The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs for 2025
Credit: mixetto / E+ / Getty ImagesNurses with a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree benefit from expanded career options, including management or leadership opportunities, and a higher earning potential.
An online MSN degree program can make it easier to keep working while you advance your education and career.
Our guide introduces the best MSN online programs so that you can find the right fit for your schedule, budget, and professional goals.
The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs & Schools
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UNC Chapel Hill's online MSN program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles. Full and part-time pathways that add valuable flexibility to help students balance work, family, and educational commitments.
Two online degree options prepare students for roles as NP or in healthcare leadership and administration. The MSN NP program offers five tracks. All students take core classes, including pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, advanced health and physical assessment, and diagnostic reasoning and management.
We like the University of Carolina program because it values non-academic criteria as a way to better engage learners. The school's advanced-practice nurse pass rate is 96% or higher for all NP tracks.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing accredits the MSN program.
Highlights:
- Flexible online program
- The nursing program consistently receives top national rankings
- Full- and part-time degree pathways
Considerations:
- Students are required to complete one on-campus experience each semester
- Students must provide documentation of fitness to practice
- In-State$7,020
- Out-of-state$37,360
- In-State$10,552
- Out-of-state$28,844
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate19%
- Students Enrolled32,496
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Johns Hopkins’s MSN programs are designed for students with a nursing or non-nursing bachelor's degree. Students can choose from a direct-entry MSN, an MSN in healthcare organizational leadership, or a dual MSN/MBA degree. The school also offers a DNP advanced practice program for MSN program graduates.
The school emphasizes diversity, academic rigor, and improving the health of diverse communities through leadership and excellence in nursing education, research, and practice. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the MSN and DNP programs.
Highlights:
- 94% graduation rate
- MSN/MBA dual degree available
- Post-master certifications in psychiatric/mental health NP, nursing education, and healthcare organizational leadership
Considerations:
- No MSN program for advanced practice roles
- Interview required for admission
- Additional state-specific requirements for learners outside Maryland
- In-State$60,480
- Out-of-state$60,480
- In-State$60,480
- Out-of-state$60,480
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate8%
- Students Enrolled30,363
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UCF’s online MSN program is designed for Florida residents and nurses with a multi-state license. The school offers leadership in management and nursing educator MSN tracks students can complete full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated program. Coursework includes theory, organizational dynamics, environment management, and evidence-based practice.
We like the UCF program because it offers flexible scheduling and a variety of programs to improve clinical skills for RNs. Students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree can apply to the MSN by completing additional prerequisites. A unique MSN track teaches nurses how to lead healthcare simulation programs in academic and practice settings.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the school's BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
Highlights:
- No GRE required
- Unique nursing and healthcare simulation track
- Fee waivers for online MSN program
Considerations:
- Program does not prepare nurses for clinical advanced practice roles
- Multi-step application process includes out-of-state limitations, an advisor appointment, an information session, and an essay
- Must hold a Florida RN license
- In-State$6,368
- Out-of-state$22,467
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled68,842
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
Georgetown University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Georgetown's online MSN program offers four tracks for nurses seeking advanced practice clinical roles: adult gerontology, family nurse practitioner, nurse-midwifery, and women's health nurse practitioner. The school also offers a postgraduate certificate program preparing students for the same tracks.
Students engage in live weekly classes, including breakout rooms to facilitate group projects. Students log clinical hours in a placement portal and visit the campus in Washington, D.C. metro for high-fidelity simulations.
We like the Georgetown University program because support teams guide students from application through career services, with advisors to ensure students benefit from all resources.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
Highlights:
- 94% graduation rate
- 100% ANCC FNP exam pass rate
- Post-graduate certificate programs available
Considerations:
- Costliest program on this list
- Requires on-campus objective clinical incentives
- In-State$61,872
- Out-of-state$61,872
- In-State$56,592
- Out-of-state$56,592
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate13%
- Students Enrolled20,392
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A & M University-College Station
- College Station, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Texas A&M offers an online MSN-FNP program. On-campus requirements include clinical experiences during the advanced health assessment class. Students have 1-2 on-campus requirements semesters they enroll in diagnostics and procedures and four primary care courses.
Applicants must reside in Texas and hold an active RN license. Moving out of state during enrollment may make students ineligible to complete the program. Application requirements also include an online interview and written assessments. The curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and leadership and policy.
We like the Texas A&M University program because they have a competitive program and rigorous application criteria, including timed verbal and written assessments.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the program.
Highlights:
- Clinical placement assistance is available
- Part and full-time study options
Considerations:
- Several on-campus requirements
- Applicants must reside in Texas
- 1,500 practice hours required before first clinical course
- In-State$8,443
- Out-of-state$36,637
- In-State$6,885
- Out-of-state$19,593
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled76,633
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
Vanderbilt University
- Nashville, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Vanderbilt’s women's health/gender-related NP program offers a hybrid format with online classes and several in-person sessions. Full-time students can complete the program in 3-4 semesters, and a part-time option is available.
The curriculum prepares students to provide care to women from puberty through senior years and includes advanced physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, social and structural influences on health, and leadership for change.
We like the Vanderbilt program because it assists students with clinical placements and offers small class sizes with favorable student-to-faculty ratios.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the MSN program.
Highlights:
- Small class sizes with low faculty-to-student ratios
- Faculty combine classwork with hands-on experience
Considerations:
- Only 10% of students receive loans through the school
- Students are encouraged to not work during the program's final two semesters
- Clinical experiences may not be available in preferred geographical areas
- In-State$58,130
- Out-of-state$58,130
- In-State$53,160
- Out-of-state$53,160
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate6%
- Students Enrolled13,456
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
University of Rochester
- Rochester, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The University of Rochester offers NP programs in six tracks: family, adult, psychiatric, neonatal, and pediatrics. The programs are a hybrid of online coursework and short on-site intensives, including two courses that require on-campus 1-2 day intensive learning experiences and two full-day skills workshops.
The online program combines structured and more self-paced experiences. Select hybrid courses utilize simulation and skills labs to strengthen clinical competencies.
We like the University of Rochester program because students can continue working and faculty guide clinical practice hours.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
Highlights:
- Program with the highest student loan rate
- Designed for working professionals
- Three admission dates each year
Considerations:
- Requires several on-campus intensives
- Requires RN licensure in NY state
- Clinical experience for adult, pediatric, and neonatal NP programs
- In-State$60,550
- Out-of-state$60,550
- In-State$41,888
- Out-of-state$41,888
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled12,160
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment21%
- AccreditationYes
Ohio State University-Main Campus
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
OSU offers an online MSN for BSN graduates. The program prepares clinical advanced practice nurses for licensure in Ohio in three tracks: adult, family, and pediatric NPs.
Neonatal NP and psychiatric mental health NP are available only as distance learning programs. Out-of-state students should check with their state licensing agency before beginning the program. Program availability varies by state. Students in specific programs must complete three two-day on-campus intensives before graduating. Not all core classes are guaranteed to be online each semester.
We like this program because applications receive a holistic review, including academics, professional background, life experiences, strengths, and attributes.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the BSN, MSN, DNP, and APRN certificate programs.
Highlights:
- Three advanced-practice NP tracks
- Option to add a post-master’s certificate
- Holistic application approach
Considerations:
- Program staff make final clinical placement decisions
- Out-of-state students submit potential clinical preceptors for approval
- Most online coursework is synchronous
- In-State$11,936
- Out-of-state$36,173
- In-State$12,092
- Out-of-state$38,693
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled60,046
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The UWF's online MSN program prepares nurse educators in as few as 24 months. Asynchronous courses include core work in advanced nursing practice, leadership, and policy strategies.
Specialty courses include nursing education practicums, advanced pharmacology, health assessment, and pathophysiology. Graduates can pursue roles as nurse educators, nurse instructors, and clinical educators.
We like UWF’s program because the curriculum reflects modern standards and regulations while emphasizing clinical principles for health assessment in advanced nursing practice.
The nurse educator program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Highlights:
- Military students may be eligible for free tuition
- Program includes three practicum courses
Considerations:
- High graduate out-of-state tuition
- 85% retention rate is second lowest on this list
- 30% program completion rate is the lowest on this list
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- In-State$7,088
- Out-of-state$22,166
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled13,521
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment79%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A & M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Texas A&M International University's MSN program focuses on administration, preparing students for high-demand roles such as nurse executive, director of nursing, or patient care director. The online program can be completed in as little as 10 months.
Students study the correlations between healthcare policy and social justice issues in coursework that includes theories influencing practice, healthcare informatics, healthcare policy, and transformational leadership. The program includes an immersive, 180-hour practicum preparing nurse executives for leadership and culminating in a collaborative health project.
We like the Texas A&M program because its curriculum covers a wide range of necessary topics, from communication skills to the global healthcare environment and business skills.
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredits the program.
Highlights:
- Least expensive program on this list
- Five start dates throughout the year
- No RN work experience required for admission
Considerations:
- Graduation rate is only 49%
- Noncompetitive admission process
- In-State$3,818
- Out-of-state$13,634
- In-State$3,350
- Out-of-state$10,712
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled8,505
- Institution TypePublic
- 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.
Why Is Online Master’s in Nursing Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation recognizes nursing programs that follow industry standards for preparing nurses. You must graduate from an accredited program to be eligible for board certification for almost all nursing specialties.
Our ranking only includes programs accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
The benefits of accreditation for nursing students include:
- Employers rarely consider graduates from non-accredited programs.
- Credits earned at accredited programs are more likely to transfer.
- MSN graduates who need board certification must graduate from an accredited program.
- Students at accredited institutions qualify for more forms of financial aid.
Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an Online Master’s in Nursing Program
The best online MSN program for you depends on many factors. Some of these, such as school culture or the amount of financial aid, are subjective or hard to determine before applying.
Others, such as board examination pass rates, are objective and readily available. Here are some of the most important criteria for most students:
Admission Requirements
Review the admission requirements when looking for the best online master’s in nursing. These requirements also give you an indication of more nuanced factors, such as what your fellow students might be like and what the school values.
Specializations
MSN programs prepare you for a particular specialty and career, such as family practice nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse educator. Choose programs that offer specialties in your chosen area.
Program Curriculum
Accredited MSN programs offer a standardized curriculum, including courses in evidence-based care, patient safety, and nursing leadership. Students may choose elective options and must complete clinical requirements.
Clinical Experience
Clinical experience provides a vital learning opportunity and helps you build your network and references. Some of the best online MSN programs may provide clinical placement assistance to students.
Accreditation
Accreditation means the program meets academic and industry standards. State licensure and national certification applications require students to graduate from an accredited program. All of the nursing programs listed on this site are accredited.
Program Length
The right program length for you depends on your background and needs. If you work full-time and your schedule is not flexible, a part-time option might be the best MSN program for you. For students with a flexible schedule or responsibilities, an accelerated program may suit them better.
School Graduation Rate
A high graduation rate, combined with a high board pass rate, is an excellent indicator of a strong program. If the graduation rate is high but the pass rate is low, that might be a sign that the school doesn’t do enough to help students learn. Similarly, a high pass rate but a low graduation rate suggests issues with the program.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
The best online MSN format for you depends on your learning needs, existing responsibilities, and schedule. If you learn best from live discussions, synchronous or more structured classes may be better for you, but if your schedule is unpredictable, asynchronous or self-paced coursework could be easier to manage.
How Online Master’s in Nursing Programs Work
MSN online programs typically have flexible schedules, which allows working professionals to balance their studies with other responsibilities. Many programs use a combination of asynchronous and live online classes to teach advanced topics in nursing theory, research, healthcare policy, and specialized clinical practices.
Some MSN online programs have mandatory in-person requirements for onboarding, assessments, or other class components. For example, you must complete all clinical requirements in person. Some programs help arrange your clinical placements, while others only approve placements you find.
Students may participate in virtual simulations, online discussions, and collaborative projects. The pace is designed to be adaptable, and most programs offer options for full-time or part-time enrollment. This flexibility is crucial for nurses who want an advanced education but have professional and personal commitments.
Applying to an Online Master’s in Nursing Program
The admission requirements and process for MSN online programs vary depending on the school. Common admission requirements include:
- Application Requirements: Common application requirements include a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or an associate degree in nursing (ADN) when enrolling in an online RN-to-MSN program; an active and unencumbered RN license; and 1-2 years of experience ( varies by program).
- GPA Requirement: MSN programs typically require a 3.0 GPA or higher; some programs allow conditional admission with a lower GPA.
- Other Requirements: MSN online programs usually have prerequisite courses. Other requirements that vary by the program include letters of recommendation, resumes, transcripts, and personal statements or essays. Some programs require background checks, drug screens, and health clearances.
Your application should reflect your strengths and your potential to succeed in the program. Avoid submitting your application at the last minute, and leave enough time for a colleague or mentor to provide feedback.
Paying for Online Master’s in Nursing Programs
The cost of an online MSN can deter nurses since paying for an MSN is not cheap. Fortunately, financial aid can make earning an MSN possible, regardless of your financial circumstances.
Start by filling out the federal FAFSA form to qualify for student aid programs and need-based scholarships. Nursing students can also apply for scholarships and grants to cover expenses. If you are currently working as a nurse, see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement.
Once you graduate, you may qualify for a full scholarship (including expenses) or loan forgiveness if you work in an underserved area or for the U.S. government.
Online Student Testimonials
On-Site Clinical Experience
“Throughout the program, there was only one, on-campus, two-day live simulation required, but due to COVID-19, it was held via Zoom. My program required 400 clinical hours, which were completed in person at an acute care hospital.”
— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC
On Choosing an Online MSN Program
“I was looking for a fully online program with a concentration in Clinical Nurse Leadership. I was familiar with the school’s online workflow as I had received my bachelor’s from there a few years before joining the MSN program. As a full-time registered nurse and a single mother, I needed a program that was completely online without regular on-campus requirements.”
— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC
Benefits and Challenges of an Online MSN
“Some of the benefits of online learning are the convenience of completing work at home and the ability to work at your own pace.
“Rather than having to drive to a location, which would involve time off from work, or extra childcare, I was able to sign in at home, listen to lectures, and utilize my time efficiently. A multitude of information is posted on the class platform and is always available to enhance your learning experience at a suitable time for your schedule.
“In the last year of my program, I was with a Cohort of about 14 other students, and we participated in weekly Zoom lectures, which allowed us to develop a rapport with one another, enhancing my personal learning experience.
“Some of the challenges to earning an MSN online are time management and self-discipline. In order to stay on top of the workload, dedication, and willpower are required. There are a multitude of discussion boards, papers, projects, and lectures.
“It can be challenging to fit all of these into an already full agenda and to find the motivation to incorporate assignments into your schedule. Advanced preparation and planning are an absolute must in order to complete a successful online MSN program.”
— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC
Is an Online MSN Program Worth It?
“Absolutely! Advancements in technology have allowed programs to become robust in providing the suitable and necessary resources for a successful online learning experience. Online programs are developed with the understanding that many of their students lead full lives outside of the academic world. They are created to provide an education that is realistic and attainable for an evolving nursing workforce.”
— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC
What Can You Do With a Degree from an Online MSN Program?
Many MSN graduates become nurse practitioners, but you can pursue many other career paths with an MSN. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) include clinical nurse specialists or certified nurse-midwives. You can also earn an MSN to become a nursing administrator or nurse educator.
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners (NP) can choose to practice in primary care with a specialty population, such as family practice, women’s health, adult-geriatric, or pediatrics. They may also choose acute care or subspecialty practices such as critical care, psychiatric/mental health, orthopedics, and dermatology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median NP annual salary is $129,210 as of May 2024.
Certified Nurse-Midwife
Nurse-midwives provide care to pregnant women and infants. They are licensed to oversee prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care. The BLS reports a median salary of $128,790 for nurse-midwives as of May 2024.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Clinical nurse specialists provide advanced nursing care and oversee nurses in particular areas, such as adult or pediatric acute care. According to Payscale data, the average annual salary is $105,057 as of July 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can earn a master’s in nursing online. MSN online programs blend virtual classes with in-person clinical requirements to prepare you for careers as a nurse practitioner, nurse administrator, nurse educator, and other advanced nursing roles. Accredited online nursing programs meet the same quality standards as online programs.
Related MSN Resources
Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing
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8 Popular MSN Degree Specializations
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The Most Affordable Online MSN Programs
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