The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs in 2025
- Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
- RN-to-MSN: What to Look For
- Program Accreditation
- Applying to Nursing School
- Paying for Nursing School
- MSN Career Opportunities
- FAQ
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: BongkarnThanyakij / iStock / Getty Images PlusRegistered nurses (RNs) can increase their earning potential and clinical autonomy by earning a graduate degree. Online RN-to-MSN programs allow students to fast-track their master of science in nursing (MSN).
How do these bridge programs work? In a nutshell, you’ll complete undergraduate and graduate nursing courses, choose an MSN specialization, and further build your clinical skills.
We did the research and identified the best online RN-to-MSN programs. Explore our rankings to find the right fit for your schedule, budget, and professional goals.
Popular Online MSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs in 2025
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- 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
Stony Brook University
- Stony Brook, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$26,860
- In-State$11,310
- Out-of-state$23,100
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled25,865
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,948
- Out-of-state$27,986
- In-State$7,164
- Out-of-state$22,662
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled34,995
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$10,978
- Out-of-state$13,248
- In-State$9,972
- Out-of-state$9,972
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled62,551
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Alabama
- Tuscaloosa, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$11,100
- Out-of-state$32,400
- In-State$11,100
- Out-of-state$31,460
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled39,622
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$42,449
- Out-of-state$42,449
- In-State$21,719
- Out-of-state$21,719
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled21,348
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
University of Mississippi
- University, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$9,072
- Out-of-state$26,292
- In-State$9,072
- Out-of-state$26,294
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled24,043
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Tennessee Technological University
- Cookeville, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,520
- Out-of-state$18,552
- In-State$10,480
- Out-of-state$19,420
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled9,902
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Sacred Heart University
- Fairfield, CT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$46,310
- Out-of-state$46,310
- In-State$34,852
- Out-of-state$34,852
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled11,179
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Montclair State University
- Montclair, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$12,755
- Out-of-state$21,465
- In-State$13,740
- Out-of-state$13,740
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled22,570
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- 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.
What to Look For in an Online RN-to-MSN Degree Program
When determining the best online RN-to-MSN program, it is crucial to choose the right fit. By researching factors such as admission requirements, curriculum, and accreditation, you can find the program appropriate for your academic and professional goals.
Admission Requirements
RN-to-MSN programs typically require an associate degree in nursing (ADN), a valid RN license, and clinical experience. Review each program’s specific admission requirements to make sure you qualify.
Specializations
Nursing students can specialize during MSN training. Look for programs that offer specializations that interest you. Some programs also allow RN-to-MSN students to choose a specialty after completing their bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).
Program Curriculum
Although many programs offer similar courses, some may offer specific electives or clinical experiences that may be different or particularly important to your academic growth. RNs should also consider whether the program grants a BSN.
Clinical Experience
Every MSN program requires practicums or clinical hours. With online master’s programs, many schools expect their students to arrange this experience on their own. (Some will help you find a clinical setting, so be sure to ask your school about their practices). It is important to make sure you can complete your clinical experience based on your school guidelines.
Accreditation
Accreditation indicates that the nursing school meets high educational standards. Unaccredited programs may limit a student’s professional and earning potential, as most employers strongly prefer — or outright require — graduates from accredited programs. It can also prevent you from transferring credits to an accredited school.
Program Length
Online RN-to-MSN programs typically take 2-4 years. However, the time it takes to complete varies depending on your enrollment status (i.e., full- vs. part-time) and other factors. Find a timeline that works for you and your situation.
School Graduation Rate
A school’s graduation rate offers insight into the institution as a whole, indicating if it can successfully prepare students for key exams and their careers beyond in a set amount of time.
NCLEX Pass Rate
New nurses can’t take care of patients and earn their licenses without first passing the NCLEX-RN. A high NCLEX pass rate indicates a nursing school provides a strong education and preparation for nurses.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Programs may offer courses synchronously (real-time lectures), asynchronously (pre-recorded lectures), or a combination of the two. They may also include in-person requirements, such as labs or clinicals. Knowing a program’s format will help you understand if it works for you and your schedule.
Why Is RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?
Accredited nursing schools meet high standards for preparing nurses, measured by faculty qualifications, exam pass rates, and curriculum. RNs should always choose an accredited nursing program to earn their master’s degree. Top nursing programs hold accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Attending an accredited program provides the following advantages:
- Nursing licensure and board certification require an accredited nursing degree.
- Students in unaccredited programs may not be eligible for federal financial aid.
- Accredited programs may not accept transfer credits from an unaccredited one.
- Employers prefer to hire graduates with a degree from an accredited program.
How Online RN-to-MSN Programs Work
Online RN-to-MSN programs prioritize flexibility, allowing you to complete coursework in a fully online format. Depending on the program, you may take classes synchronously or asynchronously.
Hybrid programs blend online and in-person learning, which may help you develop relationships with other nursing students and instructors. Regardless of the program, you must complete clinical experiences in person. Consider your learning style and schedule to find a good fit.
Applying to an Online RN-to-MSN Program
Before applying to an online RN-to-MSN program, your first step is to make sure you meet the application requirements. While the process and requirements vary by program, you’ll likely need the following:
- Admission Requirements: Applicants must hold an unrestricted and unencumbered RN license and have an ADN from an accredited hospital-based program. Some also require prerequisite coursework in microbiology, anatomy, chemistry, and statistics.
- Application Materials : Common admission materials include transcripts from your ADN program, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay.
- GPA Requirement: Many RN-to-MSN programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Paying for Online RN-to-MSN Programs
RNs can increase their earning potential with an MSN — but paying for nursing school can be expensive. However, choosing an online program can mean a lower tuition rate.
Fortunately, nurses can use financial aid to cover costs. By filling out the FAFSA, you may qualify for federal student aid and institutional aid. Applying for scholarships, grants, nursing school loan forgiveness, and more can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Employers may also offer tuition reimbursement.
What Can You Do After an RN-to-MSN Program?
With an MSN, you can move into specialized nursing roles that require a master’s degree. For example, an MSN can prepare you for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles, including as a nurse practitioner (NP).
MSN-prepared nurses also pursue career paths in nursing administration, clinical leadership, and nursing education. Many of these roles offer a higher earning potential than RN roles.
Some popular specialties after earning an RN-to-MSN include:
Nurse Practitioner
NPs can fill a wide range of roles in primary, chronic, acute, and specialty care. They use their clinical knowledge and experience to diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and other medical conditions.
Nurse Educator
Nurse educators are responsible for developing, teaching, and evaluating courses and programs that educate future nurses. They can either teach general courses or focus on specific specialization areas.
Certified Nurse-Midwife
Certified nurse-midwives provide essential services including gynecological exams, wellness education, family planning, and prenatal care. They also assist pregnant individuals during and after childbirth.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Clinical nurse specialists provide specialized patient care and take on leadership responsibilities to improve patient outcomes and nursing practices.
Frequently Asked Questions About RN-to-MSN Programs
RN-to-MSN programs typically take 2-4 years for full-time students. RNs generally complete one year of BSN courses before taking MSN courses. Some MSN specialties require additional time. For example, nurse practitioners complete a minimum of 500 clinical hours, so these programs generally require 2-3 years after completing BSN requirements.
Explore Other RN and MSN Nursing Programs
RN-to-MSN Degree Overview
RN-to-MSN programs can boost career advancement and salary potential. Learn more about these nursing bridge programs in this guide.
Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing
Earning an MSN degree is a rigorous yet rewarding achievement for nurses. Review different master’s degree programs for nursing to advance your career.
Guide to Nursing Specializations and Concentrations
Curious about different types of nurses? This guide explores more than 100 nursing fields, so you can make an informed decision about your career path.