The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: mixetto / E+ / Getty ImagesEarning a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree can expand your career options, earning potential, and leadership possibilities. With an MSN, you can further specialize in your clinical career or become a nurse educator.
Use this guide to identify the best online MSN programs for your educational goals. Online programs allow you to continue work and family obligations while earning a degree.
“The experience I had with obtaining my MSN online was extremely positive. The program allowed me to perform the work at my own pace and further my education while continuing to work full-time and still be a mother to my son. Without an online option, this may not have been achievable for me.”
Why Is Online Master’s in Nursing Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation is vital to program quality and value, and this guide only lists accredited programs. During accreditation, an independent nursing education organization reviews the program to determine if graduates who pass the board certification are ready to practice safely. You must graduate from an accredited program to be eligible for board certification for almost all nursing specialties.
- Accreditation ensures the program has met certain standards of quality.
- Employers rarely consider graduates from non-accredited programs.
- Unaccredited programs are typically cheaper, but accredited programs usually don’t accept transfer credits from these institutions.
- MSN graduates who need board certification must graduate from an accredited program.
- Candidates for a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program must hold a degree from an accredited program.
Popular Online MSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs & Schools
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,478
- Out-of-state$19,810
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled71,881
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment96%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$54,160
- Out-of-state$54,160
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled28,890
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment88%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,559
- Out-of-state$15,473
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled50,626
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment90%
- AccreditationYes
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$59,260
- Out-of-state$59,260
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate16%
- Students Enrolled46,287
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment89%
- AccreditationYes
Ohio State University-Main Campus
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$10,615
- Out-of-state$32,599
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled61,369
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment94%
- AccreditationYes
Stony Brook University
- Stony Brook, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$24,740
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled26,782
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment90%
- AccreditationYes
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled13,061
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment97%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A & M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,818
- Out-of-state$13,634
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled8,525
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
George Washington University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$55,961
- Out-of-state$55,961
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled27,017
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Cedarville University
- Cedarville, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$32,364
- Out-of-state$32,364
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled4,461
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
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
Consider the admission requirements when looking for the best online master’s in nursing. This reduces wasted time and offers an estimate of the likelihood you will be accepted before putting in the work of applying.
Admission 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
Unlike undergraduate bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs, MSN programs prepare you for a particular specialty and career, such as family practice nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse educator.
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 is key to your success. Not only is it a vital learning opportunity, but it 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. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes accrediting agencies. MSN programs are accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). 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 another excellent indicator of what might be the best online MSN program for you.
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 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 follow a flexible schedule, which allows working professionals to balance their studies with other responsibilities. Many programs use a combination of self-paced and live online classes teaching 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. This may limit your program choices. However, you must complete all clinical hours in person. Some programs help you 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
Application to MSN online programs has several requirements that can vary depending on the school. The application should reflect your strengths and your potential to succeed in the program. Don’t submit your application at the last minute. Be sure to leave enough time for a colleague or mentor to review the documents.
- Admission Materials: BSN or an ADN when enrolling in an online RN-to-MSN program, active and unencumbered RN license, and one to two years of experience (can vary by program). Some programs require background checks, drug screens, and health clearances.
- GPA Requirement: Typically 3.0 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, personal statements or essays, photos, and interviews.
Paying for Online Master’s in Nursing Programs
Consider several factors when determining the cost of an online MSN program. In addition to tuition and fees, remember to include the cost of reliable and fast internet, any necessary travel to on-campus requirements or clinical experiences, and whether you may have to work fewer hours to accommodate studying.
While price is important, since paying for an MSN is not cheap, financial aid can make earning an MSN possible, regardless of your financial circumstances. If you are currently working as a nurse, see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement.
In addition to loans, scholarships, and grants, you may be able to get a full scholarship (including expenses) or loan forgiveness if you work in an underserved area or for the U.S. government once you graduate.
Online Master’s in Nursing 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 (APRNs) include clinical nurse specialists, nurse midwives, or nurse anesthetists (which now requires a doctorate). You can also earn an MSN in nursing administration or nurse education.
- Nurse Practitioner: Nurse practitioners 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 average NP annual salary is $126,260.
- 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 an average salary of $129,650 for nurse midwives.
- 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 $100,390 as of June 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Nursing Programs
Yes, you can enroll in an RN-to-MSN program after graduating from an accredited ADN program. You can complete the program online with in-person clinical experiences as a full-time or part-time student.
Related MSN Resources
Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing
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