[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing (MSN)[/hen-ui-link] degree benefit from expanded career options, including management or leadership opportunities, and a higher earning potential.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online MSN degree program can make it easier to keep working while you advance your education and career.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Our guide introduces the best MSN online programs so that you can find the right fit for your schedule, budget, and professional goals.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs & Schools[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″][hen-ui-icon icon=”badge-check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /] How We Rank Schools[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We use a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] to rank the best MSN online nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list is from 2025.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is Online Master’s in Nursing Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation recognizes nursing programs that follow industry standards for preparing nurses. You must graduate from an accredited program to be eligible for board certification for almost all nursing specialties.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Our ranking only includes programs accredited by either the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE” target=”_blank”]Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education[/hen-ui-link] (CCNE) or the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acenursing.org/” target=”_blank”]Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing[/hen-ui-link] (ACEN).[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The benefits of accreditation for nursing students include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employers rarely consider graduates from non-accredited programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credits earned at accredited programs are more likely to transfer.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]MSN graduates who need board certification must graduate from an accredited program.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students at accredited institutions qualify for more forms of financial aid.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an Online Master’s in Nursing Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The best online MSN program for you depends on many factors. Some of these, such as school culture or the amount of financial aid, are subjective or hard to determine before applying.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Others, such as board examination pass rates, are objective and readily available. Here are some of the most important criteria for most students:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Online Master’s in Nursing Programs Work[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The best MSN online programs typically have flexible schedules that allow working professionals to balance their studies with other responsibilities. Many programs use a combination of less-structured and live online classes to teach advanced topics in nursing theory, research, healthcare policy, and specialized clinical practices.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some MSN online programs have mandatory in-person requirements for onboarding, assessments, or other class components. For example, you must complete all [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]clinical requirements[/hen-ui-link] in person. Some programs help arrange your clinical placements, while others only approve placements you find.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students may participate in virtual simulations, online discussions, and collaborative projects. The pace is designed to be adaptable, and most programs offer options for full-time or part-time enrollment. This flexibility is crucial for nurses who want an advanced education but have professional and personal commitments.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to an Online Master’s in Nursing Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The admission requirements and process for MSN online programs vary depending on the school. Common admission requirements include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Application Requirements:[/hen-ui-text] Common application requirements include a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or an associate degree in nursing (ADN) when enrolling in an online RN-to-MSN program; an active and unencumbered RN license; and 1-2 years of experience ( varies by program).[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]GPA Requirement:[/hen-ui-text] MSN programs typically require a 3.0 GPA or higher; some programs allow conditional admission with a lower GPA.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Other Requirements:[/hen-ui-text] MSN online programs usually have [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/most-critical-prerequisites-for-getting-your-masters-in-nursing/”]prerequisite courses[/hen-ui-link]. Other requirements that vary by the program include letters of recommendation, resumes, transcripts, and personal statements or essays. Some programs require background checks, drug screens, and health clearances.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your application should reflect your strengths and your potential to succeed in the program. Avoid submitting your application at the last minute, and leave enough time for a colleague or mentor to provide feedback.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Online Master’s in Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The cost of an online MSN can deter nurses since [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]paying for an MSN[/hen-ui-link] is not cheap. Fortunately, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] can make earning an MSN possible, regardless of your financial circumstances.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Start by filling out the federal [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa” target=”_blank”]FAFSA form[/hen-ui-link] to qualify for student aid programs and need-based scholarships. Nursing students can also apply for [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarships/”]scholarships and grants[/hen-ui-link] to cover expenses. If you are currently working as a nurse, see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Once you graduate, you may qualify for a full scholarship (including expenses) or loan forgiveness if you work in an underserved area or for the U.S. government.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Online Student Testimonials[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]On-Site Clinical Experience[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Throughout the program, there was only one, on-campus, two-day live simulation required, but due to COVID-19, it was held via Zoom. My program required 400 clinical hours, which were completed in person at an acute care hospital.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]On Choosing an Online MSN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“I was looking for a fully online program with a concentration in Clinical Nurse Leadership. I was familiar with the school’s online workflow as I had received my bachelor’s from there a few years before joining the MSN program. As a full-time registered nurse and a single mother, I needed a program that was completely online without regular on-campus requirements.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Benefits and Challenges of an Online MSN[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Some of the benefits of online learning are the convenience of completing work at home and the ability to work at your own pace.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Rather than having to drive to a location, which would involve time off from work, or extra childcare, I was able to sign in at home, listen to lectures, and utilize my time efficiently. A multitude of information is posted on the class platform and is always available to enhance your learning experience at a suitable time for your schedule.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“In the last year of my program, I was with a Cohort of about 14 other students, and we participated in weekly Zoom lectures, which allowed us to develop a rapport with one another, enhancing my personal learning experience.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Some of the challenges to earning an MSN online are time management and self-discipline. In order to stay on top of the workload, dedication, and willpower are required. There are a multitude of discussion boards, papers, projects, and lectures.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“It can be challenging to fit all of these into an already full agenda and to find the motivation to incorporate assignments into your schedule. Advanced preparation and planning are an absolute must in order to complete a successful online MSN program.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Is an Online MSN Program Worth It?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]“Absolutely! Advancements in technology have allowed programs to become robust in providing the suitable and necessary resources for a successful online learning experience. Online programs are developed with the understanding that many of their students lead full lives outside of the academic world. They are created to provide an education that is realistic and attainable for an evolving nursing workforce.”[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Whitney S. Birney, MSN, RN, CNL, AMB-BC[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Degree from an Online MSN Program?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many MSN graduates become nurse practitioners, but you can pursue many other career paths with an MSN. [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]Advanced practice registered nurses (APRN)[/hen-ui-link] include clinical nurse specialists or certified nurse-midwives. You can also earn an MSN to become a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/nurse-administrator/”]nursing administrator[/hen-ui-link] or [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/nurse-educator/”]nurse educator[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/”]Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse practitioners (NP) can choose to practice in primary care with a specialty population, such as family practice, women’s health, adult-geriatric, or pediatrics. They may also choose acute care or subspecialty practices such as critical care, psychiatric/mental health, orthopedics, and dermatology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median NP annual salary is $129,210 as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-midwife/”]Certified Nurse-Midwife[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse-midwives provide care to pregnant women and infants. They are licensed to oversee prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care. The BLS reports a median salary of $128,790 for nurse-midwives as of May 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/clinical-nurse-specialist/”]Clinical Nurse Specialist[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical nurse specialists provide advanced nursing care and oversee nurses in particular areas, such as adult or pediatric acute care. According to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Clinical_Nurse_Specialist_(CNS)/Salary” target=”_blank”]Payscale data[/hen-ui-link], the average annual salary is $105,206 as of September 2025.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can you get a master’s degree in nursing online?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, you can earn a master’s in nursing online. MSN online programs blend virtual classes with in-person clinical requirements to prepare you for careers as a nurse practitioner, nurse administrator, nurse educator, and other advanced nursing roles. Accredited online nursing programs meet the same quality standards as online programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Are online MSN programs respected?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, online MSN programs are respected by state boards of nursing and healthcare employers. Accredited online MSN programs meet the same board certification and licensure requirements as traditional in-person programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the best master’s degree to get as a nurse?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The most in-demand nursing master’s programs prepare students to become NPs, who are projected to see 40% job growth from 2024-2034, according to the BLS. Other popular MSN specializations include nurse educators, nurse administrators, and advanced practice RNs. The best master’s degree for you depends on your interests and goals.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is it worth getting a master’s degree in nursing?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Getting a master’s degree in nursing can pay off. MSN programs prepare RNs for higher-paying careers as nurse practitioners, nurse administrators, and other nursing careers that require a master’s degree. For example, NPs earn a median annual salary of $129,210, according to the BLS.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]