[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/best-rn-programs-by-state/”]Registered nurses (RNs)[/hen-ui-link] can increase their earning potential and clinical autonomy by earning a graduate degree. Online [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/rn-msn/”]RN-to-MSN programs[/hen-ui-link] allow students to fast-track their [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing (MSN)[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]How do these bridge programs work? In a nutshell, you’ll complete undergraduate and graduate nursing courses, choose an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/popular-msn-degree-specializations/”]MSN specialization[/hen-ui-link], and further build your clinical skills.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We did the research and identified the best online RN-to-MSN programs. Explore our rankings to 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 RN-to-MSN Programs in 2025[/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″]What to Look For in an Online RN-to-MSN Degree Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When determining the best online RN-to-MSN program, it is crucial to choose the right fit. By researching factors such as admission requirements, curriculum, and accreditation, you can find the program appropriate for your academic and professional goals.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accredited nursing schools meet high standards for preparing nurses, measured by faculty qualifications, exam pass rates, and curriculum. RNs should always choose an accredited nursing program to earn their master’s degree. Top nursing programs hold accreditation from the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acenursing.org/” target=”_blank”]Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing[/hen-ui-link] (ACEN) or the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE” target=”_blank”]Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education[/hen-ui-link] (CCNE).[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Attending an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/what-is-accreditation/”]accredited program[/hen-ui-link] provides the following advantages:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nursing licensure and board certification require an accredited nursing degree.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students in unaccredited programs may not be eligible for federal financial aid.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accredited programs may not accept transfer credits from an unaccredited one.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employers prefer to hire graduates with a degree from an accredited program.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Online RN-to-MSN Programs Work[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online RN-to-MSN programs prioritize flexibility, allowing you to complete coursework in a fully online format. Depending on the program, you may take classes synchronously or asynchronously.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hybrid programs blend [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/in-person-vs-online-nursing-programs/”]online and in-person learning[/hen-ui-link], which may help you develop relationships with other nursing students and instructors. Regardless of the program, you must complete [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]clinical experiences[/hen-ui-link] in person. Consider your learning style and schedule to find a good fit.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to an Online RN-to-MSN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before applying to an online RN-to-MSN program, your first step is to make sure you meet the application requirements. While the process and requirements vary by program, you’ll likely need the following:[/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”]Admission Requirements:[/hen-ui-text] Applicants must hold an unrestricted and unencumbered RN license and have an ADN from an accredited hospital-based program. Some also require [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/prerequisites-for-nursing-school/”]prerequisite coursework[/hen-ui-link] in microbiology, anatomy, chemistry, and statistics.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Application Materials :[/hen-ui-text] Common admission materials include transcripts from your ADN program, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay.[/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] Many RN-to-MSN programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Online RN-to-MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs can increase their earning potential with an MSN — but [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]paying for nursing school[/hen-ui-link] can be expensive. However, choosing an online program can mean a lower tuition rate.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Fortunately, nurses can use [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/financial-aid/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] to cover costs. By filling out the [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/” target=”_blank”]FAFSA[/hen-ui-link], you may qualify for federal student aid and institutional aid. [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]Applying for scholarships[/hen-ui-link], grants, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/student-loan-forgiveness-for-nurses/”]nursing school loan forgiveness[/hen-ui-link], and more can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Employers may also offer tuition reimbursement.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do After an RN-to-MSN Program?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With an MSN, you can move into specialized nursing roles that require a master’s degree. For example, an MSN can prepare you for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles, including as a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/”]nurse practitioner (NP)[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]MSN-prepared nurses also pursue career paths in nursing administration, clinical leadership, and nursing education. Many of these roles offer a higher earning potential than RN roles.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some popular specialties after earning an RN-to-MSN include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]NPs can fill a wide range of roles in primary, chronic, acute, and specialty care. They use their clinical knowledge and experience to diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and other medical conditions.[/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”]Median Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$129,210[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Job Outlook (2024-2034): [/hen-ui-text]40%[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Nurse Educator[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurse educators are responsible for developing, teaching, and evaluating courses and programs that educate future nurses. They can either teach general courses or focus on specific specialization areas.[/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”]Median Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$79,940[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Job Outlook (2024-2034): [/hen-ui-text]17%[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Certified Nurse-Midwife[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certified nurse-midwives provide essential services including gynecological exams, wellness education, family planning, and prenatal care. They also assist pregnant individuals during and after childbirth.[/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”]Median Salary: [/hen-ui-text]$128,790[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Job Outlook (2024-2034): [/hen-ui-text]11%[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Clinical Nurse Specialist[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical nurse specialists provide specialized patient care and take on leadership responsibilities to improve patient outcomes and nursing practices.[/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”]Median Salary: [/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Clinical_Nurse_Specialist_(CNS)/Salary” target=”_blank”]$105,206[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Job Outlook (2024-2034): [/hen-ui-text]5%[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/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=”How long does it take to go from RN to MSN?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RN-to-MSN programs typically take 2-4 years for full-time students. RNs generally complete one year of BSN courses before taking MSN courses. Some MSN specialties require additional time. For example, nurse practitioners complete a minimum of 500 clinical hours, so these programs generally require 2-3 years after completing BSN requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the fastest RN-to-MSN program?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The fastest RN-to-MSN programs take around two years. Nurses typically take BSN courses for the first year, followed by MSN courses. Nurse educator and nurse leader MSN programs generally require less time than advanced practice programs such as nurse practitioner MSN tracks.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is RN to MSN worth it?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs can increase their clinical responsibilities and boost their earning potential with an MSN, which can make the investment worth it for many RNs. For example, nurse practitioners provide primary care, including diagnosing medical conditions and prescribing medications. An MSN can also lead to opportunities as a nurse leader or nurse educator.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can I skip my BSN and get my MSN?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, RNs can skip their BSN and earn an MSN with an RN-to-MSN bridge program. These programs admit registered nurses without a BSN. Those with no nursing experience can also enroll in a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/best-direct-entry-masters-in-nursing-programs/”]direct-entry MSN program[/hen-ui-link], which combines undergraduate and graduate coursework.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]