The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs in 2026
- 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
Registered 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.
The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs in 2026
Brenau University — Best for Primary Care
- Gainesville, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose BU: FNP program prepares students for a career caring for patients of all ages.
Brenau University's MSN-FNP program offers aspiring family nurse practitioners the opportunity to learn from practicing NPs, preparing them to care for patients across the lifespan in just 20 months.
The hybrid program prepares students with 52 credits in statistics; healthcare for adults, women, and children; advanced nursing research; health assessment; pharmacology; and five clinical practicum courses. The courses are offered online with in-person clinical experiences and monthly Saturday classes held at the Norcross, Georgia campus.
Program Highlights:
- Tuition discounts for active-duty military members and veterans
- Prepares students to take the FNP national certification exam
- Includes a course on NP certification preparation
Good to Know:
- Bachelor's degree in nursing required with a minimum 3.0 GPA from all college transcripts
- $824 per credit plus fees
- Must have an active, unrestricted RN license or at least one year of full-time work experience in the past five years
61%
$14,130
65%
$14,130
- Acceptance Rate
- 88%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,436
- Institution Type
- Private
Campbellsville University — Most Affordable
- Campbellsville, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose CU: Tuition is just over $600 per credit for all students.
We chose Campbellsville's online MSN program because it offers the most affordable tuition at only $603 per credit for either the 45-credit family nurse practitioner or 38-credit nurse education MSN tracks. Both tracks require 23 credits of core coursework and 15-22 credits of track-specific coursework and at least 780 clinical hours.
Both tracks are fully online, and the FNP track offers full and part-time options, allowing students to complete the program in 2-3 years.
Other Highlights:
- No GRE or GMAT required
- No. 2 in Kentucky and No. 6 in the South for the lowest student debt rate
- 100% job placement rate
Good to Know:
- Accepts up to six transfer credits
- BSN and RN license required
- Two start dates in August and January
37%
$9,620
60%
$9,620
- Acceptance Rate
- 98%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,451
- Institution Type
- Private
Franklin University — Most Streamlined Degree Pathway
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose Franklin: Online bridge course and tuition guarantee help smooth the process for students.
We chose Franklin University's RN-to-MSN program because it offers the most efficient pathway for RNs to earn their MSN. The program offers a tuition guarantee and a single bridge course that qualifies you for the MSN program. Then, you can choose one of six MSN tracks: adult-gerontology primary care, family, psychiatric mental health, health administration, nurse educator, and general. You can complete the non-clinical tracks in 19-21 months. The clinical tracks take 30-31 months.
Franklin University guarantees tuition will stay the same from enrollment to graduation. Tuition costs $670 per credit plus nursing program-specific fees, which vary by program. You may also qualify for reduced tuition if Franklin University partners with your employer or a professional organization you’re a member of.
Other Highlights:
- 98% student satisfaction rate
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- No GRE or GMAT required
Good to Know:
- Must have an active, unencumbered RN license from a Nursing Licensure Compact state
- $85 non-refundable, non-transferable application fee
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required, but conditional enrollment may be offered
96%
$12,060
47%
$12,060
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 8,697
- Institution Type
- Private
Indiana University-Indianapolis — Best Program for Educators
- Indianapolis, IN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose IU-Indianapolis: MSN program prepares learners to teach in colleges and universities, hospitals, and other healthcare settings.
IU-Indianapolis' online MSN is a 42-credit hybrid program dedicated to preparing future nurse educators. This program qualifies you for certification through the National League for Nursing as a Certified Nurse Educator. More than half of students advance their careers before graduation.
The program features 80-99% of coursework delivered online, with 75 hours of advanced clinical practicum and 150 hours of teaching practicum. Courses include nursing theory, nursing research, and curriculum and evaluation in nursing.
Other Highlights:
- Three start dates in spring, summer, and fall
- Part-time and full-time options available
Good to Know:
- RN license and BSN degree required
- Requires three undergraduate courses in statistics with a grade of B or better
- $650 per unit for in-state students; $1,697 per unit for out-of-state students; $975 per unit for Indiana Partners
55%
$ 9,648
63%
$26,784
- Acceptance Rate
- 76%
- Students Enrolled
- 22,534
- Institution Type
- Public
Seton Hall University — Most Military-Friendly
- South Orange, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose SHU: Eligible service members can receive funding through the Yellow Ribbon program.
SHU's MSN program is the most military-friendly on our list. The Yellow Ribbon school provides tuition discounts for all active-duty military members and veterans who served on or after September 10, 2001. All eligible students can receive up to $1,203.
You’ll complete two bridge courses totaling 11 credits before you continue to the MSN degree tracks. The fully online MSN program offers six tracks: family, psychiatric mental health, pediatric primary care, adult-gerontology primary or acute care, and nursing administration and executive leadership.
Other Highlights:
- Unlimited slots available for financial aid through the Yellow Ribbon program
- No expiration date on prerequisite coursework
- Fully online
Good to Know:
- Bachelor's degree, ADN degree, and RN license required
- Most expensive school on our list at $1,570 per credit
29%
$35,160
81%
$35,160
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,571
- Institution Type
- Private
How We Choose Schools
At NurseJournal.org, we use a data-driven methodology to identify deserving nursing programs around the country, making it easy for you to find a program that meets your needs. Our lists are informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education. Our vetting process also includes a quality assurance team that evaluates data for accuracy.
Each school in this list is awarded a superlative based on metrics that we believe matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, career outcomes, accessibility, inclusivity, and individual program offerings, among other factors. Since many programs share similar offerings, our goal is to simplify your decision-making by highlighting features that are most relevant to your needs. We reserve the right to exclude schools that lack sufficient data for accurate calculations.
All data was verified in October 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 .
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 (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
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.
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