Online master of science in nursing (MSN) and master of public health (MPH) dual degree tracks can be more affordable than on-campus options. These programs offer scheduling flexibility and allow students to work while attending classes virtually. Graduates of MSN/MPH programs develop skills from two disciplines through blended courses.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best 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.
Learn more about MSN/MPH programs or go straight to our list of the best online MSN/MPH programs.
Featured Online MSN Programs
What Can You Do With an MSN/MPH Dual Degree?
Earning an MSN/MPH dual degree online is a great option for nursing students who wish to supplement their education. MSN programs present advanced patient care techniques, while an MPH curriculum offers insights into community health and epidemiology. MPH candidates build foundational public health knowledge that can enhance their assessment and diagnostic skills.
By understanding the factors that influence community health, nurses can develop accurate, context-appropriate treatment methods and disease prevention measures. Online MSN/MPH dual degree nursing programs also provide nurses with the administrative skills needed to develop health initiatives and improve wellness across entire populations.
Graduates can become certified public/community health clinical nurse specialists (PHCNS-BC), medical health services managers, and public health nurse practitioners (PHNPs).
PHCNS-BC
This CNS assesses, diagnoses, and treats patients in a community. According to Payscale data from September 2022, CNS average salary is $94,390.
Medical Health Services Manager
Also known as healthcare executives or healthcare administrators, medical health services managers regulate and direct operations in a healthcare setting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals earn a median annual salary of $101,340.
PHNP
These nurses develop awareness programs and educate the public on promoting health and preventing diseases. The median salary for NPs in 2021 was $120,680 according to the BLS.
What to Look For in an Online MSN/MPH Dual Degree Program
Before enrollment in an MSN/MPH online program, prospective students should research schools to identify factors that align with their goals.
Key metrics to pay attention to include:
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Admission Requirements
Admission requirements help applicants know if they qualify for an online program. Preparing application materials ahead of time offers students the best possible chance of acceptance.
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Program Curriculum
The core curriculum can drive students' decision-making in choosing a school. It establishes the standards, objectives, and outcomes for nursing students. Quality programs prepare enrollees for career success.
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Clinical Experience
Dual MSN/MPH programs include supervised clinical nursing placements that allow learners to gain valuable hands-on experience. Some online programs encourage students to choose their clinical site but help with placement.
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Accreditation
Nursing accreditation ensures that online programs or schools comply with national standards of excellence.
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Program Length
An online MSN/MPH dual degree can take from 18 months to three years and generally comprises 60-90 credits.
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School NCLEX Pass Rate
The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate proves a school's success in preparing online students for the advanced nursing field. A first-time NCLEX pass rate of 90% or higher indicates a highly valued program.
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School Graduation Rate
This factor allows you to assess the quality of the online program by showing the percentage of students that graduate on time.
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Online Learning Format and Requirements
Online dual MSN/MPH formats can offer diverse courses that align with your goals, career path, and schedule.
Applying to an Online MSN/MPH Dual Degree Program
Prospective dual degree students must satisfy MSN and MPH programs' admission requirements. Applicants are usually required to submit official postsecondary transcripts and meet a minimum GPA requirement, generally 3.0 or better.
In addition, many online MSN/MPH degree programs request standardized test scores from exams, such as the GRE or MCAT.
Most schools expect applicants to hold a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from an accredited university. However, some programs accept holders of any bachelor's degree who have completed prerequisite courses for nursing school such as biology, chemistry, and related fields.
MSN applicants also need a current registered nurse (RN) license and should demonstrate some professional nursing experience.
- BSN
- NCLEX scores
- RN license
- Clinical experience
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Specific prerequisite courses
3.0 or higher, depending on the institution
Why Is Online MSN/MPH Program Accreditation Important?
Choosing an accredited online dual MSN/MPH curriculum has many benefits. Accreditation ensures that programs have quality standards for leading-edge nursing theory and practice, which can lead to more job prospects.
Additionally, credits from unaccredited schools may not transfer to other institutions. Some state boards of nursing do not give licensure to graduates from unaccredited institutions.
Paying for Online MSN/MPH Dual Degree Programs
There are many factors that affect paying for online dual degree programs. These include program cost, program length, and the ability to work while in nursing school. With cost being a major consideration, you can weigh different options to pay for your nursing degree.
There are available financial resources for nursing students, including nursing scholarships, grants, and loans from the federal government.
Learn More About the Best MSN/MPH Dual Degree Programs and Schools
#1 The Best Online MSN/MPH Dual Degree Programs
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Description:
Johns Hopkins University is one of the most prestigious in the world for its nursing and medical programs. The master of science in nursing/master of public health (MSN/MPH) program includes 36 nursing core credits, 62.5 credits in public health, and 504 clinical hours. Students may choose to participate in overseas institutes in Barcelona or Kyoto. Students must maintain a 2.75 GPA and keep a Learning Portfolio. Johns Hopkins assists with clinical placement.
Details:
- Program(s): MSN/MPH
- Campus: Baltimore, MD
- Type: Private
- Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and Council on Education for Public Health
- Tuition: $71,760 per year
- Admission Requirements: At least two years of work experience in healthcare, bachelor of science in nursing, at least a 3.0 GPA, current and unencumbered RN license, three letters of reference, application with personal statement, clear professional commitment and history of community service, college-level courses in statistics, quantitative science, biology, and health-related science
- Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.5%
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions About Online MSN/MPH Programs
How do dual degree MSN/MPH programs work?
MSN/MPH programs offer some shared credits that allow you to complete the two programs simultaneously in less time than completing each separately. Dual degree programs offer students a competitive edge but can pose a challenge with added stress and pressure.
How long does it take to get an MSN/MPH?
An online MSN/MPH dual degree program's length depends on several variables, including credit requirements and clinical components.
Full-time students may take anywhere from 18 months to three years to earn their degree, with most programs requiring 60-90 credits. In addition, nearly every MSN program includes a clinical practicum component. These hands-on experiences vary in length and can affect the time needed to earn an MSN/MPH degree.
What are the different types of dual degree nursing programs?
Nurses can take advantage of dual degree programs that pair an MSN with a master's in public health, master's in business administration, master's in health administration, or master's in public administration.
What courses can you expect to take while earning an MSN/MPH degree?
MSN/MPH courses emphasize healthcare leadership and public health theories; nursing administration; ethics in healthcare and public health; and legal, regulatory, and health economics.
While getting knowledge of advanced nursing practice, you also gain an edge on epidemiology, biostatistics, and environmental, behavioral, and social health sciences.
