[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bridge programs help [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/”]registered nurses (RN)[/hen-ui-link] expand their clinical knowledge and increase their earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you earned an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/”]associate degree in nursing (ADN)[/hen-ui-link] while earning your RN license, you may be ready to take on new roles and responsibilities.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-link] degree is typically the next step forward for ADN-trained RNs, some nursing education programs allow qualified nurses with an ADN to pursue their [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing (MSN)[/hen-ui-link] graduate degree. The MSN can prepare nurses for new career paths, including as a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/”]nurse practitioner (NP)[/hen-ui-link], nurse educator, or nurse manager.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs who want to earn a master’s degree can speed up the process with an ADN-to-MSN bridge program. These programs let you earn an MSN without completing a separate BSN program. Our ranking introduces the best ADN-to-MSN programs so you can find an option that works for you as you move from RN to NP.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best ADN-to-MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″][hen-ui-icon icon=”badge-check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /] How We Rank Schools[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We use a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] to rank the best nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list is from 2025.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Using Our Rankings: What To Look for in an Online ADN-to-MSN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The right online ADN-to-MSN program fits your schedule, budget, and professional goals. When researching programs, factors, such as prerequisites, curriculum, accreditation, and length, can help you narrow your options. Here’s what to look for during your research.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is Online ADN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/what-is-accreditation/”]Nursing school accreditation[/hen-ui-link] recognizes programs that meet quality standards. Nursing programs, including MSN and bridge programs, must apply for accreditation and complete a rigorous peer-review process that can last several years. Accredited nursing programs follow specific guidelines on clinical hours, faculty qualifications, and NCLEX pass rates.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accrediting agencies, including the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acenursing.org/” target=”_blank”]Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing[/hen-ui-link] (ACEN) and the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation” target=”_blank”]Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education[/hen-ui-link] (CCNE), only accredit programs that follow the best practices for educating nurses. All the programs in our ranking hold accreditation.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Online ADN-to-MSN Bridge Programs Work[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]ADN-to-MSN bridge programs include both BSN and MSN coursework, allowing students to graduate sooner than if they had completed the programs separately. However, the format, structure, and requirements vary by program. For example, some programs may require students to hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online ADN-to-MSN bridge programs use several formats. In a fully online program, you typically complete courses in a virtual learning environment while meeting clinical requirements in your local area. Some programs use a hybrid format that requires in-person learning. Online classes may use live video conferencing tools or let students watch recorded lectures and complete requirements on their own schedule.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to an Online ADN-to-MSN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You need to meet the admission requirements before applying to an online ADN-to-MSN program. Typically, applicants must have an ADN degree and an RN license.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Admission Materials[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Although requirements vary by program, applicants generally submit an official transcript showing an ADN from an accredited nursing program and a current RN license. Programs also often require a resume, essay, and letters of recommendation.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]GPA Requirement[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many programs set a minimum 3.0 GPA for unconditional admission. Some admit students with a lower GPA on a provisional status. In addition, programs may require a minimum GPA on nursing prerequisites.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Other Requirement[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additional requirements vary. Programs may require or recommend clinical experience as an RN. International applicants typically need to pass an English proficiency test.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Your Online ADN-to-MSN program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Holding an MSN can boost your earning potential, but you still need to [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]pay for nursing school[/hen-ui-link] to earn the degree. An online format can help you save on tuition, living expenses, and transportation fees. You can also use [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] to lower costs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing students can benefit from many [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]scholarships and grants[/hen-ui-link]. Some healthcare employers also provide tuition assistance programs for nurses advancing their education.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]By choosing an accredited institution, you can submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to receive federal, state, or institutional aid. Prioritize scholarships and grants, which do not require repayment, over loans that you need to repay. However, if you borrow loans, you may qualify for nurse loan forgiveness programs offered by your state. Your chosen nursing program is the best resource for learning more about financial aid options in your area.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do with an ADN or MSN Degree?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MSN prepares nurses for careers as NPs, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/nurse-administrator/”]nurse administrators[/hen-ui-link], and nurse educators. These roles offer a significantly higher earning potential than [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/best-paying-adn-jobs/”]ADN jobs[/hen-ui-link]. Similarly, a growing number of healthcare employers prefer to hire nurses with a BSN or higher.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses with an ADN report an average base salary of $80,000 per year, according to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Associate_Degree_Nursing_(ADN)/Salary” target=”_blank”]October 2025 Payscale[/hen-ui-link] data. In contrast, nurses with an MSN earn an average base salary of $109,000 per year, according to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Master_of_Science_in_Nursing_(MSN)/Salary” target=”_blank”]Payscale[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]MSN-prepared nurses also benefit from greater autonomy. Depending on their training, nurses with an MSN can educate RNs on evidence-based patient care, implement new nursing processes, and provide primary care to patients.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can I jump from ADN to MSN?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, you can enroll in an ADN-to-MSN bridge program to go from an ADN to an MSN. Many students use these programs to move from RN to NP. These programs incorporate BSN and MSN coursework to build clinical knowledge and expertise while shortening the education timeline.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does ADN to MSN take?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An ADN-to-MSN program requires a minimum of two years for full-time students. Program lengths vary from 24-36 months. Students who attend part time or those interested in nurse practitioner programs may require additional time.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can you skip your BSN and go to an MSN?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, you can skip your BSN and go to an MSN if you’re a registered nurse. ADN-to-MSN programs offer an accelerated path to a master’s degree. You’ll take BSN classes and may also earn the BSN during the course of your program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long is the ADN to MSN program?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An ADN-to-MSN program typically requires 2-3 years, depending on your prior experience and MSN focus. You’ll typically spend around one year on undergraduate nursing courses followed by 1-3 years of MSN courses, with NP programs generally taking longer than nurse educator or nurse leader tracks.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]