles within the nursing community, staff development, and academia.
In-state students pay a tuition fee of $230 for every credit hour and $690 for each course bringing the total cost to $8,550. Out-of-state students pay $910 per credit hour and $2,730 per course.
Students need to complete a graduate school application and attach official transcripts to get admitted into the program. They also need a GPA of at least 3.0 or passing scores on the Miller Analogies Test or Graduate Record Examination.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Wilmington, North Carolina
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $7,181
- Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA, MAT and GRE test, official transcripts, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum Time Requirements: 24 months
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94.8%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
The Pennsylvania State World Campus operates as the online campus of the renowned Pennsylvania State University. The Penn State World Campus offers online MSN programs meant for registered nurses with bachelor's degrees in nursing. It enables practicing nurses to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations, administrative procedures, health practices, and delivery systems.
For students taking 11 or fewer credits per semester, every credit costs roughly $920. Students pay $11,100 per credit when taking 12 or more credits per semester.
To get admitted to the MSN programs, students need the equivalent of a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S., as well as a GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale and at least a B grade in all nursing and science courses.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Online
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $920 per credit or $11,100 when taking 12 or more credits per semester
- Admission Requirements: 3.3 GPA and minimum grades of B in all nursing and science courses, and a bachelor’s degree in any field
- Minimum Time Requirements: 2 years
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.92%
- On-Campus Requirement: No
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
Founded in 1907, the East Carolina State University ranks as the fourth-largest university in North Carolina. The ECU offers various online MSN programs, including nursing education and nursing leadership, among others. The North Carolina-based university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Prospective students must submit GRE/MAT test scores and need a GPA of at least 2.7 in undergraduate studies as well as a 3.0 GPA minimum in a nursing major. Before getting accepted into the program, students need to complete a digitally recorded or personal interview with the ECU graduate faculty. The program costs approximately $13,750.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Greenville, North Carolina
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $13,750
- Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA in a nursing major and 2.7 undergraduate GPA, personal interview, GRE/MAT test scores, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum Time Requirements: 2 years
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.22%
- On-Campus Requirement: No
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
Commonly known as Ole Miss, the University of Mississippi represents the largest public research university in Oxford, Mississippi. It provides an opportunity for registered nurses looking to advance their nursing careers and take the next step. Through the various MSN programs accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), students can forge a career in education, practice, or administration.
Applicants no longer need to provide a GRE score to qualify for the MSN and RN-MSN programs. Eligible applicants need a baccalaureate in nursing from an accredited institution as well as a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a GPA scale of 4.0.
All applicants should apply from July 1st of the year before their expected year of enrollment. They must also pay an application fee of $25 and submit official transcripts from any institution previously attended.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Oxford, Mississippi
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $14,460
- Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA, official transcripts, and a baccalaureate in nursing from an accredited institution
- Minimum Time Requirements: 18 months
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
A public university based in Jacksonville, Alabama, JSU provides population health nursing as an MSN program. The course aims at preparing population health nurses for addressing the health needs of vulnerable communities and populations both in the current and future settings.
Applicants need to submit official transcripts from every institution attended and must hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited university. Applicants need to provide three personal recommendations on the required forms. All prospective students must submit their applications by July 1st for the fall admission and November 1st or April 1st for spring and summer admissions.
The program requires 38 semester credits. Students can choose from part-time or full-time options. On average, the MSN program costs a net price of $12,240.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Jacksonville, Alabama
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $12,240
- Admission Requirements: A baccalaureate in nursing from an accredited institution, recommendation letters, and official transcripts
- Minimum Time Requirements: 22 months
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.22%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
Founded in 1903, the Pittsburg State University operates from Pittsburg, Kansas. The university offers a 33 credit hour online MSN program tailored for healthcare professionals in today's busy work schedule. Students get an immersive experience that allows them to focus on an underserved population, healthcare disparity, or disease process.
Eligibility for admission depends on an applicant's ability to meet both the application requirements and resource availability. Applicants should apply at the earliest possible point as positions get filled quite fast. Prospective students must show a GPA of 3.0, completion of prerequisite courses, and evidence of updated RN license in any state where clinical hours.
- Program(s): Master of science nursing
- Campus: Jacksonville, Alabama
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $16,940
- Admission Requirements: GPA of 3.0, completion of prerequisite courses, and evidence of updated RN license
- Minimum Time Requirements: 24 months
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 80.85%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
A public university based in Greensboro, North Carolina, the UNCG School of Nursing delivers its UNCG MSN/MBA degree through a mix of on-campus and online courses.
The courses available online include nursing administration concentration, nursing education concentration, and a master of science in nursing/master of business administration in health management.
The MSN program requires 37 credits. For in-state students, the tuition fee cost is an estimated $340 per credit and $16,600 for the entire program. Out-of-state students pay $1,100 for every credit and $44,800 for the complete program.
- Program(s): MSN/MBA dual degree
- Campus: Greensboro, North Carolina
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $16,600
- Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA, RN license, bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Minimum Time Requirements: 2 years
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.22%
- On-Campus Requirement: Yes
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
A private evangelical Christian university based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers a 100% online MSN and MBA. The MSN/MBA dual degree program prepares professionals that need to integrate executive business practices into the healthcare field.
With the dual online MSN/MBA degree, students gain a better understanding of today's economic factors in healthcare and other essential ethical considerations that contribute to effective utilization of medical resources and high efficiency.
Students do not need to commit to on-campus intensives or complete a thesis. The nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. With this program, students gain skills in leadership analysis, executive leadership development, and management skills that prepare them for the leadership challenges associated with the industry.
- Program(s): MSN/MBA dual degree
- Campus: Lynchburg, Virginia
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $20,109
- Admission Requirements: 2.75 GPA. bachelor’s degree in nursing, prerequisite courses.
- Minimum Time Requirements: 24 months
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87%
- On-Campus Requirement: No
- School site: Tuition | Financial aid
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.
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