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Master's in Nursing Education Online MSN Track

Inspire and Teach the Next Generation of Nurses 

• Low tuition: $637 per credit x 36 credits total
• No entrance exams
• Provides educational content for CNE exam certification
• Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 2
• 5 term starts per year: No caps or waiting list
• 8% projected growth for postsecondary teacher roles through 2032 1

Earn Your Online MSN in Nursing Education

Combine your clinical expertise and passion for teaching with the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Education program at Southern New Hampshire University.

Nursing educators will play a pivotal role in the future of nursing. By teaching and training the next generation of nursing professionals, you'll be a critical factor in providing equitable care for diverse populations.

This MSN program track can help prepare you to lead and teach future nursing professionals as an academic or clinical nurse educator in major universities, community colleges, hospitals and healthcare organizations.

With most nursing schools facing growing numbers of applicants, nurse educators are in high demand. The online MSN Nursing Education program offers an authentic learning experience that develops resume-building skills and knowledge required to teach the next generation of nurses. 

At the end of the program track, students will have an opportunity to put learning into practice with a practicum course that includes a 135-hour clinical and academic teaching immersion experiences under the guidance of nurse educator preceptors.

The MSN program track is based on the competencies and practice standards defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the National League for Nursing (NLN). Graduates of the MSN Nursing Education program meet the educational requirements for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam offered by the National League for Nursing.

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education , 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.

.st0{fill:#21386D;} What You'll Learn

• Evidence-based practice and healthcare technology applications
• Leadership and collaboration skills that can improve nursing practice
• Advanced communication and advocacy strategy development
• How to advance equitable health policies and regulations
• Best teaching practices to develop and evaluate high-quality education

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } How You'll Learn

At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.

Fast Track Your MSN

Ready for the next phase of your career? With SNHU's 5 MSN program tracks — updated to align with today’s healthcare standards — you'll be on your way to earn your degree faster, for less.

Nurse Educator Career Outlook

Nurses are in high demand, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting about 193,100 openings – each year, on average – for registered nurses through 2032. 1 But that's just the tip of the iceberg.

As the workforce ages, demand is also shifting to nurses with more specialized skills – and leadership and teaching are some of the most valued among them.

For this reason, jobs for postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers are expected to grow in coming years. 1 Those who earn an MSN in Nursing Education will be prepared to pursue a number of different roles, from postsecondary teacher to simulation coordinator.

Consider, too, the unprecedented challenges of the recent pandemic. The evolving state of healthcare fuels a need for nurse educators – those who can help prepare nurses in a rapidly changing field – now more than ever.

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } Job Growth

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, career opportunities for postsecondary teachers are expected to grow 8% through 2032. 1

.cls-1 { fill: #21386d; } Salary

The median annual salary was $80,840 for postsecondary teachers in 2022. 1

Understanding the Numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

According to the 2021 report, ''The Future of Nursing: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity," published by the National Academy of Medicine, nurse educators will play an invaluable role in the future of healthcare. 3

"The ability to care for and protect the nation’s most vulnerable citizens depends substantially on the preparedness of the nursing workforce," the report noted. 3 "The myriad factors related to national nurse education and training — licensure and certification, scope of practice, mobilization and deployment, safety and protection, crisis leadership, and health care and public health systems support — together define nursing’s capacity and capabilities in disaster response." 3

Further, the report urges nurse educators to inform the next generation of nursing professionals. In doing so, the National Academy of Medicine notes, nurse educators can "help advance health equity nationwide." 3

This urgency to help prepare a new nursing workforce is one of the reasons SNHU is so dedicated to creating seamless, fast pathways to an MSN degree. It's also why we offer this program with no caps or waiting lists – helping you get one step closer to the next chapter in your career.

Where Could You Work?

Teach patient care in classroom and clinical units to experienced nurses and nursing students.

Healthcare Organizations

Coordinate and manage the nursing program's simulation and skills lab.

Community Colleges

Instruct and evaluate the clinical training of health sciences students.

Educational Support Services

Evaluate the effectiveness of curriculums established by school boards, states or federal entities.

Universities

Oversee student services, academics and faculty research in a specific education department.

Represent the educational needs of nurses and their impact on healthcare equity.

Start Your Journey Toward an Online Nursing Education Leadership Degree

Why snhu for your online nurse educator degree flexible with no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7. affordable as part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. in fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. prior coursework and work experience could also help you save time and money. snhu’s transfer policy  allows you to transfer up to 12 credits from your previous institution. you could also earn college credit for previous work experience . respected founded in 1932 , southern new hampshire university is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. snhu is accredited by the new england commission of higher education (neche), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.  recently, snhu has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education: “most innovative” regional university honors from u.s. news & world report each year since 2015 a $1 million grant from google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth recognition as a 2017 digital learning innovator by the online learning consortium network at southern new hampshire university, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities. 93.2% of online students would recommend snhu according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents. discover why snhu may be right for you . admission requirements acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 5 graduate terms . you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials. to apply, simply contact an admission counselor , who can help you explore financial options . your counselor can also walk you through the application process, which involves completing a graduate application and providing undergraduate transcripts. msn admission requirements: must maintain an active unencumbered registered nurse license. licensure exam must be equivalent to nclex-rn examination. (if a student holds active licenses in more than one state/jurisdiction all licenses must be unencumbered.)  must have an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited nursing program (acen, ccne, and cnea) with a minimum cumulative gpa of 3.0. applicants with a gpa below 3.0 but 2.67 or above may be eligible for provisional acceptance. completion of the msn acknowledgement form. provisional acceptance may be extended to applicants with an undergraduate gpa between 2.67 and 2.99. no bsn yet no problem snhu offers an accelerated online rn to msn  pathway option that allows eligible registered nurses to achieve their msn faster and for less money. the rn to msn accelerated pathway can be applied to all 5 specialty tracks.  snhu nursing programs are not authorized in the state of washington or u.s. territories, and we are not accepting students residing in washington state or u.s. territories into nursing programs at this time. currently enrolled students who move into the state of washington or a u.s. territory will not be able to continue in nursing courses until they move out of the state of washington or the u.s. territory. prospective students are encouraged to contact an admission counselor, and current students should contact their academic advisor, for more information. applicants and students are advised that their success in their chosen program may be dependent on an ability to meet the nursing program health and technical requirements (pdf) . how to apply if you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going: complete free graduate application submit undergraduate transcripts work with an admission counselor  to explore financial options  and walk through application process if (typeof accordiongroup === "undefined") { window.accordiongroup = new accordion(); } accordiongroup.init(document.getelementbyid('1104bbb6bbab4116906a4c41e710db5c')); preparing you for success.

Dr. Sonya Blevins, associate dean of nursing

“You will learn very quickly through clinical experiences what you like and don’t like. A good nursing program will help you figure out your path by the time you graduate."

Nursing Education Courses & Curriculum

The online MSN Nursing Education track can help prepare you to teach in clinical and academic settings.

Like all MSN tracks at SNHU, the Nursing Education program track requires the following 5 core courses:

• Role Development and the Transformation of the MSN Nurse
• Interprofessional Leadership in Healthcare
• Epidemiological and Biostatistical Applications in Healthcare
• Global Health & Diversity
• Evidence-Based Practice & Scholarly Inquiry

Upon completing your core, you'll take the following Nursing Education track specific courses:

• Advanced Clinical Pathophysiology. Build upon existing knowledge of physiology and pathologic aspects of human disease across the lifespan. Advanced clinical pathophysiology, pathobiology, immunology, and genetics will all be analyzed. You'll gain knowledge to foster advanced clinical reasoning and decision-making skills. You'll then examine clinical manifestations of major health problems across the lifespan and explore the management of illness and health restoration.
• Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Reasoning. Build on previous clinical experience and prior knowledge to master health assessment skills and advanced communication strategies. You'll conduct comprehensive health assessments incorporating environmental, genetic, multicultural, ethnic and socioeconomic factors. You'll also gain mastery of the advanced history and physical exam, formulate plans to ensure effective patient-centered care and adapt your communication style to meet the specific needs of diverse individuals and families.
• Population Care Management. Build upon previous health promotion and disease prevention knowledge and gain additional management skills to improve the health of populations. You'll assess health risks, services and needs of populations, analyze data to drive the improvement of care and investigate funding resources to address deficiencies. You'll also demonstrate the ability to coordinate care through the establishment of interprofessional partnerships to address gaps in care and develop, implement and evaluate improvement plans.
• Facilitating Learning and Teaching Innovation in Nursing Education. Explore the use of teaching and learning assessment strategies for nurse educators. Emphasis is placed on application of evidence-based practice to enhance student learning in clinical, didactic and online learning environments. You'll examine various teaching and learning methods, including using innovative education technologies. Topics in this course include feedback strategies, test construction and item analysis and developing and using rubrics.
• Curriculum Foundations in Nursing Education. Explore the role of the nurse educator in curriculum design and evaluation. Emphasis is placed on the process of developing curricula to include evaluation of program outcomes. You'll examine policies, accreditation, professional standards and regulations that are designed to ensure program compliance and the achievement of learner outcomes. You'll also explore learning strategies that guide the development and revision of programs and outcomes.

The MSN Nursing Education track integrates hands-on learning throughout. You'll be required to complete a practicum experience, helping you apply your skills in an authentic healthcare setting.

The online MSN Nursing Education track is aligned to the core competencies defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the National League for Nursing. The program provides the essential skills required by registered nurses to either transition into or supports the requirements of the nurse educator role. Graduates of the MSN Nursing Education track meet the educational requirements for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam offered by the National League for Nursing (NLN).

Curriculum Requirements & Resources

• Clinical practice experience (CPE): Clinical practice hours are incorporated into all graduate nursing programs accredited by CCNE. SNHU incorporates these authentic learning experiences into your MSN program through indirect and direct clinical experiences. You'll be able to achieve these CPE hours through coursework and assignments and time spent with a preceptor. Please connect with our Student Experience team to learn more about clinical practice experiences by track.

Students enrolled in the MSN program must comply with requirements of the organizations where their clinical practice experiences/practicum will be completed. These requirements may include (but are not limited to) a criminal background check, active and unencumbered license verification, immunization records, professional liability insurance. Students may incur additional costs to meet organizational requirements (ex. drug screening, physical examination co-pay, etc.). These requirements must be met prior to registering for the clinical practice experience course. 

It is a requirement that nursing students carry their own medical malpractice insurance while enrolled in practicum courses. At least two terms prior to the start of the clinical components, students will be required to demonstrate proof of having an active individual medical malpractice certificate.

HEaRT Experiential Learning

Looking to gain professional healthcare experience, even before you graduate? Do it with HEaRT.

Specially designed for learners in healthcare and nursing, HEaRT (Higher Education and Real World Training)  is a powerful experiential learning opportunity at SNHU. These online, asynchronous, voluntary experiences help connect students with employers to help solve real-world business problems – so you can be ready to make an impact in your field.

Minimum Hardware Requirements Component Type PC (Windows OS) Apple (Mac OS) Operating System Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. Currently supported operating system from Apple. Memory (RAM) 8GB or higher 8GB or higher Hard Drive 100GB or higher 100GB or higher Antivirus Software Required forcampus students. Strongly recommended for online students. Required forcampus students. Strongly recommended for online students. SNHU Purchase Programs Visit Dell Visit Apple Internet/ Bandwidth 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency Notes:   Laptop or desktop?   Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.  Note:   Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.  Office 365 Pro Plus  is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for  Microsoft 365 plans  for business, education and government.  Antivirus software:  Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.  if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('f756dce5bd874c61855f6f6e92d88470')); Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Nurse Education Technology Requirements Students enrolled in the MSN program courses are responsible for ensuring they have the minimum system hardware, software and equipment. In addition to meeting the SNHU Technology Requirements, this track does have Minimum Technology Requirements as follows: 20Mbps (download) and 5Mbps (upload) Ability to record (webcam and microphone are often built into laptop or computer) Assessment kit (tools specified in course syllabus) A laptop is recommended if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('0906b3601e7c4143a8e238e25cad9cb3')); University Accreditation

ANCC Accredited Provider

At Southern New Hampshire University, we’re committed to your success — even beyond graduation. That’s why we’re committed to delivering accredited continuing education for nurses and healthcare professionals. From one-hour webinars to multi-day conferences and more, these opportunities are built to help you continue to meet the needs of communities across the globe.

Visit our SNHU continuing education page to learn more.

Southern New Hampshire University is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Commission on Accreditation.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates for SNHU's online degree programs are among the lowest in the nation. We offer a 25% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.

Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional Costs: Course Materials ($ varies by course)

Students enrolled in the MSN program may be subject to ongoing licensure checks through a third party vendor, additional fees will apply and may vary by state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Population Health Management?

The Male Nurse: Benefits and Percentages of Men in Nursing

Why is Mental Health Awareness Important?

SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page .

Nursing Education MSN

About the nursing education program.

Our program prepares students for nursing faculty, clinical instructor, and staff development positions. Advanced program courses provide students with the foundation to teach nursing and healthcare professionals.

Best Online Master's in Nursing (MSN) Programs for 2024

Online msn program ranking methodology, 10 best online msn programs for 2024.

• Why Earn an MSN
• Online MSN Benefits
• Requirements
• Accreditation

There are a lot of reasons to further your nursing education. Better pay, positions, and hours are just a few. While deciding to obtain a master's degree in nursing may be an easy decision, choosing between MSN programs can be difficult. For nurses looking for a flexible, convenient way to advance their degree, we've rounded up the best online MSN programs for 2024!

Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Enrollment: Nationwide

• MSN - Family NP
• MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Education
• MSN - Health Informatics
• MSN - Public Health Nursing
• MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
• MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
• See more GCU nursing programs

At Purdue Global, discover a faster, more affordable way to earn your Nursing degree. Purdue Global is committed to keeping your tuition costs as low as possible and helping you find the most efficient path to your degree.

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

• Accelerated BSN-to-MSN
• MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• MSN - Nurse Educator
• MSN - Executive Leader
• MSN - Nurse Informatics
• MSN/MBA Dual Degree
• See more Purdue nursing programs

Capella’s online RN-to-BSN degree is an accredited program designed for working nurses. Thousands of nurses have completed their BSN program with FlexPath, that allows you to control your pace and set your own deadlines. With FlexPath, you can complete your RN-to-BSN program in 9 months and under $10,000. Fastest 25% of students. Cost varies by pace, transfer credits, other factors. Fees apply.

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Capella for details.

• MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Informatics
• MSN - Care Coordination
• MSN - Nursing Leadership & Admin
• See more Capella nursing programs

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• BSN-to-MSN - Family NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management
• See more WGU nursing programs

Every online MSN program has its own benefits and features, and the program that is best for one potential attendee may not be the right choice for another. In ranking our list of top programs , we considered the following factors:

• Cost of attendance
• Program length
• Admission requirements
• A variety of available programs
• Ranking according to U.S. News & World Report
• Additional accolades that the program has received

1.  Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University offers two MSN degree options: Nurse Administration and Nursing Education. The program requires clinical practicum experiences that can be completed locally at an approved site with an approved preceptor. The nursing administration program requires 90 clinical hours, and the nursing education program requires 135 clinical hours. 

Fort Hays works closely with students to find a clinical placement. If this is not possible, students will be provided with a clinical site in Hays, Kansas. In this case, students will be required to have a Kansas nursing license. 

Things to note: Fort Hays State University doesn’t accept applications from the following states: Alabama, Tennessee, and Utah.

• Tuition: $319.45 per credit hour
• Summer: February 1st
• Fall: July 1st
• Spring: September 1st 
• On-Campus Requirement: No
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Phone Number: (785) 628-4256
• Email Address: [email protected]

>> Show Me Online MSN Programs

2. Johns Hopkins University

Ranked as one of the top graduate schools by U.S. News & World Report, Johns Hopkins offers three MSN online programs, including tracks for a Masters of Nursing in Healthcare Organizational Leadership or MSN Healthcare Organizational Leadership/MBA. 

Hopkins also offers an MSN Entry program, which allows college graduates with bachelor’s degrees in a field other than nursing to enter the profession directly. This is an excellent time-saving and cost-saving measure for those who know they want to pursue an advanced nursing degree. 

• Tuition: $1,881 per credit
• Phone Number: (410) 955-4766  
• Email Address: [email protected]

3. Simmons College

Simmons College offers several MSN programs, including an online FNP and PMHNP program. 

They also have MSN programs for traditional BSN students as well as a direct entry program for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. However, these two programs are held on campus. 

Simmons also offers the Dotson Bridge and Mentoring Program , which serves and empowers African American, Latinx, Asian, and Native American nursing students.

• Tuition: $1,235 per credit hour
• Application Deadline: Rolling 
• On-Campus Requirements: No
• Phone Number: (617) 521-2605 
• Email Address: [email protected]

4. The University of Alabama

Considered one of the best Universities in the South, the University of Alabama offers an MSN in Nurse Executive, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nursing Education specialties. 

With a low, flat-rate tuition available, even to out-of-state students, joining the Alabama alumni network proves beneficial when applying for clinical placements and future nursing jobs. 

It is important to note that students are not eligible for the online programs at Alabama from every state. Check with an admissions counselor to determine your eligibility. Currently, only students from 28 states are eligible for the two NP tracks.

• Tuition: $440 per credit hour
• Fall: March 1st
• Spring: August 1st
• Summer: December 1st
• On-Campus Requirements: Yes. Two on-campus sessions.
• Phone Number: (800) 467-0227
• Email Address:  [email protected]

5. Duke University

Duke University currently offers eight online MSN programs that utilize the latest evidence-based practices and high-fidelity simulation labs to educate students. Additionally, students are guaranteed clinical placement at one of the 2,000 clinical sites nationwide.

Programs include Adult-Gerontology NP—Acute Care and Primary Care, Family NP, Neonatal NP, Pediatric NP—Acute Care and Primary Care, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Women’s Health NP. 

Students are required to come to campus at least once every semester for two- to five-day intensives for face-to-face interactions, simulation, and hands-on activities. 

• Tuition: $2,166 per credit hour
• Fall: December 1st
• Spring: May 1st
• On-Campus Requirements: Yes. 
• Phone Number: (877) 415-3853
• Email Address: [email protected]

6. George Washington University 

Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top MSN programs in the country, GWU offers students a first-class education in the comfort of their homes. The NP programs utilize a hybrid approach with coursework being completed both online as well as some in-person training in simulation centers. All clinical coursework must be completed at an approved clinical site 

• Tuition: $1,530 per credit hour
• Spring: December 1st
• Accreditation: CCNE 
• On-campus requirements: Yes
• Phone Number: (202) 994-7901
• Email Address: [email protected]

7. University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut offers five different MSN programs: Nurse Educator, Neonatal NP, Nursing Administration and Leadership, Family NP, and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP. All of the programs allow students to earn an MSN, but they can also continue through the program and earn their DNP. 

All of the programs have hard deadlines for application submissions; however, they accept students on a rolling basis until the cohort is filled. That means that by the admission deadline - they might not be accepting applications for the current cohort. In that case, students may be pre-admitted to the next starting cohort. 

• Tuition: $1,200 per credit hour
• Spring: December 7th
• Summer: April 8th
• Fall: July 20th
• On-campus requirements: No
• Phone Number: (860) 486-3716
• Email Address: [email protected]

8. Maryville University of Saint Louis

Maryville University offers students five unique concentrations, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. 

Students can complete these programs entirely online, with no campus visit required, and complete clinicals locally at an approved clinical site. Additionally, unlike some graduate programs, no GRE, GMAT, or statistics course is needed. 

• Tuition: $35,383 - $43,150 total program cost
• Admission Deadline: Rolling
• Phone Number: (888) 266-0574
• Email Address: [email protected]

9. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina offers several online MSN Nurse Practitioner programs, including Adult Gerontology Acute Care, Family NP, and Psychiatric Mental Health. In addition, the university offers online MSN programs with specialties in Healthcare Leadership, Nursing Education, and Nursing Informatics. 

The online graduate programs are currently ranked #1 from the U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, the FNP, PMHNP, and AGACNP program boosts a 100% first-time pass rate on the ANCC board certification. 

• In-state: $770.25 per credit hour
• Out-of-state: $1,438 per credit hour
• Phone Number: (803) 777-9080
• Email Address: [email protected]

10. Florida A&M University

The FAMU School of Nursing offers three online MSN programs: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Women’s Health, and Nursing Informatics. 

FAMU boasts a 1:20 faculty-to-student ratio, which allows for personalized education and tailoring programs to fit students' needs. The NP programs at FAMU also require fewer overall credits than other programs, allowing for quicker completion and cost savings. 

• Tuition: $732 per credit hour
• Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
• Accreditation: ACEN
• On-campus requirements: Yes. One in-person requirement.
• Phone Number: 850-599-3000 
• Email Address: [email protected]

Why Should I Get My MSN?

1. earn a higher salary.

For many nurses, the main appeal of earning your MSN is the chance to make more money. An MSN degree can give you a significant pay bump.  

>> Related: MSN Nurse Salary Guide 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , master’s degree-trained nurses such as nurse practitioners and nurse midwives earned an annual median salary of $129,480 in 2023.

2. More Job Opportunities

Graduating from an MSN program can open the door to many more job opportunities. MSN graduates enjoy a variety of exciting options, including leadership and advanced practice positions.

3. The Ability to Specialize

Many MSN programs have specialized tracks that prepare students for a particular field or specialty in nursing. Some of the types of MSN specialties to choose from include:

Nurse practitioner specialties include:

• Adult-Gerontology NP
• Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• Neonatal NP
• Pediatric NP
• Women’s Health NP

Non-APRN specialties include:

• Nursing Informatics
• Public health  
• Nursing Administration
• Nurse educator
• Nurse researcher

4. Increased Influence 

An MSN can prepare you to advance to senior-level positions, which may place you in the position to play a more significant role in shaping patient care and policies. 

5. The Option to Teach

Nurse educators work in a variety of settings, including universities, schools, and hospitals. As a nurse educator, you can influence and share your knowledge with nurses on every level.

What Are the Benefits of Online MSN Programs?

Many nurses opt to complete their MSN degree online because online programs are convenient, particularly for working nurses. They offer:

• Flexibility with scheduling
• Convenience to take your class from anywhere at any time
• Freedom to work at your own pace
• In many cases, a cheaper price tag than on-campus options

Most online MSN programs include in-person clinical rotations. However, there are some online MSN programs without clinicals for students pursuing non-APRN nursing roles. 

What Are the Requirements for Getting Into an Online MSN Program?

The requirements for each program will vary by school and program/degree. If the program is associated with a traditional brick-and-mortar school, admission requirements will be for both the school and the graduate program. Ultimately, all programs share the same basic requirements including,  

• Registered nurse (RN) license in good standing 
• Possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited program
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Criminal background checks 
• Relevant bedside experience

Other requirements may include:

• Letters of recommendations
• Child abuse clearance
• Proof of vaccinations
• Physical examination

The easiest MSN online programs will have more lax or fewer requirements than difficult schools. Most programs that are easy to get into have acceptance rates above 90%.

Why is it Important to Choose an Accredited Online MSN Program? 

A major consideration when applying to an online nursing program is accreditation. Accreditation ensures the same standards and criteria for all nursing programs. The process improves the quality of nursing education and keeps the curriculum up to date with current trends in advances in nursing and healthcare.

There are two main accrediting bodies for nursing programs:

• The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
• The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is designed to support nursing education and ensure it is done in a safe, reliable, and consistent manner. 

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is considered the voice of academic nursing in America and contributes to the overall safety of the public's health. This committee supports the continuous self-assessment of national programs to ensure quality education is delivered to all nursing students. 

Are MSN programs worth it? 

• An MSN program can be worth the cost, depending on your career goals. An MSN is necessary to advance in many leadership and educational nurse roles. 

How long does an MSN program take?

• MSN programs can take between 1-3 years, depending on the program and if you enroll full or part-time. 

How long is an RN to MSN program? 

• RN-MSN programs are about 2-3 years long. 

Can you get an MSN without being an RN? 

• Yes, it is possible to enter into an RN-MSN program if you have a bachelor’s in another field. 

How hard is it to get your MSN? 

• MSN programs can be rigorous, but they are manageable for most students, even while working full-time.

Portia Wofford is a nurse, copywriter , content strategist, and nurse consultant . Chosen as a brand ambassador or collaborative partner for various organizations, Wofford strives to empower nurses by offering nurses resources for development--while helping healthcare organizations and entrepreneurs create engaging content that connects and converts. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter for her latest. 

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

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