Nurses with an MSN degree often qualify for higher pay and leadership roles. RN-to-MSN programs offer an accelerated route to becoming a nurse practitioner.
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Nurses with an MSN degree often qualify for higher compensation and leadership roles. An online RN-to-MSN program offers an accelerated route to becoming a nurse practitioner. After earning an MSN, registered nurses often secure advanced practice roles as nurse practitioners and nurse midwives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these high-level professionals earn a median salary of $117,670 per year.
This page ranks the best accelerated nursing programs online. Nurses can use the ranking to begin researching RN-to-MSN programs that fit their career goals and budget. The following sections also explore common RN-to-MSN courses and scholarships for graduate-level nursing students.
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The Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
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from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
The University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Central Florida's academic offerings include high-quality online undergraduate and graduate programs. With 47 virtual programs, the public institution provides academic programs in both in-person and convenient remote formats. Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in the master of science in nursing. The online nursing program is ideal for students with busy schedules.
The graduate-level curriculum features specialized nursing classes and foundational core coursework. Specialized electives and experiential learning opportunities allow participants to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Full-time master's degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to complete their program. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can review the institution's website.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $6,916 for Florida residents and $25,759 for out-of-state students. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. The school reports that 92% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Alabama enrolls about 526 learners who take at least some online courses. The college's online options include a bachelor of science/master of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN/MSN) program. The accredited curriculum offers a rigorous education valued by employers. The program builds advanced knowledge and skills for nursing careers.
The institution offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 20-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty. The college's website provides additional information about online student services. The program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the program an affordable option for learners pursuing a master's degree on a budget. The institution has a graduation rate of 71% for its programs.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
38,100
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Alabama at Birmingham educates graduate degree-seekers through in-person and flexible virtual programs. Busy learners can enroll in a master's program in nursing, which the public institution delivers in a convenient online format. Nursing professionals often maintain employment while enrolled in the flexible master of science in nursing program.
In the nursing program, faculty advisors work closely with graduate students. Enrollees pursuing the master's degree complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Master's candidates develop leadership skills necessary to lead teams in nursing settings.
Learners pursuing their master's degree remotely benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers explore options for reducing out-of-pocket expenses, including fellowships, scholarships, and grants. The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for enrollees to pursue graduate degrees.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 58
Total Online Programs: 17
Number of Online Students: 13,001
Average Tuition Per Credit: $488
Graduate Tuition In-State: $8,100
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $19,188
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,568
Out-of-state
$20,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
22,080
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD
4 years
Online + Campus
South Dakota State University delivers online and in-person graduate programs from its Brookings campus. Learners throughout the country can pursue an online master's in nursing from the public institution. The affordable, accessible master of science in nursing program prepares working professionals to pursue leadership positions in nursing.
Graduate students can work with faculty advisors to explore complex issues in the nursing field. The program's rigorous curriculum fosters specialized and transferable skills. Master's candidates develop analytical and leadership skills they can apply to positions in the nursing industry.
The school supports distance learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Degree-seekers can discuss funding options with financial aid counselors.
South Dakota State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 47
Number of Online Students: 4,358
Graduate Tuition In-State: $8,083
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $15,541
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,697
Out-of-state
$11,172
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,083
Out-of-state
$15,541
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
11,512
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Troy University
Troy, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
Troy University educates online graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Troy, Alabama. Busy learners can pursue the public institution's virtual master's programs, including an online master of science in nursing. Graduates often benefit from increased nursing career opportunities after earning their master's degree.
Master's students can work with faculty advisors to explore complex issues and prepare to enter the nursing field. The program's rigorous curriculum provides foundational knowledge through core coursework. Along with foundational nursing knowledge, program coursework helps participants gain industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
Learners pursuing their master's degree remotely benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. The institution's financial aid counselors support graduate degree-seekers as they search for funding options.
Troy University Numbers:
Online Master's Programs: 29
Total Online Programs: 49
Number of Online Students: 9,242
Graduate Tuition In-State: $7,650
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $15,300
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,800
Out-of-state
$15,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,650
Out-of-state
$15,300
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
16,436
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Missouri State University-Main Campus
Springfield, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Missouri State University educates degree-seekers remotely and on its campus. In addition to studying in person, learners can pursue the school's graduate degrees online. Graduates of the institution's virtual master of science in nursing, nurse educator can pursue a variety of positions in nursing.
Rigorous coursework, along with faculty and career advising, prepares enrollees for nursing careers. The online nursing program features flexible enrollment options, which are ideal for busy learners. Master's degree-seekers pursuing their nursing degree full time typically graduate in 1-2 years.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. To fund their education, 44% of the school's enrollees take out loans, which they must repay after graduation. In addition, financial aid assists 97% of the institution's learners with the cost of their education.
Missouri State University Numbers:
Total Programs: 196
Number of Online Programs: 82
Online Master's Programs: 52
Number of Online Students: 9,079
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$14,850
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,202
Out-of-state
$10,476
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
23,453
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Winona State University
Winona, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Winona, Minnesota, Winona State University delivers academic programs virtually and on campus. Online learners can pursue the school's distance education programs. The institution's nurse educator master's prepares remote students to succeed in nurse educator careers.
The master's program requires in-depth coursework, and enrollees benefit from academic and career advising. The online nurse educator program features flexible enrollment options that benefit working professionals. While most master's degree-seekers graduate in 1-2 years, part-time enrollment may extend degree completion time.
At the accredited institution, graduate students qualify for federal aid programs and other forms of financial aid. Of the student body, 59% fund their education through loans. In addition, 90% of learners receive financial aid.
Winona State University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 109
Number of Online Programs: 20
Online Master's Programs: 17
Number of Online Students: 2,591
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Applies Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,598
Out-of-state
$13,698
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,488
Out-of-state
$11,286
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
7,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Ball State University
Muncie, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State University enrolls 4,730 students in its online courses. Degree-seekers can earn their master of science in nursing remotely at the institution. The accredited curriculum offers a rigorous course of study valued by employers.
The nursing program strengthens knowledge and skills for careers in nursing. The university reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 14-to-1, giving enrollees one-on-one time with faculty. The school's website provides additional information about online student services.
The college charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. Combined, this makes the master’s degree an affordable option for learners who want to pursue graduate education on a budget. The institution reports a 67% graduation rate for its programs.
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can attend Tarleton State University's graduate programs remotely or on campus in Stephenville, Texas. Distance learners earn online master's degrees from the public institution. Professionals in the nursing field can enroll in the flexible master of science in nursing in nursing administration to advance professionally.
During the first year of the program, master's students take core classes in nursing. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers take advanced courses and customize the program through electives. In addition to classes, the program offers faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities. Program graduates often qualify for raises and promotions. Faculty advisors and career counselors help master's students and alumni locate job placements in their field.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Learners may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans. Of the school's students, 87% receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,526
Out-of-state
$14,296
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,137
Out-of-state
$11,733
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
13,166
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs delivers respected graduate degrees in a variety of fields, including a master's-level nursing degree. The public institution's student population includes degree-seekers studying on campus, along with 4,854 individuals pursuing online studies. Learners balancing academics with personal or professional obligations can take advantage of online programs' flexible scheduling options.
The master of science in nursing features a rigorous curriculum, helping degree-seekers develop foundational knowledge in the nursing field. Faculty mentors help graduate students customize the program based on their professional goals. While pursuing the online master's degree, learners complete a flexible curriculum and develop industry-specific skills. After earning the master's degree in nursing, graduates can launch a new career in the field. Master's candidates can take advantage of the institution's career services to prepare to transition from their studies into the workforce.
In addition to online support services and career advising, the school offers financial aid counseling. Distance learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Enrollees may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,284
Out-of-state
$20,082
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,912
Out-of-state
$24,438
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
12,807
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Michigan-based Ferris State University educates degree-seekers remotely and at its Big Rapids campus. Online learners can pursue the school's distance education programs. The institution's virtual master of science in nursing benefits online students seeking career advancement in nursing.
Enrollees complete rigorous coursework and receive access to support services including career advising. The online nursing program features flexible enrollment options that benefit working professionals. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time.
Students with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. To pay for their education, 53% of enrollees use student loans, which require repayment. Of the institution's learners, 95% receive financial aid, according to the institution.
Ferris State University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 231
Number of Online Programs: 32
Online Master's Programs: 16
Number of Online Students: 3,610
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,376
Out-of-state
$12,376
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,608
Out-of-state
$7,608
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
12,472
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#12 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
West Texas A&M University
Canyon, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Canyon-based West Texas A&M University provides graduate programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. The public institution's offerings include virtual master's degrees that learners can earn from any location. The school's graduate options include a flexible and affordable master of science in nursing.
Master's candidates begin the online nursing program by completing core coursework. Degree-seekers take advanced nursing courses and customize the program through electives. Faculty mentorship, experiential learning opportunities, and electives help graduate students individualize the program. Graduates often qualify for leadership positions. For assistance locating job placements, program participants and alumni can consult with the institution's career counselors.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can help distance learners fund their master's studies. Of the school's graduate students, 90% fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,554
Out-of-state
$6,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,823
Out-of-state
$5,668
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
9,970
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Stony Brook University delivers online and in-person graduate programs from its Stony Brook, New York, campus. Busy learners can enroll in remote master's programs from the public institution. Students enrolled in the flexible registered nurse baccalaureate to master of science in nursing often work full time while earning their nursing degree.
During the first year of the online program, master's candidates take core classes to gain foundational nursing knowledge. The curriculum also features upper-level coursework exploring advanced nursing topics. Faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities help graduate enrollees prepare for careers in the nursing field. A master's degree can qualify nursing professionals for leadership positions and raises. Program participants and alumni can explore their professional options with the help of faculty advisors and career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Learners can apply for scholarships and fellowships, along with tuition reimbursement programs through their employer. The school reports that 79% of students receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
26,814
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#14 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh offers online and on-campus graduate degree options. The school features a RN-to-BSN-to-MSN master of science in nursing program for distance learners. The virtual classroom setting lets participants interact with faculty and peers.
As an accredited institution, the school can provide federal financial aid. In addition to the online nursing program, the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh offers four other master's degrees. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 1,533
Number of Online Master's Options: 5
Grad School Tuition In-State: $7,793 in-state
Grad School Tuition Out-of-State: $17,107
Average Aid Awarded: $5,423
Average Price With Aid: $11,980
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,422
Out-of-state
$13,955
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,793
Out-of-state
$17,107
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
15,521
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT
4 years
Online
Among Western Governors University's academic offerings are online master's programs in fields including nurse educator. Busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options. After earning the master's degree in nurse educator, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career.
Degree-seekers in the RN-to-MSN master of science in nursing in nursing education program complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Faculty mentors assist graduate students as they tailor the program curriculum to their interests and career aspirations. In designing the curriculum, the program prioritizes flexibility and industry-relevant knowledge. Current and former students work closely with career services to transition from the program into the workforce.
In addition to online support services and career advising, the school offers financial aid counseling. Graduate students at the accredited institution can take out federal loans to cover costs. Learners may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships. The average cost per credit for the school's master's programs is $3,478.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,380
Out-of-state
$6,380
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,500
Out-of-state
$7,500
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
136,139
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#16 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte provides academic programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. Learners pursuing a graduate degree from the school can choose from remote and in-person formats. Graduates of the institution's virtual master of science in nursing: nurse educator can pursue a variety of positions in nursing.
The rigorous graduate-level curriculum prepares enrollees to succeed in nursing careers. Working professionals benefit from the online nursing program's flexible enrollment options. Master's programs typically take 1-2 years for full-time master's degree-seekers to complete.
Students with financial need can finance their education through federal grants and loans. To fund their education, 50% of enrollees take out loans. In addition, financial aid assists 74% of the institution's learners with the cost of their education.
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 162
Number of Online Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs: 64
Number of Online Students: 8,713
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,812
Out-of-state
$17,246
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,337
Out-of-state
$17,771
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
29,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#17 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
From its Beaumont, Texas, campus, Lamar University enrolls about 2,938 students who take at least some online courses. The school's virtual options include a master of science in nursing for registered nurses. The accredited program offers a rigorous education valued by employers. The program's advanced training prepares graduates for the workforce.
Degree-seekers benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, giving program participants one-on-one attention from faculty. Students can learn more about online support services at the program's website. The college charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This helps graduate learners afford the master's degree with less debt. The school has a graduation rate of 34% for its programs.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,032
Out-of-state
$16,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,324
Out-of-state
$13,920
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
15,460
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
73%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#18 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
The University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Tucson, the University of Arizona delivers academic programs remotely and on campus. Distance learners can earn an online master's in nursing from the public institution. Professionals currently employed in the nursing field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master of science, entry to the profession of nursing.
Master's candidates can work with faculty advisors to explore complex issues and prepare to enter the nursing field. The program features a rigorous curriculum that meets high academic standards. Along with building core nursing knowledge, master's coursework helps students hone crucial analytical and leadership skills.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers reduce the financial burden of obtaining a graduate-level education.
The University of Arizona Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 149
Total Online Programs: 95
Number of Online Students: 18,590
Average Price Per Credit: $1,050
Graduate Tuition In-State: $11,938
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $32,065
Applies Transfer Credits: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
44,577
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#19 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Texas Woman's University is a leader in distance learning. Experts in the field teach graduate students in the accredited master of science in nursing – family nurse practitioner program. The program educates learners through video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. Online enrollees can expect to earn their master's degree within two years. The school may offer part-time options for those seeking greater schedule flexibility.
Graduate students use financial aid such as scholarships and loans to make the nursing degree more affordable. The admission rate across all programs is 93% for new students. Texas Woman's University has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
Texas Woman's University Fast Facts:
Total Number of Online Students: 9,457
Online Master's Programs: 10
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $4,973 in-state; $12,569 out-of-state
Average Per-Student Aid Amount: $8,739
Average Cost After Financial Aid: $9,830
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,430
Out-of-state
$15,559
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,973
Out-of-state
$12,569
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
15,886
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#20 Best Online RN-to-MSN Programs
The University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Mobile, the University of South Alabama provides academic programs for remote and on-campus degree-seekers. The school offers nine total virtual master's programs. Degree-seekers interested in nursing can enroll in the online RN-to-MSN pathway from the institution.
The online master's in nursing program prepares learners to enter the job market or advance their current nursing career. Master's students can take advantage of faculty mentorship, experiential learning programs, and career counseling during the course of their studies
The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships.
The University of South Alabama Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 95%
Students Receiving Loans: 57%
Total Master's Programs: 34
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,896
Out-of-state
$15,792
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,956
Out-of-state
$15,912
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
14,397
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Why Get an RN-to-MSN Degree?
An RN-to-MSN degree can help nurses increase their earning potential and secure specialized roles with increased responsibilities. Many leadership positions, such as nurse educator, nurse administration, and nurse practitioner, require an MSN degree. Learners can pursue their BSN and MSN separately. However, accelerated nursing programs allow students to earn the advanced degree faster, and learners often save money on tuition.
Online learning often appeals to working nurses seeking career advancement. By attending accelerated nursing programs online, nurses can complete coursework around their work schedule. Many online programs also allow students to complete clinical rotations at their current workplace.
The cost of an RN-to-MSN degree varies depending on the nursing school, the student's enrollment option, and the total credits required. Some accelerated nursing programs also charge significantly lower per-credit rates for BSN coursework than for MSN classes.
Students attending accelerated nursing programs online often save on tuition and expenses. Many online RN-to-MSN programs charge a flat tuition rate for distance learners, regardless of their residency status, which can save out-of-state students a significant amount.
Because costs vary, prospective MSN degree-seekers should carefully research the cost of tuition, fees, textbooks, and other expenses for each prospective program before applying.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
Many nurses earn high salaries and benefit from strong demand. According to BLS data, registered nurses earn a median salary of $75,330 per year. However, factors such as experience and education level can impact earning potential. The highest 10% of registered nurses earn more than $116,230 per year.
Factors including geographic location and employer also influence a nurse's salary. For example, RNs who work in government roles or at hospitals earn higher median salaries than their peers.
Advanced practice RNs, including nurse practitioners and nurse midwives, earn a median annual salary of $117,670. The BLS projects employment for these professionals to increase 45% from 2019-2029, significantly faster than the average for all occupations.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse - Nursing Timeline
A typical nursing degree can take 2-4 years to complete. Each level of nursing has its own timeline, and that timeline can vary depending upon factors like part-time vs. full-time enrollment, certification, and the type of program.
Below is an overview of the typical amount of time it takes to complete a nursing degree, keep in mind that the length provided is for the amount of time it takes to complete that segment of the degree, not the entire academic path overall:
Nursing Timeline
Nursing Degree Level
Time of Completion
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
2-3 years
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
1-2 years
Registered Nurse (RN)
4 years
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
4-5 years
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
1.5-3 years
Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP)
1-3 years
RN-to-MSN Program Requirements
Accelerated nursing programs applicants must typically hold an RN license and an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Schools may require applicants to provide NCLEX-RN scores. Some programs also require professional experience in the field.
Students admitted to RN-to-MSN programs complete coursework at the undergraduate and graduate levels. MSN degree-seekers also fulfill clinical practicum requirements, and some programs require a capstone project.
Courses in RN-to-MSN Programs
RN-to-MSN programs prepare nurses for advanced practice and leadership roles. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced health assessment, and nursing analytics. MSN degree-holders often pursue leadership positions in healthcare organizations.
Nurses in an RN-to-MSN program typically complete BSN coursework before beginning graduate-level classes. Nursing students often choose a specialization such as nurse educator, nurse practitioner, or nurse administrator. Learners also complete clinical practicum hours to gain hands-on training in their specialty area.
This section introduces courses common to many RN-to-MSN programs. However, available courses vary by program and specialization. Students should contact their prospective institution for curriculum information.
Advanced Health Assessment
Students in this course learn how to conduct a comprehensive health interview that covers physical and mental health. Degree-seekers practice examination skills through simulations and laboratory assignments. Coursework builds on registered nurses' health assessment abilities and examines advanced approaches to nursing care.
Health Promotion
The course explores best practices for encouraging wellness in individual patients and populations. Coursework covers current issues in health promotion and health policy challenges. Nurses gain the theoretical knowledge and analytical skills necessary to create health promotion plans and interventions that encourage positive behavioral changes.
Clinical Nurse Leadership
In this class, nursing students develop leadership skills applicable to healthcare settings. Learners explore organizational behavior, group interactions, and management theory. Nurses develop their leadership style through projects and case studies. The course also incorporates clinical seminars.
Nursing Informatics
MSN degree-holders often pursue leadership roles that require strong data-analysis skills. Students in this class examine health information technologies and data analytics in healthcare. Degree-seekers learn to apply informatics to improve quality and patient outcomes. Students also prepare to use patient-reported data to improve the patient experience.
Community Health Nursing
Learners in this course examine community and family based healthcare. Coursework covers health assessment, health communication, and wellness promotion. Degree-seekers gain cultural sensitivity and interpersonal skills. Course requirements may include a practicum experience.
Scholarship for Nursing
Nursing students can pursue various scholarship opportunities. Many professional associations, government agencies, and private foundations administer funding to nursing students. The following list highlights a few scholarship opportunities for students in accelerated nursing programs. Learners can also research scholarships based on their state, school, or career goals.
AfterCollege and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing partner to offer this quarterly scholarship. Nurses in RN-to-MSN programs, aspiring nurse educators, and students in accelerated programs receive preference.
Graduate nursing students can apply for this scholarship from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Candidates must attend an AACN member institution or submit their nursing school application through NursingCAS. Applicants need a minimum 3.2 GPA.
The scholarship supports graduate nursing students who demonstrate innovation and leadership skills. Applicants must hold a minimum 3.5 GPA and submit an essay detailing their contributions to the nursing profession.
RN-to-MSN Questions
What is an RN-to-MSN program?
An RN-to-MSN program offers an accelerated path to a graduate degree in nursing. During the program, nurses take BSN and MSN courses to earn their graduate degree.
Can I get my MSN without a BSN?
Registered nurses can enroll in an accelerated nursing program to earn their MSN without completing a separate BSN program. During an RN-to-MSN program, degree-seekers take courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
How long is the RN-to-MSN program?
RN-to-MSN programs typically take about three years to finish. Nurses complete BSN coursework during their first year, before beginning graduate-level classes. Some advanced practice specialties, such as nurse practitioner, may require additional time.
What can I do with an MSN degree?
MSN degree-holders can work as nurse educators, nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and nurse administrators. Many of these roles offer median salaries of more than $100,000 per year, according to BLS data.
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