The Best Online Master's in Nursing Programs

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Updated November 30, 2023

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Looking to advance your career with an MSN degree? In this guide, explore the best online MSN programs and how to apply.
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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

The growth of online master of science in nursing (MSN) programs means prospective students have more access to a wider variety of choices. However, the amount of available options makes deciding on a program more difficult.

This guide can help you identify the best online master's in nursing for your goals, interests, location, budget, and background. Learn more about finding and applying to the school that best matches your needs.

“The experience I had with obtaining my MSN online was extremely positive. The program allowed me to perform the work at my own pace and further my education while continuing to work full-time and still be a mother to my son. Without an online option, this may not have been achievable for me.”

— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online MSN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including: Academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Featured Online Master's in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Why Is Online Master's in Nusing Program Accreditation Important?

Accreditation is such a vital part of program quality and value that this guide only lists accredited programs. During accreditation, an independent group reviews the program to determine if graduates who pass the board certification are ready to practice safely. To be eligible to earn board certification for almost all nursing certifications, you must graduate from an accredited program.

Learn More About the Best Online Master's in Nusing Programs & Schools

See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.

#1 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Central Florida's online MSN program takes second place in our ranking. Applicants must live in Florida or in a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state (except for Colorado). 

The program helps prepare nurses for nursing education or administration careers. Specialties include nursing and healthcare simulation, nurse educator, and nursing leadership and management. 

Coaches assist applicants and new students through the application process and their first year. Coaches also assist with clinical placements.

  • Program(s): MSN in nursing and healthcare simulation, nurse educator, or nursing leadership and management. 
  • Campus: Orlando, Florida
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $327 per credit (in-state), $1,152 per credit (out-of-state)
  • Admission Requirements: BSN or AS in Nursing or diploma nursing program plus a non-nursing bachelor's; prerequisite courses; current and unencumbered RN license; undergraduate statistics course; essay; three references
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 20 months (5 semesters)
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 93% 
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $91,363, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
71,881
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

Johns Hopkins University

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Johns Hopkins University is one of the most prestigious medical schools in the country. Its nursing program offers one of the best online MSNs.

Students with a bachelor's in a degree other than nursing can apply to the school's MSN nursing entry program. Those with a BSN can pursue an MSN in healthcare organizational leadership or a joint healthcare organizational leadership and master's in business administration (MBA) program. 

  • Program(s): MSN (Entry into Nursing), MSN in healthcare organizational leadership, and dual MSN/MBA
  • Campus: Baltimore, Maryland
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $66,168 per year (nursing entry MSN), $53,242 per year (MSN), $58,720 per year (MSN/MBA)
  • Admission Requirements: Varies by program. All programs require 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation, resume/CV, goal statement, prerequisites, and interview.
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 20-24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 86% (Direct entry MSN)
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $95,359, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,160
Out-of-state
$54,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,010
Out-of-state
$57,010
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
28,890
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

University of South Florida

  • Tampa, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of South Florida offers several of the best online MSN programs for nurse practitioners, including adult-gerontology (primary and acute), family practice, and pediatric primary care. The adult-gerontology primary care specialties offer occupational health or occupational health and master of public health (MPH) options. 

Online MSN students may go on-campus for labs, clinicals, and didactics. Most students come to the campus once or twice per month. The program assigns students to clinical placements. 

  • Program(s): MSN (adult-gerontology, family, pediatric) 
  • Campus: Tampa, Florida
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $347.91 per credit (in-state), $855.95 per credit (out-of-state)
  • Admission Requirements: BSN, current and unencumbered RN license, three references 
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months, but varies by program 
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 91%
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $97,850, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
50,626
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Southern California's MSN program is based in the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and emphasizes public health, health equity, and evidence-based nursing practice. The school offers full-time and part-time options and provides support with clinical placement. 

The program requires four clinical rotations and 784 clinical hours. Students must participate in two on-campus intensives. Some students may need to complete a bridge program based on their undergraduate curriculum and record. 

  • Program(s): MSN (family practice)
  • Campus: Los Angeles, CA
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $2,045 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: BSN, 3.0 GPA, C or higher grade in statistics, at least one year of clinical experience as an RN, current and unencumbered RN license,
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 21 months 
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $163,225, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,260
Out-of-state
$59,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,880
Out-of-state
$47,880
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
46,287
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

Ohio State University-Main Campus

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Ohio State University-Main Campus nursing program is home to the top online MSN in the Midwest in our listing. You can specialize as a family nurse practitioner (FNP), neonatal nurse practitioner, clinical nurse leader, or a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). 

The online program charges a much smaller out-of-state surcharge than the on-campus program. Please note that the school is considering transitioning its APRN education tracks to its DNP program, though it is still accepting applications for the MSN program. 

  • Program(s): MSN (FNP, neonatal NP, PMHNP, or clinical nurse leader)
  • Campus: Columbus, Ohio
  • Type: Public 
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $973 per credit (in-state); $1,173 per credit (out-of-state)
  • Admission Requirements: BSN, current and unencumbered RN license, 3.0 GPA, three references, interview, purpose and goals statement
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 27 months 
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $89,089, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,615
Out-of-state
$32,599
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,560
Out-of-state
$36,276
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
61,369
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

Stony Brook University

  • Stony Brook, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Stony Brook University's master of science in nursing education is one of the best online MSNs for aspiring nurse educators. The program has on-campus requirements and provides support in finding local clinical placements. 

The MSN program emphasizes nursing leadership. A Committee for Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Social Justice (IDEAS) meets monthly to promote and nurture diversity, equity, and social justice in the program and its operations. Approximately 75% of Stony Brook's nursing school alumni practice in New York. 

  • Program(s): MSN (nursing education)
  • Campus: Stony Brook, New York
  • Type: Public 
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $471 per credit (in-state), $963 (out-of-state)
  • Admission Requirements: BSN or other bachelor's degree with a clinical practice portfolio, 3.0 GPA, current and unencumbered RN license, 3 references, courses in health assessment and statistics, at least one year of experience in nursing preferred
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes 
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 96%
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $105,661, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
26,782
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of West Florida is the third Florida school on our list and one of the best online master's in nursing programs. The program is asynchronous. It includes 12 credits of core MSN curriculum and 27 specialization credits in nursing education, including advanced nursing practice, adult education principles, and how to assess educational outcomes. 

The program requires three education practicums in nursing education settings. Students find and manage their own placement and preceptors, though the school has some existing preceptorship agreements.

  • Program(s): MSN (nursing education)
  • Campus: Pensacola, Florida
  • Type: Public 
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $425 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: BSN, 3.0 GPA, current and unencumbered RN license
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 94%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
13,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

Texas A & M International University

  • Laredo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Texas A & M International University's family nurse practitioner program is one of the best online master's in nursing. The program emphasizes preparing NPs to promote health in local, national, and international communities. The school uses its location near the Mexican border to foster thinking of healthcare as an international concern. 

The curriculum includes five practicum courses. Students will come to the campus regularly throughout the program, including on-campus practicums. If students cannot find local placement, the school will place them, but students must pay any related travel and lodging expenses. 

  • Program(s): MSN (FNP)
  • Campus: Laredo, Texas
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditation(s): Accreditation Commission for Nursing Education (ACNE)
  • Tuition: $11,337 total (in-state), $31,930 total (out-of-state)
  • Admission Requirements: BSN, 2.7 GPA and 3.0 in upper-level classes, passing grade in a statistics course, current and unencumbered Texas RN license, one year of inpatient RN experience
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 97% 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,634
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,712
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
8,525
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

George Washington University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

George Washington University's MSN with a speciality in psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) program covers mental health nursing for patients throughout their lifespan. The program focuses on developing a holistic approach to understanding, diagnosing, and treating mental health. 

The program offers spring and fall entry options and assumes part-time status. Students must complete at least 600 clinical hours. They are responsible for finding their own placement, though the school has a list of local sites. 

  • Program(s): MSN (PMHNP)
  • Campus: Washington, D.C.
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $1,395 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: BSN, 3.0 GPA preferred, two references, current and unencumbered RN license, resume/CV, statement of purpose
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 32 months (part-time) 
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $101,254, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,961
Out-of-state
$55,961
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$31,770
Out-of-state
$31,770
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
43%
Students Enrolled
27,017
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs

Cedarville University

  • Cedarville, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cedarville University's online MSN programs puts nursing students on the track to become family nurse practitioners. The program's biblically integrated curriculum includes 12 graduate nursing core semester hours, nine direct-care core hours, 20 hours of FNP specialty courses, and three hours of Bible-focused courses. The program includes a 600-hour clinical component spread across three semesters as well as some on-campus clinical orientation requirements.   

The online MSN program is flexible, allowing students to complete their studies either part time or full time. Eligible students can apply for a $3,000 scholarship offered by Cedarville. 

  • Program(s): MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Campus: Cedarville, Ohio
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $648 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: BSN, 3.0 GPA preferred, current and unencumbered RN license, official transcripts, professional and Christian leader recommendations, resume
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021): 84%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,364
Out-of-state
$32,364
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,065
Out-of-state
$9,065
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
4,461
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an Online Master's in Nursing Program

The best online MSN program for you depends on many different factors. Some of these, such as school culture or the exact amount of financial aid, are subjective or hard to determine before applying.

Others, such as board examination pass rates, are objective and readily available. Here are some of the most important criteria for most students:

Admission Requirements

Considering admission requirements when finding the best online master's in nursing for you helps you not waste time. You want to know how likely you are to be accepted before putting in the work of applying.

Admission requirements also tell you more nuanced things, such as what your fellow students might be like and what the school values.


Specializations

Unlike undergraduate bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs, MSN programs all have a particular specialty to prepare you for a specific career, such as family practice nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse educator.


Program Curriculum

While MSN programs are standardized, students still have some electives to choose from. The way that the school describes the curriculum is a strong indicator of program culture, as well.


Clinical Experience

Clinical experience is key to your success. Not only is it a vital learning opportunity, but it helps you build your network and references. Some of the best online MSN programs may provide clinical placement assistance to students.


Accreditation

Accreditation means that the program has passed detailed assessments to ensure that graduates are professionally competent. State licensure and national certification applications require that students graduate from an accredited program. All of the nursing programs listed on this site are accredited.


Program Length

The right program length for you depends on your background and needs. If you work full-time and your schedule is not flexible, a part-time option might be the best online master's in nursing program for you. For students with a flexible schedule or responsibilities, a faster program may work better.


School Graduation Rate

A high graduation rate, combined with a high board pass rate, is another excellent indicator of what might be the best online MSN for you.

If the graduation rate is high but the pass rate is low, that might be a sign that the school doesn't do enough to help students learn. Similarly, a high pass rate but low graduation rate suggests issues with the program.


Online Learning Format and Requirements

The best online MSN format for you depends on your learning needs, existing responsibilities, and schedule. If you learn best from live discussions, synchronous classes may be better for you, but if your schedule is unpredictable, asynchronous classes could be easier to manage.

How Online Master's in Nursing Programs Work

Depending on the program, you can take most or all of your classes online during your MSN. Some programs have a mandatory in-person onboarding or an in-person component for particular classes. If this is a requirement for a class, you will be informed ahead of time.

However, whether you attend an online or an on-campus program, you must complete your clinical hours in person. The best online MSN program for you should enable you to get placement in your community or other location that works well for you.

Applying to an Online Master's in Nursing Program

Now that you have picked the best online master's in nursing programs for you, make sure you give yourself every possible advantage when applying. Leave plenty of time and have a trusted colleague or mentor review your application to make sure it makes the most of your strengths and reflects your potential.

  • Admission Materials

    BSN from an accredited program, current and unencumbered nursing license, often at least one year of experience as a registered nurse (RN)
  • GPA Requirement

    Copy of your nursing license, at least two letters of recommendation, an essay or personal statement, documentation of malpractice insurance
  • Other Requirement

    Often 3.0 or higher

Paying for Online Master's in Nursing Programs

When figuring out how much you can expect to pay, in addition to tuition and fees, account for reliable and fast internet, any necessary travel to on-campus requirements or clinicals, and what kind of schedule you expect to work while studying.

While price is an important factor to consider, since paying for an MSN is not cheap, financial aid can make the best online MSN for you a possibility, no matter what your financial circumstances are.

In addition to loans, scholarships, and grants, you may be able to get a full scholarship (including expenses) or loan forgiveness if you work in an underserved area or for the U.S. government once you graduate.

Online Master's in Nursing Student Testimonials

On-Site Clinical Experience

"Throughout the program, there was only one, on-campus, two-day live simulation required, but due to COVID-19, it was held via Zoom. My program required 400 clinical hours, which were completed in person at an acute care hospital."

Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC

On Choosing an Online MSN Program

"I was looking for a fully online program with a concentration in Clinical Nurse Leadership. I was familiar with the school’s online workflow as I had received my bachelor’s from there a few years before joining the MSN program. As a full-time registered nurse, and a single mother, I needed a program that was completely online without regular on-campus requirements."

Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC

Benefits and Challenges of an Online MSN

"Some of the benefits to online learning are the convenience of completing work at home and ability to work at your own pace.

"Rather than having to drive to a location, which would involve time off from work, or extra childcare, I was able to sign in at home, listen to lectures, and utilize my time efficiently. A multitude of information is posted on the class platform and is always available to enhance your learning experience at a suitable time for your schedule.

"In the last year of my program, I was with a Cohort of about 14 other students, and we participated in weekly zoom lectures, which allowed us to develop a rapport with one another, enhancing my personal learning experience.

"Some of the challenges to earning an MSN online are time management and self-discipline. In order to stay on top of the workload, dedication and willpower are required. There is a multitude of discussion boards, papers, projects, and lectures.

"It can be challenging to fit all of these into an already full agenda and to find the motivation to incorporate assignments into your schedule. Advanced preparation and planning are an absolute must in order to complete a successful online MSN program."

Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC

Is an Online MSN Program Worth It?

"Absolutely! Advancements in technology have allowed programs to become robust in providing the suitable and necessary resources for a successful online learning experience. Online programs are developed with the understanding that many of their students lead full lives outside of the academic world. They are created to provide an education that is realistic and attainable for an evolving nursing workforce."

Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC

What Can You Do With a Degree from an MSN?

Most MSN graduates become nurse practitioners, but there are many other things you can do with an MSN. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) include clinical nurse specialists, nurse midwives, or nurse anesthetists (which now requires a doctorate). You can also earn an MSN in nurse administration or nurse education.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master's in Nursing Programs

Can you get an MSN without a BSN?

Candidates with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field may prefer a bridge program instead of a regular online nursing master's program. Most bridge programs are 3-4 years long.

Can you get an MSN without being an RN?

Some schools offer direct-entry programs for students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. Many online MSN programs do not offer a direct-entry option, and those that do may require or strongly prefer candidates with a degree in a healthcare field, such as public health, or relevant work experience.

How long does it take to complete an online MSN?

It takes most students two to three years to complete an MSN, depending on the program length and pace. Part-time students and students in ADN-to-MSN programs may take three to four years, again depending on the program pace.

Is now a good time to pursue an MSN?

In the U.S. the second fastest-growing occupation is a nurse practitioner. Salaries are considerably above the national average and demand is high. The BLS projects that between 2022 and 2032, the number of nurse practitioner jobs will grow 38%.


Page Last Reviewed: October 10, 2022. Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.


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