[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing (MSN)[/hen-ui-link] degree benefit from expanded career options, including management or leadership opportunities, and a higher earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online MSN degree program can make it easier to keep working while you advance your education and career.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Our guide introduces the best MSN online programs so that you can find the right fit for your schedule, budget, and professional goals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs & Schools[/hen-ui-heading]
We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
Georgetown University
Washington, DC
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
Georgetown's online MSN program offers four tracks for nurses seeking advanced practice clinical roles: adult gerontology, family nurse practitioner, nurse-midwifery, and women's health nurse practitioner. The school also offers a postgraduate certificate program preparing students for the same tracks.
Students engage in live weekly classes, including breakout rooms to facilitate group projects. Students log clinical hours in a placement portal and visit the campus in Washington, D.C. metro for high-fidelity simulations.
We like the Georgetown University program because support teams guide students from application through career services, with advisors to ensure students benefit from all resources.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
Highlights:
94% graduation rate
100% ANCC FNP exam pass rate
Post-graduate certificate programs available
Considerations:
Requires on-campus objective clinical incentives
21%
Online Enrollment
$58,848
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
97%
Retention Rate
$58,848
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
20,031
Institution Type
Private
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
Johns Hopkins’s MSN programs are designed for students with a nursing or non-nursing bachelor's degree. Students can choose from a direct-entry MSN, an MSN in healthcare organizational leadership, or a dual MSN/MBA degree. The school also offers a DNP advanced practice program for MSN program graduates.
The school emphasizes diversity, academic rigor, and improving the health of diverse communities through leadership and excellence in nursing education, research, and practice. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the MSN and DNP programs.
Highlights:
94% graduation rate
MSN/MBA dual degree available
Post-master certifications in psychiatric/mental health NP, nursing education, and healthcare organizational leadership
Considerations:
No MSN program for advanced practice roles
Interview required for admission
Additional state-specific requirements for learners outside Maryland
58%
Online Enrollment
$62,840
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
98%
Retention Rate
$62,840
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
6%
Students Enrolled
30,210
Institution Type
Private
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
OSU offers an online MSN for BSN graduates. The program prepares clinical advanced practice nurses for licensure in Ohio in three tracks: adult, family, and pediatric NPs.
Neonatal NP and psychiatric mental health NP are available only as distance learning programs. Out-of-state students should check with their state licensing agency before beginning the program. Program availability varies by state. Students in specific programs must complete three two-day on-campus intensives before graduating. Not all core classes are guaranteed to be online each semester.
We like this program because applications receive a holistic review, including academics, professional background, life experiences, strengths, and attributes.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the BSN, MSN, DNP, and APRN certificate programs.
Highlights:
Three advanced-practice NP tracks
Option to add a post-master’s certificate
Holistic application approach
Considerations:
Program staff make final clinical placement decisions
Out-of-state students submit potential clinical preceptors for approval
Most online coursework is synchronous
63%
Online Enrollment
$12,515
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
94%
Retention Rate
$40,245
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
61,443
Institution Type
Public
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
Texas A&M International University's MSN program focuses on administration, preparing students for high-demand roles such as nurse executive, director of nursing, or patient care director. The online program can be completed in as little as 10 months.
Students study the correlations between healthcare policy and social justice issues in coursework that includes theories influencing practice, healthcare informatics, healthcare policy, and transformational leadership. The program includes an immersive, 180-hour practicum preparing nurse executives for leadership and culminating in a collaborative health project.
We like the Texas A&M program because its curriculum covers a wide range of necessary topics, from communication skills to the global healthcare environment and business skills.
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredits the program.
Highlights:
Five start dates throughout the year
No RN work experience required for admission
Considerations:
Graduation rate is only 49%
Noncompetitive admission process
65%
Online Enrollment
$ 3,350
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
74%
Retention Rate
$10,712
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
8,536
Institution Type
Public
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
Texas A&M offers an online MSN-FNP program. On-campus requirements include clinical experiences during the advanced health assessment class. Students have 1-2 on-campus requirements semesters they enroll in diagnostics and procedures and four primary care courses.
Applicants must reside in Texas and hold an active RN license. Moving out of state during enrollment may make students ineligible to complete the program. Application requirements also include an online interview and written assessments. The curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and leadership and policy.
We like the Texas A&M University program because they have a competitive program and rigorous application criteria, including timed verbal and written assessments.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the program.
Highlights:
Clinical placement assistance is available
Part and full-time study options
Considerations:
Several on-campus requirements
Applicants must reside in Texas
1,500 practice hours required before first clinical course
39%
Online Enrollment
$ 7,057
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
94%
Retention Rate
$20,054
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
78,321
Institution Type
Public
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL
4 year
Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
The UWF's online MSN program prepares nurse educators in as few as 24 months. Asynchronous courses include core work in advanced nursing practice, leadership, and policy strategies.
Specialty courses include nursing education practicums, advanced pharmacology, health assessment, and pathophysiology. Graduates can pursue roles as nurse educators, nurse instructors, and clinical educators.
We like UWF’s program because the curriculum reflects modern standards and regulations while emphasizing clinical principles for health assessment in advanced nursing practice.
The nurse educator program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Highlights:
Military students may be eligible for free tuition
Program includes three practicum courses
Considerations:
High graduate out-of-state tuition
85% retention rate is second lowest on this list
30% program completion rate is the lowest on this list
83%
Online Enrollment
$ 7,088
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
88%
Retention Rate
$22,166
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
14,371
Institution Type
Public
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
UCF’s online MSN program is designed for Florida residents and nurses with a multi-state license. The school offers leadership in management and nursing educator MSN tracks students can complete full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated program. Coursework includes theory, organizational dynamics, environment management, and evidence-based practice.
We like the UCF program because it offers flexible scheduling and a variety of programs to improve clinical skills for RNs. Students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree can apply to the MSN by completing additional prerequisites. A unique MSN track teaches nurses how to lead healthcare simulation programs in academic and practice settings.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits the school's BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
Highlights:
No GRE required
Unique nursing and healthcare simulation track
Fee waivers for online MSN program
Considerations:
Program does not prepare nurses for clinical advanced practice roles
Multi-step application process includes out-of-state limitations, an advisor appointment, an information session, and an essay
Must hold a Florida RN license
9%
Online Enrollment
$ 6,916
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
92%
Retention Rate
$25,759
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
69,338
Institution Type
Public
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
UNC Chapel Hill's online MSN program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles. Full and part-time pathways that add valuable flexibility to help students balance work, family, and educational commitments.
Two online degree options prepare students for roles as NP or in healthcare leadership and administration. The MSN NP program offers five tracks. All students take core classes, including pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, advanced health and physical assessment, and diagnostic reasoning and management.
We like the University of Carolina program because it values non-academic criteria as a way to better engage learners. The school's advanced-practice nurse pass rate is 96% or higher for all NP tracks.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing accredits the MSN program.
Highlights:
Flexible online program
The nursing program consistently receives top national rankings
Full- and part-time degree pathways
Considerations:
Students are required to complete one on-campus experience each semester
Students must provide documentation of fitness to practice
25%
Online Enrollment
$10,552
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
97%
Retention Rate
$28,844
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
15%
Students Enrolled
32,680
Institution Type
Public
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
The University of Rochester offers NP programs in six tracks: family, adult, psychiatric, neonatal, and pediatrics. The programs are a hybrid of online coursework and short on-site intensives, including two courses that require on-campus 1-2 day intensive learning experiences and two full-day skills workshops.
The online program combines structured and more self-paced experiences. Select hybrid courses utilize simulation and skills labs to strengthen clinical competencies.
We like the University of Rochester program because students can continue working and faculty guide clinical practice hours.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the BSN, MSN, and DNP programs.
Highlights:
Program with the highest student loan rate
Designed for working professionals
Three admission dates each year
Considerations:
Requires several on-campus intensives
Requires RN licensure in NY state
Clinical experience for adult, pediatric, and neonatal NP programs
17%
Online Enrollment
$38,083
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
91%
Retention Rate
$38,083
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
40%
Students Enrolled
11,946
Institution Type
Private
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School:
Vanderbilt’s women's health/gender-related NP program offers a hybrid format with online classes and several in-person sessions. Full-time students can complete the program in 3-4 semesters, and a part-time option is available.
The curriculum prepares students to provide care to women from puberty through senior years and includes advanced physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, social and structural influences on health, and leadership for change.
We like the Vanderbilt program because it assists students with clinical placements and offers small class sizes with favorable student-to-faculty ratios.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the MSN program.
Highlights:
Small class sizes with low faculty-to-student ratios
Faculty combine classwork with hands-on experience
Considerations:
Only 10% of students receive loans through the school
Students are encouraged to not work during the program's final two semesters
Clinical experiences may not be available in preferred geographical areas
10%
Online Enrollment
$54,744
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
96%
Retention Rate
$54,744
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
6%
Students Enrolled
13,575
Institution Type
Private
[hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″][hen-ui-icon icon=”badge-check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /] How We Rank Schools[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We use a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] to rank the best MSN online nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list is from 2025.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is Online Master’s in Nursing Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation recognizes nursing programs that follow industry standards for preparing nurses. You must graduate from an accredited program to be eligible for board certification for almost all nursing specialties.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Our ranking only includes programs accredited by either the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE” target=”_blank”]Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education[/hen-ui-link] (CCNE) or the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acenursing.org/” target=”_blank”]Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing[/hen-ui-link] (ACEN).[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The benefits of accreditation for nursing students include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employers rarely consider graduates from non-accredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credits earned at accredited programs are more likely to transfer.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]MSN graduates who need board certification must graduate from an accredited program.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students at accredited institutions qualify for more forms of financial aid.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an Online Master’s in Nursing Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The best online MSN program for you depends on many factors. Some of these, such as school culture or the amount of financial aid, are subjective or hard to determine before applying.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Others, such as board examination pass rates, are objective and readily available. Here are some of the most important criteria for most students:[/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Admission Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Review the admission requirements when looking for the best online master’s in nursing. These requirements also give you an indication of more nuanced factors, such as what your fellow students might be like and what the school values.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Specializations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]MSN programs prepare you for a particular [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/popular-msn-degree-specializations/”]specialty and career[/hen-ui-link], such as family practice nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse educator. Choose programs that offer specialties in your chosen area.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Program Curriculum[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accredited MSN programs offer a standardized curriculum, including courses in evidence-based care, patient safety, and nursing leadership. Students may choose elective options and must complete clinical requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Clinical Experience[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical experience provides a vital learning opportunity and helps you build your network and references. Some of the best online MSN programs may provide clinical placement assistance to students.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Accreditation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation means the program meets academic and industry standards. State licensure and national certification applications require students to graduate from an accredited program. All of the nursing programs listed on this site are accredited.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Program Length[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The right program length for you depends on your background and needs. If you work full-time and your schedule is not flexible, a part-time option might be the best MSN program for you. For students with a flexible schedule or responsibilities, an accelerated program may suit them better.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]School Graduation Rate[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A high graduation rate, combined with a high board pass rate, is an excellent indicator of a strong program. If the graduation rate is high but the pass rate is low, that might be a sign that the school doesn’t do enough to help students learn. Similarly, a high pass rate but a low graduation rate suggests issues with the program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Online Learning Format and Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The best online MSN format for you depends on your learning needs, existing responsibilities, and schedule. If you learn best from live discussions, synchronous or more structured classes may be better for you, but if your schedule is unpredictable, asynchronous or self-paced coursework could be easier to manage.[/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Online Master’s in Nursing Programs Work[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The best MSN online programs typically have flexible schedules that allow working professionals to balance their studies with other responsibilities. Many programs use a combination of less-structured and live online classes to teach advanced topics in nursing theory, research, healthcare policy, and specialized clinical practices.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some MSN online programs have mandatory in-person requirements for onboarding, assessments, or other class components. For example, you must complete all [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]clinical requirements[/hen-ui-link] in person. Some programs help arrange your clinical placements, while others only approve placements you find.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students may participate in virtual simulations, online discussions, and collaborative projects. The pace is designed to be adaptable, and most programs offer options for full-time or part-time enrollment. This flexibility is crucial for nurses who want an advanced education but have professional and personal commitments.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to an Online Master’s in Nursing Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The admission requirements and process for MSN online programs vary depending on the school. Common admission requirements include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Application Requirements:[/hen-ui-text] Common application requirements include a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or an associate degree in nursing (ADN) when enrolling in an online RN-to-MSN program; an active and unencumbered RN license; and 1-2 years of experience ( varies by program).[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]GPA Requirement:[/hen-ui-text] MSN programs typically require a 3.0 GPA or higher; some programs allow conditional admission with a lower GPA.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Other Requirements:[/hen-ui-text] MSN online programs usually have [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/most-critical-prerequisites-for-getting-your-masters-in-nursing/”]prerequisite courses[/hen-ui-link]. Other requirements that vary by the program include letters of recommendation, resumes, transcripts, and personal statements or essays. Some programs require background checks, drug screens, and health clearances.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your application should reflect your strengths and your potential to succeed in the program. Avoid submitting your application at the last minute, and leave enough time for a colleague or mentor to provide feedback.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Online Master’s in Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The cost of an online MSN can deter nurses since [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]paying for an MSN[/hen-ui-link] is not cheap. Fortunately, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] can make earning an MSN possible, regardless of your financial circumstances.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Start by filling out the federal [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa” target=”_blank”]FAFSA form[/hen-ui-link] to qualify for student aid programs and need-based scholarships. Nursing students can also apply for [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarships/”]scholarships and grants[/hen-ui-link] to cover expenses. If you are currently working as a nurse, see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Once you graduate, you may qualify for a full scholarship (including expenses) or loan forgiveness if you work in an underserved area or for the U.S. government.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Online Student Testimonials[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]On-Site Clinical Experience[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Throughout the program, there was only one, on-campus, two-day live simulation required, but due to COVID-19, it was held via Zoom. My program required 400 clinical hours, which were completed in person at an acute care hospital.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]On Choosing an Online MSN Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“I was looking for a fully online program with a concentration in Clinical Nurse Leadership. I was familiar with the school’s online workflow as I had received my bachelor’s from there a few years before joining the MSN program. As a full-time registered nurse and a single mother, I needed a program that was completely online without regular on-campus requirements.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Benefits and Challenges of an Online MSN[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Some of the benefits of online learning are the convenience of completing work at home and the ability to work at your own pace.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Rather than having to drive to a location, which would involve time off from work, or extra childcare, I was able to sign in at home, listen to lectures, and utilize my time efficiently. A multitude of information is posted on the class platform and is always available to enhance your learning experience at a suitable time for your schedule.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“In the last year of my program, I was with a Cohort of about 14 other students, and we participated in weekly Zoom lectures, which allowed us to develop a rapport with one another, enhancing my personal learning experience.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Some of the challenges to earning an MSN online are time management and self-discipline. In order to stay on top of the workload, dedication, and willpower are required. There are a multitude of discussion boards, papers, projects, and lectures.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“It can be challenging to fit all of these into an already full agenda and to find the motivation to incorporate assignments into your schedule. Advanced preparation and planning are an absolute must in order to complete a successful online MSN program.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Is an Online MSN Program Worth It?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Absolutely! Advancements in technology have allowed programs to become robust in providing the suitable and necessary resources for a successful online learning experience. Online programs are developed with the understanding that many of their students lead full lives outside of the academic world. They are created to provide an education that is realistic and attainable for an evolving nursing workforce.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Degree from an Online MSN Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many MSN graduates become nurse practitioners, but you can pursue many other career paths with an MSN. [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]Advanced practice registered nurses (APRN)[/hen-ui-link] include clinical nurse specialists or certified nurse-midwives. You can also earn an MSN to become a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/nurse-administrator/”]nursing administrator[/hen-ui-link] or [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/nurse-educator/”]nurse educator[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/”]Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse practitioners (NP) can choose to practice in primary care with a specialty population, such as family practice, women’s health, adult-geriatric, or pediatrics. They may also choose acute care or subspecialty practices such as critical care, psychiatric/mental health, orthopedics, and dermatology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median NP annual salary is $129,210 as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-midwife/”]Certified Nurse-Midwife[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse-midwives provide care to pregnant women and infants. They are licensed to oversee prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care. The BLS reports a median salary of $128,790 for nurse-midwives as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/clinical-nurse-specialist/”]Clinical Nurse Specialist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical nurse specialists provide advanced nursing care and oversee nurses in particular areas, such as adult or pediatric acute care. According to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Clinical_Nurse_Specialist_(CNS)/Salary” target=”_blank”]Payscale data[/hen-ui-link], the average annual salary is $105,206 as of September 2025.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can you get a master’s degree in nursing online?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, you can earn a master’s in nursing online. MSN online programs blend virtual classes with in-person clinical requirements to prepare you for careers as a nurse practitioner, nurse administrator, nurse educator, and other advanced nursing roles. Accredited online nursing programs meet the same quality standards as online programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Are online MSN programs respected?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, online MSN programs are respected by state boards of nursing and healthcare employers. Accredited online MSN programs meet the same board certification and licensure requirements as traditional in-person programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the best master’s degree to get as a nurse?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The most in-demand nursing master’s programs prepare students to become NPs, who are projected to see 40% job growth from 2024-2034, according to the BLS. Other popular MSN specializations include nurse educators, nurse administrators, and advanced practice RNs. The best master’s degree for you depends on your interests and goals.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is it worth getting a master’s degree in nursing?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Getting a master’s degree in nursing can pay off. MSN programs prepare RNs for higher-paying careers as nurse practitioners, nurse administrators, and other nursing careers that require a master’s degree. For example, NPs earn a median annual salary of $129,210, according to the BLS.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ class=”py-4 my-0 text-center border-b md:pb-8 md:border-none”]Related MSN Resources[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”3-col” ids=”34239,34243,34293″][/hen-ui-article-row]