The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024
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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: AJ_Watt / E+ / Getty ImagesIf you are an experienced registered nurse with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and want to earn a master of science in nursing (MSN), an ADN-to-MSN program can be a strong choice.
Enrolling in an ADN-to-MSN program (also known as RN-to-MSN) lets you apply your experience and finish your degree faster than if you went back to school for a bachelor of science in nursing.
Learn more about the best ADN-to-MSN programs for your needs, interests, and background.
Featured Online RN-to-MSN in Nursing Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024
New York University
New York, NY- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$53,770
- Out-of-state$53,770
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate13%
- Students Enrolled58,226
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Texas at Austin
- Austin, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$11,752
- Out-of-state$40,996
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate29%
- Students Enrolled51,991
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
University of Rochester
- Rochester, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$58,276
- Out-of-state$58,276
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate41%
- Students Enrolled12,039
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
Stony Brook University
- Stony Brook, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$24,990
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled26,608
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Minneapolis, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$13,532
- Out-of-state$32,096
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled52,376
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$41,361
- Out-of-state$41,361
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled21,670
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,568
- Out-of-state$20,400
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled22,289
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
Montclair State University
- Montclair, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$12,323
- Out-of-state$20,443
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled20,744
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$54,766
- Out-of-state$54,766
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled23,216
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$9,446
- Out-of-state$38,822
- Retention Rate0%
- Acceptance Rate0%
- Students Enrolled7,244
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Why Is RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation is the most important factor for an RN-to-MSN nursing program. Accreditation means that a third-party agency has reviewed the program and determined that it meets quality standards and follows industry best practices.
This guide lists only accredited programs. Attending an unaccredited program is an unnecessary risk of your time and money.
While an unaccredited program may look easier or cheaper, employers will consider graduates from only accredited programs. Attending an accredited program also ensures your eligibility for licensure. Credits from non accredited programs almost never transfer to an accredited program, so joining an accredited program is more efficient.
Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an RN-to-MSN Program
The right RN-to-MSN program depends on your career goals, background, finances, location, learning style, and the program itself.
Program considerations include admission requirements, academic reputation, available specializations, and class format. While there are grants, loans, and scholarships, you still want the best value for your investment of time and money.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements tell you how likely you are to gain acceptance into a program. They also indicate what the school culture values and what your classmates will be like.
ADN-to-MSN admission requirements may be flexible, depending on the school. If you need more information, contact one of the school’s admission counselors.
Specializations
Unlike undergraduate nursing programs, RN-to-MSN programs prepare students for a particular nursing specialty, such as family practice, nurse midwifery, or nurse education. Demand is high for all of these specialties.
Program Curriculum
Another important factor in considering different ADN-to-MSN programs is the curriculum. While most of the content and skills are standard, it can also indicate the program’s focus.
Clinical Experience
Especially if you are attending an online ADN-to-MSN program, the logistics of clinical placement can be a major factor in your success. Make sure that the schedule and format work with your existing responsibilities and that you can find placement in your community.
Accreditation
Accreditation is the most fundamental measurement of a program’s quality. To qualify for board certification, you must graduate from an accredited program. All programs featured on this site, including ADN-to-MSN programs, are accredited, so you can browse confidently.
Program Length
RN-to-MSN programs vary in length and intensity. Decide on your optimal program pace after reflecting on your other responsibilities, such as whether you will continue working as an RN full-time or part-time while studying.
School Graduation Rate
The graduation rate and the board examination pass rate are excellent indicators of program quality.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
If you plan to attend your ADN-to-MSN program online, ensure the format works for your learning style and life logistics.
For example, asynchronous classes may be easier if your schedule is unpredictable. But synchronous classes may be a better match if you want to participate in live discussions.
How Online RN-to-MSN Programs Work
A growing number of RN-to-MSN programs have online options. Online programs have advantages and disadvantages, depending on your circumstances and needs.
Some online ADN-to-MSN programs require in-person onboarding or have in-person components for some classes, while others offer coursework entirely online.
However, all MSN programs, even virtual ones, require in-person clinical hours. Make sure that you can find placement in your community.
Applying to an RN-to-MSN Program
Give yourself plenty of time to prepare your application. Some ADN-to-MSN programs accept applications throughout the year, while others have a specific application period. Ask a mentor or colleague you trust to review your application to ensure you’ve effectively highlighted your strengths.
Admission Requirements
ADN degree, current and unencumbered RN license, often at least one year of experience as a full-time RNAdmission Materials
An essay or a personal statement, a copy of your nursing license, confirmation of your malpractice coverage for clinical hours, a transcript for your ADN program, and at least two professional referencesGPA Requirement
Minimum 3.0
Paying for RN-to-MSN Programs
Earning an MSN can be an excellent investment in your future, but like other investments, it can have a high initial cost.
Most RN-to-MSN students will pay from savings or current earnings, financial aid from their school, and external loans, scholarships, or grants. Your employer may also have a tuition reimbursement program.
When estimating costs beyond tuition, consider whether you must adjust your work schedule during clinicals or when studying for exams. Remember to factor in other program expenses, such as textbooks.
What Can You Do With a Degree from an RN-to-MSN Program?
Most MSN graduates become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, or clinical nurse specialists. However, other RN-to-MSN specialties exist, such as nurse educator or nurse administrator programs.
You may also consider earning a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). A DNP is the highest degree in nursing and is required to become a nurse anesthetist.
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners are primary care providers who work in a variety of settings. Depending on the state’s practice authority, nurse practitioners may collaborate with or work under the supervision of a physician.
Median Salary
$126,260
Job Outlook (2022-2032)
+45%
Nurse Educator
Nurse educators teach other nurses in an academic nursing program or as a staff member in a healthcare facility. This occupation requires skills in pedagogy, adult learning, and measuring the results of educational programs.
Median Salary
$80,780
Job Outlook (2022-2032)
+22.5%
Certified Nurse Midwife
Certified nurse midwives care for pregnant people before, during, and after childbirth. These professionals also provide primary care, including gynecological and family planning services.
Median Salary
$129,650
Job Outlook (2022-2032)
+6%
Source: BLS, Projections Central
Frequently Asked Questions About RN-to-MSN Programs
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by NurseJournal. Page last reviewed November 26, 2023.