2025 Best Online RN to MSN Programs
An online RN to MSN program helps nurses advance their careers to higher paying and fulfilling nursing careers. It's considered a bridge program 鈥� a degree pathway new and experienced nurses take to advance in their careers, usually catering to RNs without a BSN. Typically requiring 2-3 years to complete, these programs emphasize evidence-based practice, policy development, and advanced clinical competencies.
Key Takeaways:
- RN to MSNs with the best Salary Scores all have median earnings above $112,000.
- All of our affordable online schools are below $9,600 in tuition costs.
- Colleges rated highly by their graduates all have reviews of 4/5 or higher.
Our methodology diverges from traditional formats to better address your diverse needs, including affordability, earnings potential, and alumni reviews. We categorize schools into four distinct groups, presenting you with carefully selected institutions rather than a hierarchical rank.
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Purdue Global
- Online Enrollment: 12,630
Purdue Global's Accelerated BSN to MSN program, designed for working nurses, allows completion within 2 years and costs $420 per credit. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it offers six specialty tracks, including family nurse practitioner and nurse educator. The program prepares you for certification exams and career advancement. Graduates enjoy a 92% employment or continued education rate within 18 months post-graduation. The program accommodates diverse needs with flexible start dates and potential credit transfer, aiming to make advanced nursing education accessible and affordable without sacrificing quality.
Western Governors University
- Online Enrollment: 49,193
Western Governors University's online M.S. in Nursing (RN to MSN) Education program offers a bridge for registered nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN. It's designed for nurse educators, with 60% of participants completing in 38 months. The program is CCNE-accredited and combines coursework with practical clinical experiences. It offers a tuition cost of $5,325 per six-month term, accepting up to 90 transfer credits. The flexible schedule and ability to accelerate through known material mean you can finish sooner, enhancing affordability. This program prepares graduates to impact patient care and nursing education positively.
Arizona State University, Online
- Online Enrollment: 17,156
Arizona State University Online offers the RN to Master of Science in Nursing program designed for registered nurses with an associate degree. This program, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, focuses on advanced education to meet complex health care needs and includes evidence-based practice and leadership innovation. It is delivered 100% online and requires 36 credits over 13 classes, with each class lasting 7.5 weeks. The program is structured to be completed in approximately two years. ASU is ranked #2 for employability among public universities in the U.S., offering a robust support network and career services.
Best by Salary Score
Our list of the top 8 online RN to MSN programs based on Salary Scores are focused on alumni earnings to determine long-term financial value. Schools are assigned letter grades, with an A+ signifying top-earning graduates based on early career salaries four years post-graduation. Eligibility is determined using College Scorecard data or online student representation from IPEDS. The high scores below report median earnings above $112,917.
Bryan College of Health Sciences
Why We Like Them:
Bryan Health's online stands out with its exceptionally high median earnings for graduates, which at $212,097, places it in the top 1% of U.S. institutions. This impressive earning potential is complemented by a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, ensuring personalized support. Further, the program requires only 8-11 credits of bridge coursework before advancing directly into the MSN curriculum, allowing completion within three years. With manageable course loads and flexible online classes that include four video meetings per semester, you can balance your studies with other commitments.
University of San Francisco
Why We Like Them:
鲍厂贵颁础鈥檚 demonstrates high earning potential, with graduates reporting a median salary of $137,452. This places them in the top 16% for earnings, highlighting the significant return on your educational investment. Designed for working professionals, the program offers a schedule of online courses within a two-year structure, requiring 33 to 38 units depending on your educational background. The program includes 400 practicum hours, which can be completed at your workplace, ensuring practical, real-world experience, and it is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
What Students Say:
"At USF, students are challenged to make an impact in the community they work in using what they've learned in the classroom. There is an emphasis on diversity and serving a larger purpose than oneself. Students are supported and encouraged to do their best."
Alicia, Graduated 2022
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Why We Like Them:
MCPHS is a strong contender due to its median earnings of $120,085 for MSN graduates, positioning these alumni in the top 42% nationwide among peers for earning potential. The online emphasizes flexibility by offering all coursework online and clinical experiences within your community. This three-year, part-time program also prepares you to sit for the Family Nurse Practitioner Board Certification Exam upon graduation. The curriculum requires attending four on-campus meetings and includes a range of clinical rotations, from health assessment to community nursing and family primary care.
What Students Say:
"MCPHS is a great university, expanding with diverse programs. I am a part of their fairly new optometry program; and I am happy that I will be able to grow with them making use of the many technological advances. The only downside to a new program is not having years of experience."
Ilisha Mciver, Graduated 2017
Thomas Edison State University
Why We Like Them:
TESU's online leads to high median earnings for graduates, which stand at $118,109, placing it in the 55th percentile for this metric. This B Salary Score suggests a solid return on investment for your education. TESU's RN to MSN program offers considerable flexibility with open and rolling admissions, allowing you to start at your convenience. The courses are structured in eight-week sessions with small class sizes and multiple term options, providing an accommodating learning environment for working professionals. You can earn both a BSN and MSN with specializations available in Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, or Nursing Informatics.
What Students Say:
"If you aren't an independent learner, then you will not like this institution. I loved it! It was not easy but I am happy that I stuck in there. TESU is generous with transfers, but I still had to complete a lot of math and writing...TESU is the perfect place for original thinkers. This institution allowed me to learn and think far beyond the simple run-of-the-mill standards."
Frank, Graduated 2016
University of St. Francis
Why We Like Them:
St. Francis is highly ranked due to the median earnings of graduates, standing at $117,979, which places it in the top 45% of institutions measured. Equally impressive, the university provides substantial financial aid, with an average package of $25,392, placing it in the top 14% for financial aid offerings. The program requires 37-47 credits, depending on your prior qualifications, making it flexible for different entry points. Its length is designed for completion within 2-3 years, offering a structured yet relatively swift path to degree completion.
The University of Texas at Arlington
Why We Like Them:
UTA excels in its online , with graduates earning over six figures 鈥� $115,905. The graduate nursing program curriculum requires specific credit completions and is structured to ensure you meet licensure requirements, while also offering specialized tracks, like in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Importantly, UTA supports your career advancement with essential practical experiences and a commitment to academic excellence. We also appreciate that 93% of students attending UTA receive some form of financial aid, with an average package at around $11,370.
What Students Say:
"The University of Texas at Arlington's College of Nursing has a profound background in nursing. The program is exclusively online and could be accessed at any time. The assignments are reasonable, and the knowledge earned is readily utilized in the field. Discussion with peers through a forum enforces the weekly assignments. It can easily be completed while maintaining employment, and the support from advisors is sound."
Maury Belino, Graduated 2016
Drexel University
Why We Like Them:
Drexel's CCNE-accredited is high on our list due to its median earnings of $113,512, placing it in the top 47% of all institutions, a strong indicator of the program's solid return on investment and its ability to prepare graduates for lucrative careers in nursing. Coupled with its graduation rate of 78%, which places Drexel in the top 8% of universities, it's clear that students are well-supported. According to Drexel's RN to MSN program page, the program allows RNs with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in a field other than nursing to bridge into an MSN degree with a single bridge course focusing on Genetics and Genomics.
What Students Say:
"Graduate programs at Drexel University are great due to the cohort system... Professors are accessible and dedicated to student success."
Zoe F., Graduated 2018
Excelsior University
Why We Like Them:
Excelsior hosts an online that leads to significant earnings potential post-graduation with a median salary of $112,917. This B- Salary Score positions graduates among the upper 54% nationwide for income. This is a noteworthy return on investment for aspiring nursing informatics professionals. This program requires a streamlined set of credits for completion, is accredited by recognized bodies, and is tailored to meet licensure requirements, ensuring you are well-prepared for the nursing informatics field.
What Students Say:
"Excelsior college is not a scam. You get exactly what you put into it. I was enrolled in the paramedic to RN program and was successful. Couldn't have been able to do it any other way. I am currently a Family Nurse Practitioner, working on a postmasters certificate in Emergency Nurse Practitioner... Follow the rules and you got it."
Jubril, Graduated 2013
Best by Affordability
Our list highlights two online RN to MSN programs with annual tuition below $31,680. The OnlineU staff manually verifies tuition costs from official school websites, with out-of-state rates used unless in-state tuition applies to all online students. While these schools are among the most affordable, additional mandatory fees may apply, so it's important to check each college's website for complete cost details.
Western Governors University
Why We Like Them:
WGU's CCNE-accredited offers exceptional value with a tuition fee of $9,590. Furthermore, this online school boasts a strong virtual presence with 156,935 undergraduates enrolled in online courses, placing WGU among the top 1% of institutions nationwide for online enrollment. This online MSN program includes clinical practice experiences, curriculum development, and offers a NAHQ HQ Principles certificate. Also, the program's competency-based education model allows you to progress as quickly as you can demonstrate proficiency in the subject matter. (This means you could potentially graduate faster and save on tuition.)
What Students Say:
"WGU鈥檚 MSN program was a great fit due to its self-paced nature. Detailed rubrics, helpful mentors, and accessible resources kept me on track. Completing classes at your convenience made balancing work and study manageable. The program is particularly beneficial for those needing flexibility."
SLC, Graduated 2019
South University Online
Why We Like Them:
SUO offers an with a tuition of $31,680, an attractive option for budget-conscious students. Complementing this affordability, SUO demonstrates a strong commitment to online education with a significant online enrollment of 9,055 students, placing it in the top 12% of universities for this metric. SUO's online MSN degree is designed to advance your career in healthcare. You can specialize in areas like Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Informatics, or Nurse Administration, all through flexible online and virtual learning options. Gain the advanced skills you need to excel in leadership and clinical roles.
What Students Say:
"South is a great school. The classes are challenging. They give you options to take 2 classes at one time every 5 weeks. The advisors are extremely helpful. I just love everything about South University. I am currently at the end of my program."
Anonymous, Graduated 2019
Highest Rated by Students
Our list of 10 best online RN to MSN programs based on alumni reviews provides valuable insights into student satisfaction. Each school must have at least 20 reviews on OnlineU or GradReports and a minimum rating of 3.5 out of 5. Nursing schools with the best student feedback score 3.99/5 or higher, reflecting strong approval from graduates.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Why We Like Them:
UNC-CH excels with an overall review rating of 4.2 out of 5, reflecting a high level of student satisfaction. Combined with an impressive graduation rate of 91%, this places the university in the top 2% for graduation success, ensuring you are more likely to complete your studies successfully. The emphasizes leadership with courses in systems-thinking, organization theory, and health care policy. The hybrid format 鈥� comprising asynchronous and synchronous learning components 鈥� along with required on-campus immersion experiences each semester, facilitates a blend of flexibility and hands-on engagement.
What Students Say:
"High quality education from working professionals and opportunities for real-world professional experience and research."
Jaclyn Konich, Graduated 2016
University of Tulsa
Why We Like Them:
UTulsa excels with an overall review rating of 4.15 out of 5, reflecting exceptional student satisfaction. Complementing this, the program's high retention rate of 85% signifies strong student engagement. The online features include four specialty tracks: Leadership and Innovation, Education and Elevation, Public Health Global Vision, and Informatics and Analytics, which allow for tailored career advancement. The RN to MSN pathway, spanning 24 to 36 months and requiring up to 90 transferable credits, accommodates working professionals with flexible eight-week courses and multiple start dates.
What Students Say:
"The University of Tulsa is a great school to go to. They have a high quality curriculum with professors that want you to succeed and are willing to help. They have connections with many companies for jobs and internships."
Bailey, Graduated 2018
Aspen University
Why We Like Them:
Aspen has earned a commendable overall review rating of 4.08 out of 5, reflecting strong student satisfaction. The online offers several specializations, including Forensic Nursing, Informatics, and Public Health, all accredited by the CCNE, adding credibility to your degree. The program is designed to be flexible and affordable, featuring a self-paced environment, monthly payment plans with zero interest, and the ability to log on day or night, tailored to fit your schedule. It also includes practical, hands-on components through practicum courses within clinical or academic settings under the supervision of a preceptor.
What Students Say:
"I am currently a student at Aspen University and I love this program. As a nurse... the professors are experts in their areas and are very tactful. I have learned a ton of things I am able to use at work."
Anonymous (RN), Graduated 2018
University of Alabama
Why We Like Them:
UA boasts a solid overall review rating of 4.08 out of 5 alongside a recommendation rate of 96%, indicating that nearly all students would suggest this program to others. The university also excels in student retention with a rate of 87%, placing it in the top 11% of institutions nationwide. The UA's CCNE-accredited requires 50-56 credit hours, and it's noted for its Nurse Executive concentration. We also like that it includes a practicum, ensuring you gain practical experience. The structure allows registered nurses to complete both BSN and MSN degrees in an accelerated time frame.
What Students Say:
"Great instructors and ample networking opportunities...The school provides tons of professional development opportunities and many career fairs and employer meetings. Professors are always more than willing to help."
B., Graduated 2017
Xavier University
Why We Like Them:
Xavier has a student review rating of 4.0 out of 5. This metric speaks volumes about the satisfaction levels among graduates, suggesting a highly positive educational experience. The online boasts a curriculum designed to meet licensure requirements across various states. It also offers specializations like Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric/Mental Health, and Forensic Nursing. These programs provide flexibility, affordability, and a personalized learning experience in the Jesuit Catholic tradition, helping you advance your nursing career on your own schedule.
What Students Say:
"The program was a direct entry nursing program and professors did an excellent job preparing you for the real world of nursing practice. From the first semester, you were required to attend clinicals at different health care organizations, in and around the city of Cincinnati. Leadership was emphasized in both didactic and practical aspects of coursework. You graduated ready to take the Clinical Nurse Leader certification exam."
Caroline Nfon, Graduated 2015
DePaul University
Why We Like Them:
DePaul stands out with a review of 3.99 out of 5 and an excellent recommendation rate of 96%, meaning you are highly likely to endorse your experience here. The online is designed to help RNs advance their careers in nursing education, administration, or as nurse practitioners. Offered entirely online (with clinical hours completed locally), the program provides flexibility and tailored coursework based on your academic background. With a strong network of nursing alumni and partnerships like Rosalind Franklin University, DePaul equips you with the credentials to excel in today鈥檚 healthcare environment.
What Students Say:
"I found it very easy to immerse myself in the diversity of educational programs available in DePaul University...the Academic Support workshops helped me learn techniques to study and take exams."
M. Adenike Fasanya-Osilaja, Graduated 2017
Arizona State University, Online
Key Metrics:
- Overall Rating: 4.07/5
- Number of Reviews: 1524
- Recommend Rate: 93%
Why We Like Them:
ASU Online is highly commendable with a review rating of 3.89 out of 5. ASU's involves a streamlined path tailored for registered nurses who hold an ADN, allowing you to progress to a graduate-level education without requiring a BSN. The program requires 36 total credit hours, divided into easily manageable 7.5-week classes, ensuring flexibility for working professionals. You are also required to participate in two practical experiences aligning with your career aspirations, providing you with hands-on training crucial for nurse leadership roles.
What Students Say:
"ASU creates a diverse and inclusive environment. The university offers numerous scholarships, opportunities for internships, and strong advisor support. Despite ASU's large size, the supportive faculty and vibrant student community create a small-college feel. ASU ensures a comprehensive educational experience with real-world applications."
Ander, Graduated 2017
Ferris State University
Why We Like Them:
Ferris has a student review rating of 3.77, reflecting a high level of satisfaction among online students. The online includes essential bridge courses such as Professional Nursing Skill Development, Population-Based Health Promotion, and Leadership in Nursing, rounding out your skills comprehensively. We like that it offers online coursework and an emphasis on professional skill development, leadership, and evidence-based healthcare, the program prepares nurses for advanced roles. After completing the required bridgework, you can transition smoothly into the MSN during your final semester.
What Students Say:
"The professors all do an amazing job in giving all the necessary bases and knowledge... They truly care about you and want you to succeed."
Rachel Keiser, Graduated 2018
Lamar University
Key Metrics:
- Overall Rating: 4.06/5
- Number of Reviews: 121
- Recommend Rate: 83%
Why We Like Them:
LU boasts a commendable review rating of 3.63, reflecting solid student satisfaction. The online is designed for active RNs aiming to advance their careers efficiently. This pathway not only saves time and money by allowing you to earn both BSN and MSN credits for certain courses but also offers two focus areas: Administration and Education. The flexible online format caters to the needs of working professionals, and the ACEN accredits the program, ensuring high educational standards. Career outcomes include roles such as clinical nurse leader, public health nurse, and certified nurse educator.
What Students Say:
"I really really love it. The professors are very dedicated to helping you and answering questions. You get their phone number to call if you can't reach them by email. Financial Aid is available to those who qualify. The school makes it really easy to submit your documents... I applied using my cell phone and Google Drive."
VaLyssia L., Graduated 2018
University of South Alabama
Why We Like Them:
USA achieves an overall rating of 3.54 as well as a 79% recommendation rate, each reflecting strong student satisfaction. This rating is further supported by the impressive median earnings of graduates at $110,910, placing them well within the upper echelons in terms of financial outcomes. The RN to MSN pathway is particularly notable for its range of specialties and subspecialties, including Family NP, Neonatal NP, and Clinical Nurse Leader, among others, providing you a tailored approach to advancing your nursing career.
What Students Say:
"I am thoroughly satisfied with my selection of USA's nursing program. The staff are wonderful, dedicated, and available 24/7. It's great for a distance learning experience, and I would definitely recommend this school's nursing program!"
Jennifer Givens, Graduated 2015
Honorable Mention
Our Honorable Mention section highlights five notable online RN to MSN programs that deserve your consideration, offering unique strengths that set them apart. These schools, with online enrollments ranging from 2,886 to 22,314 students, may not fit into a single category but are worth exploring for their distinct programs and offerings.
Southern New Hampshire University Online
Why We Like Them:
SNHU stands out with 22,314 students engaged in online studies, placing it among the top 1% of online learning institutions. Additionally, SNHU excels with a military enrollment of 14,093, again placing it in the top 1% nationwide. The online at SNHU requires 40 courses, each spanning 8 weeks, ensuring an intensive yet manageable learning experience. Accredited by the CCNE, the program offers five specialized tracks 鈥� Nursing Education, Population Healthcare, Family Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Quality & Safety, and Nurse Executive Leadership.
What Students Say:
"Satisfied with the quality and difficulty of the courses. Good instructors with few exceptions. Online learning demands effort, just like face-to-face courses. Overall, a valuable education for a self-motivated learner."
Tim, Graduated 2023
Chamberlain University
Why We Like Them:
Chamberlain hosts an online . And thanks to this school's remarkable online enrollment of 14,992 students, it places in the top 2% nationwide for popularity among distance learners on a national scale. With options such as the Accelerated RN to MSN program, you can earn your MSN without the need for additional prerequisites, making it an efficient path for career advancement. The program also offers experiential learning opportunities, providing practical experience in a clinical setting, and is accredited by the CCNE, ensuring high educational standards.
What Students Say:
"Chamberlain is an outstanding school that I would recommend to anyone who is serious and interested in nursing. It provides an excellent education and training. I've been here for two years now, and I have nothing but positive feedback. I do recommend taking prerequisite courses somewhere else to save costs."
True, Graduated 2019
American College of Education
Why We Like Them:
ACE has strong online enrollment, with 9,861 students actively engaging in digital learning. This places the institution in the top 2% of schools nationwide for online student populations, showcasing its significant impact in the online education space. We also appreciate that its online has an affordable tuition rate at $6,600. This is further complemented by program-specific advantages such as the flexibility to start the program at multiple dates and complete it within 31 months. Additionally, the RN to MSN program emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership.
What Students Say:
"The classes are five weeks at a time and though there are no live lectures some of my professors make themselves available for weekly Zoom calls. I will complete my studies in 2 months and I am so excited. The work was not a walk in the park, there were days when I thought I was bound for failure, especially for the first class."
Tammy, Graduated 2023
American Public University System
Why We Like Them:
APUS distinguishes itself in our ranking largely due to its immense online enrollment. If we were to compare APUS online enrollment with that of other universities, you would see it in the very top 2% 鈥� clearly illustrating the institution's strong virtual presence and capability to deliver education at scale. The online, CCNE-accredited is strategically designed for working nurses who wish to accelerate their career progression. The comprehensive curriculum includes modules on grant writing and a 16-week practicum in your community, catering to both academic rigor and practical application.
What Students Say:
"American Public University is my first attempt at online education. It was so straightforward. Fast forward one year and I have now completed my first 12 classes with a 3.7 GPA. The classes (the core classes at least) have been pretty interesting. The financial aid process is seamless. Every time I have called for anything the staff have always been friendly and helpful."
Evan, Graduated 2017
Wilkes University
Why We Like Them:
If you were to compare Wilkes' online enrollment with that of other universities or colleges, it would be among the top 9% with the highest number of students studying online, highlighting its strong digital infrastructure. Additionally, nearly all of Wilkes University's students receive an average financial aid package of $29,441, which indicates their dedication to making education financially accessible. The online requires no campus visits, offers three nurse practitioner concentrations (Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, and Psychiatric/Mental Health), and ensures clinical placement support.
What Students Say:
"Faculty cares about their students especially the students' academic and professional development. Professors are knowledgeable and stimulate student interests in research and development."
Cadean Daugherty, Graduated 2019
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Purdue Global
- Online Enrollment: 12,630
Purdue Global's Accelerated BSN to MSN program, designed for working nurses, allows completion within 2 years and costs $420 per credit. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, it offers six specialty tracks, including family nurse practitioner and nurse educator. The program prepares you for certification exams and career advancement. Graduates enjoy a 92% employment or continued education rate within 18 months post-graduation. The program accommodates diverse needs with flexible start dates and potential credit transfer, aiming to make advanced nursing education accessible and affordable without sacrificing quality.
Western Governors University
- Online Enrollment: 49,193
Western Governors University's online M.S. in Nursing (RN to MSN) Education program offers a bridge for registered nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN. It's designed for nurse educators, with 60% of participants completing in 38 months. The program is CCNE-accredited and combines coursework with practical clinical experiences. It offers a tuition cost of $5,325 per six-month term, accepting up to 90 transfer credits. The flexible schedule and ability to accelerate through known material mean you can finish sooner, enhancing affordability. This program prepares graduates to impact patient care and nursing education positively.
Arizona State University, Online
- Online Enrollment: 17,156
Arizona State University Online offers the RN to Master of Science in Nursing program designed for registered nurses with an associate degree. This program, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, focuses on advanced education to meet complex health care needs and includes evidence-based practice and leadership innovation. It is delivered 100% online and requires 36 credits over 13 classes, with each class lasting 7.5 weeks. The program is structured to be completed in approximately two years. ASU is ranked #2 for employability among public universities in the U.S., offering a robust support network and career services.
Student Reviews of Online RN to MSN Programs
The experience I have had with all the members of Chamberlain University is amazing. They encourage questions and clarification from me and answer my questions openly and honestly. While this is the beginning of my relationship with Chamberlain University, I am so excited about finishing this degree and becoming a Chamberlain graduate!
Review Date: 3/12/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was so scared going back to school with a 2 year old and working two jobs. Chamberlain turned my fears into dreams and provided me with a faculty that have supported me from day one. I professor I have had has went above and beyond in making sure I not only pass, but succeed in my classes. I am truly forever grateful for their daily encouragement as well as kindness and grace!
Review Date: 3/22/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was really excited when I found Aspen University because of the cost, flexibility of online courses, and various payment options. I am currently in my first class. It is pretty typical of most online classes. I like my instructor. She provides good feedback and participates in our discussion posts. My greatest disappointment just arrived via email today. I cannot enroll in further classes because Aspen is no longer authorized by my state (MN). I don't know what happened. There is no firm date for... Read More
Review Date: 8/24/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Purdue University Global is extremely full time work and family oriented. I was able to work full time, go through some rough family deaths and almost losing my husband from an I鈥檒l was without missing a beat because the faculty/professors were accommodating and the work load was not overwhelming as long as you work on things daily. I have recommended Purdue to several colleagues as well as my own daughter. Purdue has been such a wonderful experience that I鈥檓 seriously thinking about going back to... Read More
Review Date: 4/26/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This school took my money, enrolling me in a course that I never intended to enroll in. I filled out the application for the FNP program, and they registered me in the MSN program. Two years later, once I graduated, I had to start again on the FNP; however, they offered me the acute care program, which seemed to be faster. Six months before graduation, I had no clinical site. I found placement at a local ER, which was not suitable for the program. The school didn't help me find a clinical site. On... Read More
Review Date: 3/20/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This school is expensive but the online program has been great and interactive. I love being able to see people on the screen and make friends with people from all over the country. The professors are very knowledgeable. I feel like I have a great foundation to advance my career.
Review Date: 3/6/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The availability of online classes for working people, people with children and busy schedules is a huge plus. Great program for a self motivated, independent person. The people you meet in this program will become your lifelong friends as well. Definitely consider this as an option.
Review Date: 3/6/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am currently attending Chamberlain for my MSN in the specialty track of Nurse Executive. I have to stay I was a little intimidated by complete online learning but so far Chamberlain has made this transition smooth. The course work is very challenging but the professors have been very helpful. The assignments have been thought out very well and the length of each class makes work and school manageable. Chamberlain is a great place to advance your education and ultimately your career.
Review Date: 12/5/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Professors are aimed at helping you to achieve success. I was able to contact the dean each semester to take double the course load. I was able to graduate with my BSN in 9 months, will have completed the MSN in 12 months, and beginning my DNP in September. The professors ensure that the content is understood and information is not being lost. I recommend Chamberlain to everyone after a poor experience within the ADN program at another school. Thankful for the professors to understand that we are... Read More
Review Date: 5/15/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I've been an on/off student through Purdue Global for several years. I would like to thank all of the patient instructors who have encouraged me to "be better". I hope to work for Purdue Global online sometime in the future. I am blessed by this education and strive to be as wonderful as the instructors that have gotten me through. Lori
Review Date: 8/21/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am frustrated with Purdue Global University, and sadly it seems the school is on autopilot. I had no problem completing my core requirements but it is a challenge to do my internship. I am in the New York area and the course advisor for the internship is of no help. You can never get to talk to her on the phone. They promised they would me find a site for my internship and this never happened. I should have done my internship in May and I am still waiting with bated breath. There is a long form... Read More
Review Date: 7/11/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Duke has been a great disappointment. The program is wholly unorganized. Clinical rotations are NOT guaranteed as they advertise, and the online course structure is a mess. Overall, the program needs an overhaul, communication is clearly lacking among many departments. If I could choose differently all over again, I would.
Review Date: 1/17/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
A lot of run around. If you've ever called Chamberlain, you will hear the message or person you speak with tell you the call is being recorded for quality assurance. I'm in week three of my studies and have heard this message no less than 50 times. The amount of communication just to get started is over-the-top. Once, someone from Chamberlain called me, said the message was being recorded, then asked me for personal information. This was NOT someone returning a call, yet they were baffled that I... Read More
Review Date: 5/20/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I attended South for my BSN and it was a great experience. The college of nursing was still located on Springhill when I graduated in 2004. I did not study for my NCLEX and had no difficulty passing the first time. When I started work I was much more prepared than other new nurses who went to other local colleges, except Springhill. It was a lot of work and it was hard but I'm glad I was at South. In 2017, I went back for my MSN, FNP online through South and had a really good experience. The writing... Read More
Review Date: 2/2/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
What happened to GU? I hear all these wonderful things, but wow.... The new Dean and Graduate Dean apparently have no clue whats going on, they don鈥檛 have answers and neither of them are nurse practitioners. How can they run this program? If it were not for the faculty trying to make the program work, these two would certainly run it in to the ground. Avoid, avoid, avoid!!!!!
Review Date: 11/14/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I am writing this as a student who is in his final course the capstone and its has been a journey since starting this program in May 2018 and to be finishing by this January 2019 is phenomenal and Capella University has being the best decision I have ever decided. However, sometime it was quite daunting for me as a student because I felt the coaches or tutors were no help. The classes was tough but doable but in the flex path program for my MSN in Leadership and Administration you pretty much on... Read More
Review Date: 12/17/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Walden Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program was a challenging, rewarding program that I enjoyed. I had good instructors who made learning fun and challenged me. I worked very hard. This program is set up where you get out of it, what you put into it. I wasnt spoon-fed and nobody held my hand through this. Path was set up by the school and I walked it until I graduated. I feel it prepared me for boards and thats what the purpose of the program is.
Review Date: 10/15/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University was amazing at making it possible for a single mom who has to work full time to pursue a higher degree. The online classes allowed me to complete course work from almost anywhere when I had the time available. I learned an invaluable amount of information through my course work and classes.
Review Date: 6/2/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience was great I had a very helpful academicadvisor.My 15 months was one of the most enriching academic experience I have had .I would recommend this university to anyone with young children and a job 40 hr per week.The only issue I had was financial complications that may take months to be resolved.
Review Date: 2/5/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Walden University is all about diversity and social change! Hard work and dedication is a trait of all their students. I am working on my 2nd degree with Walden currently, just returned from meeting some fellow PhD nursing students and we are all excited to continue and help each other succeed.
Review Date: 6/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
What Is an RN to MSN Program?
RN to MSN degree programs are designed to grant a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree to registered nurses (RNs) who have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Students who successfully complete an RN to MSN program receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) along the path to their MSN. It typically takes less time to earn an MSN this way than it would if you enrolled in separate BSN and MSN programs.
As an RN to MSN student, you can expect material covering increasingly advanced medical and patient care concepts. A typical program features courses on healthcare policy, patient assessment, and quality outcomes and informatics.
RN to MSN degree programs often allow or require you to choose a specialized concentration such as nursing education, administration, or adult-gerontology care.
Most online nursing master's degrees feature asynchronous classes without live meetings. Instead, you sign in to a learning management system to watch recorded lectures, complete virtual software modules, and submit assignments.
You must complete at least one clinical field experience, sometimes called a practicum, to graduate from an RN to MSN program. You'll work under an experienced nurse supervisor for a number of hours set by your state's nursing board. Even if you attend classes online, your clinical hours will take place in a working healthcare facility in your community. This might be your place of employment if you have a nursing job.
To learn about online nursing programs and nursing requirements in other states, explore our list of accredited online nursing degrees by state below:
Nursing Degrees by State
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Degree Requirements
You must have an active RN designation and hold an ADN in order to apply for an RN to MSN program. Your application will include proof of each, including official transcripts from any college you've attended. You typically also need two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement on your education and career goals. These requirements are similar to those needed for RN to BSN programs, but RN to MSN admissions officers typically expect a higher GPA on your ADN coursework (3.0-3.25).
To graduate, you'll need to complete 36-45 credit hours of coursework and several hundred practicum hours. This might take three years with a full-time course schedule or four years at a part-time pace.
Nursing Courses
RN to MSN degree programs commonly let students specialize in a focused area of nursing practice. But these programs often have a similar general nursing core, so we've listed a few typical courses below.
Ethics in the Nursing Profession
Students in this class learn about and discuss the values of nurses and their professional associations. Topics might include public advocacy, triage, patient quality of life, and systemic healthcare inequity.
Nursing Informatics
Faculty aim to teach data literacy for nursing purposes. This can involve lessons on software tools, evidence-based decision-making, record keeping, and policy planning using quality outcomes.
Patient Health Assessment
This course covers some of the most important skills needed for any nursing specialty. Enrollees study physical and mental health assessment, how to take patient histories, clinical interviewing, and electronic health records research.
Public Health
MSN-level professors hope to train nurses to think about the broader health context when treating patients. In this course, they discuss epidemiology, local health concerns, global health trends, and environmental disaster preparedness.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Nursing Degree?
MSN-prepared nurses can continue their education, secure a higher level role than they had before, or both. Below, we examine some of the potential pathways you might take after finishing your RN to MSN program.
Further Education
The nursing field is subject to credentialism, or the need to complete higher levels of education to get jobs that used to be available at lower levels. An MSN might open many doors in your career, but there are a couple of options for continuing your education.
Graduate certificates are shorter programs for nurses who want to add a skill or focus to their professional toolkits. These programs often last 9-15 months and are similar to concentrations in degree programs. Some popular certificate options include nurse midwifery, pediatric nursing, adult-gerontological nursing, and psychiatric mental health nursing. Some certificates might require that you graduated from a nurse practitioner degree program and hold an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) designation 鈥� see Nursing Careers for more information about APRNs.
Doctoral degrees in nursing include the PhD in Nursing and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). PhDs are geared toward students who want to be academic researchers and professors. The DNP is a professional doctorate for nurses who want to keep work at a high level in the field. For years, there has been a push to make a DNP the for nurse practitioners instead of an MSN.
Nursing Careers
Holding an MSN might qualify you for many types of nursing careers. This degree can lead to great variety even among people in the same graduating class. For example, you might become a gerontology nurse in a residential care facility while your classmate finds work as an acute care neonatal specialist at a children's hospital.
median yearly wages of $77,600 and can expect 6% growth in their profession during the 2021-2031 decade. It's still possible in many states to become a with an MSN. This group makes median annual salaries of $123,780 and is experiencing a very fast 40% rate of job growth.
Be sure to read our pages on how to become a nurse and the different types of nurses. And if you're worried about burning out on patient care, we offer a resource on eight high-paying career changes for nurses.
Financing Your RN to MSN Program
These programs might leave you with less student loan debt by leading to two degrees on a condensed schedule. But RN to MSN programs are still expensive. It's a good policy to apply for all available financial aid that you don't have to repay, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs.
Most students will still take out at least some student loans to help pay for school. You can use our student loan repayment calculator to help you compare financing packages at different colleges.
You can read our lists of the most affordable online MSN programs, the most affordable online BSN programs, or the most affordable online DNP programs to find cost-conscious distance learning degrees for each level of nursing.
FAQs About RN to MSN Programs
How Can You Go From RN to MSN?
There are two ways to progress to an MSN once you have an RN. You can enroll in an RN to BSN program that leads to a bachelor's degree. Alternatively, you can sign up for an RN to MSN program. These programs last a bit longer but they end with an MSN and grant you a BSN along the way.
How Long Is an RN to MSN Program?
RN to MSN programs are usually designed to last about three years for students with a full-time course load. Many schools offer part-time options because RN to MSN tracks are usually full of working nurses with families and other responsibilities. Part-time programs may take a year or two longer to complete.
How Can You Go From RN to MSN Without BSN?
RN to MSN program faculty make sure that students learn everything they would in both a BSN and MSN program. Just because the goal is an MSN doesn't mean that students skip learning bachelor's-level nursing skills and knowledge.
Can You Get a Master's in Nursing Online?
Colleges across the country offer online master's degrees in nursing. These include RN to MSN programs but also master's-entry options for candidates who already hold BSNs. You may find a degree program with fully online courses, but remember that you'll need to complete your practicum experience in person at a healthcare facility.
Bottom Line
RN to MSN programs offer an accelerated path to getting a nursing master's degree for those without a nursing bachelor's degree. Students learn advanced skills in patient assessment, public health, data-driven decision-making, and healthcare policy analysis. Most programs feature the chance to specialize in a particular area of nursing.
OnlineU provides a number of college planning resources to help you understand your online education options. Our Guide to Starting Your Online Education can then walk you through the application process once you're sure what and how you want to study.