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• Best Online Master's In Nursing (M.S.N.) Programs

Best Online Master’s In Nursing (M.S.N.) Programs Of 2024

Updated: Apr 5, 2024, 4:48pm

If you are a registered nurse aspiring to an advanced practice position or a leadership role in the nursing field, a Master of Science in nursing (M.S.N.) can help you get there. And by completing your M.S.N. program online, you can take the next step in your education without sacrificing your current job.

Online M.S.N. programs allow prospective nurse executives, nurse educators and nurse practitioners to advance their careers without having to give up their day jobs.

There is a wealth of online M.S.N. programs, and some are far more credible than others. As such, we researched and ranked the 10 best schools in the field. Read on to learn more about each program and how to find the best fit for you.

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Our Methodology

We ranked 30 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online master’s degrees in nursing in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes, student experience and application process. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of February 2024.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes :

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability :

• In-state graduate student tuition and fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

Student Experience :

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• Portion of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility :

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Application Process :

• Acceptance rate

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 89% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online M.S.N. Options

Should you enroll in an m.s.n. program online, accreditation for online m.s.n. programs, how to find the right m.s.n. online program for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online m.s.n. programs, duquesne university, walsh university, rush university, college of our lady of the elms, ottawa university-milwaukee, desales university, saint xavier university, university of central florida, the university of texas medical branch at galveston, sacred heart university.

Graduate Tuition

$1,699/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Based out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Duquesne University is a private, Catholic-affiliated research university offering an online Master of Science in nursing program with six tracks, including family nurse practitioner and executive nurse leadership.

Depending on the track, this degree requires between 30 and 44 credits, and some tracks require in-person clinical experiences. However, distance learners can complete all non-clinical coursework asynchronously online.

Incoming students can begin the program, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, at three start dates throughout the year.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 30 to 44 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Historical and contemporary foundations for advanced nursing practice; evidence-based nursing practice and policy development
• Concentrations Available: Adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner; family nurse practitioner; psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner; executive nurse leadership and healthcare management; forensic nursing; nurse education and faculty role
• In-Person Requirements: Depends on specialization

$745/credit

Located in North Canton, Ohio, Walsh University offers an online Master of Science in nursing with a nurse educator focus that requires 42 credits. The curriculum includes coursework in teaching strategies and advanced pathophysiology, and all students complete a 160-hour clinical practicum experience in their local community.

As of February 2024, this program was available to distance learners in 23 states. Students who complete their M.S.N. at Walsh can continue on to earn the university’s Doctor of Nursing Practice.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 42 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced pathophysiology, teaching strategies
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for clinical placement

1,344/credit (RN-to-M.S.N.), $1,120/credit (direct entry)

Based in Chicago, Illinois, Rush University focuses almost exclusively on medicine, health sciences and nursing. The university offers two online M.S.N. in clinical nurse leadership programs: a 74-credit, direct entry program for non-nurses, and a 37-credit RN-to-M.S.N. for registered nurses who already hold bachelor’s degrees. The direct entry program runs full time and takes two years to complete. The RN-to-M.S.N. takes two years of part-time study.

Coursework includes research for evidence-based practice and advanced pathophysiology. Distance learners must briefly visit campus to complete certain lab coursework.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 37 (RN-to-M.S.N.), 74 credits (direct entry
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time (RN-to-M.S.N.), full-time (direct entry)
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Research for evidence-based practice, advanced pathophysiology
• Concentrations Available: Direct entry for non-nurses, RN-to-M.S.N.
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus labs and clinicals

$911/credit

Located in Chicopee, Massachusetts, Elms College is a private, Roman Catholic-affiliated school offering an online Master of Science in nursing program with four tracks: nursing and health services management, nursing education, school nursing and an M.S.N./M.B.A. dual degree.

Each program includes a core nursing curriculum and a practicum experience, and students delve into topics like nursing knowledge and practice and healthcare policy and advocacy. Full-time students can graduate within two years but may take up to six years to finish their degrees.

• Application Fee: $30
• Degree Credit Requirements: 35 to 64 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Nursing knowledge and practice; technology: methods and tools for graduate study
• Concentrations Available: Nursing and health services management; nursing education; school nursing; M.S.N./M.B.A.
• In-Person Requirements: Depends on track

$499/credit

Ottawa University operates campuses in Arizona, in Kansas City and just outside of Milwaukee, in addition to international and online hubs. The university’s online Master of Science in nursing program offers two tracks: nurse educator and nurse leader. Both tracks require 36 credits and entail core courses in advanced pharmacology and advanced health assessment.

Both tracks also include a practicum experience, which learners must complete in the field, and a cumulative capstone project.

• Application Fee: $75
• Degree Credit Requirements: 36 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced pharmacology; advanced health assessment
• Concentrations Available: Nurse educator, nurse leader
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for practicum

$945/credit

Located in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, DeSales University is a Catholic-affiliated college that has greatly expanded its online presence in recent years. The university offers several online Master of Science in nursing programs, including three nurse practitioner programs, two dual-degree M.S.N. programs and an M.S.N. in forensic nursing with a certification in investigative forensics.

Curriculums vary between 45 and 58 credits. Dual-degree programs combine an M.S.N. with either an M.B.A. or an M.S. in information science. All tracks require clinical hours, and all NP tracks require labs.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 45 to 58 credits, depending on track
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Applied research, clinical prevention in population health
• Concentrations Available: Adult gerontology acute care NP, FNP, psychiatric mental health NP, M.S.N./M.B.A. dual degree, M.S.N./M.S.I.S. dual degree, M.S.N. in forensic nursing
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for clinicals and labs

$750/credit

Located in Chicago, Illinois, Saint Xavier University is a Roman Catholic-affiliated college that administers several online programs, including a Master of Science degree in nursing. This program offers two tracks: nurse educator (38 credits) and family nurse practitioner (47 credits). In both tracks, students complete core courses in healthcare systems and financing and in epidemiology and population-based healthcare.

Both tracks culminate with a practicum experience in the field. Distance learners should expect to spend approximately five to six hours per week on each course.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 38 credits (nurse educator), 47 credits (family nurse practitioner)
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare systems and financing; epidemiology and population-based healthcare
• Concentrations Available: Family nurse practitioner; nurse educator
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for practicum experiences

$327/credit

Located in Orlando, the University of Central Florida is the largest university in Florida by enrollment. The university’s online M.S.N. program offers three tracks: nursing and healthcare simulation, nurse educator, and nursing leadership and management. Distance learners can complete the nursing and healthcare simulation track entirely online, while the other two options include in-person clinical experiences in students’ local communities.

The typical student finishes this program in four to seven months. In-state students receive a tuition discount.

• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $31
• Degree Credit Requirements: 31 to 36 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Health promotion, pathophysiological bases for advanced nursing practice
• Concentrations Available: Nursing and healthcare simulation; nurse educator; nursing leadership and management

$353/credit

Located on the island city of Galveston, the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston offers several M.S.N. programs online, including four nurse practitioner tracks. Aspiring nurse leaders can concentrate their M.S.N. in clinical nurse leader, executive nurse leader or nurse educator.

Credit requirements vary between 39 and 46, depending on your chosen track. Distance learners need to visit campus for some in-person course components, such as intensives. UTMB assesses a distance learning fee on top of its base tuition rate.

• Our Flexibility Rating: N/A
• Degree Credit Requirements: 39 to 46 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Pathophysiology, advanced health assessment
• Concentrations Available: Adult gerontology acute care NP, adult gerontology primary care NP, FNP, neonatal NP, clinical nurse leader, executive nurse leader, nurse educator
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for orientation and intensives

$695/credit

Located in Fairfield, Connecticut, Sacred Heart University is a Roman Catholic-affiliated university featuring an online Master of Science program in nursing with three specialization options: nursing education, clinical nurse leader, and nursing management and executive leadership. Students in all specializations take core courses in healthcare ethics and healthcare information systems. They also complete clinical experiences in their local communities.

Distance learners typically finish SHU’s nursing program in two years.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 39 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare and ethics for contemporary nursing practice; healthcare information systems
• Concentrations Available: Nursing education; nursing management and executive leadership; clinical nurse leader
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for local clinical experiences

An online M.S.N. program is a good match for a specific type of student. To determine whether that’s you, it’s worth reflecting on a few key questions:

• What are your other obligations? Flexibility is arguably the primary draw of online learning. If you are a parent or plan to work full time while pursuing your M.S.N., an asynchronous online degree will provide you with maximum scheduling flexibility.
• What’s your learning style? Online learning requires plenty of organization, self-discipline and time management skills. If you crave additional structure or the support of a regular peer group, an on-campus M.S.N. might be a better fit.
• What’s your budget? Compared to their on-campus peers, online learners generally save on costs associated with housing and transportation. Moreover, some public universities allow students who strictly enroll in online courses to pay in-state or otherwise discounted tuition rates.

There are two key types of college accreditation : institutional and programmatic.

The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee the institutional accreditation process, during which accrediting agencies vet schools for the quality of their faculty, student services and finances, among other benchmarks.

You should only enroll at institutionally accredited schools. Otherwise, you will be ineligible to receive federal student aid, and employers and professional credentialing bodies may not recognize your degree.

Programmatic accreditation provides a similar vetting service in specific fields. In nursing, keep an eye out for accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

Consider Your Future Goals

When researching M.S.N. programs, you should be able to articulate your future career goals to determine which school is your best fit. Many M.S.N. programs offer multiple specializations. Your school and program should offer a curriculum that will help you achieve your career goals, whether you aim to become a family nurse practitioner , a nurse educator or an executive nurse leader.

Many M.S.N. programs only admit students who already hold an unencumbered RN license; these are known as RN-to-M.S.N. bridge programs . A bridge program may be shorter than a full M.S.N. degree program, and if you already hold RN licensure , you won’t need to worry about your M.S.N. program meeting RN licensing requirements.

However, you should look for an M.S.N. program that offers a clinical or practicum experience so that you can gain valuable experience in your chosen profession. This is particularly important if you want to become a nurse practitioner .

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Per-credit tuition rates for the 10 ranked programs in our guide ranged from $327 to $1,699. Extrapolated over an approximately 30- to 45-credit program, this translates to somewhere between $10,000 and $76,500 in total tuition costs. This is a wide range, but tuition rates can differ widely among M.S.N. programs depending on program length and the institution’s public or private status.

For comparison, the National Center of Education Statistics (NCES) reports that during the 2021–22 academic year, graduate programs charged an average of $20,513 in annual tuition. Over the course of a two- or three-year program, this translates to somewhere between $40,000 and $60,000 in total tuition costs.

Make sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to access federal student aid opportunities such as Pell Grants , scholarships and loans. You can pursue similar financial aid options through nonprofit organizations, individual schools and private lenders.

What is the best M.S.N. to get?

The best M.S.N. program for you depends on your budget, goals and individual circumstances. In most cases, you should choose a program offering a specialization that aligns with your future career goals.

How long does it take to get an M.S.N.?

The best online M.SN. programs typically take two to three years to finish.

Is an M.S.N. the same as an NP?

NP degree programs are M.S.N.s, but not all M.S.N. programs are for aspiring NPs. You might pursue a nurse practitioner specialty within a broader M.S.N. program.

Is an M.S.N. harder than a B.S.N.?

Yes. An M.S.N. is more academically rigorous than a bachelor’s degree in nursing . Moreover, an M.S.N. typically delves into a specific field of nursing at great depth.

Why get a D.N.P. instead of an M.S.N.?

If you want to qualify for the absolute highest leadership positions in nursing, a D.N.P . might be a better fit than an M.S.N. since it is the terminal degree in the field.

Mikeie Reiland is a writer who has written features for Oxford American, Bitter Southerner, Gravy, and SB Nation, among other publications. He received a James Beard nomination for a feature he wrote in 2023.

Best Online MSN Programs in the United States Top Ranked Online Master's in Nursing Degree Programs

Ready to start your journey.

Today’s nurses have more educational and professional options than their counterparts 50 years ago. Nursing has developed into the largest population of the healthcare professions, with more than 4.2 million working in the US. This is four times the number of physicians. Nursing has developed into professional areas such as Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Educators, Nursing Leadership, Nurse Managers, and Nurse Executives. These roles, both clinical and administrative in nature, require a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree . 

This ranking of 50 Online MSN Programs is your first step in finding the right program for you. 

How We Ranked the Best Online MSN Programs

The College Consensus Best Online MSN Programs ranking features only accredited, renowned colleges and universities. The ranking is based on three evenly-weighted factors:

• Cost (current IPEDS data)
• Niche Score
• US News Rank

This combination of data gives prospective online master of science students a sense of how the job market views their program of choice. Our ranking of the Best Online MSN Programs points working nurses and other healthcare professionals toward the programs that will make a real difference in their careers.

Recommended Online MSN Degree Programs

Visit site to learn more about enrollment, tuition, and aid.

The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL

If you’re anxious to get your career to the next level, you’ll want to explore the RN to BSN/MSN online degree through UA’s College of Continuing Studies.

With an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or RN diploma and work experience, you can earn your BSN/MSN in 50-56 credit hours. You need to have taken the university’s core courses before your online master of science nursing courses in informatics, health finance and policies, community health, leadership roles in nursing, and others. The program includes two practicums in quality/safety and strategic planning and finance. You have the option of completing a thesis or not.

Admission asks for an unencumbered nursing license, an accredited ADN, or an RN degree. You won’t need GRE test scores to apply.

University of Massachusetts-Amherst Amherst, MA

UMass-Amherst’s Elaine Married College of Nursing offers a nationally recognized online MSN degree  with a Nursing Education concentration (MS-NE). Currently, the school’s Clinical Nurse Leader concentration is not accepting applications.

The MS-NE prepares you to teach not only online master of science nursing students but develop direct patient care education in healthcare settings. You’ll take all didactic courses online, and there are two practicum experiences completed in several clinical settings. This is a 32-credit hour curriculum including advanced studies in pharmacology and pathophysiology, health assessment, methodologies in research, development of curriculum, and more. You’ll work with your program advisor to identify an appropriate location and preceptor for your practicum work.

If you’re an out-of-state student and interested in this degree, be sure to check that UMass Amherst can accept students from your state.

Ohio State University-Main Campus Columbus, OH

You’ll have difficulty choosing a specialty option with this traditional, online MSN degree from one of the best nursing programs in the country.

The College of Nursing at OSU offers online or blended concentrations in Clinical Nurse Leader or Nurse Practitioner specialties in Neonatal, Psychiatric Mental Health, or Family Nurse. Before launching into your specialty area, you’ll take core nursing courses. A sampling of classes includes Quality Improvement and Informatics, Evidence-Based Nursing Scholarship, Innovation Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Across the Life Span, and others. Each specialty area has its own core curriculum.

Admission is open only once a year during the Autumn semester. An active RN license and a completed BSN or MSN are required for application.

University of Connecticut Storrs, CT

Whatever advanced nursing specialty you’re interested in, you’ll find it in the online MSN nursing program at UConn. This is one of the best online programs you can find and offers the MSN, APRN, and DNP.

UConn’s nationally ranked School of Nursing has an impressive roster of graduate concentrations in Adult-Gerontology, FNP, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Clinical Nurse Leader. Depending on your choice, these degrees require 33-48 credit hours, and application deadlines may vary.

GRE test scores aren’t necessary for the application, but you’ll need a BSN or higher from an accredited institution and supply transcripts demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA.

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Cincinnati, OH

The well-recognized graduate nursing program at the University of Cincinnati frequently ranks in the top 10 online programs. This comprehensive MSN offers six concentrations to advance your nursing career. You can enroll full-time or part-time, depending on your personal preferences.

Among the specialties are studies in Women’s Health, System Leadership, Adult-Gerontology, Neonatal, and Nurse Midwifery. Depending on your specialty choice, you may need to travel to the Cincinnati campus.

Admission is in the Spring and Fall, and the application requires you to have a BSN and a valid nursing license. You might need to provide information on your work experience for specific concentrations.

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Pittsburgh, PA

Are you looking for a distinguished online MSN degree  to take you to the next career level? The School of Nursing at Pitt may be the one for you. The program prepares you to step into a Clinical Nursing Leadership role or become well trained in the growing field of Nursing Informatics. This online program is interactive and promotes communication between students and faculty.

This program is available full-time or part-time, depending on your work-life schedule. You’ll complete 39.5-43 credit MSN depending on your concentration hours. Practicum experiences are required for both concentrations arranged in your home community. Be prepared for background checks prior to your practicum and certification.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette Lafayette, LA

This MSN is provided in cooperation with UL Lafayette and the Intercollegiate Consortium for a Master of Science in Nursing (ICMSN).

One of the best MSN programs in the nation, the program has three concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Education, and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Your coursework will be online, but your practicum experiences must be completed in Louisiana.

Applications are accepted year-round with Fall and Spring admission. An unencumbered Louisiana nursing license is required for the application, as is a current resume. Not all out-of-state students may qualify for this program, but you’ll pay in-state tuition if you do.

University of Kansas Lawrence, KS

The University of Kansas’ School of Nursing at KU Medical Center offers the  MSN degree courses online to accommodate the working nurse.

This 37-39 credit hour program focuses on three specialty areas: Nursing Education, Public Health Nursing, and Organizational Leadership. The curriculum for this degree comprises core areas in Research Project in Nursing, Leadership, and your chosen Specialty. The concentrations share typical core coursework in research, nursing professionalism, and theories and practice. Each one has a practicum experience. The MSN provides an academic credential rather than licensure.

Admission requirements, in part, call for a BSN and current nursing license. Additionally, one year of clinical experience is required, as is a background check.

University of South Carolina-Columbia Columbia, SC

The online MSN degree at USC-Columbia  is considered one of the country’s best.

You should be able to find a nursing concentration to fit your goals from one of the six concentrations of   The Entry to Practice Nursing offers a nursing track designed for students making a total career change. Specializations are offered in Nursing Informatics, Adult-Gerontology, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Core coursework is offered online; however, campus rotations are required twice a semester, depending on your concentration. Practicum experiences may also be part of your curriculum.

Each program varies, so you’ll want to check your program’s particular application dates and admission requirements.

University of Nevada-Las Vegas Las Vegas, NV

The MSN degree from the University of Nevada Las Vegas has three subplans or tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Education, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Learning outcomes for this degree is comprehensive and may vary. The clinical NP tracks will provide you with critical thinking and communication skills, research and evidence-based practice in nursing, leadership roles, and more. The Nurse Educator subplan will prepare you for a faculty role in a nursing program or a teaching position in a clinical setting.

The program is available for full-time or part-time online study, but you will need to attend a two-day orientation on the Las Vegas campus.

Fort Hays State University Hays, KS

The Department of Nursing at Fort Hays State University has a quality, online nursing education tradition. Part of that tradition is its MSN in Nursing Education (MSN-NE) program.

Classes are small and are offered each semester on a rolling basis to fit your schedule. Practicum experiences are conducted close to your home area, so you never have to travel to the Kansas campus. The curriculum comprises foundational nursing courses (statistics, nursing theories, health assessment, etc.) followed by the NE track courses. The NE track includes teaching strategies, curriculum planning and development, evidence-based practice, and more.

You’ll submit two applications, one to the university and one to the nursing department. A BSN and a valid nursing license are required. The program is unable to admit students living in Alabama, California, Colorado, Tennessee, Utah.

George Washington University Washington, DC

This highly regarded online MSN from George Washington University’s School of Nursing offers seven nationally ranked MSN programs. The school also offers an online RN-BSN program.

This hybrid degree blends online courses with campus training opportunities in the school’s simulation center and person-to-person faculty interactions. You can choose from programs in Adult-Gerontology, Nurse Midwifery, Nursing Leadership, MSN/MPH Nursing Leadership, and Psychiatric Mental Health. If you’re wanting to advance to a DNP, this program will give you a seamless transition.

A BSN is required for application and other documents will be requested.

Marquette University Milwaukee, WI

If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to enter the nursing field, this may be your program. Marquette University College of Nursing offers a Direct Entry MSN  to earn your second degree in 19-21 months.

This 75-credit curriculum model covers nursing theory courses, on-site simulation labs, skills training, and clinical rotation to give your real-world experience. Among the courses you’ll take are Health Assessments and Fundamentals, Pharmacotherapeutics for Nursing Practice, Nursing Care for Patients with Chronic Conditions Clinical, and more. Clinical experiences will give you the hands-on experience to round out your nursing education.

Completing this accelerated degree will prepare you to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam necessary to practice.

Georgia College & State University Milledgeville, GA

Established in 1889, Georgia College is considered one of the most innovative and top public colleges in the South. The School of Nursing boasts an outstanding 100% MSN-FNP and PMHNP certification pass rates.

A nursing master’s degree (MSN) is offered with the following concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery, and Nurse Educator. Graduate nursing students will begin their 40-credit program with support courses in Applied Pharmacology, Advanced Nursing Assessment (as well as a clinical), and Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology.

All clinical rotations must be conducted in Georgia, and you’ll need to have an unencumbered Georgia nursing license. Admission also requires you to have a BSN and participate in an interview. Other documents will be requested.

University of Southern Indiana Evansville, IN

The 42-44 credit hour  Master of Science in Nursing at USI is nationally acknowledged as one of the best online graduate nursing programs (as well as an excellent online nursing graduate program for veterans.)

Fully accredited, you can choose from four concentrations in Adult-Gerontology (Acute Care Nurse Practitioner or  Clinical Nurse Specialist), Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Courses are offered completely online with no campus visits required. Clinical experiences are conducted close to where you live with an approved preceptor. The core curriculum examines evidence-based practices, healthcare informatics, nursing leadership, and nursing theory.

An unencumbered US nursing license is necessary for admission as is a BSN. Other documentation will be requested.

Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA

Thomas Jefferson University has an excellent MSN online degree  curriculum, blending the art of nursing with clinical practice and research.

There are six Nurse Practitioner specialties offered in Adult Gerontology (Acute and Primary Care), Women’s Health, Neonatal, Pediatric Primary Care, and Family-Individual Across the Lifespan. Each track requires 12 courses equaling 36-credit hours and clinical practice. Core courses are shared by all tracks, as well. Faculty are active in clinical practice and research.

Admission to this program is closed for 2022, but you’re encouraged to add your name to the school’s waiting list for notification of the 2023 application process. A BSN and clinical experience are part of the admission requirements.

Stony Brook University Stony Brook, NY

Stony Brook University School of Nursing offers more concentrations with its   MSN degree than we’ve seen.

Part of the State University of New York, Stony Brook SON has one of the country’s best online graduate nursing programs. You’ll find the typical MSN concentrations offered in Nursing Education, FNP, Nursing Leadership, Midwifery, Adult and Pediatric NP, etc. The curriculum is primarily available online, but you will need to travel to the campus for immersion experiences. This is nursing program is forward-looking, examining nursing trends, evidence-based practices, and research.

Even if you have a bachelor’s in a non-nursing field, you’ll need to submit a Clinical Practice Portfolio once you’ve been conditionally admitted.

University of Central Florida Orlando, FL

Innovation is a pillar of the University of Central Florida, and the College of Nursing’s MSN  follows that commitment. You can earn this degree on a full-time or part-time option.

This is one of the best online MSN degrees available and allows you to choose from Nursing Education or Leadership and Management concentrations. A unique track offered is in Healthcare Simulation and is one of only a few nationwide. With that specialty, you’ll be trained in best practices in this developing field using simulation technology to advance patient care and nursing education.

Coursework in each track is provided online with practical experiences in Nursing Education and the Leadership and Management programs. These experiences are completed in your home community.

Duke University Durham, NC

Duke University’s School of Nursing is one of the best online nursing programs available. You can earn your MSN online or through distance education, and you have a wide variety of specialty areas from which to choose. The SON has three non-clinical specialties and eight clinical majors.

The MSN curriculum from 42-49 credit hours, 11 of which are clinical core classes. Whichever track you pick, you’ll have campus activities for some courses and can expect to have two-five day immersions with faculty and other students. These immersions will focus on simulations and hands-on experiences. Clinical residencies and practicum experiences are under the guidance of an experienced mentor.

As with other online programs, you’ll want to verify that as a non-North Carolina resident, you’re eligible to be admitted to this program.

Florida Atlantic University Boca Raton, FL

Through the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, the online MSN programs at Florida Atlantic University are widely recognized as outstanding graduate nursing programs.

Online coursework ranges from 33-49 credit hours, depending on the program. The school supports clinical Nurse Practitioner studies in Adult/Gerontology, FNP, and Psychiatric/Mental Health NP. Two other options are as Nurse Educator or Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership.

The SON offers non-degree courses for BSN students who haven’t applied for admission to the graduate program. Space is limited, but this may be an excellent way to decide if this is the MSN degree for you. Up to 9 credit hours of non-degree credit may be applied to the MSN degree-seeking program.

Private: Frontier Nursing University Versailles, KY

The origins of Frontier Nursing University date to 1939, when it was founded to train nurses to care for mothers and children in rural Kentucky. Today, FNU has one of the best Nurse Practitioner programs in the county. The university trains MSN graduate nursing students  in Nurse Practitioners in Psychiatry Mental Health, Family practitioners, Women’s Health Care, and Nurse Midwifery.

During your studies, you’ll enroll full-time or part-time, take all your coursework online, and have two on-campus stays in Versailles, KY. Clinicals are conducted where you live. Specialties share core studies in Advanced Physical Assessment, Evidence-Based Practice, Advanced Pharmacology Across the Lifespan, etc. Depending on your track, the degree requires 58-64 credit hours.

With an additional 21 credit hours, you can transition from your MSN to a DNP.

University of Missouri-Kansas City Kansas City, MO

The Sinclair School of Nursing at Mizzou is one of the top online MSN programs  available, with an impressive 100% certification pass rate for two of its seven concentrations. Additionally, 100% of the school’s graduate nurses have job prospects at graduation.

Nurse Practitioner programs offered are Nurse Educator, FNP, Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Leadership in Nursing and Healthcare Systems. The program can be earned full-time or part-time and requires 43-47 credit hours, depending on your area of emphasis.

You’ll need to travel once a year to the Columbia campus (once during the program for Nurse Educator and Leader tracks). Practicum experiences are done in your home area with a preceptor.

Ball State University Muncie, IN

Muncie, Indiana’s Ball State University, offers a nationally ranked and well-respected online MSN program with three concentrations in FNP, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Administrator.

All online students begin with an orientation acquainting you with available resources as well as a program-specific orientation. This MSN curriculum is 36-47 credit hours long, depending on the concentration, and can be completed in 6-8 semesters. The three emphasis areas share core studies in research and analysis and nursing theory and informatics. Under an appropriate preceptorship, clinical and practicum experiences are completed in your geographic area.

You need a BSN and a valid nursing license for this program. Be sure to check with your state’s licensing board to ensure this program qualifies in your state.

Samford University Birmingham, AL

Alabama’s Samford University’s Moffett and Sanders School of Nursing has a unique and non-traditional ADN/ASN to MSN pathway .

Developed for the experienced nurse with an associate degree or nursing diploma, the curriculum leads to a Family Nurse Practitioner degree. You can choose an Emergency FNP concentration or an FNP/Psychiatric Mental Health dual degree. Clinical work is required, and the school works with you to find an appropriate facility near your home. Coursework is online, but you will have 2-3 on-campus requirements on the Birmingham campus. Depending on your concentration, visits are two-three days in duration.

There are prerequisites in 40 general education hours required (typically earned with an associate degree or nursing diploma) for admission.

University of West Georgia Carrollton, GA

This MSN degree from The Tanner Health System School of Nursing at the University of West Georgia is a flexible online degree for the working nurse.

You have the choice of a Nurse Educator or Leadership track and can enroll full or part-time. The curriculum is 35-38 credit hours, depending on concentration. Nurse Educator courses will teach you curriculum development, assessment, and evaluation. In conclusion, you’ll be proficient in health education (professional and patient) or teaching nursing students in a collegiate setting. The Leadership path focuses on the management of patient care or care facility. Topics will cover evidence-based practice, diverse population care, health assessment, risk management, etc.

Admission to this program is offered once a year for Fall Semester.

University of Memphis Memphis, TN

The University of Memphis is the sixth oldest Historically Black College and Universities, and through its Lowenberg College of Nursing, it offers a highly ranked  MSN degree .

This program has two options: a traditional MSN provided online and an Executive MSN. The MSN Educator track is offered online, is 31 credit hours in length, and prepares you to teach nursing students, patients, or nurses in healthcare facilities. The program covers educational theories and strategies, curriculum design, and various teaching models. With the Executive MSN,  you’ll experience a hybrid curriculum, rooted in the Magnet Recognition Program and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership’s competencies. The program is a blend of online classes and bi-annual on-campus intensives (twice a year), and national conferences.

The Catholic University of America Washington, DC

This online MSN from The Catholic University of America is rated as one of the best in the country. The Conway School of Nursing has four NP concentrations in PNP(Primary and Acute), FNP, and AGNP.

All MSN students are required to take core classes in subjects such as Advanced Health Assessment, pharmacology/pathophysiology, Population-Based Health Care Management, Research in Nursing Methods & Outcomes, and Biomedical Ethics or Equivalent. A Capstone Project completes the foundational courses. The NP degree requires 47 credit hours and clinical practica are required. You’ll identify a suitable facility and qualified preceptor in your area.

The degree can be taken full-time or part-time, and an unencumbered nursing license and BSN are part of the admission requirements.

Saint Xavier University Chicago, IL

You can earn an MSN in one of five concentrations offered by one of the best graduate nursing programs around.

Saint Xavier University in Chicago, awards NP degrees in Clinical Leadership, Nurse Educator, Executive Leadership, an MSN/MBA dual degree, or FNP. The program requires 35-47 credit hours. The core and supportive coursework (pharmacology/pathophysiology, health assessment, etc.) are online and depend on your track. You’ll participate in a clinical experience. The MSN/MBA  specialty is for you if you want to enhance your management skills. This degree is available with all tracks.

Programs are developed to prepare you for certification exams.

University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR

The University of Arkansas makes it easy for you to earn your MSN degree  through its Eleanor Mann School of Nursing.

This is a very flexible, online program with a Nurse Educator concentration you can finish in four semesters, attending full-time. You’ll study evidence-based practices, nursing theory, leadership and management skills, ethical practices, health assessment, etc. You’ll have a tw0-day Fayetteville campus visit when taking a health assessment.  You have a choice of a thesis or non-thesis option and will complete your clinical hours in your geographic area with qualified supervisors.

There are two separate admission applications needed to the university and to the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing MSN program.

The University of West Florida Pensacola, FL

You can kill two birds with one stone and earn your BSN-MSN with this accelerated online program from West Florida University.

The 59-credit hour curriculum covers topics in evidence-based practices, advanced pathophysiology, community health, public health, and healthcare leadership. The MSN program has two areas of focus Nursing Education and  Nurse Executive. The courses blend leadership skills with clinical practice and cover informatics, risk management, quality patient care, and more, depending on the concentration.

Designed for the working nurse with an associate degree in nursing, the MSN portion requires practicum experiences. An Associate Degree is required, as is an unencumbered nursing license from your home state. If you don’t live in Florida, you’ll want to verify your state qualifies for you to be admitted.

Drexel University Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University consistently ranks in the top 50 of online MSN nursing programs in the country, and with six specialty areas, you’re sure to find one to match your professional goals.

This is a very interactive educational model which offers flexibility and convenience. You’ll find degree options in clinical nursing, administration, leadership, nursing educational careers, and public health. The MSN degree requires 45-credit hours and is offered in four, 10-week quarters, allowing you to take more courses in a shorter period of time. By taking two courses per quarter, you’ll be able to earn your degree in 24 months.

Drexel University provides several benefits such as a three-year tuition lock and no campus visits.

University of Iowa Iowa City, IA

If you’re looking for a Clinical Nurse Leader degree, you’ll find much to like with the MSN from the University of Iowa.

Offered online, you can earn this 36-credit hour degree in 2 or 3 years. The curriculum is primarily online and includes studies in Physiology, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Clinical Education in Care Environment, Applied Epidemiology, Healthcare Infrastructure, Informatics, etc. When taking Health Promotion and Assessment for Advance Clinical Practice, you’ll be required to visit the Iowa City campus. A clinical practicum is expected.

Although it isn’t required, you might want to consider obtaining CNL certification.  With this program having a 100% certification first-time exam pass rate, you may want to consider it.

UT-Tyler has several online/hybrid MSN degrees available in nursing areas of administration, education, FNP, and management (MSN/MBA). If you have a BSN and valid nursing license, you’ll want to review this program.

The School of Nursing prides itself on offering degree programs that are flexible and accessible for the working nurse. Courses have a foundation in skills development, leadership and management, nursing theory and research, enhancing clinical and critical thinking skills.

A Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grant is available for qualified students that can pay for up to three semesters for Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner students. If you live in a rural or underserved area, you’ll want to explore the HRSA grant opportunity.

South Dakota State University Brookings, SD

Your MSN in Clinical Nurse Leadership, Education, or Nursing Administration from South Dakota State University is provided in a convenient online format.

If you choose the Nursing Administration or Nursing Education specialty track, you can opt to write a thesis, conduct research/design paper, or take coursework only. The Clinical Nurse Leadership track is coursework only. Each specialty requires a practicum in one of the school’s 200+ health facilities under expert preceptors.

You can finish this degree in 3-4 years and will graduate with a base of general knowledge in nursing strategies, effective communication, leadership skills, and much more. On completion, you’ll be eligible to sit for certification, if you choose. Admission is open in the Fall Semester each year.

Loyola University New Orleans New Orleans, LA

Even though you might enjoy a trip to New Orleans, Loyola University New Orleans has an MSN degree  in Family Nurse Practitioner or Healthcare Systems Administration Leadership tracks you can earn 100% online without stepping foot in NOLA.

The two tracks have 36-48 credit hour curricula, requiring practicum hours. The FNP 48-credit hour curriculum is designed to improve your nursing skills using evidence-based practices, health across the lifespan, and a holistic approach to care. Coursework for the Healthcare Systems Administration & Leadership (HSAL)  track utilizes a systems leadership approach to nursing leadership.

Regardless of your educational level, there’s an MSN option for you at Loyola: Accelerated RN to MSN, RN to BSN to MSN, and BSN to MSN.

Boise State University Boise, ID

If earning an Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner degree is your career degree plan, you should look at the AGNP program at Boise State University. BSU can’t admit students from all 50 states, so you’ll want to check if you’ll qualify.

This program lets you choose from an Acute or Primary Care focus. Coursework is online, but there are three on-campus intensives (5-7 days) and four clinical rotations. The school offers preceptor coordinators to help identify preceptors in your geographic area.

The curriculum is 50-credit hours and consists of core nursing classes in research, theory, and concepts. Foundational nurse practitioner courses include advanced health assessment, physiopathology, and physiology, diagnosis/management, etc. Coursework concludes with specialization classes.

Troy University Troy, AL

The MSN degree at Troy University in Troy, Alabama, is regarded as one of the best online graduate programs available.

Specialty options offered online are available in Nursing Informatics and Nursing Leadership or Family Nurse Practitioner . Both concentrations provide studies in nursing research, evidence-based practices, and core advanced nursing practice. The curriculum is 37-41 hours, depending on specialty, but both have internship and practicum requirements. If you choose, you can opt to write a thesis.

Admission is offered three times a year, and besides the valid nursing license and BSN, you’ll need at least one year of nursing experience for the FNP track. Clinical nursing courses require additional documents (i.e., criminal background checks, vaccinations, insurance, etc.). As with other programs, Troy University can’t admit students from all states.

Winston-Salem State University Winston-Salem, NC

Winston-Salem State University is the #1 HBCU in North Carolina in nursing, and its MSN degree is part of that exceptional tradition.

This degree’s Advanced Nurse Educator (ANE) concentration is offered entirely online and can be completed in two years of full-time study. Requiring 39-credit hours, the curriculum includes studies in advanced nursing theory, professional nursing roles and transition, clinical problems, healthcare policies, and curriculum development. A scholarly project, as well as a local practicum experience, are included. You may choose to write a thesis, but it’s not a degree requirement. The program will allow you to sit for certification exams, if you choose.

Admission is open in the Fall Semester only.

University of Colorado Colorado Springs Colorado Springs, CO

You can earn a degree from a nationally recognized graduate nursing program from The Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Colorado University. An online MSN with three specialties.

Whether you concentrate on the Primary Care Adult-Gerontology NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, or Primary Care FNP programs, you’ll earn this MSN degree online . The curriculum was developed to provide advanced core studies in pharmacology, health assessment, advanced nursing practice, etc. Foundational courses in specialty areas are designed for practicing in family practice settings or outpatient clinics and not in-patient facilities. Practicum experiences are part of both concentrations and conducted locally.

Designed for the working nurse, this program is 46-48 credits in length and can be completed with no campus visits.

University of Nevada-Reno Reno, NV

The Orvis School of Nursing is the first nursing school in Nevada and offers a nationally ranked online MSN program. It’s widely considered the best SON in the state.

Whatever your ultimate career goals with a graduate degree, you’re sure to find the right concentration among the seven offered by the SON. Program curricula are designed to prepare you for advanced practice positions in clinical leadership, acute or primary pediatric or adult/gerontology care, psychiatric and mental health, or family practice. You’ll complete a practicum experience, Capstone Project, and can opt to write a thesis.

Because of state licensure regulations, so you’ll need to verify your state qualifies you to apply.

University of Alabama in Huntsville Huntsville, AL

With the online graduate nursing program from UA-Huntsville, you’ll earn an MSN in Nurse Administration from one of the best online graduate nursing programs.

The curriculum will provide you with the tools to significantly impact nursing policies and issues. This 33-39 credit program is offered online, and you can enroll on a full-time or part-time basis. You’ll study evidence-based practices, finance, informatics, healthcare systems and organizations, and strategic planning. It will be your responsibility to secure an appropriate facility for your field experience. A thesis is optional.

If you hold a BSN, you can apply any semester, have an unencumbered nursing license, and live in a state approved for this program.

University of North Carolina Wilmington Wilmington, NC

UNC-Wilmington School of Nursing gives you two choices for their online MSN  in Nurse Educator.

An exemplary online graduate nursing degree, the 36-credit hour curriculum can be completed in four semesters by attending full-time. Studies include research principles and evidence-based practices, advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, healthcare systems, organizations, etc. You’ll also become acquainted with clinical instruction and distance learning education training elements. Two, faculty and preceptor guided practicum experiences are part of the program, in which you’ll assess, design, implement and evaluate training using different learning modules.

Your nursing license is required to be issued from a compact state and a BSN is necessary for admission. (Note: the SON is no longer admitting candidates for an FNP, and has reorganized the program into a BSN-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner degree.)

University of St Francis Joliet, IL

Since 1920, the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois, has offered advanced degrees for healthcare professionals for decades. The online MSN is recognized as a reputable degree program.

There are four choices in FNP, Nursing Education, Nursing Administration, or PMHNP specialties. All concentrations share core coursework, including advanced studies in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Both programs rely on and teach evidence-based practices. Depending on your concentration, you’ll need 37-56 credit hours and may need to complete a practicum.

USF’s Leach College of Nursing has trained three generations of nurses, and the school has adapted with technology to provide a robust online program. Even as an online student, you’ll have access to faculty and receive individual attention.

Northern Illinois University Dekalb, IL

Northern Illinois University has an award-winning and nationally-ranked nursing program. You can choose an online MSN  in Nursing Education or FNP.

Most of the students in this program are working nurses and earning their degrees part-time. Didactic FNP courses (50-credit hours) are online, but clinical coursework in health assessment, internships, and skills courses are offered in a hybrid model. With the Nurse Educator track (41-credit hours), along with online classes, you’ll take hybrid courses in health assessment. Both tracks require internships, and the school has full-time internship coordinators to help you identify appropriate locations.

An Illinois nursing license is required for admission and a BSN. More documents will be requested.

Old Dominion University Norfolk, VA

The MSN program at Old Dominion has an exceptional 95% first time, the certification pass rate for its graduates. The school is in the top 25% nationally for online graduate nursing programs and exam success rates.

Three concentrations are available in Nurse Practitioner (Family, Pediatric Psychiatric-Mental Health, and Neonatal specialties), Nurse Midwifery, and Clinical Nurse Specialist (Neonatal, Adult-Gerontology/Educator, and Pediatric.) You can expect core courses in ethics, evidence-based research, advanced health assessment, healthcare disparities, epidemiology, and care for underserved/vulnerable populations.  You can expect to complete a practicum regardless of your concentration. Old Dominion partners with Eastern Virginia Medical School/Sentara Center for Simulation and Immersive Learning for students to conduct critical health assessments with standardized patients.

Concentration admission dates vary, so be sure to meet the appropriate deadlines.

Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA

Virginia Commonwealth Univesity ranks in the top 50 of most national rankings, and we think so as well.

If you’re looking for a nursing leadership program, you should review the online Nursing Leadership and Organizational Science degree . This 35-credit hour curriculum can be taken full-time (4 semesters) or part-time (7 semesters). Coursework is online, but you will have short, 1-2 day immersion on the Richmond campus. The degree concentrates on developing leadership skills in managing human resources, finances, and performance improvement. You’ll learn methods to develop teams and individuals with the goal of the process and patient care improvement.

Admission is on a rolling basis with a Fall Semester entry. Among the requirements for admission are a BSN, an unrestricted nursing license, completion of a statistics course, etc.

Gonzaga University Spokane, WA

One of the country’s best online MSN degrees is at Washington’s Gonzaga University.

You can choose from Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, or a Nursing Leadership in Healthcare concentrations. You can complete this degree in 6-9 semesters, depending on the track. Courses are online and synchronous, but on-campus, weekend immersion experiences are required. You’ll participate in a practicum experience, and the school will assist you in identifying an appropriate location. The program focuses on healthcare ethics and practices, advanced nursing roles in patient quality care, evidence-based practices, and the development of communication skills.

Gonzaga also has an online, 2nd Master’s degree program for nurses with a Master’s degree who want to advance their career with a specialty.

Cedarville University Cedarville, OH

Cedarville University in Ohio was (est. 1887) a Christian school affiliated with the Reformed Presbyterian Church. You can earn an online MSN with a Christian focus integrated with clinical coursework. Be sure to check your eligibility for the school’s $1,000 achievement scholarship.

The accredited program offers Family Nurse Practitioner, Leadership, Nurse Educator, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner track either full or part-time. An MSN-MBA dual option is available if you’re in the MSN Leadership concentration.

Coursework starts with Biblical and Theological Foundations for Graduate Study or other approved Biblical classes. Core MSN studies are in evidence-based practices, professional nursing roles, policy and healthcare economics, and Biblical foundations in nursing. Clinical tracks require on-campus visits, including an orientation, before beginning the FNP clinical courses.

Pennsylvania’s Clarion University (est. 1867) offers an online MSN in a consortium with Edinboro University since 2001.

This MSN is an FNP track you can complete in two years of full-time enrollment. The program is entirely online, except for clinical skills labs conducted on the Edinboro University campus in Edinboro, PA. Some of the core courses include studies in nursing theories, public policy, nursing research concepts, pharmacology, and a scholarly research paper or thesis. As with other programs, a practicum experience is needed and, due to state regulations, must be completed in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York.

Admission to the MSN program is open only in the Fall Semester, and all materials must be received in the Clarion University Graduate Admissions Office by October 1st.

Kent State University at Kent Kent, OH

You can earn your APRN in one of three online Nurse Practitioner programs at Kent State University.

Online degree options include specialties in Women’s Health, Psychiatric Mental Health, or Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. Regardless of your chosen track, classes in Methods of Inquiry, Health Policy, Advanced Nursing Practice, Theoretical Basis for Nursing Practice, and Advanced Nursing Informatics. Practicum experiences are incorporated into each specialty area. KSU also offers an MSN/MBA dual degree for experienced nurses interested in transitioning into management in healthcare facilities or starting their own business.

Your nursing experience is among the information considered in the admission process and a resume and letters of recommendation. A BSN and valid nursing license are requested.

What Are the Advantages of an Online MSN Program?

How long will an online master of science take, will employers trust an online msn, do i have to have a bachelor’s to get an msn.

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Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree

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•       Resources       Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree

As of 2015, approximately 25.4 million Americans held advanced degrees , with more citizens joining these ranks each year. As studies continue to show the career advancement and salary benefits of completing a master's degree, more and more students elect to pursue advanced educations. When considering their options, many question whether to enroll in a master's requiring a thesis or not. The following guide examines some of the reasons degree seekers may want to write a thesis while also highlighting why they might not. Students on the fence about this important decision can find expert advice, actionable tips, and relevant guidance to help them make an informed choice in the guide that follows.

Understanding the Master's Thesis

What is the difference between a thesis & non-thesis master's program, the decision not to do a thesis.

As students research various master's programs in their chosen discipline, it's common to find that many degrees require a thesis – especially if they want to enter a research-heavy field. While this word gets thrown around a lot in academia, some learners may want more information regarding what it entails in order to make an informed decision.

What is a Master's Thesis?

The master's thesis is an original piece of scholarship allowing the student to dig into a topic and produce an expanded document that demonstrates how their knowledge has grown throughout the degree program. These documents require significant independent research of primary and secondary sources and, depending on the subject, may require interviews and/or surveys to support the overarching argument.

Individual schools and departments dictate the length of these documents, but they typically range between 60 and 100 pages – or approximately 20,000 to 40,000 words. While tackling a document of such heft may seem overwhelming at first, learners need not fret. Each master's candidate receives a faculty advisor early in their tenure to provide support, feedback, and guidance throughout the process. Because the final thesis is expected to be of a publishable quality, learners seeking the highest marks typically send their supervisor excerpts of the document as they write to ensure they are on the right track.

When picking a thesis topic, no magical formula exists. Students should consider their interests and read extensively on that topic to get a better sense of existing scholarship. They should also speak to other academics working in that sphere to familiarize themselves with ongoing projects. Only after they feel reasonably well-read should they begin looking for uncovered angles or interesting ways of using emerging methodologies to bring new light to the topic.

When considering formatting, degree seekers should check with their specific schools and departments, as they may have unique requirements. To get a general understanding of what to expect, learners can review Simon Fraser University's guidelines on thesis formatting. After completing the thesis, some programs require an oral defense before a committee while others read the document and provide a grade. Check with your prospective schools to get a better sense of procedure.

Format & Components of a Master's Thesis

While this guide attempts to provide helpful and actionable information about the process of deciding whether to follow a thesis or non-thesis track in a master's program, readers should remember that specific components and requirements of a thesis vary according to discipline, university, and department. That being said, some commonalities exist across all these – especially when it comes to what students must include in their final drafts.

As the first section a reader encounters after moving through the table of contents and other anterior text, the introductory allows the writer to firmly establish what they want to accomplish. Sometimes also called the "research question" section, the introductory must clearly state the goals of the paper and the overarching hypothesis guiding the argument. This should be written in a professional yet accessible tone that allows individuals without specializations in the field to understand the text.

This section allows learners to demonstrate their deep knowledge of the field by providing context to existing texts within their chosen discipline Learners review the main bodies of work, highlighting any issues they find within each. Constructive criticism often centers around shortcomings, blind spots, or outdated hypotheses.

Students use this section to explain how they went about their work. While scientists may point to a specific method used to reach conclusions, historians may reference the use of an emerging framework for understanding history to bring new light to a topic. The point of this section is to demonstrate the thought processes that led to your findings.

This section allows for learners to show what they learned during the research process in a non-biased way. Students should simply state what information they gathered by utilizing a specific framework or methodology and arrange those findings, without interpretation, in an easy-to-read fashion.

After providing readers with all the necessary information, the discussion section exists for candidates to interpret the raw data and demonstrate how their research led to a new understanding or contributed a unique perspective to the field. This section should directly connect to the introduction by reinforcing the hypothesis and showing how you answered the questions posed.

Even though the previous sections give prospective degree seekers a better sense of what to expect if they decide to write a thesis during their master's program, they don't necessarily help learners decide whether to pursue a thesis or non-thesis track. The following section highlights some of the reasons students frequently choose to complete a thesis or bypass the process altogether by providing a pros and cons list.

Why a Thesis Program

• Especially when entering a research-heavy discipline, completing a thesis shows prospective schools and employers that you possess the skills needed for researching and writing long-form reports.
• Students hoping to pursue a Ph.D. stand in better stead with admissions panels if they wrote a thesis during a master's program.
• Individuals hoping to enter a field that values syntax and grammar often better their writing skills by completing a thesis.
• Students who write a thesis can submit the final product to various academic journals, increasing their chances of getting published.
• Theses expand students' understanding of what they're capable of, deepen their ability to carry out an argument, and develop their skills in making connections between ideas.

Why a Non-thesis Program

• Because they don't require a significant written product, non-thesis master's tend to take less time to complete.
• Often mirrors a bachelor's program in terms of structure, allowing learners to complete classes and take exams without a great deal of research or writing.
• Students who excel in project-based assignments can continue building skills in this arena rather than focusing on skills they don't plan to use (e.g. research)
• Provides learners the opportunity to work more closely and more frequently with faculty on real-world projects since they don't spend hundreds of hours researching/writing.
• Allows learners to take more classes and gain hands-on skills to fill the time they would have spent researching and writing a thesis.

How to Choose a Master's Program: FAQs

Within some academic disciplines and professional fields, research and writing plays a key role in work done on a daily basis. Because of this, master's programs in these fields require learners to complete theses to compete against peers and be seen as competent in their work. Other disciplines, conversely, rely on other tools to accomplish work and progress ideas – making theses less important.

Yes. Master's programs focused more on application than research typically don't require a thesis – although they may still give students the option. Examples of common non-thesis master's programs include nursing, business, and education.

Even though non-thesis students won't be writing a 100-page paper, that doesn't mean they avoid completing a significant project. In place of a thesis, most applied master's programs require students to take part in at least one internship or complete a culminating project. These projects typically ask learners to take what they learned throughout coursework and create an expansive final project – examples include case studies, creative works, or portfolios.

While students who followed a non-thesis path routinely receive acceptance to Ph.D. programs, those with theses often find the process easier. Even if a learner pursues a Ph.D. in a discipline that isn't research-heavy, admissions panels still want to get a sense of your academic interests and ability to engage in independent, nuanced thought. Students with theses can provide solid proof of these skills, while those without may struggle to demonstrate preparedness as thoroughly.

The answer to this question depends on many factors, but typically it is okay not to do a thesis if you plan to enter a field that doesn't depend heavily on research or writing, or if you don't plan to complete a Ph.D.

Students wanting to work in academic, research, or writing should always opt for the thesis track. They should also follow this path if they have any doctoral degree aspirations.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to complete a thesis rests with the individual student. Figuring out how to proceed on this front requires lots of careful consideration, and learners should ensure they consider various aspects before coming to a final decision. The following section helps students consider how they should and should not come to a conclusion.

Dos and Don'ts of Choosing a Thesis or Non-thesis Program

• Consider the longevity of your decision: will you feel the same in 5-10 years or are you making a decision based on current desires?
• Talk to others who with experience in this area. Ask them questions about their decision-making process and if they regret their choice.
• Research potential thesis topics before starting a program. Going in with a game plan can help you feel more confident and settled about the process than if you're scrambling for a topic while in school.
• Reach out to prospective schools to speak with faculty and/or current students following both tracks. This will provide knowledge specific to the school while also expanding your network if you choose to attend there.
• Research Ph.D. entrance requirements to ascertain if the majority expect learners to possess a thesis when applying. This will give you a sense of whether you may experience issues later on if you do not complete one.
• Decide not to complete a thesis simply because you have never taken on such a task and feel overwhelmed or fearful that you will fail.
• Complete a thesis simply because you think it will look good on your resume. Theses require intense devotion over an extended amount of time; learners who complete them without conviction often find the process miserable.
• Forget to research alternatives to writing a thesis. Just because you don't complete a research paper doesn't mean a non-thesis track lacks rigor or challenging coursework.
• Forget to read examples of theses by previous students. If you feel overwhelmed by the task, reading work other people have done can often make the task at hand feel less scary.
• Let yourself off easy by taking the non-thesis path. If you find you have extra time in the program, talk to your advisor about taking more classes, develop meaningful projects for yourself, or see about presenting at an academic conference.

From the Expert

Sudiksha Joshi, Ph.D. is a learning advocate. Her mission is to empower our youth to think bigger, bolder thoughts and forge a career path that will change the world. She taps into her natural curiosity and ability to identify strengths to help students and those in transition find their path from feeling lost in the traditional ways of achieving success to charting their own path. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Huffington Post, Thrive Global, Medium and LinkedIn.

Why might a student decide to follow a thesis track? Why might they follow a non-thesis track?

A student might decide to take a thesis track if she/he wants to pursue a Ph.D. Also, if the students want to focus on careers where research and writing have a strong focus, the students opt for the thesis option. Research assistantships at the graduate level are also more often available to students who opt for the thesis option.

A student who might feel that writing is not one of their strengths might choose to go the non-thesis track. Likewise, a student who has other work commitments may find a non-thesis option more convenient.

Do you have any tips for deciding on a program?

I chose a thesis option because being able to conduct independent research was a big reason to go to graduate school. Also, showing the ability that I could do research was what afforded me research assistantships which meant that my tuition was paid for and I got a stipend that paid for expenses while I was in graduate school. This also allowed me the opportunity to work closely with the faculty mentor that provided me with the support and the accountability I wanted.

I would not recommend taking a non-thesis option if all the degree requires is for you to take courses. You have little to show in terms of your learning other than your grades unless you are already working on something on the side that does that for you and all you need is a certificate.

Opt for a non-thesis option if you can still work closely with a professor or on a project and if you'd rather be involved in multiple projects rather than focus on a single project. If you already have a good (informed) reason for choosing one over the other, go for it.

What's the most important thing to consider when choosing a program?

The most important thing to consider when choosing a program is getting excited about the projects that at least one of the faculty members are involved in. Do some research and see why you are excited about a particular work that at least one of the faculty members have been involved in.

Who should students talk to when considering options?

Students should talk to other students and also reach out directly to the graduate coordinator and even individual faculty members. This means that students should have done prior homework and have some good questions ready. Asking good questions will get you at least halfway through to make the right decision.

10 Best Online MSN Programs Ranked For 2024

• Last Updated: January 18, 2024

If you’re looking to take your career to the next level with an advanced degree, then these rankings of the best online MSN programs is a great place to start.

Online Master’s of Science in Nursing degrees are not only more flexible than traditional programs, but they also tend to be less expensive. They’re the most cost-effective way to earn your degree from wherever you’re most comfortable.

You can even choose from a huge range of specialities, including both nurse practitioner and non-APRN tracks.

So, in this article we ranked the top online MSN programs to help you find a school that aligns with your career goals. We focused only on schools that focus primarily on online education, because they have expertise in online learning, and they tend to be cheaper than more traditional universities. 

Finally, we share some tips for earning your online graduate degree, what you can expect from your program, and more.

Table of contents

What is the best online msn program, 1. herzing university, 7. walden university, 8. purdue university, 9. university of phoenix, 10. south university, online msn programs are cheaper, online msn programs are more flexible, decide on your career path, apply to msn programs, select your core msn classes, complete your speciality msn courses, which online msn program should you choose, is an online msn program worth it, are online msn programs as reputable as traditional on-campus programs, can i work full-time while pursuing an online msn program, are there any clinical requirements for online msn programs, what specialties or concentrations are available in online msn programs, what is the typical cost of an online msn program, are there any prerequisites for entering an online msn program, how do online msn classes work.

Herzing University is the best online MSN program based on their composite quality score, which considers tuition cost, number of specializations, and alumni reviews.

However, it’s key to remember that just because a program is a good fit for some students, the best program for you may be different.

For example, one school may seem to be a good fit, but if they don’t offer the exact specialization you’d like to study, it’s probably best to seek a different program to help you achieve your career goals.

Keep reading to learn more about Herzing University and other online MSN programs.

10 Best Online MSN Programs Ranked

To discover the best online MSN programs, we first had to determine which schools were eligible for inclusion in the list. After all, there are tons of online Master’s Degree in Nursing programs.

So, even though many more traditional colleges and universities now offer online learning options, we restricted our list to schools that primarily offer and are known for online education. 

Not only are these programs specialists in online learning, but they also tend to be more affordable and flexible than more traditional universities.

In order to rank the best online MSN programs, we considered various criteria, including:

• Tuition Costs
• Number of specializations and pathways
• Alumni Reviews

All of the tuition data and information we used came directly from the websites of the universities we looked at.

We also considered alumni reviews left on sites like OnlineU and GradReports . This way, we were able to consider the opinions of people who actually had first-hand experience in the programs.

FInally, we determined a composite score for each school, balancing educational quality with cost effectiveness. We created these scores by using a formula that assigns different weights to data related to the three categories above.

Tuition costs were standardized across programs to allow fair comparison, rewarding those with lower-than-average costs. The final ranking orders the programs from those with the highest composite scores to those with the lowest.

Herzing University earned the top spot in our ranking for several reasons. Firstly, 100% of graduates on OnlineU said this program both helped their career prospects and would recommend it to others.

They also provide lots of support to its students, especially when it comes to clinicals. Herzing even has a Clinical Placement Pledge, meaning if you can’t find a clinical placement on your own, they’ll step in and help you out.

Herzing also offers a multitude of specializations and degree pathways. You can choose from any of the following specialities:

• Public Health
• Nursing Leadership and Administration
• Nursing Education (Nurse Educator)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Not only can you go from BSN to MSN and RN/ADN to MSN, but you can also go from a non-nursing degree to an MSN through their Direct Entry Program .

The BSN to MSN non-NP specialties typically last 16 months, requiring 36 credits and 135 clinical hours to graduate. Each credit costs $615, making the total cost of tuition $22,140.

Meanwhile, the RN to MSN non-NP specialities usually last 28 months, requiring 52 credits and 180 clinical hours. Each credit still costs $615, making the total cost of this pathway $31,980.

BSN to MSN Nurse Practitioner tracks last 20 months and require 48 credits and 585 clinical hours. The NP credits are a little more expensive at $735, making the tuition about $35,280.

Finally, the RN to MSN Nurse Practitioner track lasts 24 months, requiring 64 credits and 630 clinical hours. At $735 per credit, the total cost of tuition for this pathway is around $47,040.

2. Capella University

The online MSN program at Capella University stands out for two reasons in particular.

Firstly, they offer a wide range of degree pathways and specializations, including:

• Care Coordination (BSN to MSN; RN to MSN)
• Nursing Education (BSN to MSN; RN to MSN)
• Nursing Informatics (BSN to MSN; RN to MSN)
• Leadership and Administration (BSN to MSN; RN to MSN)

The Nurse Practitioner tracks require at least 68 quarter credits and 750 practicum hours to graduate. Additionally, according to their website , the estimated tuition is $39,440.

On the other hand, the BSN to MSN pathways typically cost about $24,300, while the RN to MSN tracks usually cost about $29,700. 

You can also opt for the FlexPath learning format for these non-NP specializations, meaning you can work at your own pace. If you progress quickly, you can earn your degree for far less time and money. 

In fact, students going at a typical pace usually earn their BSN to MSN degree for $19,950. Meanwhile, those at an accelerated pace (the fastest 25% of students) can earn their degree for just $14,250.

For the FlexPath RN to MSN program, average-pace students earn their degree for $25,650, while accelerated-pace students can earn it for $17,100.

The other great thing about Capella University’s online MSN program is their strong employer partnerships. In fact, they partner with over 600 healthcare employers, from leading hospital systems to insurance providers.

Overall, these relationships can be vital when it comes time to complete your practicum. Working with this school could open you up a number of opportunities to get hands-on experience in exactly the setting you want to work in.

3. Aspen University

Aspen University’s online MSN program is especially notable for two main reasons: the cost of tuition and the alumni recommendation rate.

Of all the online MSN programs that made our list, Aspen has one of the lowest average costs of tuition. According to their website, the total cost to earn your master’s degree in a BSN to MSN program is typically between $14,875 and $15,125.

Meanwhile, the total tuition for the RN to MSN tracks can fall anywhere between $23,001 and $23,199.

Additionally, it had the highest program recommendation rate of the schools we looked at. Of the 40 alumni who reviewed the program, 90% of them said they would recommend this MSN program to others.

90% of the surveyed alumni also claimed that the degree improved their career prospects. They offer the following specializations :

• Forensic Nursing
• Informatics
• Nursing Administration and Management
• Nursing Education

The only downside to this school is that there are no nurse practitioner tracks available. If you’re hoping to earn your master’s degree to become an NP, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

4. Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University is next in our rankings of the top online MSN programs, largely because of their expert faculty and large range of specializations. 

At this school, you can choose from the following specialties:

• Healthcare Policy
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Executive
• Nursing Informatics
• Population Health
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner: Acute and Primary Care
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The total tuition for the non-NP MSN specialties is usually around $25,020. However, you can also opt for the accelerated MSN option which allows you to take more classes at once. The tuition for this approach typically costs $20,850.

If you don’t yet have your BSN, they also offer an Accelerated RN to MSN, which usually costs around $31,275.

Meanwhile, the tuition for the nurse practitioner tracks can vary based on the pathway, but typically falls between $31,950 and $34,080.

It’s also worth noting that 90% of students receive financial aid, which could make earning your degree more affordable.

Finally, perhaps the best thing about this online MSN program is that all of the teaching faculty hold a doctorate-level degree. This means you can learn from experts and receive a top-tier education, preparing you to take on new challenges as an advanced nurse.

5. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon Univeristy’s online MSN program boasts a large range of different degree pathways you can pursue. Firstly, they offer several concentrations, including:

• Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
• Health Informatics
• Leadership in Health Care Systems
• Public Health Nursing

The tuition for these degrees is $575 per credit . Given that the degree requires 36 credits to graduate, you can expect to pay about $20,700, in addition to other fees.

Secondly, they offer two NP tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (with an emphasis in Adult-Gerontology). Each credit in these tracks costs $725 , and the program requires 53 credits to graduate. Overall, this equates to about $38,425 in tuition.

Finally, you can opt for a dual graduate-level, called the MBA and MSN: Nursing Leadership in Healthcare Systems . This pathway requires 74 credits, and each credit costs $640 . This means tuition costs about $47,360 altogether.

The only thing to keep in mind is that you’ll want to be in close contact with your degree advisor to ensure your program can be completed in the amount of time and budget that works for you. 

One OnlineU reviewer stated they were told incorrect information. While this appears to be an isolated incident, you should always pursue regular communication with advisors in whatever online MSN program you enroll in.

WGU’s online MSN program is a great choice because of its affordability and “competency-based education.” The school offers several different mater’s-level tracks , including:

• Leadership and Management (BSN to MSN; RN to MSN)

This program allows you to take a series of assessments and transfer existing graduate credits to help you graduate faster. Of course, the less time it takes you to get your degree, the less money you’ll have to spend in doing so.

If your BSN to MSN program takes a year and a half to complete, it would cost only $14,985. However, taking two years to finish would cost $19,980. So, the total cost of your degree depends upon how quickly you can complete course requirements.

While the Nurse Practitioner pathways are more expensive, typically costing about $26,900 and taking two years to complete, it’s still one of the most affordable NP programs we saw. 

Finally, the total cost of the RN to MSN track can vary, but you’ll be charged $4,685 for each six-month undergraduate term, and $4,795 for every six-month graduate term.

Walden University’s online MSN program is one of the most flexible of any of the programs we looked at when assembling these rankings.

This school offers nine different degree pathways in two categories: Nurse Practitioner specializations and Speciality Practice specializations:

• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (NNP) – Primary Care

Additionally, Walden provides both RN-to-MSN or BSN-to-MSN tracks. Uniquely, the school also offers online Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) and PhD in Nursing degrees. In fact, if you already hold a BSN, you can enroll in a BSN-to-DNP program without even needing to enroll in an MSN program.

Walden University provides even more flexibility by allowing you to choose your learning approach. You can go with “Course-based learning,” which is the traditional education approach with set deadlines and class times.

Alternatively, you can choose “TEMPO Learning,” which allows you to learn at your own pace with no predetermined schedule. This approach is available for the nursing education, nurse executive, and nursing informatics specializations.

Overall, the BSN to MSN non-NP speciality tracks typically take 18 months to complete, with a tuition of $21,660. If you choose Tempo Learning, you can earn your degree in as little as 14 months, with a tuition of $14,450.

If you’re pursuing an RN to MSN non-NP speciality track, you can expect the tuition to cost $32,790.

Meanwhile, the BSN to MSN Nurse Practitioner pathways usually take 24 months to complete, with a tuition of $39,330. Meanwhile, the RN to MSN Nurse Practitioner track typically costs a total of $50,460.

Purdue University’s online MSN program features excellent certification exam pass rates after students graduate. In fact, the success rate for Nurse Practitioner students that graduated in 2021 and took a certification exam was 94.6%.

Clearly, Purdue University demonstrates that it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a program that will prepare you for a career as a Nurse Practitioner, because they have the results to back it up .

This school offers the following MSN degree tracks:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care)
• Executive Leader

Better yet, this online MSN program offers an ExcelTrack option if you enroll in their Nurse Executive Leader pathway. This means you can take as many courses as you like over a 10-week term for a flat rate of $3,200. This could allow you to earn your degree much faster and at a lower cost.

Meanwhile, the non-ExcelTrack pathways typically take two years to complete and cost around $37,800.

The biggest downside we saw in this online MSN program is the lack of non-nurse practitioner tracks. Additionally, there are no RN to MSN options. So, if you want to enroll in Purdue’s MSN program, you’ll need to already have your BSN.

The next best online MSN program is University of Phoenix , which can be an especially strong option for those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and current RN license.

This school provides five different tracks for earning your Master’s of Science in Nursing degree:

• Nurse Education
• Nurse Administration
• Psychiatric Health Nurse Practitioner

One of the unique things about UoP is that the cost per credit for all MSN specializations, including Nurse Practitioners, is the same at $540 per credit. Additionally, this tuition is fixed for the duration of your program.

While the Non-NP tracks require 34 credits, the NP pathways require 48 credits. This makes the costs of tuition for each about $18,360 and $25,920, respectively.

If you hold a non-nursing Bachelor’s degree but hold a current RN license, you’re also eligible for their Nursing Bridge Program . You can earn your graduate degree in as little as 21 months, and save money in your transition to advanced nursing.

Essentially, the Bridge Program works by having you take three upper-level BSN courses before moving into master’s-level coursework.

Finally, South University’s online MSN program is heavily focused on providing positive outcomes for their students.

Unfortunately, the data and reviews for this school were sparse on OnlineU . However, it’s clear on their website that their graduates have done some impressive things.

For example, one former student went on to get their DNP and has since fought sex trafficking and influenced nursing policy. Another graduate became a charge nurse for a 36-bed med-surg unit within five months of graduating.

Like most of the schools on this list, there’s also a healthy number of specializations and degree pathways to choose from, including:

• Nurse Administrator (BSN to MSN; RN to MSN)
• Nurse Educator (BSN to MSN; RN to MSN)

The nurse practitioner tracks require 62 credits and typically take two years to complete. Each credit costs $617, meaning the total cost of tuition is usually about $38,254. Additionally, you’ll need to complete 750 clinical hours in order to earn your degree.

Unfortunately, it’s not clear from their website how the cost varies from track to track. Non-NP specializations are typically not as expensive as NP programs, but South University doesn’t explicitly state how much each credit costs for other pathways.

Pros of Enrolling in an Online MSN Program

There are two main benefits to enrolling in an online MSN program: lower cost and greater flexibility. We discuss both of these advantages in greater detail below.

Pursuing an online Master of Science in Nursing degree is less expensive for a couple of reasons. 

Firstly, the tuition for the online MSN we discussed in this article tends to be much cheaper than traditional universities. According to Fortune , many institutions charge upward of $70,000, with some costing as much as $100,000.

Meanwhile, the tuition for one of the online BSN to MSN programs we covered usually costs more in the range of $14,000 to $20,000.

Secondly, because you can take your courses at home, you don’t need to pay for expensive university housing and accommodation. You can also save by not having to commute to a physical campus.

Ultimately, a lot of different factors can impact how much you need to spend on your education, including:

• Whether or not you pursue an NP track
• Whether you are pursuing a BSN to MSN, RN to MSN, or Non-Nursing Bachelors to MSN
• For schools that charge by semester rather than credit, the time it takes to complete your degree can impact the cost
• For online programs through more traditional universities, in-state and out-of-state tuition can be different
• Transfer credits

While most MSN programs still require that you complete in-person clinical hours, all the courses are delivered online. That means you can attend class from anywhere that’s convenient for you.

Additionally, some programs offer learning pathways that don’t have set class times. Instead, you can study using their online resources whenever you have the time. This can be super helpful for nurses trying to advance their education while continuing to work.

Finally, many programs also offer rolling start dates, allowing you to start learning virtually whenever you’re ready to enroll.

How To Get Your Online MSN Degree

Getting your online MSN degree basically requires the same process as a traditional program, only you can take all your classes online. Below we detail the four main steps to earning your MSN degree online.

Before committing to any online MSN program, you should take some time to think about your career goals.

Namely, you need to select which nursing specialty you want to pursue. Ideally, it should be an area in which you’ve already gained experience as an RN. For those considering a non-nursing to MSN degree, think about your current qualifications and which specialization they may translate to the best.

Your Master of Science in Nursing degree will play a big part in shaping your career trajectory, so give careful thought to:

• If you prefer a more non-clinical (eg, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, etc.) or clinical nursing role (eg, Nurse Practitioner)
• What population you’d like to focus on (ie, Adult-Gerontology, Pediatrics, Psychiatric-Mental Health, Women’s Health, etc.)
• What area of specialization you’d like to pursue (eg, Public Health Nursing, Nursing Administration and Leadership, Nursing Informatics, etc.)

Once you decide on your career goals, you should begin looking for a school that offers your specialization and aligns with your other needs.

After shortlisting some potential schools, you’re ready to begin applying. Just be sure to look at the requirements to ensure you’re a good potential candidate. For example, consider things like:

• Whether you need an active RN license
• Whether you need a BSN, ADN, or other degree
• Minimum GPA requirements
• Prior clinical experience

Finally, be sure to look at class start dates. While some online Master of Science in Nursing degree programs use traditional terms, others accept new students on a rolling basis. This could allow you to get started virtually right away.

Once you’re accepted into a university, they’ll assign you an advisor to help you transition into graduate school. This counselor will help you determine which core classes you’ll take for your nursing degree.

Most MSN degrees have similar core classes before breaking off into specialties. The content of these courses are typically focus heavily on:

• Pharmacology
• Nursing research
• Nursing theory

After completing your MSN core classes, you’ll need to complete your specialty courses.

For example, if you’re in an online MSN program with an FNP focus, you’ll take courses like “Healthcare Across The Lifespan”. Meanwhile, in Nurse Educator programs, you’ll take courses like “Teaching/Learning Strategies” and “Curriculum Development and Evaluation”. 

Additionally, you’ll need to complete clinical hours in an area related to your speciality. Keep in mind that NPs usually require more clinical hours than other pathways.

Also sure to review the course offerings prior to enrolling in any program. This way, you’ll know you’ll get to take the classes that can really make a difference in advancing your career.

Finally, once you complete the required courses and clinical hours, you’ll earn your Master’s of Science in Nursing Degree.

Choosing the right online MSN program can be a difficult decision. After all, there are so many different programs, and each one has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.

However, when selecting a program, you should give especially careful consideration to a few factors.

First, and most importantly, decide which MSN specialty you would like to pursue. Think about your long-term career goals and how a degree can help you achieve them. For example, if you’re passionate about teaching the next generation of nurses, consider a Nurse Educator degree. 

Meanwhile, if you want to help develop new electronic medical record documentation systems, consider the Nurse Administrator or Informatics tracks. Of course, if you prefer a more clinical and hands-on role, think about taking the Nurse Practitioner path.

Additionally, you’ll also need to consider things like:

• Cost of tuition
• Length of Program
• Learning Format (eg, set class times and test dates vs flexible learning at your own pace)

Earning your Master’s of Science in Nursing degree is a fantastic way to advance your nursing career and make more money. Fortunately, with online MSN programs, there are affordable and flexible options for learning.

While you’ll need to make the initial investment in your education, it’s typically worth it due to the increased job opportunities and salary potential. 

However, it’s key that you think about your own personal circumstances. For example, if you’re not sure what you’re hoping to get out of your program, you should probably give a little more thought to your long-term goals.

On the other hand, if the degree can help you achieve your career goals, it may be the right choice for you. So, if you’re ready to get your online MSN degree, then find a program now !

Online MSN Programs FAQ

Both online and traditional MSN programs receive accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). 

So, no matter the format, it’s crucial to find a program with CCNE accreditation to guarantee that the institution adheres to the guidelines established by the commission.

It is possible to pursue both work and education at the same time, be it full-time or part-time. 

Online MSN programs usually range from one to three years, depending on how well you balance work, school, and personal life. 

Different RN to MSN programs have varying clinical hour requirements for graduation. 

Some programs only require completion of 135 clinical hours, while others could ask for 600 hours or even closer to 1,000 hours.

Keep in mind that Nurse Practitioner tracks tend to require a lot more clinical hours than other master’s-level pathways.

There’s a variety of MSN specialties available, including APRN (advanced practice registered nurse) and non-APRN tracks. APRN specialties include:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)

Meanwhile, non-APRN specialties include roles like:

• Nurse Informaticist
• Nursing Executive

The typical cost of an online MSN program depends on a variety of factors, including your specialty track, transfer credits, learning format, and more.

Generally, most of the BSN to MSN non-APRN specialties tend to cost around $20,000. However, you can earn your degree for as little as about $14,000. For RN to MSN, you can probably expect to spend about $25,000, or as little as $17,000.

Meanwhile, online nurse practitioner programs typically cost at least $34,000, though you may be able to earn your degree for as little as $26,000.

To gain acceptance into an online MSN program, requirements differ depending on the school and degree you want to pursue. 

In general though, BSN to MSN tracks will require you hold a BSN , while RN to MSN tracks will require you hold your Associate’s Degree in Nursing . If you hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, some schools offer bridge programs to fast-track your transition to nursing.

Additionally, you’ll need to meet minimum GPA requirements, and you may need to prove that you’ve already taken specific college-level science courses. Most programs also require you to hold an active RN license.

Finally, while many top-tier programs require that you have previous experience in your speciality for admission, many online programs don’t have specific experience requirements.

Online MSN classes can differ depending on the learning formats your program offers.

For example, many schools deliver curriculum in a similar way to in-person courses, with predetermined class times and periodic exams.

However, other schools offer flexible learning pathways, allowing you to learn at your own pace. The curriculum is delivered through pre-recorded content and you can take tests whenever you’re ready.

Some online MSN programs, like WGU, offer a flexible learning path where you can take as many courses as you want within a six-month tuition period. This can allow you to earn your degree in far less time and for a lot less money than traditional learning formats.

Nurse Luke is a CRNA who specializes in Nursing content and still enjoys a very busy career with Locum, Per Diem and Travel nursing in the greater midwest. He has over 25 years of experience in the healthcare field and received his CRNA masters degree from the Mayo Clinic School of Healthcare. He is passionate about helping nurses explore the options of becoming a travel nurse as well as spending time with his Family. 

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Leadership and Administration in Nursing (M.S.N.)

Program on hold.

This program is currently not accepting applications. Applicants interested in this program are encouraged to apply to the Family Nurse Practitioner  and/or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs.

M.S.N. Leadership and Administration in Nursing

• Apply Today
• Review Admission Requirements

Program Overview

Texas State's nationally recognized MSN-LAN program is designed for registered nurses who want to advance their nursing role in administration in nursing. The LAN program prepares students to develop leadership skills that promote ethical decision-making, fiscal responsibility, and human resource management within a healthcare systems perspective.

Course Work

The non-thesis MSN-LAN program is a combination of online course work and leadership practicum hours. Students complete practicum hours one-on-one with a preceptor in the state of Texas, in addition to on-campus simulations. Students engage in the application of evidence-based practice in their focus area in their capstone course. Some of the coursework students will take include:

• Fostering Human Performance and Systems Thinking
• Foundations of Leadership Practicum
• Healthcare Finance and Strategic Management Foundations

Online Availability

The majority of this program may be offered online with required on-campus learning experiences two weekends per semester at the St. David’s School of Nursing in Round Rock, Texas. Due to variation in the laws of states and regulations of state Boards of Nursing, admission for non-Texas residents may be limited at this time.

What Our Faculty Say

“The LAN program at Texas State University guides students to learn more about themselves as nurse leaders while growing their confidence and ability to passionately bring about positive change in the ever-evolving world of healthcare.”

— Dr. Theresa Garcia, Associate Professor

Program Details

The MSN-LAN program is designed to allow students to have work-school-life balance while achieving graduate education. Our LAN graduates make a difference in the delivery of healthcare and nursing, and ultimately in the quality of life of every patient.

Program Mission

Preparing the next generation of nurses to improve health care.

The St. David’s School of Nursing at Texas State University educates and prepares graduates using innovative teaching strategies and state-of-the-art technology. Graduates provide ethical, safe, and effective patient-centered care and contribute to present and emerging research and health management practices. Graduates demonstrate competence in clinical judgment, collaborate as members and leaders of interprofessional healthcare teams, and utilize scientifically-based interventions. As caring professional nurses, graduates manage illness; promote, maintain, and restore health; and provide end-of-life care for diverse individuals, families, populations, and global communities across the lifespan.

Career Options

LAN graduates are employed in a wide variety of healthcare settings, including multi-system healthcare entities, hospitals, nurse-managed clinics, public health organizations, government agencies, and even health policy positions. Graduates may qualify to apply to take one or more of the following national certification examinations as deemed eligible by the credentialing agencies (AONE or ANCC) after graduation. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue doctoral study as new graduates or later in their careers.

Program Faculty

St. David’s School of Nursing faculty are expert advanced nursing leaders and clinicians with diverse knowledge and skills they impart into their teaching. Faculty are highly active in research, service, and clinical practice and frequently present at local, national, and international conferences. Recognition and publication of faculty scholarship are evident in publications in professional journals, engagement in interprofessional scholarship and grantsmanship. Faculty often engage students in translational science capstone projects that result in faculty-student presentations and publications, which is an outstanding opportunity for graduate students prior to graduation.

Contact  The Graduate College  for general questions about getting started with your application, funding your degree, and more. If you have program-specific questions after reviewing the program details, we encourage you to contact the following individuals.

Graduate Advisor Dr. Kathy Smith [email protected] 512.716.4603 Nursing Building (NURS) , Room 320

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Application Process

Review requirements, submit application, upload documents, check status, application deadlines.

*A flexible deadline means applications received after the standard deadline may be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis with no guarantees for admission consideration.

Admission Requirements

The items required for admission consideration are listed below.  Additional information for applicants with international credentials can be found on our  international web pages .

Application

• Completed  online application

Review  important information  about the online application.

Application Fee

• $55 nonrefundable application fee OR
• $90 nonrefundable application fee for applications with international credentials

Review important information about application fees.

Transcripts & GPA

• bachelor of science in nursing (B.S.N.) degree from a regionally accredited institution and from a nursing program accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or other nationally-recognized nursing education accrediting body. Your B.S.N. degree must be reflected on your transcript when you apply. 
• a copy of an official transcript from  each institution  where course credit was granted
• minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in your  last 60 hours  of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses) (Effective Fall 2024: a 3.0 overall GPA or a 3.0 GPA in your last 60 hours of undergraduate course work, plus any completed graduate courses)
• minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in your nursing course work
• grade of C or better in an upper-division statistics course. The course must be completed at the time of application and reflected on submitted transcripts.

Review important information about transcripts. Official transcripts, sent directly from your institution, will be required if admission is granted.

Test Scores

• GRE not required

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum program requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our  exempt countries list .

• official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall
• official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
• minimum individual module scores of 6.0
• official Duolingo Scores required with a 110 overall
• official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall

This program does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.

Review important information about official test scores.

Documents & Other Requirements*

• current, valid, unencumbered Registered Nurse license in Texas with date issued from the Board of Nursing and Nursys uploaded into the application system. Multistate licenses are accepted as long as Texas is declared the home state.
• professional essay and goals statements
• resume/CV showing a minimum of one year full-time equivalent experience as a Registered Nurse prior to the application deadline. Employment will be verified.
• three professional forms of recommendation from persons competent to assess the applicant’s academic capability, clinical expertise, and interest in pursuing a career for this program. This is a form completed by your identified reference as part of the application system.

*Please note once a student has been offered admission, additional criteria must be completed and met prior to admission and the required due dates as listed by the School of Nursing.

Review important information about documents.

• International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, you can apply to this program; however, please be aware that you must:

• be available to complete certain degree requirements in the state of Texas
• have a bachelor of science in nursing (B.S.N.) degree from a regionally accredited institution and from a nursing program accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or other nationally-recognized nursing education accrediting body. Your B.S.N. degree must be reflected on your transcript when you apply.

Additional Information

• Application Decisions
• Reapplication Process

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Traditional Master of Science in Nursing

You’ve chosen nursing as your career. now you’re choosing to move your career forward..

Admissions   |   Curriculum   |   Tuition   |  Specializations   |   FAQs   |   Information Sessions

The Traditional Master’s option provides an opportunity for students with a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) to earn a Master of Science degree in nursing. The primary goal is to prepare graduates – through coursework, clinical experience and evidence-based practice – for advanced practice nursing in a variety of clinical settings ranging from private practices, clinics, hospitals and businesses to managed care organizations and governmental agencies. Upon graduation, you are eligible to sit for certification in the following specialty. At the heart of the master’s program are active, collaborative relationships between faculty, The Ohio State University Medical Center’s teaching hospitals and community-based preceptors.

Licensure/Certification Information

A professional license is required to practice in the field of this academic program, or to advance or specialize in that field. This program meets advanced practice registered nurse licensure requirements in the State of Ohio and is approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

Ohio State academic programs are designed to prepare students to sit for applicable licensure or certification in Ohio. If you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, please review state educational requirements for licensure and certification and state licensing board contact information at go.osu.edu/disclosures for online programs and go.osu.edu/onground for on-campus programs.

If you are planning to seek a professional license in  a state other than Ohio, it is highly recommended that you contact the appropriate state licensing agency to seek information and guidance before beginning the program. In addition, online program availability may vary by state. For more information on state authorization requirements and disclosures related to online programs and state licensing board contact information, please visit online.osu.edu/state-authorization/disclosures .

Distance Learning

The Ohio State University College of Nursing is proud to offer particular graduate-level specialty programs in a distance learning format. Here, coursework is completed entirely online and clinical experiences are completed in the student’s area. Online coursework is offered synchronously, requiring students to participate in the course at schedules times during the week, with some courses also offered asynchronously. Depending on the specialty, distance learning students may be required to visit the Ohio State campus up to three times throughout the entirety of the program. Some specialties do not require the student to visit campus at all. Typically, these visits are only a few days in length and students will be provided the dates far in advance to aid in preparing travel arrangements. Orientation and graduation are also held on-campus and all students are highly encouraged to participate, though not required.

At this time, The Ohio State University College of Nursing is authorized to enroll distance learning students in many U.S. states. However, due to varying state laws and regulations, there are also many states in which we are not currently permitted to offer distance learning programs. Residents of these states are not able to participate in the programs. Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the University’s Online Programs State Authorization webpage or email us at [email protected] to find out whether their program of interest is available in their home state. Please check back often, as the College and University are aggressively pursuing authorization in all 50 states. Residents outside of the U.S. are not able to participate in distance learning programs. Admission into a program is granted at the time of initial acceptance into the program and is dependent on program availability in the state where the student is physically located at the time of admission. If a student moves to a state other than the state where the student was physically present when admitted into the program, continuation within the program will depend on the availability of the program within the new state where the student is physically present. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the institution of a change in physical presence.

The following specialties of the Traditional Master of Science in Nursing program are available as distance learning or on-campus programs:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

The following specialties of the Traditional Master of Science in Nursing program are available only as distance learning programs:

• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Other Specialties

While most of the nursing core curriculum is offered with online study options during various semesters; some classes in certain specialty tracks are offered as on-campus versions only. The College will offer as many online sections as possible in addition to the on-campus sections, though not all core classes may be offered online every term. Cohorts of distance learning programs are the exceptions to this as students admitted into an online specialty track are guaranteed online classes. It is expected that students will understand that the commitment to graduate study requires a commitment to classes regardless of the format offered.  While the College of Nursing cannot guarantee a minimum of on-campus attendance in non-distance learning specialties, with careful planning and course scheduling students can reduce their on-campus commitments each semester thereby making longer commutes to school more viable. View all specialties . 

Application Deadlines

• Autumn 2025:   Round 1 Opens: August 15 Deadline: October 15 Decision: End of January
• Autumn 2025: Round 2 Opens: February 8 Deadline: March 1 Decision: End of April

*Applications for all specialties are open during Round 1. Only select APRN specialty applications are open during Round 2. The specialties available for Round 2 application were announced in February 2024.

Email  [email protected]

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Thesis/Non-Thesis Options

The M.S. in Nursing student selects, in consultation with and approval of the advisor, a program of study within an approved M.S. in Nursing specialty track.  The student should make an early decision regarding the thesis or non-thesis option.  Both options follow the guidelines of the Graduate School. The thesis option requires conducting a research study.  The non-thesis option requires taking a comprehensive examination in the semester the student expects to graduate. For either option, students must also complete a minimum of 30 graduate level semester credit hours to be eligible for graduation.

Thesis option

The student following the thesis option must complete the required number of hours in the program of study in a specialty track and write a thesis based on a completed research study.  The student’s advisor usually chairs the thesis committee and provides primary oversight of the student’s thesis research.  The format of the thesis must conform to requirements described in the Graduate School Guidelines for Preparing Theses, Dissertations, and D.M.A. Documents (Part III of the Graduate School Handbook), and students should consult the publication “Human Subject Program Guidelines” published by the university.  A copy of the final thesis must be submitted electronically as a PDF document to OhioLink, the Ohio Library and Information Network, the Graduate School, the student’s advisor, and the Student Affairs Office in the College of Nursing.  For further technical information concerning the thesis, students should contact Graduation Services in the Graduate School at 292-6031.

The student should gain approval from the advisor at all stages of the thesis.  The thesis is designed, implemented, and written by the student with the guidance of the thesis advisor; it is approved by the advisor and the M.S. in Nursing Thesis Examination Committee.  After the thesis is written, the student must submit copies of the complete, typed draft of the thesis and abstract to each member of his or her Thesis Examination Committee.  The draft of the thesis must be approved by the committee members before the student may schedule the oral defense of the thesis.

The oral defense is scheduled after all Thesis Examination Committee members have read the thesis.  The advisor is responsible for coordinating the oral defense according to the following guidelines:

• Only the Thesis Examination Committee members and the student attend the defense.
• The defense must be scheduled to meet the examination deadline set by the Graduate School.
• The defense is not to exceed two hours in length.
• The final decision is made in the absence of the student but is announced to the student prior to the end of the defense meeting.

If one or more Thesis Examination Committee faculty evaluate the defense as Unsatisfactory, the student fails the defense and is required to revise the thesis and to schedule a repeat defense meeting in compliance with the guidelines of the Graduate School and requirements of the Thesis Examination Committee. A second failure of the defense will result in dismissal from the M.S. in Nursing program. Additional information regarding Review and Appeal processes is located in the Graduate School Handbook.

• The advisor informs the student and the College of Nursing Graduate Studies Committee of the Thesis Examination Committee decision. Each committee member submits a grade for the student’s examination via gradforms.osu.edu.

Non-thesis option

The non-thesis option for a M.S. in Nursing student consists of a comprehensive examination that must include a written portion and may include an oral portion. The purpose of the comprehensive Master’s in Nursing examination is to test the ability of students to synthesize knowledge acquired throughout the course of nursing graduate study.  The written portion may be in the form of examination or a substantial paper or project appropriate to the discipline and consistent with best practices in the field. The oral portion, if scheduled, must take place during announced university business hours, Monday through Friday.

The following guidelines apply for the non-thesis (comprehensive examination) option:

• Students consult with their advisors to determine their readiness for the examination, areas to be included, and preparation.
• Students must take the exam the semester or summer session in which they graduate.  The exam is usually scheduled for around mid-semester. Students completing two specialties must take the comprehensive exam when they have completed both specialties.
• Examinations are scheduled by the College of Nursing Graduate Studies Chairperson who notifies students of the timing and other logistical arrangements for the examination.
• Areas of the examination address the content of required coursework based on questions developed by specialty track faculty.
• Where applicable and as included in examination instructions, students are expected to cite appropriate authors of major works in nursing and in students’ areas of specialization.
• All students must complete their examination by computer.
• The student’s advisor serves as the first reader of the Comprehensive Examination Committee. A second reader is recommended by the Specialty Track Director and approved by the Graduate Studies Committee Chairperson. The examination readers independently evaluate the examination. An oral component for the examination may be scheduled by the Comprehensive Examination Committee for the student to clarify written examination responses.
• If one or more Thesis Examination Committee faculty evaluate the defense as Unsatisfactory, the student fails the defense and is required to revise the thesis and to schedule a repeat defense meeting in compliance with the guidelines of the Graduate School and requirements of the Thesis Examination Committee. A second failure of the defense will result in dismissal from the M.S. in Nursing program. Additional information regarding Review and Appeals processes is located in the Graduate School Handbook.
• The advisor informs the student and the College of Nursing Graduate Studies Committee Chairperson of the decision of the Comprehensive Examination Committee decision. Each committee member submits a grade for the student’s examination via gradforms.osu.edu.

https://gradsch.osu.edu/completing-your-degree/dissertations-theses

Academic Catalog 2024-2025

Family nurse practitioner, msn, master of science in nursing, family nurse practitioner degree requirements.

Advanced Practice Courses must be taken if not completed within the past 5 years. Transfer credits may be accepted for the Advanced Practice Courses. Nurses that are recognized as Advanced Practice Nurses are required to take the Nurse Practitioner Specialty Courses (20hrs).

Distance Education Programs

The central purpose of distance education at Prairie View A&M University is the elimination of geographical distance and time as barriers to access to quality courses and programs. Current course offerings include education, agriculture, sociology, engineering, social work, English, Spanish, speech, business, juvenile justice, health, architecture, and nursing.

As a support service for the academic enterprise, the Center for Instructional Innovation and Technology Services (CIITS) works collaboratively across the university community to:

• Electronically extend the campus of Prairie View A&M University through the NORTHSTAR and TTVN Telecommunications Networks for video delivery and WebCT through eCourses for online course delivery.
• Provide an open learning environment where teaching and learning occur anytime and anyplace.
• Share the practical applications of the university's knowledge and expertise to benefit society and support the economic growth and vitality of the local community.
• Provide training for faculty and staff involvement in Distance Learning.
• Increase Prairie View A&M University's access to the world and the world's access to the University.
• Research Distance Learning environments and emerging academic technologies.

Distance education and eCourses are listed in the schedule of classes accessible through PantherTracks.

Approved Distance Education Programs:

• BSN in Nursing with a RN-BSN concentration Program
• MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner

Distance Site:

Northwest Houston Center, Houston, TX

Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner Degree Sequence

Marketable Skills

Marketable skills, as defined by the  Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's 60x30TX Plan , include interpersonal, cognitive, and applied skill areas, are valued by employers, and can be either primary or complementary to a major. Marketable skills are acquired by students through education, including curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities. 

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner

Degree Skills

• Critical thinking using evidence-based research
• Strong communication skills
• Analytic and leadership skills in primary care

Concentration Skills

• Family Nurse Practitioner Certification
• Advanced Practice Nurse recognition by the Board of Nursing

Co-curricular and Extracurricular Skills

• Suturing and other basic procedures in primary care
• Prepare business plans
• Attend Legislative session and NP/MD conferences 

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Undergraduate Catalog

A PDF of the entire 2024-2025 Undergraduate catalog.

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What’s an MSN & How Can It Help You Advance Your Career?

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Related topics

• School of Nursing

Nursing is a dynamic profession that offers a variety of career paths. However, continuing your education is essential to ensuring you can continue to make a lasting impact on patient care. 

“It’s a life commitment to maintain education,” says Professor Joanna Sikkema, Director of the Nurse Practitioner Online Suite at the Bouvé College of Health Sciences School of Nursing. “What you’ve learned through one degree is great, but it doesn’t stop at that point. It’s a continuous process because a nursing career commands life-long learning to stay current and contemporary in today’s healthcare systems.”

For example, earning an MSN degree can make you become a more proficient healthcare professional and enable you to explore new aspects of nursing practice. But what is an MSN, and how can this degree aid your career goals?

Here’s an overview of an MSN, as well as the benefits and outcomes you can expect from this degree program.

What Is an MSN Degree?

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), is a graduate-level degree meant for registered nurses (RNs) to further their education and expand their professional roles in healthcare. To enroll, you’ll need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an National League for Nursing (NLN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited nursing program and an RN license, but, in many cases, these programs also require on-the-job experience to ensure you are ready to take on the rigor of an MSN program.

An MSN degree provides a deeper and more specialized education than RN training or even a BSN. This is because the curriculum covers advanced topics in nursing and healthcare, preparing nurses for more leadership and advocate roles for health policy formulation and revision.

“The BSN is the basic foundation for nursing,” says Professor Carol Patton, a nurse educator and Program Director for the Bouvé College of Health Sciences School of Nursing. “The master’s degree builds on the baccalaureate content, develops skill sets at a higher level, and refines areas of specialization—whereas the bachelor’s is a basic and general approach to nursing.”

The length of MSN programs varies, typically ranging from 18 months to three years—depending on the program’s structure and your prior education and experience. If you are worried about this timeline though, there are a variety of programs that offer an MSN in person, online, and hybrid to accommodate working professionals.

Another important aspect of an MSN degree you should think about is a specialization at the master’s level.

MSN Degree Specializations

Choosing a nursing specialization is critical to your MSN degree because it can significantly shape your career trajectory. Nursing specialization allows you to gain a deeper understanding of a niche aspect of healthcare that interests you. 

Many MSN programs won’t even let you enroll without choosing a specialization, so it’s important to explore your options:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Focuses on the primary healthcare of individuals and families.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): Prepares nurses to care for patients aged 12 and older with acute, episodic, and complex chronic illnesses.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) : Provides evidence-based, family-centered healthcare education to help nurses care for infants, children, adolescents, and their families.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) : Helps nurses provide a range of mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) : Focuses on care for infants with complications from premature birth, such as heart abnormalities, infections, or other conditions.

Nearly all of these specializations lead to becoming a nurse practitioner in a particular specialty. The nurse practitioner role has increasingly become an in-demand healthcare position that provides important healthcare services for various communities. According to our analysis of job posting data, nurse practitioners are most needed in the following states: 

• Pennsylvania
• Massachusetts

How an MSN Degree Can Help You Advance Your Career

While continuing education is crucial for nurses to stay engaged with advancements in healthcare, it is also an important tool nurses use to advance their career. Here are a few ways an MSN degree can help you advance your nursing career.

1. Enhances Leadership Capabilities

Due to industry regulations, the majority of advanced nursing roles are only accessible to nurses with a postgraduate education. Therefore, earning a master’s degree is essential if you hope to work in a leadership position.

According to our analysis of job posting data, the top career paths for graduates of an MSN program are: 

• Nurse practitioners
• Adjunct nursing faculty
• Registered nurses
• Clinical supervisors
• Medical surgical registered nurses

These advanced practice specialty roles involve greater responsibility, including diagnosing and managing patient care, and in some cases, prescribing medications. In addition, an MSN degree is an important stepping stone to other high-level roles in nursing education, healthcare administration, and policy-making. 

2. Develops Clinical Skills

While NPs have always worked more independently than RNs, there has been a noticeable shift in the level of independence—making an MSN education even more crucial.

“I think we have seen a significant evolution of the MSN and the nurse practitioner role as well,” Sikkema says. “With the greatest evolution being the transition to independent practice versus collaborative and supervised practice.”

To ensure nurses are prepared for this shift, MSN programs focus on developing advanced clinical skills and theoretical knowledge to enable NPs to manage patient care more autonomously. According to our analysis of job posting data, the most in-demand nursing skills are: 

• Nursing care
• Social work
• Case management
• Care coordination
• Clinical experience

As a result, this degree has been pivotal in broadening the scope of NP practice, empowering them to provide comprehensive healthcare services in underserved areas where physician availability is limited, and in some cases, non-existent.

“You have to be very empathetic and caring,” Patton says. “So you really have to understand how to connect with the patient through a therapeutic alliance. You’re going to be working with very diverse populations as an advanced practice nurse.”

3. Diversifies Your Career Options

Earning an MSN can diversify your career options in several ways.

For one, an MSN degree can open up new opportunities in industries that may not have been available to you with a BSN. According to our analysis of job posting data, the top industries hiring MSN graduates are: 

• General medical and surgical hospitals
• Physician offices in colleges, universities, and professional schools
• Ambulatory healthcare services
• Pharmacies and drug retailers

When considering the return on investment, it’s important to factor in where you plan to work, your desired practice area, and the availability or shortage of similar professionals. Although a graduate degree increases your long-term earnings potential, the overall differences between an MSN vs. BSN salary vary depending on the regional demand, specialization, and type of employer. 

Specializations also play an important role in diversifying your career options. Through these programs, nurses can gain specialized skills in subject areas such as:

• Gerontology
• Family health
• Mental health

Take the First Step in Advancing Your Nursing Career

An MSN degree is not the only option for advancement in this field, but it is one of the most versatile degrees if you are interested in both clinical specialization and nursing leadership. In MSN programs, you can draw on your clinical experiences to think critically about how to improve communication, outreach, advocacy, and care delivery. 

By learning from seasoned nurses and diverse peers in an MSN program, you will be able to observe different components of nursing practice and patient outcomes—making you a more effective leader in healthcare.

The School of Nursing at Bouvé College of Health and Sciences offers online MSN programs for working professionals who want to pursue advanced education in a flexible, personalized format. If you’re interested in earning an MSN degree at Northeastern University , contact an admissions counselor to explore program options.

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Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

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Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program Overview

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program is for baccalaureate-prepared nurses. In keeping with the standards for graduate education for advanced practice nursing delineated by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing in the Essentials of Master’s Education for Advanced Practice Nurses, the purpose of the MSN program is to prepare students to assume leadership roles in their particular specialization. Master’s-level nursing education is the appropriate level of education for nursing professionals who are seeking roles that require advanced practice skills in order to function as providers and organizers of the health care delivery process. Students must complete one of the specializations listed in the University catalog.

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) –  Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization, and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialization programs at National University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( http://www.ccneaccreditation.org ).

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialization programs at National University are approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Course Details

Core requirements.

6 courses; 27 quarter units

This course explores the role of the Advanced Practice Nurse within a changing health care environment, focusing on role theory and role development related to advanced practice. Leadership skills are developed for independent practice and collaboration within multidisciplinary professional and organizational frameworks.

This course develops critical thinking skills to support advancement of nursing knowledge through theory development, analysis, and application of advanced nursing practice in diverse settings. Students explore the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing practice and develop skill in analysis of nursing and related theories.

This course explores fundamental concepts and methods of statistics as applied to health related fields. The topics of this course include: introduction to basic concepts of descriptive and inferential statistics as they apply to health research; basic and intermediate concepts for testing, statistical hypotheses, construction and interpretation of confidence intervals; applying selected parametric and nonparametric techniques; regression and multiple regression; analysis of covariance, multivariate ANOVA, and related multivariate analyses. Computer software will be used to illustrate statistical procedures.

Addresses the acquisition of knowledge and skills to promote health, help shape the health delivery system, and advance values through policy processes and advocacy. The intricacies of the organization and financing of healthcare delivery systems and the effect of health policies on healthcare delivery are the foci.

NSG   607   EBP for Advanced NSG Practice  (4.50)

Exploration of types and quality of evidence used to support nursing practice. Study of research designs, measurement tools, and other methods for the safe application of evidence to development of improved care and care systems are emphasized. Identification of an evidence-based scholarly question pertinent to advanced practice nursing.

Centers on identifying and developing the skills needed by leaders in today’s healthcare arena. Students will employ the concept of leadership in the four key domains of advanced practice: clinical practice environments, the nursing profession, at the systems level, and in the health policy arena.

Total Specialization Requirements

• 12 courses; 62 quarter units

Preparation for FNP Specialization

• 3 courses; 15 quarter units

Presents information expanding the student’s knowledge base related to current health patterns across the lifespan. Faculty will facilitate the students’ acquisition of advanced skills in collecting subjective data and performing an adult physical and mental status examination. Students interpret data acquired through assessment and results of diagnostic studies.

Provides pathophysiological principles and concepts essential for performing advanced clinical assessments, differential diagnoses, and therapeutic decision-making. Describes disordered physiology and clinical consequences of common disease processes. Analyses of the biophysical rationale are used during seminar, problem-solving exercises and case studies to recognize the pathophysiologic bases of clinical findings.

Specialization Requirements

• 9 courses; 47 quarter units

Students must pass all Preparation for FNP Specialization courses before beginning any specialization courses

Provides a knowledge base for applying, analyzing and evaluating the culturally competent provision of patient-centered care. Diversity in the global healthcare delivery systems is addressed. Allows the graduate nursing students to explore various models and theories which guide the development of culturally competent nursing practice.

Second course of a two course series. Within each class of therapeutic drugs, the course examines clinical application, drug actions, interactions, reactions, and contraindications. The course will also include principles of prescribing and patient compliance.

Corequisite: FNP 683C

Development of clinical decision-making skills. Focus is the delivery of comprehensive health care, including health promotion, health maintenance, and the diagnosis and treatment of common acute and chronic illnesses. Assigned readings, lectures, class discussion, and case studies are used as well as supervised practicum in multicultural practice settings. FNP 683A and FNP 683C must be taken concurrently and both completed satisfactorily to progress.

Corequisite :  FNP 683A

Application of theoretical knowledge in supervised clinical settings in the practice of caring for the adult and aged. The role of the family nurse practitioner in health promotion and disease prevention is emphasized. Required 180 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. FNP 683A and FNP 683C must be taken concurrently. Grading is S/U only.

Corequisite :  FNP 684C

Focus on methods of health promotion/disease prevention, and assessment and management of common health problems in infants, toddlers, school age children, adolescents, and women from menarche through to the climacteric. FNP 684A and FNP 684C must be taken concurrently and both completed satisfactorily to progress.

Corequisite :  FNP 684A

Application of theoretical knowledge in supervised clinical settings in the practice of caring for women and children. The role of the Family Nurse Practitioner in health promotion and disease prevention is emphasized. Required 180 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. FNP 684A and FNP 684C must be taken concurrently. Grading is S/U only.

Corequisite :  FNP 685C

Prepare students to perform the advanced practice roles of manager, clinician, educator, researcher and consultant in the provision of primary care services across the lifespan to under-served populations. FNP 685A and FNP 685C must be taken concurrently and both completed satisfactorily to progress.

Corequisite :  FNP 685A

Concentrated residency experience in which the student will critically and accurately assess, plan intervene and evaluate nursing experiences related to the care of individuals, aggregates, and nursing systems. Required 240 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. FNP 685A and FNP 685C must be taken concurrently. Grading is S/U only.

Students demonstrate integration of knowledge from the core, core clinical, and clinical coursework in the MSN-FNP Program. The compilation and interpretation of information from previous courses is demonstrated in a scholarly paper and successfully passing an exam which mirrors the national board certification examination for Family Nurse Practitioners.

Specialization in Psychiatric – Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Lifespan

Academic Program Director:  Susan Drummond; [email protected]

The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse practitioner- Lifespan (PMHNP) is registered nurse prepared at the master’s degree level and specializes in primary mental health care for individuals, groups and populations across the lifespan. The PMHNP Program is designed for nurses who hold a nursing diploma, or an associate nursing degree, or a Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (BSN), who wish to advance their knowledge, education and skills to practice in an advanced practice role as a PMHNP. This advanced practice nurse maintains a critical role in the health care team and ensures collaboration and the provision of safe, effective, coordinated care. As an independent member of the health care team, and in partnership with patients, the PMHNP provides a variety of evidence-based services and therapies. The PMHNP assesses, makes diagnoses and plans care for complex psychiatric and concomitant medical issues, including the prescription and management of psychopharmacologic agents. The PMHNP advocates for patients and their families within a recovery and trauma-informed paradigm. The PMHNP ensures that patients and their families are engaged and actively participate in their behavioral health (mental health and substance use) care as they respond to the illness experience. The PMHNP continuously enhances their care through quality improvement and safety efforts and influences policy at the local, regional and national levels. The PMHNP melds the art and science of professional nursing and skillfully manages the acute and enduring issues posed by people with behavioral health issues across the lifespan. Graduates of this PMHNP Program are eligible to sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Lifespan competency-based examination.

Admission Requirements

Students applying for the PMHNP area of specialization must be accepted to the MSN program.

NOTE : Additional course fees apply. Course fees can be referenced in the general information section of this catalog.

• 12 courses; 60 quarter units

Preparation for PMHNP Specialization Courses

*Students have the option of taking the preparation for MNP specialization concurrently with the 6 MSN core courses.

• 9 courses; 45 quarter units

Students must pass all Preparation for PMH

Advanced concepts in pharmacogenomics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics for targeted symptoms in the management of various psychiatric disorders. Management of symptoms for various populations and risk-mitigation strategies are presented for clinical problems in primary mental health settings. Use of psychopharmacologic agents with medical comorbidities. Patient adherence strategies examined

Corequisite :  MNP 694C

Evidence-based assessment, diagnosis and treatment/management approaches to various psychiatric symptoms and disorders are explored. Analyze concepts of neurophysiology and neuropathophysiology of adult/aging adults with psychiatric disorders. Examine the professional, policy and practice issues influencing the nurse practitioner’s role as a mental health provider for adult/aging adults with psychiatric disorders.

Corequisite: MNP 694

Facilitate practicum experience of the PMHNP student with adults/aging adults in mental health care settings. Accurately assess, plan, intervene, and evaluate the care of adults/aging adults with mental illness. Perform the advance practice role of manager, clinician, educator, researcher, and consultant in the provision of mental health services. Required 240 preceptored/field experience clinical hours Grading is S/U only.

Corequisite :  MNP 687C

Evidence-based biopsychosocial assessment, diagnosis and treatment of children and adolescents with mental illness and/or developmental disorders are explored. Facilitate the knowledge of professional, policy and practice issues influencing the nurse practitioner’s role as mental health provider of children and adolescents with mental illness and/or developmental disorders.

Corequisite :  MNP 687

Facilitate Practicum experience of the PMHNP student with children/adolescents in mental health care settings. Accurately assess, plan, intervene, and evaluate the care of children/adolescents with developmental, behavioral or psychiatric disorder. Perform the advance practice role of manager, clinician, educator, researcher, and consultant in the provision of mental health services. Required 180 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. Grading is S/U only.

Corequisite :  MNP 688C

Provides a comprehensive review of psychotherapy principles and treatment approaches commonly used in primary mental health care services. Explores ways of developing effective therapeutic relationships with an emphasis on therapeutic communication. Individual, group and family psychotherapy across the lifespan are analyzed. MNP688A and MNP688C are taken concurrently.

Corequisite :  MNP 688A

Learner applies theories and principles of psychotherapy learned in MNP688A. Assesses motivation and readiness for treatment. Applies various theories of behavior patterns, belief systems, therapeutic relationship strategies based on evidence to reduce emotional stress, facilitate cognitive and behavior change, and foster growth. Required 120 preceptored/field experience clinical hours. MNP688A and MNP688C are taken concurrently. Grading is S/U only.

Students demonstrate integration of knowledge from the core, core clinical and clinical coursework in the MSN-PMHNP Program. The compilation and interpretation of information from previous courses is demonstrated in a scholarly paper and successfully passing an exam which mirrors the national board certification examination for PMHNPs

Degree and Course Requirements

To receive a Master of Science in Nursing degree, students must complete 87-89 quarter units of graduate credit. A maximum 13.5 quarter units of graduate credit may be transferred to meet program requirements. Refer to the General Catalog section on graduate admission requirements for specific information regarding admission and evaluation. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and must maintain a B (84%) in all core and specialization courses. 

FNP and PMHNP Area of Specializations carry additional program fees. See General Information section of catalog for course fees.

• FNP Preceptor Handbook
• PMHNP Preceptor Handbook

Specializations

Master of science in nursing, family nurse practitioner.

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization prepares advanced practice nurses to manage the care of individuals and families across a lifespan. The program develops your ability to think critically; make differential diagnoses; use evidence-based findings to improve healthcare outcomes; and provide diverse individuals and families with healthcare that includes health promotion, disease prevention, management of acute and chronic health conditions, and primary care. Graduates are eligible to sit for the FNP national certification examinations offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Lifespan

The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Lifespan (PMHNP) specialization prepares nursing professionals for advanced practice roles in providing primary mental healthcare to individuals, groups, and populations across a lifespan. As an independent member of the healthcare team, and in partnership with patients and their families, PMHNPs provide a variety of evidence-based services and therapies. They assess, diagnose, and plan care for complex psychiatric and concomitant medical issues, including the prescription and management of psychopharmacologic agents.

• Monthly online meetings
• Minimal on-campus requirements
• Degree can be completed in as little as 12-18 months*
• 12-week courses
• Specializations include  Family Nurse Practitioner  and  Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Board certification review course for nurse practitioner specialties
• Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificates available to students who already hold an MSN

*For post-BSN students, the program time to completion is 19 months; for incoming transfer students from another institution, program length depends on the program credits accepted.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Implement appropriate theories , models, frameworks, and concepts from nursing and non-nursing disciplines when designing interventions that influence healthcare outcomes for diverse populations in a variety of settings.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams , to evaluate fiscally appropriate healthcare delivery systems that integrate research and clinical expertise to provide evidence-based, patient-centered care.
• Evaluate economic, policy, environmental, and social forces that impact nursing practice, health care delivery and quality of health care.
• Participate in the analysis , implementation and evaluation of strategies for improving nursing practice through the implementation of health information systems and technologies.
• Demonstrate a professional commitment to creating an environment of lifelong learning for patients, families, communities, and other healthcare practitioners.

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To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, an MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) is a higher level degree than an RN (Registered Nurse). An RN is a licensed nurse who has completed a diploma program, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in nursing, while an MSN is a graduate-level degree that prepares nurses for advanced roles in the field of nursing.

What degree you earn depends on your career aspirations. A BSN is typically considered the minimum requirement for many nursing positions, while an MSN provides advanced education and training for nurses seeking higher-level roles such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator. Ultimately, the decision of which degree to pursue depends on your career goals.

No, an MSN is not the same as an NP. An MSN is a graduate-level degree program that provides advanced education and training in a variety of areas, while an NP is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed specialized training and holds a master’s or doctoral degree.

An MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) is a graduate-level degree program that prepares nurses for advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and research opportunities. It typically includes specialized coursework and clinical training in areas such as nursing education, administration, informatics, and advanced practice nursing. An MS (Master of Science) in nursing, on the other hand, provides students with an in-depth understanding of the nursing profession and helps them prepare for a variety of nursing roles.

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

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25 Best MSN Programs in Texas – 2024

WHAT ARE THE BEST MSN PROGRAMS IN TEXAS (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2024?

1. texas tech university health sciences center - lubbock.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center MSN Program Details: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers one of the best MSN programs in Texas with the widest range of specialization options. Here, students can choose from a variety of direct and indirect patient care tracks. While the nursing administration specialty prepares you for management roles in a healthcare environment, the nursing education track trains you for faculty roles, whereas earning your MSN in nursing informatics will make you proficient in the use of healthcare information technology. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s MSN program can also be completed in pediatric care, adult-gerontology care, family health, or psychiatric mental health. Alternatively, if you are passionate about women’s health you can complete your MSN in midwifery. Regardless of the specialization you choose, this MSN program in Texas, provides well-rounded training, combining comprehensive didactic coursework with diverse clinical experiences.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center MSN Students

2. The University of Texas at Austin - Austin

The University of Texas at Austin RN-to-MSN Program Details: The University of Texas at Austin’s RN-to-MSN program is meant for registered nurses with an accredited ADN. This MSN program in Texas can prove to be a great launchpad to careers in adult gerontology, family health, pediatrics, psychiatric mental health, or health care leadership. On a full-time basis, most students complete this program within 1.5 to 2 years. The RN-to-MSN coursework starts with bridge courses, after which students enter the graduate-level coursework. Regardless of the MSN specialization you take, upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with the specialized skills in your chosen area of focus.

The University of Texas at Austin MSN Program Details: The University of Texas at Austin MSN program can be excellent if you are ready to enter the field of advanced practice nursing. Counted among the best MSN programs in Texas, the program trains you in various in-demand areas of direct and indirect patient care. Based on your interests and professional goals, you can choose between adult gerontology care, family health, pediatric care, psychiatric mental health, or nursing leadership. All the MSN tracks start with core courses in quality & safety in healthcare, health policy, planning & evaluation, and leadership development. In total, to graduate, students require completion of 39 to 49 credits.

Interesting Highlights For Potential The University of Texas at Austin RN-to-MSN & MSN Students

3. The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston - Galveston

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston MSN Program Details: The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston gets counted among the best MSN programs in Texas. With an emphasis on critical thinking and clinical analysis, its MSN program offers several advanced practice specialties of nursing, including adult gerontology, family health, neonatal care, clinical nurse leadership, executive nurse leadership, and nursing education. While the NP tracks prepare you to provide evidence-based care to your chosen population focus, the leadership or education specialization trains you to play leadership roles in academic and healthcare environments. Some of the core courses that are common to all the MSN tracks include nursing research, public policy, and Informatics & quality improvement. Based on your preference, you can complete this program either part-time or full-time. Upon completion of this MSN program in Texas, you’ll be prepared to take the certification exam within your chosen area of focus.

Interesting Highlights For Potential The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston MSN Students

4. The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston - Houston

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston MSN Program Details: If you are looking at one of the affordable MSN programs in Texas, then the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston is a befitting choice. The program equips students with specialized knowledge and skills to advance their roles in nursing. The MSN program prepares students for successful careers in family health and nursing leadership. Emphasizing interprofessional collaboration, the program prepares you to enhance health outcomes across all levels of the population. If you choose to complete your master's in nursing education in family health, you’ll learn about health promotion and disease prevention. On the other hand, the leadership track prepares you for the concepts of health systems organization and management. Among the best MSN programs in Texas, the University of Texas Health Science Center’s MSN offers adult learners a flexible class format. While the MSN in family health comprises 41 credits, the leadership track requires the completion of 41 credits. Depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time, most students complete this program within 5 to 7 semesters.

Interesting Highlights For Potential The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston MSN Students

5. The University of Texas at Arlington - Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington RN-to-MSN Program Details: If you are an ADN-prepared registered nurse who is ready for career advancement, then the University of Texas at Arlington RN-to-MSN program can be the perfect launch pad to a successful advanced practice nursing career. The RN-to-MSN program can position you as a nurse researcher, nurse educator, or nurse administrator. Regardless of whether you choose the nurse administrator, nurse educator, or family nurse practitioner track, you will complete this MSN program in Texas through an accelerated format that allows you to graduate sooner than you think.

The University of Texas at Arlington MSN Program Details: For BSN-prepared registered nurses, the University of Texas at Arlington’s MSN opens doors to several careers, including adult gerontology care, family health, neonatal care, pediatric care, psychiatric mental health care, nursing administration, and nursing education. Regardless of the MSN specialization you enroll in, you’ll complete this program entirely online. If you choose any of the NP specializations, you’ll require to complete 41 to 46 credits. Whereas, completing your MSN in nursing administration or education requires earning 36 to 39 credits. Depending on the MSN specialization you choose and whether you enroll part-time or full-time, you’ll complete this MSN program in Texas within 19 to 36 months.

Interesting Highlights For Potential The University of Texas at Arlington RN-to-MSN & MSN Students

6. Lubbock Christian University - Lubbock

Lubbock Christian University MSN Program Details: Lubbock Christian University offers one of the other high-quality MSN programs in Texas. An education grounded in Christian values, here MSN students are groomed for professional and personal success. Whether you desire to advance your career in primary care or aspire to play leadership roles, this MSN program in Texas offers a nursing education & leadership track and a family nurse practitioner specialization. The MSN coursework expands on your BSN education, enhancing your core nursing knowledge. The MSN-FNP coursework consists of 46 credits and includes courses in clinical anatomy, research & statistical methods, professional law & ethics, advanced physiology, pharmacotherapeutics, advanced health assessment, and primary care of individuals & families across the lifespan. On the other hand, the nursing education & leadership specialization requires the completion of 35 credits and focuses on topics such as education & information technology applications, management of healthcare resources, nursing theory, healthcare leadership & management, and global culture & health.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Lubbock Christian University MSN Students

7. West Texas A&M University - Canyon

West Texas A&M University MSN Program Details: West Texas A&M University MSN program empowers you to play diverse roles in advanced practice nursing. Whether you desire to enter the area of nursing management, community nursing, case management, or quality improvement, you’ll be prepared to function in a variety of challenging positions. Counted among the best MSN programs in Texas, West Texas A&M University MSN program comes with specialization options in nursing administration, nursing education, and family nurse practitioner. To graduate, you’ll require completing 39 to 46 credits. To start with, you complete the core courses in theories for nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, advanced assessment, and nursing research. Thereafter, this MSN program in Texas takes you through courses in your chosen area of focus.

Interesting Highlights For Potential West Texas A&M University MSN Students

8. Texas Christian University - Fort Worth

Texas Christian University MSN Program Details: Another one of our best MSN programs in Texas is offered by Texas Christian University. The MSN program leads to a career in nursing education. Further, the MSN in nursing education offers two focus areas, including adult gerontology and pediatrics. Designed for registered nurses with a BSN, the program can be completed within two or three years, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time. This MSN program in Texas consists of a total of 34 credit hours. The required coursework covers topics such as advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, advanced pharmacotherapeutics, and advanced nursing research & theory. In addition, the program also teaches you concepts in healthcare policy, financial concepts in healthcare, curriculum development, and evaluation in nursing education. Also, you learn about the advanced care of your chosen population focus.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Texas Christian University MSN Students

9. Texas A&M International University - Laredo

Texas A&M International University RN-to-MSN Program Details: When counting the best online MSN programs in Texas for ADN nurses, you cannot miss out on Texas A&M International University’s RN-to-MSN program. Designed to expand on your RN education and experience, the program prepares you for a successful career in nursing administration. The online RN to MSN coursework in nursing education consists of 31 graduate credits. In addition to bridge courses, the program also covers topics such as healthcare policy & social justice, research methods & statistical analysis, organizational behavior, transformational leadership, and healthcare informatics. The program also includes courses in finance, informatics, and population health.

Texas A&M International University MSN Program Details: Whether you are aspiring to become a nurse administrator or a primary care provider, if you have an active RN license in Texas and an accredited BSN degree, then this MSN program in Texas may be right for you. The MSN in nursing administration equips you with management and leadership skills, whereas the family nurse practitioner prepares you to enhance the healthcare care of diverse patient populations. While the nursing administration track comprises 31 credits, the family nurse practitioner specialization consists of 48 credits.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Texas A&M International University RN-to-MSN & MSN Students

10. The University of Texas at Tyler - Tyler

The University of Texas at Tyler MSN Program Details: The University of Texas at Tyler prepares baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses to serve the health needs of the state’s diverse patient population. Here, based on your interests, you can choose to specialize in nursing informatics, psychiatric mental health, nursing administration, nursing education, or family health. Also, all the MSN specialties come with part-time and full-time options to accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses. This MSN program in Texas comprises 36 to 49 credits. The exact number of credits based on the MSN specialty you choose. The MSN core courses build your knowledge in core topics of advanced pathophysiology, health policy, organizational systems leadership, health assessment, and pharmacology. In addition, some of the other courses include healthcare informatics, leadership in a healthcare environment, evaluation in nursing education, and healthcare management of patients across the lifespan.

Interesting Highlights For Potential The University of Texas at Tyler MSN Students

11. University of Houston - Sugar Land

University of Houston MSN Program Details: The University of Houston MSN program offers high-quality graduate-level education at a great value. So, if you are looking for affordable MSN programs in Texas, then this program will be perfect. The program leverages your BSN education and makes you an expert in nursing administration, nursing education, or primary care, depending on the career path you choose. An online coursework that easily fits into your busy life schedule and clinical experiences within your home community, makes it rather feasible for working nurses like you to pursue their advanced nursing education at this nursing school. While the nursing administration coursework prepares you for leadership and management roles in healthcare, the MSN in education focuses on curriculum development and teaching strategies. Alternatively, the family nurse practitioner specialization is more suited for nurses passionate about providing evidence-based care for individuals and families. Nevertheless, upon completion of this MSN program in Texas, students are prepared to take the national certification exam.

Interesting Highlights For Potential University of Houston MSN Students

12. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi - Corpus Christi

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi RN-to-MSN Program Details: Among the best MSN programs in Texas that are typically designed for ADN nurses, is Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s RN-to-MSN program. The program is designed to take you from an ADN-prepared registered nurse to a master’s level advanced practice nurse. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s RN-to-MSN program comes with three specializations, including family health, leadership, and nurse education. Regardless of the MSN specialization, the program starts with 16 credits of bridge courses, followed by 12 credits of core courses and 25 to 37 credits of specialization-specific courses.

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi MSN Program Details: The Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi MSN program is an excellent stepping stone for advanced nursing practice in family health, nursing leadership, and nursing education. This MSN program in Texas consists of a total of 37 to 49 credits. Some of the core courses included in the program are project management, human capital management, health policy & cultural diversity, nursing informatics, and health assessment.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi RN-to-MSN & MSN Students

13. Texas State University - Round Rock

Texas State University MSN Program Details: Texas State University MSN program prepares you for the next step in your nursing career. Based on where you find your calling, you can choose to enter either family health, leadership & administration, or psychiatric mental health. While the family health specialty comprises 48 credits, the psychiatric mental health track requires the completion of 40 credits. Whereas the MSN in leadership & administration consists of 36 credits. Regardless of the MSN specialization you choose, you can graduate within four full-time semesters or eight semesters of part-time study. Also, this MSN program in Texas includes clinical learning at community healthcare partners throughout the state.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Texas State University MSN Students

14. Lamar University - Beaumont

Lamar University RN-to-MSN Program Details: If you are seeking to reach top-level positions in healthcare, then enrolling in Lamar University RN-to-MSN program will be your best bet. This MSN program in Texas is designed for ADN nurses who want to earn both a BSN and an MSN. Lamar’s RN-to-MSN offers two specializations, nursing education, and nursing administration. The program comprises 58 credits and can be completed within 36 months.

Lamar University MSN Program Details: Among the best MSN programs in Texas, Lamar University’s MSN program is a 100% online program, offered with two options, nursing education, and nursing administration. While nursing education emphasizes teaching strategies, curriculum design, and measurement & evaluation, the nursing administration track focuses on financial accounting and the economics of nursing management & leadership.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Lamar University RN-to-MSN & MSN Students

15. Midwestern State University - Wichita Falls

Midwestern State University MSN Program Details: Midwestern State University’s MSN produces competent advanced nurses who are prepared to work in a variety of complex healthcare environments. With two in-demand areas of focus, you can choose to complete your MSN, either in psychiatric mental health or family health. Regardless of the focus area you choose, you will be equipped with excellent skills in critical thinking, clinical analysis, and evidence-based practice. Both the tracks of this MSN program in Texas include core courses that cover topics such as research in nursing, theoretical foundations in nursing, health assessment, population health, advanced pharmacotherapeutics, and advanced health care management of your patient population. In addition to didactic courses, the program also includes clinical experiences in real-world healthcare settings. To graduate, you must complete a total of around 48 credits.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Midwestern State University MSN Students

16. Texas Woman's University - Denton

Texas Woman's University MSN Program Details: If you want to seamlessly take your nursing career from a registered nurse to an advanced practice nurse, then Texas Woman's University’s MSN program will be a perfect choice. Featured as one of our best MSN programs in Texas, the program prepares you for several clinical and non-clinical roles. If you are inclined towards direct patient care, you can choose either of the NP tracks in family health, adult gerontology care, psychiatric mental health, pediatrics, or women’s health. Alternatively, if you are keen on playing a non-clinical role, you can complete your MSN in nursing education. If you choose any of the nurse practitioner specializations, you’ll complete a total of 45 credits. The MSN-NP program comprises core and specialty-related courses. The core courses cover topics such as advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, advanced health assessment, evidence-based practice, and health policy & health care delivery. In addition, the NP courses teach you the advanced healthcare management of your population focus. The MSN in education is a 100% online program, comprising a total of 40 credits. This MSN program in Texas prepares you for teaching roles by emphasizing educational theory, measurement & assessment, & design, management, and curriculum evaluation.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Texas Woman's University MSN Students

17. Angelo State University - San Angelo

Angelo State University MSN Program Details: Angelo State University’s MSN program is one of the most affordable MSN programs in Texas. The program not only offers competitive tuition costs but also provides high-quality training in primary care and nursing education. With two in-demand fields of advanced practice nursing, registered nurses can advance their careers and fulfill their professional aspirations. Offered mostly online, the MSN program has limited on-campus requirements. Regardless of whether you choose the family nurse practitioner or nursing education, this MSN program in Texas takes two years to complete. Both the MSN tracks strengthen your core knowledge in topics such as evidence-based practice, healthcare informatics, health policy & ethics, pharmacotherapeutics, pathophysiology, health assessment, nursing leadership, and population health epidemiology. While the FNP track consists of 49 credits, the nursing education specialization requires the completion of 39 credits.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Angelo State University MSN Students

18. Prairie View A & M University - Prairie View

Prairie View A & M University MSN Program Details: If you are keen on advancing your nursing practice in Texas, then Prairie View A & M University offers an MSN with three career paths, including family health, nursing administration, and nursing education. One of the well-known MSN programs in Texas, the program builds on your BSN education and enhances evidence-based knowledge, and skills in critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration. The MSN in family health is a 53-credit coursework, including 780 hours of clinical practice. On the other hand, the nursing administration track comprises 42 credits. If you choose to complete your MSN in nursing education, you’ll complete a total of 45 credits.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Prairie View A & M University MSN Students

19. Tarleton State University - Stephenville

Tarleton State University MSN Program Details: Tarleton State University’s MSN makes you a leader, either in nursing education or nursing administration. Whether you choose education or administration as your area of focus, this online MSN program in Texas easily fits into your busy life. Aside from this, the program not only advances your nursing knowledge but also greatly increases your earning potential. No matter the MSN focus you choose, you start with graduate-level core topics such as advanced nursing role development, nursing theory, nursing research, and nursing informatics. The nursing education coursework focuses on curriculum development, instructional methods & strategies, and outcomes & evaluation in education. Whereas, the nursing administration program makes you proficient in leadership development, organizational behavior, healthcare finance, and management of human resources.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Tarleton State University MSN Students

20. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley - Edinburg

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley MSN Program Details: To promote healthcare improvement, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s MSN offers three specialties, including, nursing administration, nursing education, and family health. Regardless of the MSN specialty you choose, you’ll be prepared to meet the unique health needs of Rio Grande Valley and beyond. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s MSN program builds on your baccalaureate nursing education and expands your skills and knowledge in advanced practice nursing. Delivered online, the program allows you to continue working while pursuing your master's in nursing education. This MSN program in Texas can be completed within two years. To complete your MSN either in nursing administration or nursing education, you’ll require completing 36 credits, whereas the MSN-FNP coursework comprises a total of 48 credits.

Interesting Highlights For Potential The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley MSN Students

21. University of the Incarnate Word - San Antonio

University of the Incarnate Word RN-to-MSN Program Details: If you want to accelerate your nursing career to leadership levels, then the University of the Incarnate Word’s RN-to-MSN program is a terrific choice. This MSN program in Texas can kickstart your career in the rewarding field of nursing leadership. The RN-to-MSN program is flexible and accommodates the busy schedules of working nurses. Comprising bridge courses and 31 credits of MSN courses, you can graduate as a leader within as little as six semesters. Some of the topics covered in the coursework include community health nursing, nursing leadership, nursing research, informatics, population health, resource management, program development, health policy, and organizational leadership.

University of the Incarnate Word MSN Program Details: Among the sought-after online MSN programs in Texas, the University of the Incarnate Word’s MSN program is 100% online. The coursework comprises 10 courses and 31 credits. Leading to the nursing leadership certification, the program makes you proficient in financial management, strategic planning, and advanced healthcare leadership.

Interesting Highlights For Potential University of the Incarnate Word RN-to-MSN & MSN Students

22. Stephen F. Austin State University - Nacogdoches

Stephen F. Austin State University MSN Program Details: Stephen F. Austin State University prepares registered nurses for two highly rewarding careers, including family health and nursing education. Whether you decide to become a primary care provider or aspire to teach, the school empowers you with advanced nursing skills and knowledge to play impactful roles in a variety of healthcare settings. Stephen F. Austin State’s FNP and nursing administration tracks offer online courses through a part-time schedule. While the MSN-FNP coursework comprises a total of 46 credits, the MSN in nursing education is a 36-credit coursework. Also, in addition to online courses, both the MSN tracks require students to attend a two-day on-campus seminar. Upon completion of this MSN program in Texas, you’ll be eligible to take the national certification exam within your chosen area of focus.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Stephen F. Austin State University MSN Students

23. University of Mary Hardin-Baylor - Belton

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor MSN Program Details: If you are shortlisting faith-based MSN programs in Texas, then you must add the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s MSN to your list. Guided by Christian principles, the MSN program seamlessly takes your career from a registered nurse to that of a nurse educator. This MSN program in Texas is a 36-credit coursework that spans two years. The curriculum prepares you for teaching positions by including concepts in ethics, culture & spirituality, advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, nursing research, advanced pharmacology, epidemiology & population health, and healthcare policy. The program also includes courses in curriculum development, teaching strategies, and assessment & evaluation. Toward the end of the program, students complete a nursing education practicum.

Interesting Highlights For Potential University of Mary Hardin-Baylor MSN Students

24. The University of Texas at El Paso - El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso MSN Program Details: Whether you aspire to enter the field of nursing administration or nursing education or rather want to become a nurse practitioner, the University of Texas at El Paso’s MSN program provides you with the grounding to become successful in your chosen field of advanced nursing. The MSN in nursing administration equips you with the skills to play leadership roles in nursing management, whereas the nursing education specialization makes you proficient at teaching in academic and healthcare settings. On the other hand, if you prefer direct patient care roles, then you can choose from adult gerontology acute care, family health, neonatal care, pediatric, or psychiatric mental health. Regardless of the specialty you choose, this MSN program in Texas prepares you to sit for the national certification exam.

Interesting Highlights For Potential The University of Texas at El Paso MSN Students

25. Houston Baptist University

Houston Baptist University MSN Program Details: Another of our featured faith-based MSN programs in Texas is offered by Houston Baptist University. Rooted in Christian values, the MSN program comes with four specializations, including pediatric care, family health, nursing education, and nursing leadership. No matter the MSN specialization you choose, you’ll graduate as an advanced nurse who is a competent and compassionate nurse leader. While the MSN in pediatrics comprises 38 credits, the family health specialization consists of 46 credits. Whereas if you choose either leadership or education as your area of focus, you’ll complete around 35 to 37 credits. Most students complete this program within 24 to 26 months.

Interesting Highlights For Potential Houston Baptist University MSN Students

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Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, MSN

The Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) is prepared to manage the health care of patients from birth at any gestation to two years of age. This expanded clinician role is performed in collaboration with neonatologists and other pediatric clinicians. The NNP is employed in intensive care nurseries of various levels, newborn nurseries, and high-risk follow-up clinics, coordinates and manages care for infants with chronic health problems, and provides continuity for these children from hospital to home. Course work and clinical experiences focus on the care and management of critically ill and convalescent premature and full-term infants. The sequence of courses provides for a logical building of the clinical decision-making skills necessary to function as an NNP. The NNP is prepared to perform acts of medical diagnosis and prescribe medical therapeutics and corrective measures. In addition, the NNP selects and performs diagnostic and therapeutic invasive procedures on newborns in the intensive care setting.

Students may study full-time or part-time. The BSN to MSN curriculum is offered only onsite on the main campus in Pittsburgh. Selected core courses may be transmitted to students who live a distance from campus. Those courses are designated by a "D" in the sample program plan below. Graduates are eligible for national certification as an NNP offered by the National Certification Corporation and for legal certification as a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) and prescriptive authority through the State Board of Nursing of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and other states.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner MSN Applicant Requirements

A baccalaureate degree in nursing from CCNE, ACEN, or NLN accredited program in nursing is required. Other requirements for admission include an application, official transcripts, professional references, a personal essay, a resume/CV, pre-requisite statistics course with a grade of B- or better, an applicant survey, a pre-admission interview, a copy of a current license to practice nursing in the state or U.S. territory where the clinical practicum requirements will be completed, and a non-refundable application fee.

FALL (YR 1)

• NUR 2004 - PATHOPHYSIOLOGY ACROSS THE LIFE SPAN OR
• NUR 2004D - PATHOPHYSIOLOGY ACROSS THE LIFE SPAN
• NURSP 2175 - APPLICATION OF HEALTH INFORMATICS IN HEALTH CARE OR
• NURSP 2175D - APPLICATION OF HEALTH INFORMATICS IN HEALTH CARE
• NUR 2011 - APPLIED STATISTICS FOR EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE OR
• NUR 2011D - APPLIED STATISTICS FOR EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE
• NURNP 2026 - ROLE SEMINAR 1 OR
• NURNP 2026D - ROLE SEMINAR 1
• NUR 3012 - PUBLIC POLICY IN HEALTH CARE OR
• NUR 3012D - PUBLIC POLICY IN HEALTH CARE

Credits: 12

SPRING (YR 1)

• NUR 2000 - RESEARCH FOR EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE 1 OR
• NUR 2000D - RESEARCH FOR EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE 1
• NUR 2034 - ADVANCED PHARMACOLOGY ACROSS THE LIFESPAN OR
• NUR 2034D - ADVANCED PHARMACOLOGY ACROSS THE LIFESPAN
• NURNP 2540 - PEDIATRIC WELL CHILD CARE THEOR OR
• NURNP 2540D - PEDIATRIC WELL CHILD CARE THEORY
• NURSP 2098 - HEALTHCARE QUALITY

Credits: 10

SUMMER (YR 1)

• NUR 2031 - THE DIAGNOSTIC PHYSICAL EXAM ACROSS THE LIFE SPAN
• NURNP 2570 - COMPREHENSIVE NEONATAL ASSESSMENT THEORY
• NUR 2010 - HEALTH PROMOTION AND DISEASE PREVENTION IN CULTURALLY DIVERSE POPULATIONS OR
• NUR 2010D - HEALTH PROMOTION AND DISEASE PREVENTION IN CULTURALLY DIVERSE POPULATIONS
• NURSP 2092 - LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT OR
• NURSP 2092D - LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Credits: 11

FALL (YR 2)

• NUR 2032 - DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS CLINICAL OR
• NUR 2032D - DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS CLINICAL
• NUR 2033 - DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS THEORY ACROSS THE LIFE SPAN OR
• NUR 2033D - DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS THEORY ACROSS THE LIFE SPAN
• NURNP 2571 - GENERAL MANAGEMENT OF THE SICK NEONATE - THEORY OR
• NURNP 2572 - GENERAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE SICK NEONATE - CLINICAL

Credits: 13

SPRING (YR 2)

• NURNP 2028 - ROLE PRACTICUM
• NURSP 2099 - FINANCIAL, BUSINESS, AND ECONOMICS DRIVERS IN HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT OR
• NURSP 2099D - FINANCIAL, BUSINESS, AND ECONOMICS DRIVERS IN HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT
• NURNP 2573 - NEONATAL DISEASE PROCESS 1 - THEORY

SUMMER (YR 2)

• NURNP 2029 - ROLE SEMINAR 2 OR
• NURNP 2029D - ROLE SEMINAR 2
• NURNP 2574 - NEONATAL DISEASE PROCESS 2 - THEORY
• NUR 3013 - ETHICS IN HEALTHCARE OR
• NUR 3013D - ETHICS IN HEALTHCARE

Master’s in Nursing Comprehensive Exam is required.

Clinical Hours: 780

Total Credits: 65

* Courses with a "D" are delivered synchronously via distance education for qualified students per Policy 438 .

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	Appalachian State University
	Jun 08, 2024   2024-2025 Graduate Bulletin     2024-2025 Graduate Bulletin Program Code: MA_237B CIP Code:  45.0701 Program of Study for the Master of Arts in Geography (Non-Thesis Options) Admission Requirements: Baccalaureate degree* from an accredited college or university; complete application to the Graduate School   ; cover letter (not to exceed two pages) stating reasons why applicant wishes to enter the program. *Students entering the graduate program without a baccalaureate degree in geography are required to make up deficiencies in the areas of physical geography, human geography, and geographic techniques in consultation with the graduate committee. To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the criteria for admission to the Graduate School   . Meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission. Location: Boone Campus Accelerated Master’s Program This program offers an Accelerated Master’s     option for undergraduate students with a 3.2 or higher currently enrolled at Appalachian State University. Course Requirements for the Master of Arts in Geography (Non-Thesis Option) Total required (minimum 36 hours), required courses (6 hours). GHY 5000 - Research Themes in Geography (3) GHY 5800 - Advanced Quantitative Methods in Geography (3) Concentration Requirements (30 Hours) 24 to 27 hours of interdisciplinary graduate electives *The Internship will not be initiated until the degree Program of Study has been approved. The student will complete a research project dealing with the internship experience and an oral defense of the project in lieu of a thesis. GHY 5858 - Directed Research (3) [CL] PLN 5858 - Directed Research (3) [CL] GHY 5900 - Internship in Geography (3-12) * Other Requirements for the MA in Geography (Non-thesis) Thesis: Not required Proficiency: Not required Candidacy: Not required Comprehensive: Required Product of Learning: Not required The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024 NurseJournal.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers. Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors: Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information. Provide specific, corrective feedback. Identify critical information that writers may have missed. Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for NurseJournal.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network. Explore our full list of Integrity Network members. Best RN-to-MSN Programs Program Accreditation What to Look For Paying for RN-to-MSN Programs MSN Career Options Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree? If you’re a registered nurse (RN) with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) who wants to advance your career by earning your master of science in nursing (MSN), an RN-to-MSN program can be a great option. These specialized programs allow you to pursue a graduate-level nursing degree without first earning your bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. We’ve identified and ranked the nation’s top RN-to-MSN programs to help you make the right decision for your nursing career. Popular Online MSN Programs Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below. When assessing which program may be right for you, use the information in the following sections to narrow down your top choices. New York University Campus + Online In-State $53,770 Out-of-state $53,770 Retention Rate 94% Acceptance Rate 13% Students Enrolled 58,226 Institution Type Private Percent Online Enrollment 45% Accreditation Yes The University of Texas at Austin In-State $11,752 Out-of-state $40,996 Retention Rate 96% Acceptance Rate 29% Students Enrolled 51,991 Institution Type Public Percent Online Enrollment 46% University of Rochester In-State $58,276 Out-of-state $58,276 Retention Rate 91% Acceptance Rate 41% Students Enrolled 12,039 Percent Online Enrollment 14% Stony Brook University In-State $7,070 Out-of-state $24,990 Retention Rate 89% Acceptance Rate 48% Students Enrolled 26,608 Percent Online Enrollment 66% University of Minnesota-Twin Cities In-State $13,532 Out-of-state $32,096 Retention Rate 92% Acceptance Rate 73% Students Enrolled 52,376 DePaul University In-State $41,361 Out-of-state $41,361 Retention Rate 84% Acceptance Rate 69% Students Enrolled 21,670 University of Alabama at Birmingham In-State $8,568 Out-of-state $20,400 Acceptance Rate 89% Students Enrolled 22,289 Montclair State University In-State $12,323 Out-of-state $20,443 Retention Rate 79% Acceptance Rate 91% Students Enrolled 20,744 Percent Online Enrollment 55% Drexel University In-State $54,766 Out-of-state $54,766 Retention Rate 90% Acceptance Rate 83% Students Enrolled 23,216 Percent Online Enrollment 50% University of Maryland, Baltimore In-State $9,446 Out-of-state $38,822 Retention Rate 0% Acceptance Rate 0% Students Enrolled 7,244 Our Methodology We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best RN-to-MSN programs , making finding a program that works for you easier. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. Why Is RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important? Accreditation is the most important factor for an RN-to-MSN nursing program. Accreditation means that a third-party agency has reviewed the program and determined that it meets quality standards and follows industry best practices. This guide lists only accredited programs. Attending an unaccredited program is an unnecessary risk of your time and money. While an unaccredited program may look easier or cheaper, employers will consider graduates from only accredited programs. Attending an accredited program also ensures your eligibility for licensure. Credits from non-accredited programs almost never transfer to an accredited program, so joining an accredited program is more efficient. Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an RN-to-MSN Program The right RN-to-MSN program depends on your career goals, background, finances, location, learning style, and the program itself. Consider a program’s admission requirements, academic reputation, specializations, and class format. While grants, loans, and scholarships can help you pay for school, you still want the best value for your investment of time and money, so it’s important to consider various factors before applying for an RN-to-MSN program. How Online RN-to-MSN Programs Work A growing number of RN-to-MSN programs have online options. Online programs have advantages and disadvantages , depending on your circumstances and needs. Some online ADN-to-MSN programs require in-person onboarding or have in-person components for some classes, while others offer coursework entirely online. However, remember that most MSN programs, including online ones, require in-person clinical hours . Some schools will support finding placements in your local area, while others may rely on the student to make the arrangements. Ensure that you can arrange appropriate clinical placements in your local community. Applying to an RN-to-MSN Program Applying to an RN-to-MSN program is the first step in taking your career to the next level and earning your MSN. The following are several examples of RN-to-MSN programs, and the admissions materials and application requirements. While the specifics vary by program — so be sure to check with your institution before making any assumptions or taking any action — common requirements include: ADN (bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields are sometimes acceptable) A grade point average of 3.0 or higher Transcripts from previous institutions Valid RN license At least one year of clinical experience Earning an MSN can be an excellent investment in your future, but like other investments, it can have a high initial cost. Most RN-to-MSN students will pay for their education with savings, current earnings, financial aid from their school, and external loans, scholarships, or grants . Some employers may also provide partial or complete tuition reimbursement. When estimating costs beyond tuition, consider whether you must adjust your work schedule during clinicals or when studying for exams. Remember to factor in other program expenses, such as textbooks and any equipment you may need. You may also have expenses related to clinical placements, including tolls, gas, parking, and meals on clinical days. What Can You Do With a Degree from an RN-to-MSN Program? Most MSN graduates become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners, nurse-midwives, or clinical nurse specialists. However, other RN-to-MSN specialties exist, such as nurse educator , nurse researcher, nurse informaticist , or nurse administrator. Many nurse leadership positions require at least a master’s degree. You may also consider earning a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). A DNP is the highest degree in nursing and is required to become a nurse anesthetist, the highest-earning of all nursing specialties. Frequently Asked Questions About RN-to-MSN Programs Is rn-to-msn a good idea. An MSN is almost always necessary if you want to advance your nursing career into leadership, research, informatics, education, or advanced practice. And if you want to earn a DNP or Ph.D., an MSN is your next step toward a doctorate. No matter your chosen program, an MSN can lead to substantial career growth. How long does it take to go from RN to MSN? Most RN-to-MSN programs take up to 24 months to complete, including online or in-person coursework and the completion of required on-site clinical hours. Can you skip BSN and go to MSN? Yes, nurses with an ADN who choose to attend an RN-to-MSN program can earn their MSN in about 24-36 months without needing a BSN. Is it hard to get an MSN degree? Earning an MSN degree involves a lot of work in both the classroom and the clinical setting, but there are many benefits to having a master’s degree, including increased earning power and a world of professional opportunities. Page last reviewed April 26, 2024. This page’s information — not including school descriptions — was reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by NurseJournal.org. Related Resources Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing A master of science in nursing can take your career to new heights. Explore avenues toward an MSN and available career pathways in this helpful guide. 8 Popular MSN Degree Specializations An MSN can advance your nursing career. Discover in-demand master’s in nursing specialties before you head back to school. Paying for Your Nursing Degree As the cost of education increases, students must continue to research financial aid opportunities to lower or cancel their debts. Explore this guide that breaks down options to pay for nursing degrees. Are You Ready to Earn Your Online Nursing Degree? Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you. Graduate Programs Prospective Students Current Students Faculty & Staff Degree Programs > MA, Mathematics – Non-thesis The Department of Mathematics has one of the highest ranked mathematics graduate programs in the southeast. It is also one of the largest departments at UGA. Degree Type: Masters Degree Program Code: MA_MATH_NT Degree Program Summary: The Department of Mathematics has one of the highest ranked mathematics graduate programs in the southeast. It is also one of the largest departments at UGA. The Department of Mathematics offers four graduate degrees: Master of Arts (MA), Master of Arts Non-Thesis (MA), Master of Applied Mathematical Science (MAMS), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The Department of Mathematics is in UGA’s Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. It is located in Boyd Graduate Studies Research Center which is situated adjacent to the Science Library on UGA’s south campus. The department offers instruction and research training in the areas of algebra; analysis; applied mathematics; ordinary, partial, and stochastic differential equations; algebraic, differential, and integral geometry; mathematical physics; number theory; numerical analysis; probability and stochastic processes; and topology. Financial aid in the form of assistantships is available to students admitted into the graduate program. This support will be continued for up to six years (five years for students admitted with a Masters degree), as long as the student makes timely progress and maintains a satisfactory academic record. The purpose of the MA program in mathematics is to offer students who hold a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics an opportunity to broaden their knowledge in several areas of mathematics and its applications. The MA program trains students for careers outside the standard research university environment. This program will prepare a student for teaching at junior colleges or for careers in business, government, or industry. An inadequately prepared PhD applicant may be admitted to the MA program with the possibility of transferring later to the PhD program if he or she makes sufficient progress. Candidates for the MA Degree with Thesis take 30 credit hours of mathematics-related coursework and write a thesis. It is desirable that the thesis should present original research. However, the thesis may be expository in nature in which case it should be a synthesis of several research articles and books. Candidates must also demonstrate knowledge of one foreign language. Locations Offered: Athens (Main Campus) College / School: Franklin College of Arts & Sciences 346 Brooks Hall Athens, GA 30602 706-542-8776 Department: Mathematics Graduate Coordinator(s): Search for another degree Find your graduate program. Offering 200+ degrees, certificates and programs of study, we’ll help you get started on your graduate journey.  or  Search by keyword, program of study, department or area of interest Interested in earning both a bachelor’s & master’s degree in five years or less? Learn more about Double Dawgs . Unlocking potential. Building futures. Apply Today The Graduate School Brooks Hall 310 Herty Drive Athens, GA 30602 706.542.1739 Administration Graduate Bulletin Strategic Plan Virtual Tour Submit a Complaint Request Information Requirements Application Fee Check Status UGA Main Campus UGA Gwinnett UGA Griffin UGA Atlanta-Buckhead October 15, 2023 Academic Advice Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master’s Programs: Which is Right for You? UOTP Marketing Continuing your educational journey within your chosen field is an experience that fosters personal and professional growth. The next milestone in your academic path often involves pursuing a Master’s degree , with options ranging from thesis-based programs to non-thesis alternatives.  Deciding between these two paths is significant as it shapes your academic and career paths. But how can you decide which is right for you before getting decision fatigue? Let’s explore the difference between thesis vs. non-thesis Master’s programs, their unique characteristics, and reasons for choosing one or the other.  Do You Have to Write a Thesis for Your Master’s Program? Whether you have to write a thesis for your Master’s program depends on the specific requirements of the program you’re enrolled in. It’s important to note that while not all Master’s programs require writing a thesis, a significant number of them do. What is a Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master’s Program? A thesis Master’s program involves completing a large research project spanning over several semesters. Students are expected to conduct original research on a specific topic under a faculty advisor’s guidance, culminating in a thesis likely to be published. Completing and defending the thesis is a crucial part of the degree requirement. A non-thesis Master’s program doesn’t involve a specific research focus but rather a more coursework and practical experience, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge applicable to their field of study. After completing their program’s core course requirements, students can choose any of the electives to meet their degree requirements. Depending on the institution, you may be required to do a Master’s Degree Capstone project, including reviewing previous courses, a comprehensive exam, or a summary project.  Why Choose a Thesis Master’s Program? Thesis Master’s programs offer several advantages, be that contributing to new findings in your field, close collaboration with professors and researchers, and standing out to potential employers with your abilities to work independently and analyze complex issues. However, the primary advantages are: Research Experience Thesis programs allow you to conduct extensive research on a specific topic that piques your interest.  This way, you’ll gain expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.  Academic Growth  Writing a thesis helps sharpen your critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills. It also challenges you to think independently, analyze a large amount of data, and draw meaningful conclusions. Furthermore, it prepares you for doctoral studies, familiarizing you with the rigor of independent research and equips you with the necessary skills to succeed. Why Choose a Non-Thesis Master’s Program? Non-thesis master’s programs also come with numerous advantages for students, including flexibility in scheduling, a range of career opportunities, shorter competition time, etc. Here are the main advantages:  Non-thesis programs prioritize coursework, fostering the development of practical skills and their real-world application. This approach enables you to actively engage in hands-on learning experiences highly sought after in today’s job market. Critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities are some of those skills. Suitability for Professionals Another advantage to pursuing a non-thesis Master’s program is that it doesn’t take as much time as the thesis Master’s programs. That way you can enter the workforce faster. It’s also well-suited for professionals already established in their field who are seeking to further their education and advance in their careers.  The Academic and Career Outcomes of Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master’s Programs The academic outcomes for the thesis Master’s program graduates involve preparation for Ph.D. programs , opening doors to advanced research and specialized roles in research institutions. This provides solid research skills and helps them publish their work. Common career paths for graduates include research positions in academia, government, or private sectors. Some also pursue teaching careers in colleges and universities. Degree programs that usually require a thesis include sciences, social sciences, engineering, and humanities (history, philosophy, and language studies). Non-thesis Master’s program graduates typically achieve academic outcomes focused on mastering practical, directly applicable skills within their field. While these programs are more career-oriented, graduates can still pursue a Ph.D. They can benefit from diverse career options in different settings and find employment in managerial, administrative, or specialized roles in their field. Degree programs that don’t usually require a thesis are business, education, healthcare administration, IT management, etc. Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master’s Programs, That is the Question  With their abundance of advantages, choosing between the two can be pretty tricky. So, let’s compare thesis vs. non-thesis Master’s programs and help you make an informed decision.  Personal and Career Goals A thesis Master’s program is ideal if you’re interested in furthering in academia and want to pursue a Ph.D ., as these programs can provide the necessary tools to enhance your credentials for research-based careers. Meanwhile, a non-thesis Master’s program will suit you better if you’re seeking to gain practical skills to integrate into the industry immediately, as they can include practical projects or internships according to industry demands.  Time and Financial Considerations Thesis Master’s programs can extend the duration of your studies, as researching, writing, and defending the thesis can take several semesters to complete and can cause financial strain due to additional costs like lab fees and materials. In contrast, non-thesis ones can help you enter the job market promptly as they are shorter, allowing you to save time and money. Interested in pursuing a degree? Fill out the form and get all admission information you need regarding your chosen program. This will only take a moment. Message Received! Thank you for reaching out to us. we will review your message and get right back to you within 24 hours. if there is an urgent matter and you need to speak to someone immediately you can call at the following phone number:. By clicking the Send me more information button above, I represent that I am 18+ years of age, that I have read and agreed to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy , and agree to receive email marketing and phone calls from UOTP. I understand that my consent is not required to apply for online degree enrollment. To speak with a representative without providing consent, please call +1 (202) 274-2300 We value your privacy. Field of Study and Program Requirements When deciding between a thesis and a non-thesis Master’s program, a crucial element to take into account is the field of study and the program’s specific requirements. A thesis Master’s program is better suited for those pursuing research-oriented fields, while a non-thesis program is a more fitting choice for individuals with a strong focus on their career. Furthermore, program requirements for thesis programs require substantial research to culminate in a thesis, whereas non-thesis ones require capstone projects, internships, or comprehensive exams.  Switching from a Non-Thesis to a Thesis Master’s Program, or Vice Versa Switching from a non-thesis to a thesis Master’s program, or vice versa, is possible in many institutions, although the process and requirements may vary. Switching from a non-thesis to a thesis program generally requires getting approval from the academic advisor or department, completing additional research methodology classes, finding a thesis advisor, and applying to the thesis program.  Switching from a thesis to a non-thesis Master’s program requires having at least a 3.0 GPA, getting approval from the academic advisor, transferring credits of research methodology classes, and formally applying to the thesis program. Choosing between a thesis and a non-thesis Master’s program ultimately depends on your career goals, research interests, and personal preferences. Thesis programs provide a robust foundation for research-oriented careers and advanced studies, while non-thesis programs offer practical skills tailored for immediate industry integration. Regardless of your choice, both paths offer unique advantages, ensuring you gain the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in your chosen field.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): What is the difference between a thesis vs. non-thesis master’s program. The key difference between a thesis and a non-thesis Master’s program is that thesis Master’s programs require original research and completion of a thesis, whereas non-thesis ones focus on coursework and practical experiences.  Do I have to write a thesis for a Master’s program? If you’re pursuing a research-oriented Master’s degree in sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, etc., you’ll probably have to write a thesis. Whereas, if you’re pursuing a Master’s degree in education, business healthcare administration, or IT management, you’re more likely not to have to complete a thesis.  Is a thesis required for all Master’s degree programs? Although a thesis isn’t required for all master’s degree programs, many programs require one. What should I consider when deciding between a thesis and non-thesis program? There are several factors to consider when choosing between a thesis and a non-thesis Master’s program, including your career goals, interest in research, duration of studies, personal strengths and preferences, cost, and program requirements. Are there any financial and duration differences between thesis and non-thesis Master’s programs? There can be financial and duration differences between thesis and non-thesis Master’s programs. Thesis programs can be more expensive as you’ll have to spend additional resources on materials, lab fees, and data collection. In contrast, the main cost for non-thesis programs is tuition fees, which can be slightly lower. Furthermore, thesis programs require additional time to conduct research, write, and defend the thesis. In contrast, non-thesis programs allow students to earn the degree in a shorter period.  Why should I choose a thesis Master’s program? You should choose a thesis Master’s program if you’re interested in a research-heavy discipline and want to showcase your knowledge and expertise in an evidence-based, thorough thesis.  Why should I choose a non-thesis Master’s program? You should choose a non-thesis Master’s program if you want to enter the workforce earlier, don’t want to spend several semesters collecting data, and want to focus more on application than research. Can non-thesis Master’s graduates still pursue doctoral studies later? Yes, non-thesis Master’s graduates can still get accepted into a doctoral program. However, thesis Master’s graduates can go through the process more efficiently, as admissions panels want to gain insight into your academic interests and ability to engage in nuanced thought. Share it with your friends! Explore more. 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Associates Degree Bachelors Degrees Masters Degrees Doctoral Degrees Faculty & Staff Accreditation Student Experience QUICK LINKS Admission Requirements Military Students Financial Aid Request More Information 499 IMAGES 25 Best Online MSN Education Programs 10 Best Online MSN Programs Ranked For 2024 Online RN to MSN Programs 40 Online Msn Programs 2024 6 Best Online MSN Programs Ranked (Your Guide For 2023) Online MSN Programs VIDEO Sidang Proposal Non Thesis Sidang Proposal IAAC Open Thesis Fabrication 2010: Respira: Breathing Wall Meeting With Thesis Advisor SENS Research Thesis Programs Thesis or Non Thesis? Which one is better? COMMENTS 27 Best Shortest Online MSN Programs For 2024 (Less Than 18-Months) Similar to most other shortest MSN programs online, to qualify for admission, you require a BSN degree and an unencumbered RN license. Also, you are required to submit all your official transcripts along with a resume. 12. Colorado Technical University - Colorado Springs, CO. 7 Best (SHORTEST) Online Direct Entry-MSN Programs For Non-Nurses Program Details: Elmhurst University offers another of the best fast-track online direct entry-MSN programs for non-nurses. The program is a 71-credit curriculum that also includes over 850 hours of clinical training. Offered entirely online, the program also includes one on-campus residency. Best Online Master's In Nursing (M.S.N.) Programs Of 2024 The university offers two online M.S.N. in clinical nurse leadership programs: a 74-credit, direct entry program for non-nurses, and a 37-credit RN-to-M.S.N. for registered nurses who already hold ... Best Online MSN Programs Without Clinicals Non-clinical online MSN programs are often shorter than an in-person MSN with a practicum. You can complete many of the programs on this list in as little as 14 months. Learn more about advancing your nursing career with a master's education using Nurse.org's MSN resources. Good luck on your educational journey toward an exciting and ... Best Online MSN Programs in the United States Best Online MSN Programs in the United States. Top 5. 1 The University of Alabama. 2 University of Massachusetts-Amherst. 3 Ohio State University-Main Campus. 4 University of Connecticut. 5 University of Cincinnati-Main Campus. Today's nurses have more educational and professional options than their counterparts 50 years ago. 41 Direct-Entry MSN Programs in the U.S. [2023] A direct-entry MSN program is designed for people with non-nursing bachelor's degrees who want to switch to the nursing field. Unlike traditional nursing pathways, which often require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree as the starting point, such direct entry programs leverage the students' existing educational background while ... Choosing Between a Thesis & Non-Thesis Master's Degree Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree. As of 2015, approximately 25.4 million Americans held advanced degrees, with more citizens joining these ranks each year. As studies continue to show the career advancement and salary benefits of completing a master's degree, more and more students elect to pursue advanced educations ... 10 Best Online MSN Programs Ranked For 2024 9. University of Phoenix. The next best online MSN program is University of Phoenix, which can be an especially strong option for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree and current RN license. This school provides five different tracks for earning your Master's of Science in Nursing degree: Nurse Education. Top 10 Best Online MSN Programs 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. Master of Science in Nursing Program Information. Thesis and Non-thesis options; Two-day campus visit required for the health assessment course; Four semester full-time option; part-time option available ... The University of Arkansas MSN program is approved by the following state boards of nursing to enroll students: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California ... The Top Direct-Entry MSN Programs of 2024 Types of Direct-Entry MSN Programs. On-campus. Website. 4. The University of Texas, Austin. The University of Texas at Austin offers an "Alternate Entry" MSN (AE-MSN) program for non-nursing bachelor's students. The AE-MSN program offers students four distinct graduate school pathways to choose from. 35 Best Direct-Entry MSN Programs in the Nation The states with the highest 10-year job outlook for graduates of entry-level MSN programs are Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, New York, Florida, Maryland, Tennessee, Utah, Oregon, and Texas. According to data from CareerOneStop.org, these states should see increases between 31.86% and 50.90%. Rank. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (M.S.N.) The non-thesis MSN-PMHNP program is a combination of online course work and clinical practicum hours. Students complete the practicum hours one-on-one with a preceptor in the state of Texas, in addition to on-campus simulation and labs. Students engage in the application of evidence-based practice in their focus area in their capstone course. Leadership and Administration in Nursing (M.S.N.) The non-thesis MSN-LAN program is a combination of online course work and leadership practicum hours. Students complete practicum hours one-on-one with a preceptor in the state of Texas, in addition to on-campus simulations. Students engage in the application of evidence-based practice in their focus area in their capstone course. The Best Online Master's In Nursing Programs Nurse Practitioner: Nurse practitioners are primary care providers who work with a specialty population, such as family practice, women's health, adult-geriatric, or pediatrics. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary is $124,680.; Certified Nurse Midwife: Nurse midwives provide care to pregnant women and infants. They are licensed to oversee delivery. Comprehensive MSN Degree About the MSN Degree. The online Comprehensive M.S.N. program prepares students to function at an advanced nursing practice level in complex environments. This program allows students to tailor their nursing education with a variety of elective courses. Students will take the advanced clinical nursing courses of Pathophysiology ... Online Master of Science in Nursing Program Overview. Our online MSN program prepares nurses to function at advanced levels in complex environments, and provides innovative training in: ... Thesis and non-thesis options; Program Affordability. We offer a multitude of funding opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and financial aid. ... Traditional Master of Science in Nursing The Traditional Master's option provides an opportunity for students with a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) to earn a Master of Science degree in nursing. The primary goal is to prepare graduates - through coursework, clinical experience and evidence-based practice - for advanced practice nursing in a variety of clinical settings ... Thesis/Non-Thesis Options The non-thesis option requires taking a comprehensive examination in the semester the student expects to graduate. For either option, students must also complete a minimum of 30 graduate level semester credit hours to be eligible for graduation. Thesis option. The student following the thesis option must complete the required number of hours in ... Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) At Pitt Nursing, we equip our students to change the future of nursing science, delivery, and outcomes—and to change their personal professional and academic futures. Licensed nurses with a baccalaureate degree are eligible to complete a Master of Science in Nursing, and take their careers to the next level. Ranked 14th in the country for Online Master's in Nursing Programs by Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN Thesis Proposal Writing: NURS 5390. Thesis: Non-Thesis Option. NURS 5377. Capstone Proposal Writing and Project Development: NURS 5378. Research Capstone Project: ... BSN in Nursing with a RN-BSN concentration Program; MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner; Distance Site: Northwest Houston Center, Houston, TX. What's an MSN & How Can It Help You Advance Your Career? Here are a few ways an MSN degree can help you advance your nursing career. 1. Enhances Leadership Capabilities. Due to industry regulations, the majority of advanced nursing roles are only accessible to nurses with a postgraduate education. Therefore, earning a master's degree is essential if you hope to work in a leadership position. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) To receive a Master of Science in Nursing degree, students must complete 87-89 quarter units of graduate credit. A maximum 13.5 quarter units of graduate credit may be transferred to meet program requirements. Refer to the General Catalog section on graduate admission requirements for specific information regarding admission and evaluation. 25 Best MSN Programs in Texas 25 Best MSN Programs in Texas - 2024 Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org ... Also, students can choose from the thesis and non-thesis options. • Prairie View A&M University is classified as a high research institution by the Carnegie classification. Therefore, MSN students will be able to explore several research projects where ... Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, MSN School of Nursing University of Pittsburgh 3500 Victoria Street Victoria Building Pittsburgh, PA 15261. 412-624-4586 1-888-747-0794 [email protected] Contact Us The 30 Easiest Online Master's Degree Programs For 2021 The university offers a wide variety of online Master's Degree programs in Arts (MFA), Education (MAEd), Educational Leadership (EdD), English (MA), Network Technology (MS), Nursing (MSN), and Public Health (DrPH). ECU Online provides easier non-thesis, and internship-free online master's degree programs, with 36 credits for completion. Program: Geography, Non-Thesis Option *The Internship will not be initiated until the degree Program of Study has been approved. The student will complete a research project dealing with the internship experience and an oral defense of the project in lieu of a thesis. GHY 5858 - Directed Research (3) [CL] PLN 5858 - Directed Research (3) [CL] GHY 5900 - Internship in Geography (3-12) * The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024 Explore the top-ranked RN-to-MSN programs to advance your nursing career. Explore the top-ranked RN-to-MSN programs to advance your nursing career. Degrees. ADN/RN ... ADN (bachelor's degrees in non-nursing fields are sometimes acceptable) A grade point average of 3.0 or higher; Transcripts from previous institutions; MA, Mathematics The Department of Mathematics has one of the highest ranked mathematics graduate programs in the southeast. It is also one of the largest departments at UGA. The Department of Mathematics offers four graduate degrees: Master of Arts (MA), Master of Arts Non-Thesis (MA), Master of Applied Mathematical Science (MAMS), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Master's Programs: Which is Right for You? Conclusion. Choosing between a thesis and a non-thesis Master's program ultimately depends on your career goals, research interests, and personal preferences. Thesis programs provide a robust foundation for research-oriented careers and advanced studies, while non-thesis programs offer practical skills tailored for immediate industry integration. assignment essay homework paper phd report resume review thesis