The Best RN-to-MSN Programs of 2022

Keep reading to learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program or go straight to our ranking of the best RN-to-MSN Programs.

Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an RN-to-MSN Program

When determining the best 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.

1. Admission Requirements

Reviewing the admission requirements provides insight into whether or not you qualify for the program. Although many institutions have similar entrance criteria, you do not want to waste time applying for a program for which you are not qualified. If you feel passionate about a program whose prerequisites you do not meet, consider completing those before applying.

2. Specializations

As an MSN student, you will need to select a specialization. Therefore, you want to make sure the program offers the one you are interested in completing. For those who are unsure of their specialization area, many programs offer the ability for their students to explore their options when starting the program.

3. Program Curriculum

Checking a program’s curriculum will help you determine if the material covered is appropriate for your academic and professional goals. Although many courses will be similar from one institution to the next, some may offer different academic opportunities, such as specific electives, that may be important to your academic growth.

4. Clinical Experience

Every MSN program will require practicum or clinical hours. With online master’s programs, many schools expect their students to find this experience on their own. It is important to make sure you can complete your clinical experience based on the guidelines provided by the school.

5. Accreditation

Enrolling in an accredited program benefits you and your current or future employer. Accreditation indicates that the school meets educational standards. Programs that are not accredited may limit a student’s professional opportunities and earning potential, as most employers look for graduates from accredited programs.

6. Program Length

The program length for an RN-to-MSN program is typically similar between institutions. However, the time it takes to complete varies depending on your enrollment (full-time vs. part-time) and whether or not you work while attending class.

7. School Graduation Rate

Most post-secondary schools base their graduation rates on four-year, undergraduate programs. However, these numbers still provide insight into the success of the institution. A school’s undergraduate graduation rate offers insight into the institution as a whole, indicating if it can successfully prepare their students in a set amount of time.

8. Online Learning Format and Requirements

Programs may offer courses synchronously (real-time), asynchronously (on your own time), or a combination of the two. They may also include in-person requirements, such as labs or lectures. Knowing a program’s format helps you understand if it works for you and your schedule.

Why Is RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?

Attending anaccredited program provides the following advantages:

• Accreditation proves the program meets quality standards. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing only provide accreditation to programs that appropriately prepare students for their role as nurses.
• Doctoral programs expect applicants to hold a degree from an accredited institution.
• 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.

Learn More About the Best RN-to-MSN Programs & Schools

See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.

How Online RN-to-MSN Programs Work

When compared to in-person programs, you can typically complete RN-to MSN programs entirely online with little to no campus visits, providing you with optimal flexibility. However, not everyone prefers to complete everything remotely. If you are looking for on-campus opportunities, some programs offer options for on-site learning. These opportunities allow you to develop relationships with other nursing students and instructors.

Online courses are either offered synchronously, asynchronously, or as a combination of the two. Synchronous learning happens in real-time with students and instructors connecting live. Asynchronous learning happens on the student's own time, usually through taped lectures, podcasts, and other online tools. Regardless of the program, you must complete clinical experiences in person.

Applying to an RN-to-MSN Program

Before applying to an RN-to-MSN program, your first step is to make sure you meet application requirements. While specific prerequisites may vary, many programs accept applicants who meet the following general requirements:

1. Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold an unrestricted and unencumbered RN license and have an ADN from an accredited hospital-based program. Some also require previously completed coursework in microbiology, anatomy, chemistry, and statistics, among others.

2. Admission Materials

General admission materials include transcripts from your ADN program, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay.

3. GPA Requirement

3.0 GPA or higher

Paying for RN-to-MSN Programs

Choosing the right program can often come down to cost. Students who enroll in an online program often avoid certain costs associated with on-campus ones. The cost of operating buildings, maintaining on-site faculty and staff, providing health-related services, etc. are often included in the cost of tuition for on-campus students. However, online programs minimize these added costs, allowing them to offer lower tuition rates.

Even without these costs, attending an online program can still be financially problematic. Luckily, there are financial aid options available to students who need help paying for their program. Applying for scholarships, grants, and/or loans can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Loans consist of borrowed money that must be paid back upon completion of the program, while scholarships and grants provide funds based on merit, need, or academic performance.

What Can You Do After an RN-to-MSN?

After you finish yourRN-to-MSN program, you may choose to continue working as an RN or nurse leader and pursue higher salaries and levels of responsibility. Those interested in becoming nurse practitioners (NPs) must pass a national board certification exam to earn an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license.

NPs' autonomy differs depending on the state in which they practice. Full-practice states allow NPs to prescribe medication and controlled substances without physician oversight. Reduced practice states allow them to prescribe certain medications under the supervision of a physician. Restricted practice states require NPs to work entirely under a physician's supervision.

While all NPs share similar responsibilities, such as evaluating patients, ordering and interpreting diagnostics screenings, and diagnosing and treating chronic and acute conditions, their specific roles change based on their specialization. Specializations include education, anesthesia, pediatrics, gerontology, and mental health.

Three 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.
  
  Median Salary: $120,680
  Job Outlook (2020-2030): +22.5%

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• 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.
  
  Median Salary: $77,440
  Job Outlook (2020-2030): +22.5%

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• 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.
  
  Median Salary: $112,830
  Job Outlook (2021-2031): +7%

Frequently Asked Questions About RN-to-MSN

What percentage of nurses have an MSN?

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 17.1% of nurses have an MSN, while 45.2% have a bachelor's and 1.2% have a doctorate.

Can you earn an MSN online?

Yes, you can earn an MSN online. However, some online programs may involve on-campus requirements, such as attending lectures, meeting with instructors, or completing labs. All online MSN programs also require students to complete their clinical experience in person.

How long does it take to go from RN to MSN?

RN-to-MSN programs typically take 30-36 months to complete. Program length can vary depending on whether you enroll part time or full time.

Can I skip my BSN and get my MSN?

Yes, you can earn an MSN without completing a BSN program. Available options include bridge and accelerated programs. Bridge programs allow nurses with a diploma or ADN to earn their MSN in less time than it would take to earn their BSN first. Accelerated programs allow individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to enroll in an MSN program.

Page Last Reviewed: October 9, 2022

Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.