MSN Programs

Do you want to increase your earning potential, land an administrative or high-level position, or become a nurse practitioner? There are many reasons to pursue an MSN, and there is a program out there for every candidate. This guide to online MSN programs can help you find a school that fits your background and needs.

Online nursing master's programs offer the same degree as their on-campus counterparts. Distance learning lets you attend your school of choice without relocating, or even commuting to classes. Many prestigious nursing schools offer online MSN programs.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online master's in nursing, 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 the best online master's in nursing programs, or go straight to our list of the best online master's in nursing programs.

What Can You Do With an MSN?

You need an MSN to become an advanced practice nurse (APRN), such as a nurse practitioner (NP), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), nurse anesthetist (CRNA), or nurse midwife. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth rate for APRNs should reach 45% from 2020-30.

A master's degree can also help you earn a promotion, find a new job, or make more money. According to October 2021 data from PayScale, nurses with an MSN earn a median salary of $97,000. Approximately 15% of nurses hold an MSN, giving master's degree-holders an edge in the job market.

Some careers available to nurses with an MSN include:

msn or dnp Required

High Demand

Nurse Practitioner

NPs specialize in practice areas like family medicine, pediatrics, or mental health. In full practice authority states, they can work independently, without a physician's supervision. The median salary for nurse practitioners is $111,680, and the BLS projects a 52% job growth rate from 2020-30.

Salary $111,680*

Job Outlook 52% growth from 2020-30

Learn More About Nurse Practitioners

msn or dnp Required

High Demand

Certified Nurse Midwife

Certified nurse midwives care for pregnant women before and during childbirth. These nurses are authorized to supervise births, and most work in hospitals or birthing centers. They enjoy a median salary of $111,130 and an above-average projected job growth rate of 11% in the coming decade.

Salary $111,130*

Job Outlook 11% increase from 2020-30

Learn More About Certified Nurse Midwives

msn or dnp Required

Clinical Nurse Specialist

A CNS provides advanced nursing care within a particular specialty area, like pediatrics, neonatal, or adult/gerontology. Beyond that specialty, they must focus on a particular kind of care, such as wound treatment or mental health. October 2021 data from PayScale indicates that the median annual salary for a CNS is $92,400, and the BLS projects a 45% job growth rate from 2020-30.

Salary $92,400*

Job Outlook 45% growth from 2020-2030

Learn More About Clinical Nurse Specialists

*SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, PayScale

What to Look for in an Online Master's in Nursing Program

Finding the best online nursing master's program for you depends on your career goals, learning style, and what kind of MSN you want to pursue. Program format is also important. If you plan to work while earning your master's in nursing online, a part-time online MSN program may be ideal, while full-time learners usually graduate faster.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements tell you about your likelihood of being accepted to a program in addition to the school's academic expectations.

Program Curriculum

Courses in an online MSN curriculum should cover topics that interest you and will prepare you for your preferred specialty. Review your potential instructors and consider how their expertise can benefit you.

Clinical Experience

Consider your prospective program's clinical experience guidelines. Will you be able to find local placements? Does the timing fit with your other responsibilities?

Accreditation

Attending an accredited program is crucial. Most employers prefer to hire individuals who have graduated from accredited programs and institutions. Accreditation confirms that a program meets educational quality guidelines.

School Graduation Rate

A school's graduation rate indicates how academically challenging its programs are and reflects student satisfaction. A low graduation rate can be a warning sign.

Online Learning Format and Requirements

Be sure that the MSN's online format and requirements match your needs. For example, if you are working while studying, can you attend any required synchronous (real time) sessions?

Why is Online Master's in Nursing Program Accreditation Important?

Accreditation is one of the most important considerations when choosing an online nursing master's program. Accreditation ensures that a school provides a quality education. Many employers exclusively hire individuals who have graduated from accredited programs. While unaccredited programs may offer low prices and open admission, they can waste your time and money.

• Accreditation confirms that a school's programs and instructors have been reviewed for quality.
• Many employers only hire graduates of accredited programs.
• Credits from unaccredited programs may not transfer to accredited programs.
• Most federal student loans only apply to accredited programs.
• Accredited DNP programs may not accept graduates of unaccredited MSN programs for admission.
• Unlike unaccredited programs, accredited MSN programs tend to boast strong alumni networks and career services.

Paying for Online Master's in Nursing Programs

The right online nursing master's program for you fits your budget as well as your goals. Do you expect to receive loans or scholarships, either from the school or from other sources? Will you be able to work full time or part time?

Most students pay for nursing school by combining their own savings or earnings and financial aid. Unlike grants and scholarships, which do not need to be repaid, loans must be paid back. However, some government loans offer full or partial loan forgiveness in exchange for committing to work in an underserved area for a period after graduation.

Although institutions often sponsor their own financial aid opportunities, many membership associations, nonprofit foundations, companies, and other organizations offer scholarships.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master's in Nursing Programs

Can you get an MSN without a BSN?

Candidates with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field may prefer a bridge program instead of a regular online nursing master's program. Most bridge programs are 3-4 years long.

Can you get an MSN without being an RN?

Some schools offer direct-entry programs for students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. Many online MSN programs do not offer a direct-entry option, and those that do may require or strongly prefer candidates with a degree in a healthcare field, such as public health, or relevant work experience.

How long does it take to complete an online MSN?

How long it takes to finish an online MSN program depends on whether you hold a BSN and your enrollment status. Most full-time online nursing master's programs take two years to complete. Schools that offer part-time online MSN programs typically allow four years to graduate.

Is now a good time to pursue an MSN?

Due to the ongoing healthcare staffing crisis, increased demand for nurses, and an aging U.S. population, now is an excellent time to enroll in an online nursing master's program. The BLS projects a 52% job growth rate for NP positions through 2030, making NPs one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States.