The Top RN-to-MSN Programs in South Carolina
Credit: Daniela Duncan / Moment / Getty ImagesRN-to-MSN programs in South Carolina allow registered nurses (RN) without a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to earn a master of science in nursing (MSN) in less than half the time it would take to earn both degrees individually.
Earning an MSN helps nurses benefit from the higher earning potential and increased job opportunities that come with an advanced nursing degree. This guide explores the top RN-to-MSN programs in South Carolina, how to apply, and why accreditation is important.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best South Carolina RN-to-MSN programs, 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.
Learn More About the Best South Carolina RN-to-MSN Programs and Schools
South University-Savannah
Savannah, GA- 4 year
- Campus
South University in Georgia offers one of the few RN to MSN degree programs with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner. This degree program allows graduates to focus on health promotion in the entire family, as well as encouraging positive health behaviors. The degree is known for its well-rounded curriculum, which leaves graduates in high demand. The RN to MSN program is a unique program designed for RNs who don’t hold a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree yet. It combines both advanced practice concepts and nursing theories. This means graduates are ready to take on work in both education and health care settings.
- Campus: Savannah, GA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: Varies, please inquire
- Degree requirements: Varies, students are encouraged to contact the school for information before applying
- Minimum time commitment: 217 credits
- Programs: RN to MSN with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- In-State$16,920
- Out-of-state$16,920
- In-State$15,600
- Out-of-state$15,600
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled787
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Simmons University
- Boston, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Simmons School of Nursing offers an online RN to MSN degree program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, specifically for those who currently work as an RN but do not yet hold a BSN degree. The degree program can be completed both full time or part time. The school prides itself in having a 100% pass rate on the Family Nurse Practitioner exam.
- Campus: Boston, MA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: $1,274 per credit hour
- Degree requirements: RN license, CCNE or ACEN accredited ADN degree, resume, personal statement, transcripts, three letters of recommendation, TOEFL if applicable.
- Minimum time commitment: 68 credits, to be completed full time or part time
- Programs: RN to MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
- In-State$41,872
- Out-of-state$41,872
- In-State$21,384
- Out-of-state$21,384
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled5,705
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Robert Morris University
- Moon Township, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Robert Morris University prides itself in its 100% online RN to MSN program. It is a highly cost effective program, which makes it attractive to the majority of students. The program focuses on creating world-class nurse educators who will have the opportunity to positively influence the next generation, either in academic or in clinical settings. The degree is for those who currently hold an Associate’s Degree or Diploma in Nursing and who want to advance their career. The program takes just three years to complete and will aware graduates with both a BSN and an MSN degree.
- Campus: Pittsburgh, PA
- Type: Private
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: $270 per credit hour for the BSN element and $495 per credit hour for the MSN element
- Degree requirements: Associate’s degree or diploma in nursing, GPA of 3.25, RN license, one year’s work experience minimum, two letters of recommendation, telephone interview with the Program Director
- Minimum time commitment: Three years, part time
- Programs: RN to MSN with a Nursing Education concentration
- In-State$31,450
- Out-of-state$31,450
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled3,764
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Sacred Heart University
- Fairfield, CT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At Sacred Heart University, those who hold an Associate’s Degree or Diploma in Nursing can study towards an MSN degree in nursing in an affordable manner. The goal is to create high quality graduates who can take on positions of leadership. The school offers a huge degree of specializations, which makes it an attractive option for all types of students, regardless of their personal interests.
- Campus: Fairfield, CT
- Type: Private
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: $530 per credit hour for the BSN portion and $635 per credit hour for the MSN portion
- Degree requirements: RN license, ADN or Nursing Diploma, GPA of 3.0 minimum, resume, statement of goals, two letters of recommendation, malpractice insurance
- Minimum time commitment: Varies depending on chosen pathway. All specializations require completion of a practicum.
- Programs: RN to BSN to MSN – Clinical Nurse Leader, Patient Care Services Administration, Nursing Education
- In-State$44,960
- Out-of-state$44,960
- In-State$34,509
- Out-of-state$34,509
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled10,721
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
How Do South Carolina RN-to-MSN Programs Work?
South Carolina offers full- and part-time RN-to-MSN programs online or in person at campuses across the state. Schools may offer fully online programs with little to no campus requirements, or hybrid options that split time between in-person and online courses. Regardless of the program type, students must complete their clinical requirements in person.
Because of the accelerated pace, RN-to-MSN programs cover material taught in BSN and MSN programs simultaneously. Therefore, students must complete core coursework in undergraduate nursing before enrolling in graduate-level courses.
Most South Carolina schools require RN-to-MSN students to complete coursework in nursing technology, health assessment, health research, community nursing partnerships, and community health. Coursework varies based on their chosen specialization.
Applying to a South Carolina RN-to-MSN Program
Before applying to an RN-to-MSN program, review admission requirements to ensure you meet the conditions for acceptance. Because you focus on a specialization in your graduate-level coursework, confirm the school offers your chosen concentration.
While specific admission prerequisites can vary, many programs seek applicants who meet the following conditions:
- Admission Materials: Associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma; active and unencumbered South Carolina RN license; at least 600 hours of clinical experience within one year of applying; personal essay; letters of recommendation
- GPA Requirement: 3.0 or higher
Why Is South Carolina RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation is only provided by nationally recognized organizations, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Attending an accredited nursing program provides graduates with the following benefits:
- Accreditation proves the program meets quality standards, demonstrating that graduates can practice safely.
- Graduates from accredited programs are more attractive to employers, leading to higher earning potential and additional employment opportunities.
- Students may not be eligible for federal financial aid when enrolled in an unaccredited program.
- Accredited programs may not accept transfer credits from those without accreditation.
- Doctoral programs expect applicants to have a degree from an accredited program.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina RN-to-MSN Programs
Completing an RN-to-MSN program in South Carolina takes between 1.5-3 years depending on the school and whether the student enrolls on a full- or part-time basis. Schools offer online and in-person options, providing students with the flexibility needed to create a schedule that works best for them.
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