Rankings

2. Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical

Here’s an online program designed to give you the tools necessary to run an efficient medical office. This Medical Administrative Assistant AAS degree can be completed in approximately two years with a reasonable program tuition cost of about $7,000 per year. Upon graduation, you’ll be qualified to work as a Medical Secretary, Medical Transcriptionist, as well as a Medical Health Information Technician.

This program requires 60 credit hours of coursework, including 15 hours of general education (English, history, social and behavioral science, etc.) and 45 hours in your major. Some of the technical classes you’ll take will be Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology Disease Conditions, Pharmacology, Introduction to Health Information Management, as well as Medical Office Procedures, and more.

You’ll be taught by faculty with real world professional experience and will work with actual hospital or clinic documents. As part of the admission process you’ll apply online, take the Accuplacer Placement Exam, submit academic transcripts, and participate in an online orientation. MSC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Fast Fact: The school has been educating students since 1949

Degree Awarded: AAS

3. Daymar College

You can earn an online AAS in Medical Assisting from Daymar College while you continue to work or raise a family. The program can be completed in 18 months attending full-time and will prepare you with office practices, processes, and administration.

Daymar College uses the quarter system and the AAS degree requires 92 credit hours for completion and includes general education courses. Among the topics you’ll cover in your major are Medical Dictation, Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Office Management, Medical Terminology, etc. You’ll also take a Professional Seminar and Internship OR complete a capstone project.

The college holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and you can apply for financial assistant with the Free Application for Federal Student Assistance. If you don’t qualify for assistance, you may want to explore Daymar College’s Grant-In-Aid program.

Fast Fact: Daymar College has campuses in Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, and Online

Degree Awarded: AAS

4. Ashworth College

You can complete this Healthcare Administration Associate online degree in four semesters. The program curriculum is designed by experts in the field and will provide you the skills to work in a variety of healthcare settings as a manager or office administrator.

Courses you’ll take include a combination of studies in English composition, Medical Terminology, Medical Office Management, Health Records Management, Medical Coding, Principles of Public Speaking, math or algebra, humanities studies, etc. This program will qualify you to become licensed if your state requires it.

Ashworth College is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The college cites its program tuition costs to be one of the most affordable in the country at a little over $4,000.

Fast Fact: Ashworth College began in 1987 offering a single distance course in real estate appraisal

Degree Awarded: AS

5. College of Health Professions

If you currently have a diploma in an allied health field and want to complete an associate’s degree, this online Health and Medical Administrative Services AAS completion program may be just what you need. This bridge completion program can be completed in 32 weeks.

Among the 60 credit hours necessary for this degree, you’ll take general education courses in topics such as English, psychology, math, and communication skills. You’ll be given up to 36 credit hours of Allied Health Core Bridge Credit from your qualified healthcare diploma program. Additionally, you’ll take courses in business, human resources, management and leadership to complete the program.

Admission will ask for your high school diploma or GED as well as your transcript from your healthcare diploma program. The college is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

Fast Fact: College of Health Care Professions was founded in 1953 by a group of Texas physicians

Degree Awarded: AAS

6. Northland Community and Technical College

You can complete this AAS in Medical Administrative Assistant program in four semesters. You’ll earn your degree completely online from this Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredited school.

You’ll study ICD coding, medical terminology, medical billing, anatomy, physiology, medical office processes, human relations, English composition, etc. The curriculum has a simulation course that will give you an internship-like experience in a medical office. An introductory course in public speaking, as well as interpersonal communication, are part of the curriculum.

The school estimates program costs to average $13,000 for online degrees. You’ll want to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and also check the school for any available school assistance.

Fast Fact: Niche ranks this Minnesota school as one of its “Best Community Colleges in America”

Degree Awarded: AAS

7. Dakota College at Bottineau

Here’s a Medical Assistant AAS degree with a clinical focus you can take online.

You’ll study Clinical Procedures, Basic Procedure Coding, Medical Disorders, Medical Transcription, Healthcare Law and Ethics, Clinical Specialties, Principles of Nutrition, Computer Application in Healthcare, etc. Your program will end with a 180-credit hour practicum experience in a healthcare environment. The combination of clinical and administrative training will qualify you to become a Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) by sitting for the certification exam of the American Medical Technologists (AMT).

To apply for this AAS, you’ll need to submit academic transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. You’l also be asked to apply for federal financial assistance and immunization records may be required as well.

Fast Fact: Dakota College at Bottineau is a member of the North Dakota University System

Degree Awarded: AAS

8. State Fair Community College

This may be a Medical Assisting program to consider if you’re in the Sedalia, Missouri area. To enter this 61 credit hour program, you’ll complete the requirements for the Professional Certificate in Medical Assisting (PCMA) and pass the certification exam.

The PCMA includes studies in Laboratory Procedures, Medical Terminology, CPR for Healthcare Providers, Pharmacology, Administrative Procedures, Advanced Skills, and more. You’ll take general education courses in English composition, history, algebra, biology, psychology, and sociology. Additionally, you’ll study human disease and conditions and microcomputer applications.

Clinical experiences are part of this program and are conducted at Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare sites and other health facilities.

Fast Fact: The school’s name comes from its proximity to the Missouri State Fairgrounds

Degree Awarded: AAS

9. Herzing University

Wisconsin’s Herzing University has an online Medical Assistant Associate of Science in Medical Assisting Services (ASMAS) you can complete in 10-20 months.

The program is designed with online coursework and hands-on clinical labs and an externship. You’ll study medical terminology, patient privacy, ethics, pharmacology and pathophysiology, billing and coding. In the clinical labs, you’ll learn to take vital signs, injections, first aid, and more. Your externship will provide you with real world experience in a healthcare setting, working as a Medical Assistant. You’ll work with a Herzing University clinical coordinator to identify a proctor and externship site.

Before applying for admission, you’ll be able to have a virtual meeting with an admission advisor who’ll be able to answer any and all questions you may have about the program.

Fast Fact: Herzing University began in 1965 as a computer training school

Degree Awarded: ASMAS

10. Keiser University

You can receive an AS degree as a Medical Assistant from Keiser University’s online division.

The program will train you in the clinical aspects of being a Medical Assistant as well as administrative and clerical tasks required in a healthcare environment. Among your classes will be topics in medical ethics, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, laboratory processes, and an externship where you’ll practice what you’ve learned.

Additionally, as part of the 60 credit hour program, you’ll take general education courses in English composition, history, social and behavioral sciences, math, etc.

Fast Fact: US News and World Report ranks Keiser University as a “Best Colleges for Veterans”

Degree Awarded: AS

25 Best Medical Assistant Associate’s Programs

Will a Medical Assistant Certification Help My Career?

Short answer? Yes.

Healthcare is a field that relies on employees being qualified to work with patients and healthcare providers. An online medical assistant program can be a great start to your career, but passing a certification exam is another way to demonstrate your knowledge and abilities for employers, as well as assuring patients you meet the highest standards.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are five certifications for Medical Assistants, but the two most common certifications are: Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from American Medical Technologists. Costs for the exam range from $125-$250.

While certification isn’t required by law, some states and employers will require you hold certification. You should check with your state’s board of medicine to see what requirements you need to meet.

Certification may not be required by law, but you can bet employers will look favorably on potential employees who are CMA or RMA certified. It can also be reflected in your salary. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates salaries can range from $25,820-$48,720 a year. Of course, there are many considerations that impact your salary, but certification is certainly one of them.

You can become a Medical Assistant with on-the-job training, but having an associate’s degree in Medical Assisting will help you stand out with employers. Additionally, most accredited associate degrees will qualify you to sit for certification exams; and, some will even provide exam prep as part of the program’s curriculum.

After getting your certification, you might also choose to get your medical assistant degree online later.

Should I Get an Online Certification?

Colleges, universities, and technical schools have upped their online game over the past few years, providing quality education for the working adult. Degrees earned online are taught by the same faculty and same requirements as on-campus programs.

You need to be certain the program you choose is accredited by either Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs will tailor their curriculum to prepare you to become certified. This often includes internships or externships. You should always check that the program you’re considering is able to help you identify local medical offices or healthcare facilities for your practicum experiences.

You’ll find that most schools have a similar curriculum. Online programs, as those in classrooms, feature courses in clinical and administrative studies. Classes in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, human biology, laboratory testing, etc. are necessary for you to perform the clinical aspects of the job. On the administrative side, you’ll take courses in how a medical office works, management of patient records, billing and coding, insurance and reimbursement, communication, and others. The combination of these studies will prepare you to be an intregal part of the healthcare team.

Frequently, online associate degrees can be completed within one to two years.

Is the Medical Assistant Exam Hard?

First, let’s look at who offers Medical Assistant exams. The two most common are for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the Registered Medical Assistants (RMA) offered by American Medical Technologists. These are the tests we’ll concentrate on.

Other exams are: National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) National Center for Competency Testing, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) National Healthcareer Association, and the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) also from the National Healthcareer Association.

As a graduate of an accredited Medical Assisting degree program, you should have all the tools needed to pass the certification exams.

Secondly, you’ll find the AAMA and AMT organizations want you to do well on your exam. To help you succeed, you have access to the AAMA study guides for the exam, including practice exams. The AMT also provides test preparation help. You may have to pay for test prep and study guides.

The cost of certification exams ranges from $125-$250. Membership in the AAMA or AMT will provide you with lower exam costs. Fees for membership will vary depending on the state in which you live. Maybe this degree is not quite right for you. If not, check out our rank of medical billing and coding degree programs.

Related Rankings:

15 Best Online Medical Assistant Associate’s Programs

What Can You Do with a Medical Assistant Associate Degree?

10 Most Affordable/Cheap BSN Programs

Standards for nursing education have increased over the years, but many students who want a BSN are working nurses who don’t want to go deep into debt to increase their credentials. Like traditional on-campus degree programs, affordable online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs are offered by many institutions of higher learning. Some of the cheapest online RN to BSN programs are offered by mammoth-sized universities, regional public universities, small colleges, as well as dedicated nursing schools.

The easiest and cheapest online RN to BSN program will be the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that fits your budget, with delineated program objectives that meet your career objectives. Smaller regional public universities often offer some of the cheapest online RN to BSN programs with quality programs. When researching the easiest and cheapest online RN to BSN program, make sure to include the school’s accreditation status. If you are going to consider the cheapest online RN to BSN programs, it is important to select a school and program accredited by a legitimate nursing accreditation agency.

Our Method: Ranking the Most Affordable Nursing Schools

Our ranking of the most affordable online RN to BN programs puts schools in order based on one characteristic: their tuition cost, according to IPEDS data. However, ranking the most affordable online RN to BSN programs isn’t just about money – it’s also about quality, so every institution featured in the Best Health Degrees ranking is also regionally accredited, accredited by the CCNE or ACEN, and has an established track record of student satisfaction. That way, nursing students know their investments their nursing programs will see a return in higher pay and greater career opportunity.

1. Daytona State College

Daytona State College offers an RN to BSN degree program that is considered one of the most affordable nursing schools available. DSC’s prepares graduates to seamlessly transfer from their RN certification to a more advanced nursing degree. Daytona State College’s RN to BSN degree program can be completed entirely online which makes earning the baccalaureate degree convenient to nursing who wish to remain employed while studying. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredits DSC’s RN to BSN online degree program.

Daytona State College was established in 1957 as a public institution of higher education that sits alongside Florida’s Atlantic Ocean coastline. Daytona State College’s urban campus is home to more than 18,000 students and the Southeast Museum of Photography. Daytona State College is a member school of the College System of Florida and partners with the public schools in Volusia and Flagler country.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

2. University of Missouri-St. Louis

The University of Missouri-St. Louis’s College of Nursing RN to BSN degree program can be completed in only five consecutive semesters. UMSL’s coursework requires the completion of 120 credit units with RN to BSN coursework (30 credit units) that includes in Health Assessments, Nursing Theories, Ethics, Research, and a clinical component in the Population Health & Communities.

The University of Missouri-St. Louis was established in 1960 as a research institution of higher education. UMSL is the newest member school added to the University of Missouri system. The University of Missouri-St. Louis’ urban campus covers several hundred acres and is home to nearly 16,500 students. The University of Missouri-St. Louis’ St. Louis Mercantile Library on the campus of UMSL is the oldest library west of the mighty Mississippi River.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

3. Minot State University

Minot State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program for the Registered Nurse (RN) that requires the completion of 30 credit hours (for a total of 122 general required credit units) dedicated to nursing and health-related services. Minot State University allows for transfer credits from other eligible accredited institution of higher education.

Minot State University was established in 1913 as a normal school. Minot State University is currently the 3rd largest institution of higher learning in the state of North Dakota. Minot State University’s rural campus is near the Canadian border and is home to nearly 4,000 students studying from MSU’s three colleges/schools — Business, Arts & Sciences, Education and graduate school. The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the North Dakota Board of Nursing accredits Minot State University.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

4. Nicholls State University

Nicholls State University’s Department of Nursing’s online RN to BSN degree program has received accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN). Nicholls State University’s RN to BSN degree program is one of the most affordable online RN to BSN programs in the southern portion of the United States. Nicholls State University’s RN to BSN degree program is designed for working RN’s who wish to pursue their BSN and be given credit for previous education and experience.

Nicholls State University was established as a public institution of higher education in 1948 as Francis T. Nicholls Junior College. Nicholls State University is a member school of the University of Louisiana System of universities. Nicholls State University is named for a Louisiana State Supreme Court justice and a former governor of the state.

Degree: RN to BSN Articulation

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

5. College of Coastal Georgia

The College of Coastal Georgia’s School of Nursing & Health Sciences is one of the most affordable nursing schools offering a Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree program. NursingSchoolHub.com recognizes the College of Coastal Georgia’s degree program as one of the most affordable online RN to BSN programs in the country. It is noted that degree candidates must also complete clinical rotations in their local community. Students enrolled in the RN to BSN plan have the option of completing the program in 3 semesters (full-time) or 6 semesters, as part-time student.

The College of Coastal Georgia was established in 1961 as Brunswick College and holds claim to the fact that it is the Peach State’s newest institution of higher learning. The school’s campus is home to more than 3,400 students studying from the College of Coastal Georgia’s colleges/schools – Business, Health Sciences, Arts & Sciences, and Education. The College of Coastal Georgia transitioned from a community college to a full four-year institution of higher education in 1971.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

6. Columbia College

Columbia College’s Nursing Department offers an RN to BSN degree program that is available entirely online. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits Columbia College’s RN to BSN degree program. Students receive hands-on experience in basic medical and surgical settings along with many other nursing specialties. Upon completion of the degree program, students are eligible to sit for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

Columbia College was established in 1851 as a private institution of higher learning. Although the school began as a nonsectarian university, it has since become affiliated with the Christian Church, the Disciples of Christ. The school’s 225+-acre campus is home to nearly 2,000 students. Columbia College operates its main campus in Columbia MO, as well as 40 extension facilities in fourteen states.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

7. Southwestern Oklahoma State University

The Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s RN to BSN degree program that can be finished online. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredits SWOSU’s RN to BSN online degree program. Degree graduates have up to five years to complete the program, but for those who wish to finish quickly, the average time to complete the coursework is 6 eight-week terms (or about one-year) as a full-time student.

The Southwestern Oklahoma State University was established in 1901 and is one of only 6 member schools that make up the Regional University System of Oklahoma. The school operates with two rural campuses and is home to nearly 4,500 students. The first baccalaureate program (a teaching degree) was offered by the Southwestern Oklahoma State University happened in 1921.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

8. Columbus State University

Columbus State University’s School of Nursing offers an online RN to BSN degree program that has received accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Georgia Board of Nursing. Degree graduates are required to complete coursework Health Assessments, Clinical Nursing, Evidence-Based Practice, as well as a senior project that synthesizes the education a student receives.

Columbus State University was established in 1958. The University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents manages Columbus State University. The school operates with three campuses — the main campus (suburban-like), a satellite campus on Fort Benning, and the Riverfront campus (urban-like), on the shores of the Chattahoochee River. Both campuses are home to nearly 7,400 students Columbus State University is home to the Coca Cola Space Center, which includes the Mead Observatory and a planetarium.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

9. University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana offers an RN to BSN degree program that is available entirely online. Course topics include Global Health, Informatics, Advanced Nursing Practice Issues, and Evidence-Based Concepts, among others. A total of 120 credit hours are required to complete the University of Southern Indiana BSN program, however, those with associate’s degrees from accredited schools may transfer those credits to the RN to BSN program.

The University of Southern Indiana was established in 1965 as a public institution of higher learning. The school’s 1,400 suburban acre campus is home to more than 9,000 students studying from more than 70-degree programs in the disciplines of Business, Liberal Arts, Nursing, Education, and Engineering. The University of Southern Indiana operates a semi-professional theater entitled the New Harmony Theater, in conjunction with the Actors Equity Association.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

10. Lamar University

Lamar University offers a Registered Nurse (RN) to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program that can be earned 100% online. Lamar University’s BSN completion program is one of the most affordable online RN to BSN programs around. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredits Lamar University’s online RN to BSN degree program; which can be completed in as little as thirteen months. Nursing Coursework includes Care of Communities, Holistic health Assessments, Nursing Leadership, and Nursing Inquiry, to name a few.

Lamar University was established in 1923 as South Park Junior College. Lamar University holds the distinction of being a public state university that is a space-grant school. The school’s 290+-urban acre campus is home to more than 9,000 students study from more than 160 undergraduate and graduate degree programs through the school’s seven schools/colleges. These include the College of Engineering, Education, Business, Fine Arts, Arts & Sciences, Graduate Studies, and the Reaud Honors School. Lamar University was named in honor of the second Republic of Texas President — Mirabeau Lamar.

Degree: RN to BSN

See the program website for more on this affordable BSN!

How Much Can I Make with an Affordable BSN Online Degree?

Are you considering enrolling in an affordable online Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) degree program? Online programs are often cheaper, putting you in a good position starting out. Passing the national council licensure examination will be a breeze, too. If so, you have likely asked yourself these relevant questions:

How much do nurses make an hour starting out?
What is the top Bachelor of Science in Nursing salary?
How much does a nurse make a month?
How do I compare an RN vs BSN salary?
How do I compare an ADN vs BSN salary?
What’s a Bachelor of Nursing salary on average?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), whether earned in an online program or in a more traditional classroom setting, increases a Registered Nurse’s opportunities and potential salary. The average Bachelors of Science in Nursing salary is, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as follows.

The median nursing careers salary for the calendar year 2018 is $71,730. This translates to an average of $34.48 per hour for a Bachelor of Nursing salary. So how much does a nurse make a month? — around $5,977.50.

When comparing a Registered Nurse, RN vs BSN salary or an Associate’s Degree in Nursing, ADN vs BSN salary, the reality is that a professional nursing careers salary (for those who have earned their BSN) is typically the highest salary, comparatively speaking, as those nursing professionals have completed the most nursing education. Registered nurses make more with a BSN, period.

In addition to asking how much do nurses make an hour starting out, it is important to consider the predicted job growth by the government’s statisticians. While nursing professionals are always in high demand, it is noted that the nursing industry is anticipated to grow at a 15% rate through the year 2026. The 15% estimate is near twice the average predicted the growth of all industries combined.

Can I Get an Online BSN Degree for Free?

Maybe you’re not ready for a BSN online program. With the onset and popularity of MOOCs, Massive Open Online Courses, one can truly take world-class academic courses online from some of the most preeminent institutions of higher learning. However, these self-paced, unsupervised courses generally do not offer any certifications for the coursework you have completed, unless the student agrees to pay a fee for a certificate to be issued. Unfortunately, there are no free online nursing courses with a certificate or free nursing degrees. An affordable BSN degree is the better option.

However, there are ways to help reduce tuition costs. There are countless nursing scholarships and financial aid options. If you can get your employer to help defer all (or some of) the costs of the classes, you may be able to earn some free nursing degrees, with this help, not because there are free online nursing courses with certificate available.

If you already have an associate degree from one of the community college nursing degree programs, you can get your bachelor’s faster. It’s not free, but online students can save a bundle.

What Kinds of Jobs Can I Get with an Online BSN?

Professional nursing skills and talents earned by completing an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree are typically in high demand. Nursing careers, including the many types of nurses and salaries, offer a wide variety of different types of nursing jobs and salaries. Nursing career options run the gamut, which allows each nursing degree graduate to select the work environment of a nurse specialty from a list of nursing fields available online, or with the school you have attended.

A list of nursing fields, best nursing careers, Bachelor of Science in Nursing jobs, a nursing careers list, types of nursing careers and the differing types of nurse and salaries are available through many online resources — including the government! A partial list of different types of nurses and descriptions for available nursing career options in a work environment of a nurse include working in:

Nursing Home
Hospital
School
Outpatient Clinic

The differing types of nursing careers offer BSN graduates a chance to reach for some of the best nursing careers. A Nursing careers list can help refine your search to decide which of the many types of nursing jobs and salaries, and the different types of nurses and descriptions would best fit your goals and talents.

Top 10 Cheap MSN Online Programs

Cheap MSN online programs for working nurses offer an affordable path to advance their careers. The most affordable online master of science in nursing degree programs are also flexible. Affordability is an essential factor to consider when online MSN program.

Online MSN programs or even online BSN to MSN programs are often more affordable than traditional nursing programs. These online MSN programs offer students the same affordable tuition rates, with some students residing in the same state of the institution or across the nation in another state. The best programs sacrifice nothing in quality while providing a degree that will return their investment with a real career boost.

One of the ways to reduce the tuition costs of an online MSN is with the cheapest online MSN programs that students can complete in a short time. Be cautious, though, because a 1-year course workload requires a serious commitment to successfully complete. Another possibility of reducing your costs to obtain your Master of Science in Nursing degree is to select an online MSN program with a generous transfer credit school policy. Each school operates with a different credit transfer policy, so be vigilant when researching this cost reduction possibility. Good luck with your school search!

Our Method: Ranking the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs

The Best Health Degrees ranking of cheap MSN programs began with a survey of fully online and hybrid MSN programs offered by accredited, reputable nursing schools. The ranking is organized by tuition cost, from lowest to highest, according to current IPEDS data.

With a master’s degree, nurses have many opportunities form nurse leadership roles to specialized nurses in advanced clinical roles. If you are interested in an online master of science in nursing, this article will help you find the right school, nursing program, degree, and specialization!

1. Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program specializing in Forensic Nursing. The fully online program offers a rolling admission policy for Registered Nurses with at least one year of experience. Additionally, students can complete the degree with 39 credit units. And it is one of the most affordable nursing programs in the Northeastern United States.

Fitchburg State University opened in 1894 as a normal school chartered by the Massachusetts state legislature. US News recognizes Fitchburg State among the highest-ranked master’s programs in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The school’s main urban campus covers over 30 acres and is home to more than 6,800 students. Additionally, the university follows the Carnegie Rule, which requires that each student at Fitchburg State must complete four courses per semester.

Degree: MSN – Forensic Nursing

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click to learn more about this Master of Science in Nursing!

2. University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia’s Tanner Health System School of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is 100% online. Furthermore, UWG offers two academic tracks within its MSN program. Students can choose Health Systems Leadership (Clinical Nurse Leaders) or Nursing Education. The University of West Georgia’s program has accreditation from the CCNE. College Choice and US News recognizes UWG among the top affordable online MSN programs.

The university opened in 1906. It is a member school of the University System of Georgia system. The school’s campus covers over 625 acres and is in a college town about an hour west of Atlanta. UWG’s student body exceeds 13,700. Princeton Review recognizes the University of West Georgia among the top colleges in the Southeastern portion of the country.

Degree: MSN – 2 concentrations with a Nurse Educator track

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click to learn more about this Master of Science in Nursing!

3. West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University’s College of Nursing & Health Sciences/Department of Nursing Graduate Program offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is available 100% online or a hybrid version with clinical practicums only available in the state of Texas. There are two specialty tracks available from WTAMU’s MSN program. A comprehensive MSN requires 39 credit units, or a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) requires 46 credit units. Additionally, the CCNE accredits the MSN programs offered by WTAMU.

The university opened in 1910 as West Texas State Normal College. Its 175-acre campus is in the Texas town of Canyon, about 10 miles south of Amarillo. WTAMU is a member school of the state’s university system. Additionally, the school operates an Advanced Wind Turbine Test Facility and research facilities testing biosafety methodologies.

Degree: MSN – 2 concentrations

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click to learn more about the Master of Science in Nursing!

4. Lamar University

Lamar University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is available 100% online. This MSN degree program has two academic concentrations in Nursing Administration (MSNA) and Nursing Education (MSNE). Each of Lamar University’s MSN academic nursing tracks requires the completion of 37 credit units to graduate. Students may attend on a part-time or full-time basis. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredits Lamar University’s online MSN.

Lamar University opened in 1934 as a public institution of higher education. In addition, the university is a member school of the Texas State University System and a space-grant school. The school’s urban campus covers nearly 300 acres and is home to more than 14,500 students. US News recognizes Lamar’s graduate online nursing programs among the best in the country. Before becoming a state university, it was the flagship campus of the Lamar University System.

Degree: MSN – 2 concentrations for Nursing Educator and Nurse Administrators

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click here to learn more about the MSN!

5. University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is available 100% online. This nursing degree program offers two specialty tracks for a Nurse Educator and a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), preparing students to sit for the relevant certification examination. Degree candidates for the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) academic track must complete 44 credit units, while the Nurse Education academic track requires 44 credit units to graduate. Coursework includes Organizational Leadership, Health Care Advocacy, and Theories of Nursing and Population Health.

The University of Central Missouri opened in 1871 as a state public institution of higher learning. The cam university of C1,500+-acres is home to more than 14,000 students studying from more than 140-degree programs offer. The University of Central Missouri operates several locations off-campus in Lee’s Summit and through their distance-learning platform.

Degree: MSN – 2 concentrations

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click to learn more about the online Master of Science in Nursing!

6. Indiana State University

The Department of Advanced Practice Nursing at Indiana State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is available entirely online. This affordable online Master of Science in Nursing has accreditation from the Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). ISU’s MSN program offers two academic pathways. Students can take the Nursing Education track or Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track. The FNP academic path requires the completion of 47 credit units, whereas the Nurse Educator path requires the completion of 35 credit units.

Indiana State University opened in 1865 as the Indiana State Normal School. The school’s urban campus covers more than 200 acres in Terre Haute’s business section and is home to more than 12,000 students studying from more than 170 graduate and undergraduate programs. The Princeton Review recognizes ISU as one of the best institutions of higher learning in the US Midwest.

Degree: 2 concentrations

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click to learn more about the MSN!

7. Ferris State University

Ferris State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that students can complete entirely online. This program is for nursing professionals who already possess a Bachelor of Science in Nursing when applying. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredits the undergraduate and graduate nursing programs offered by Ferris State University. FSU’s MSN program offers three academic paths – Nursing Informatics, Nursing Education, and Nursing Administration.

Ferris State University started in 1884 as the Big Rapids Industrial School. The school’s main campus is located on 880 acres in the rural community of Big Rapids, with a secondary campus in the urban location of Grand Rapids. The school’s student population exceeds 14,500 students. Woodbridge Nathan Ferris, who later became the governor of Michigan and a member of the US Senate representing Michigan, founded the school.

Degree: MSN in Nursing Administration or MSN in Nursing Informatics

Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Interested: Click to learn more about the MSN online!

8. Saint Francis Medical Center

Saint Francis Medical Center offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that offers nursing students seven academic pathways. These include a Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nursing Leadership, Adult-Gerontology, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Nurse. The ninth track is an accelerated RN to MSN for those who hold a bachelor’s degree in another discipline. The SR Education Group recognizes OSF SFMC’s graduate nursing degree program among the most affordable online MSN programs.

Saint Francis Medical Center first opened in 1876. Today it is a teaching hospital for medical students at the University of Illinois College of Medicine. The Saint Francis Medical Center is the 4th largest hospital in the entire state of Illinois. And it is also the major trauma center for more than 25 counties in the central portion of the state of Illinois.

Degree: MSN — 7 concentrations

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click to learn more about the MSN!

9. Liberty University

Liberty University School of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is available entirely online and completed, on average, in about two years. LU’s MSN program offers seven specialty tracks that require 42 credit units to graduate. Two MSN concentration options offer dual degree paths, while the other academic tracks include Nursing Informatics, Nurse Educator, Nursing Administration, Health Policy, and Community Health. The CCNE accredits LU’s online graduate nursing degree programs.

Liberty University was established in 1971 by Jerry Falwell. The school is an evangelical Christian institution of higher education and has affiliations with the Southern Baptist Church. Liberty University’s suburban 7,00-acre campus is home to 15,000 students who study on campus from 17 colleges/schools. Liberty University’s student enrollment, including its online student population, exceeds 110,000 members.

Degree: MSN – 7 concentrations

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click to learn more about the MSN!

10. Ball State University

Ball State University offers three online MSN academic tracks specifically for working nurses. This MSN’s specialty pathways include Nurse Administrator, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Nurse Educator. The Family Nurse Practitioner pathway requires the completion of 47 credits, while the Nurse Educator and Nurse Administration concentrations only require 36 credit units. Additionally, CCNE accredits Ball State University’s distance-learning graduate nursing degree programs.

Ball State University opened in 1918 as a public research institution of higher learning that operates with two additional satellite campuses in Indianapolis and Fishers, IN. The school’s 1,000+-acre campus is home to more than 22,300 students studying from more than 250 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The tuition fees for the first year of operation were just $10 for the approximately 250 students who attended the first classes.

Degree: MSN – 3 concentrations

Credits: 36-47

Accreditation: Committee on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Interested: Click here to learn more about this Master of Science in Nursing!

How Much More Can I Make with an Online MSN Degree?

Nursing professionals with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) train in many specialty areas. These graduate nursing positions pay an MSN salary that exceeds the salaries offered to nurse professionals who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Registered Nurse nursing diploma (RN). According to government data, most MSN jobs pay $50 an hour or more. Most of the highest-paying jobs for nurses required an MSN.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that the median salary for a Registered Nurse and a Master of Science in Nursing salaries are as follows:

MS Nurse Salary — $113,930 per year; this translates to an MSN Salary per hour of $54.78.
RN (or BSN) Nurse Salary — $71,730 per year; that translates to $34.48/year.

A Master of Science in Nursing salary will exceed that of a nursing professional without an MS nursing degree. In addition to the larger MS nurse salary, the job outlook through 2030 for nursing professionals with a graduate degree, far exceeds the expected growth in the nursing industry for those who only hold a baccalaureate degree or a nursing diploma.

What is the Job Outlook with a Master’s in Nursing?

Most nurses with a master’s degree enter advanced nursing practice. These MSN graduates, like Nurse Practitioners, are in high demand. The BLS expects job growth for nurses with an MSN to increase by 45% through 2030. Registered Nurses without a master’s degree will be 9% through 2030.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the predicted job growth for undergraduate and graduate-level nursing professionals far exceeds the average 8% growth rate predicted for all US industries through 2030.

How Long Does it Take to Complete an MSN?

Depending on your prior education, the program you choose, and the required clinical hours, it can take one year to five years. Generally speaking, a master’s degree takes two years for a student to finish attending full time.

Prior Education	Approximate time to MSN
Practical Nursing Diploma (LPN)	4 years full time
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)	3 years full time
Bachelors in Nursing (BSN)	1 to 2 years full time
Non Nursing Bachelor’s	3 years full time

What are the Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing

An advanced degree in nursing has a few paths for degree completion. Below are a few of the types of Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees.

RN to MSN Programs

Can you go straight from an RN to an MSN? Yes. They are also called RN to MSN Bridge programs. These programs are for RNs with a two-year associate degree (ADN). It typically takes two or three years to complete, and students earn a BSN and an MSN in most programs. Additionally, most schools grant students credit for their ADN and clinical experience since they are already licensed RNs.

BSN to MSN Programs

Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can enter these programs and earn a master’s degree in two years. Part-time students can complete this degree in three to four years. RNs with a BSN can also take an accelerated 1 year online MSN program. However, these programs are fast-paced and require more commitment.

Direct Entry MSN Programs

These programs are for individuals who are new to nursing but have non nursing bachelor’s degrees. Many have a non nursing bachelor’s degree in related fields with substantial transfer credits toward the BSN. These programs take three years to complete. The first year is an accelerated path to learning clinical nursing skills. Then the last two years are the Master’s level education.

Dual MSN Program

Dual programs enhance graduate nursing education with another field of studies. Public Health Policy, Business Administration, or Healthcare Leadership are popular choices.

MSN/MBA – Business Administration and Nursing
MPH/MSN – Public Health and Nursing
MHA/MSN – Healthcare Administration Leadership and Nursing

What are MSN Nursing Specializations?

Schools offer many different types of MSN specialties. MSN specializations include advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specialties and non-advanced practice registered nurse (Non-APRN) specialties. Advanced practice registered nurses have a national or state certification in a specialty of practice and an RN license.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Specializations:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) / Clinical Nurse Specialists
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Certified Critical-Care Registered Nurse
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
Emergency Nurse Practitioner
Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PACNP)
Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPCNP)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) / Psychiatric Mental Health NP
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner

Non-APRN Advanced Nursing Roles and Specializations:

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
Care Coordination
Health Care Quality and Patient Safety
Nurse Administrator / Nursing Administration
Management & Organizational Leadership
Nursing Executive / Executive Leader
Nurse Educator / Nursing Education
Clinical Research Nurse / Nurse Researcher / Nursing Research
Public Health Nursing
Nursing Informatics

How Much Does an Online MSN Program Cost?

How much does an MSN degree cost? The cost of an MSN program varies. Factors affecting the total cost are the school, program, and student’s needs.

The education community offers many educational opportunities and resources for an online master’s degree. Many schools had distance education programs even before the tremendous popularity of distance learning or online educational platforms. The great news is that there are now incredibly affordable online MSN degree programs from some of the best institutions of higher learning in the United States.

A simple Internet search is the easiest way to locate the cheapest online MSN programs. As you search for the cheapest online MSN programs, remember that smaller schools and public regional colleges also offer affordable MSN programs with quality education through distance learning platforms. Many schools also waive the out of state tuition rates for MSN degree online students.

An online MSN program generally varies greatly and falls between $125 per credit unit (on the low side) and $325 per credit unit (on the high side). And while these typical online MSN program per credit costs may seem a bit out of reach, you must remember the current and ongoing strong demand for nursing professionals across the country. Below are some general rules for finding the cheapest degree programs.

in-state tuition is cheaper than out-of-state tuition
public universities are cheaper than private universities
online programs are cheaper than traditional campus programs
nursing is an in-demand profession, and there are many scholarships and financial aid programs

What is clear to most nursing students is that online MSN programs are almost always more affordable than on-campus institutions of higher learning, especially from Ivy League or the elite group of schools. Finding the nursing program that is right for you and meets your career goals is essential.

What Jobs Can You Get with an Online MSN Degree?

With this graduate degree in hand, there are many MSN degree job opportunities from which to choose. These MSN degree job opportunities allow MSN nursing students to select from various specialties and disciplines.

Research Nurse
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Critical-Care Registered Nurse
Family Nurse Practitioner
Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
Acute Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Anesthetist
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Clinical Research Nurse
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Some other well-paying Master’s in Nursing jobs include the following specialties:

Nurse Practitioners (NPs)

A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is one of the most common MSN specializations. Students complete an MSN program with a nurse practitioner concentration to become an NP. After earning the degree, nurses must take a certification exam.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $112,830

Nurse Midwife

Nurse midwifery focuses on helping women through pregnancy and birth. Certified nurse midwives provide women’s healthcare throughout their adult lives. They conduct physical exams, diagnose medical conditions, and write prescriptions.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $112,830

Nursing consultant

A Nurse Consultant offers expert opinions in the insurance and legal arenas. Highly respected Nurse Consultants testify in legal matters in open court during proceedings.

Nurse Educator

A Nurse Educator works in the post-secondary education field, teaching other nurses. Nurse Educators work in agencies, nursing schools, universities, nursing centers, and medical facilities. These MSN programs focus on teaching strategies, curriculum design, and adult learning.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $77,440

Advanced nurse practitioner

Advanced Nurse Practitioner (APRN) jobs generally include a Nurse Practitioner, a Nurse Midwife, a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). In addition, an APRN can receive specialized training in certain parts of the nursing field like Gerontology, Emergency Room Care, Psychiatric Care (clinical practice), Pediatric Care, Family Care, Acute Care, Women’s Care, and Neonatal Care.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $112,830

Nurse administrator

A Nurse Administrator works in a healthcare facility and brings other nurses into the decision-making process. These nursing management professionals are vital to ensure the voices of all nurses are respected and trusted in the healthcare system.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $101,340

MSN and Licensure for Nursing

There are two primary components to nursing. First, individuals must have completed an accredited nursing education program. But also, nursing is a licensed profession. So all nurses must hold a license from their state’s Board of Nursing (BON). The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) oversees the state BONs.

Most MSN graduates are Registered Nurses (RNs) in the state where they practice. After they complete the MSN degree and required work experience, these nurses can earn a certification in their area of specialization. Additionally, in most states, there are four advanced practice licenses.

Types of APRN Licenses

Certified Nurse Practitioners (APRN-CNP)
a Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (APRN-CNS)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (APRN-CRNA)
a Certified Nurse Midwife (APRN-CNM)

Nursing Licensure Compact

The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) is an interstate agreement that grants license reciprocity to nurses. The multistate agreement allows a nurse with a license from an NLC member state to practice in other NLC member states. Some restrictions and exceptions exist, but this agreement allows nurses to move or take jobs across state lines. Thirty-four states have enacted NLC.

APRN Compact

The APRN Compact was adopted in 2020 but is not yet implemented. It furthers the RN compact and extends to Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). It gives the same reciprocity to APRNs as RNs have under the NLC. To date, only three states approved the APRN Compact. It will implement fully when seven states have enacted the legislation.

How Do You Pay for a Master’s Degree?

Nursing students can save money by saving time. Accelerated programs are an excellent choice for nurses who can keep up with the rigorous pace. Most programs cost less, and graduates also start to earn a higher salary much faster.

To receive tuition assistance, students must attend an accredited nursing school. For help paying for school, students should apply for federal financial aid and nursing scholarships. The first step is to complete a FAFSA. Once your need is calculated, students can receive federal and state government funds for assistance.

In addition, because nurses are in high demand, there are many programs to attract new nurses to the profession or to encourage experienced nurses to earn a more advanced degree. Additionally, professional nursing organizations are a great source of information for finding financial resources.

American Nurses Association (ANA)
National League for Nursing (NLN)
American Academy of Nursing
The American Board of Nursing Specialties (ABNS)
National Student Nurses Association (NSNA)
American Association of Colleges of Nursing

Selected MSN Scholarships

Nurses interested in a nurse practitioner program can find scholarships from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP website).

The Oncology Nursing Foundation (website) offers scholarships for MSN students interested in oncology.

The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program (website) has scholarships for service. Nursing students in nurse practitioner programs can receive money for graduate school in return for two years of work in a critical shortage facility.

Is Getting an MSN Degree Worth It?

Yes. An affordable online master’s degree is an excellent investment in your career. An advanced degree will increase your salary potential and job opportunities. Additionally, a specialized education will help you advance your career into management positions or roles with more responsibility. For example, an advanced practice nurse can prescribe medications. Earning a master’s degree is an investment and requires commitment and sacrifice. But, if you are ready, start making a list of schools and move to your future!

Related:

25 of the Best MSN Traditional Programs

The best MSN programs provide nurses with more than just a degree, but with the credentials and connections to succeed. The minimum education for nurses is shifting to the BSN. So, a master’s degree nursing programs are one way that nursing schools are helping nurses compete in the job market. Higher Pay is one of the leading reasons why nurses further their education in the Master of Science in Nursing. These programs increase salaries. Nurses with graduate degrees earn approximately $45.00 an hour based on the different career advancements they choose when obtaining the Masters of Science in Nursing. Career Advancement is another reason for pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing. Nurses are able to take on new careers such as Nurse Practitioners and Nurse-Midwives.

Many working nurses opt for an online MSN program. However, the main advantage of a traditional on-campus MSN program is the level of peer interaction in the traditional classroom. Online MSN programs offer discussion forums and interaction. However, some nurses desire a more hands-on approach to obtaining their degree, working closely with others in their program. The available BSN to MSN programs often also shift directly from one to the other with the same instructors at the institutions.

Our Method: Ranking the Top MSN Programs in the US

To rank the best master’s degree nursing programs, the editors at Best Health Degrees thoroughly searched for accredited, influential nursing schools that have established their reputation as leaders in the field. With our pool in place, BHD editors ranked programs according to five key factors:

Alumni Salary
Graduation Rate
Job Placement
Reputation
Tuition

With this data, drawn from College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Niche, BHD focuses on programs that are sure to have a positive impact on graduates’ careers and give them a real return on investment.

1. University of Maryland, Baltimore

When you are looking into an MSN degree, you will want to consider the University of Maryland, Baltimore MSN. The master’s in nursing degree program prepares students to handle the challenges of leadership in nursing and the changing work environment that arises when working in a technologically advanced medical facility.

A key way the University of Maryland, Baltimore differs from other MSN programs is its concentrations. The school offers three concentrations for the master’s degree program: Informatics, Community and Public Health Nursing, and Health Services Leadership and Management. The options give students a clear focus on their career goals.

Our Favorite Facts: The University of Maryland, Baltimore is ranked in the top 12 by U.S. News and World Report for its master’s degree in nursing.

Degree: online master’s in nursing MSN with concentrations in

Community and Public Health Nursing
Health Services Leadership and Management
Nursing Informatics

2. University of Pennsylvania

The master’s degree nursing programs at the University of Pennsylvania prepare students for the challenges of their careers. The program recognizes that nursing is an evolving and complex area of study, and teaches students the skills they need to adapt to a changing work environment. It gives you a strong foundation in nursing that you can apply to your career. Penn has an Advanced Specialist program in Nurse-Midwifery and a nursing administration program in Health Leadership and Nursing and Healthcare Administration. In addition, the school offers Nurse Practitioner programs in:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Family
Neonatal
Pediatric Acute Care
Pediatric Primary Care
Psychiatric-Mental Health
Women’s Health NP Gender-Related

The way the University of Pennsylvania stands apart from other programs is the world-class medical facilities. Students gain experience from working in the medical facilities during their time at the school and have a chance to learn from renowned professionals in their field of study. That gives you a competitive advantage when moving into your career.

Our Favorite Facts: Students can choose from 11 concentrations in nursing, which gives them the flexibility to focus on specific areas of nursing.

Degree: MSN degree with multiple concentrations

3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a BSN to MSN or an RN to MSN program that allows you to obtain your master’s degree in nursing. The school offers five concentrations for nursing students to specialize in specific areas of nursing and prepare for a career that fits their long-term goals. The concentrations allow you to study areas of interest and take on more leadership roles in nursing.

A key way the UNC Chapel Hill stands out is the focus on evidence-based treatment and quality improvements to improve patient safety. The degree program recognizes the importance of a nurse to the health and safety of his or her patients. It also teaches graduate nursing students how to provide quality care.

Our Favorite Facts: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a research-intensive program that allows students to learn the research skills they need for positions in medical studies and related fields.

Degree: BSN or RN to MSN with 5 concentrations. There is an online MSN in Health Care Leadership & Administration or a hybrid MSN Nurse Practitioner in Advanced Practice Areas (APAs) of:

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Family Nurse Practitioner
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

4. UCLA

The University of California at Los Angeles, or UCLA, offers one of the best MSN programs in the US for students who want to advance in their nursing careers. The school allows students to focus on two potential paths for their careers: nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist. When students are ready to take on a master’s degree in nursing, the option to choose different paths based on long-term goals will help them stay focused.

UCLA differs from other schools by offering students five concentrations with two potential forms of advanced practice nursing. That combination of options allows students to develop long-term plans for their careers and stay on task to reach their goals.

Our Favorite Facts: UCLA is in the top 10 percent of nursing schools for clinical work, research, and service opportunities while working on a degree.

Degree: MSN, 5 concentrations

5. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia offers one of the best master’s degree nursing programs for students who want to advance in their careers as a nurse. The school offers 10 concentrations in nursing that give students the flexibility to focus on different areas of nursing. That specialized focus helps students take on leadership roles in specific areas of nursing and prepare for a career that fits their plans.

A key way the University of Virginia differs from other programs is the academic excellence of its programs. Many of their master degree nursing programs rank in the top 20 programs in the nation. The school has a high ranking on U.S. News and World Report for its master’s degree programs and it focuses on excellence in nursing.

Our Favorite Facts: The University of Virginia allows students to gain clinical experience through the UVA Medical Center, which is Virginia’s top-rated hospital.

Degree: MSN, 10 concentrations

6. Columbia University

Columbia University offers a Master of Science in Nursing and a Nurse Anesthesia program, or ANES, that allows students to prepare for their careers as a nurse. The degree programs prepare students for their work at a higher level and ensure that students understand evidence-based nursing practices, as well as nurse ethics and cultural competency. The program recognizes that nurses will face challenges with patients from different cultures and ensures that students are prepared to handle the challenges that may arise.

Columbia University differs from other programs by focusing on anesthesia and general nursing practices. It does not offer multiple concentrations in nursing; instead, it takes a broad approach to the process and ensures that students are prepared to handle the challenges of working in a clinical environment. It gives students a strong foundation that they can carry into their careers and into leadership positions.

Our Favorite Facts: Columbia University uses the innovative Masters Direct Entry that allows students to complete their degree in 15 months at an accelerated rate and still understand the important topics to their career.

Degree: MSN, ANES

7. Boston College

Boston College offers a master’s in a nursing degree program that helps students with their career goals. The MSN program focuses on teaching students the skills they need to work as a leader in their field and advance into more complex roles in their future. The degree program is grounded in the idea that every student and every patient has worth and value.

A key aspect that sets Boston College apart from other programs is its commitment to ethics and thoughtfulness. Students learn the importance of ethical care and giving consideration to their patients. It allows students to act with compassion when working with patients in a clinical setting. It also gives students a clear idea of where to draw the line and how to engage with a medical facility’s policies.

Our Favorite Facts: Boston College offers five concentrations in nursing for master’s level students to gain specialized skills for their careers and future.

Degree: MSN, 5 concentrations

8. Ohio State University

Ohio State University offers students an MSN program that works around their areas of interest and their goals. The school recognizes that nurses want to work in a variety of settings and it takes time to assist with those goals. It ensures that students have access to the education they need to advance in their careers and learn relevant skills while obtaining their master’s degree.

Ohio State University also offers online master’s degree programs that allow students to work on their degrees when they have time. It lets you work around any obligations to an employer or your family members that may impact your schedule. That ensures that you are able to obtain a master’s degree in nursing without adjusting your schedule to fit your education.

Our Favorite Facts: Ohio State University offers multiple paths and concentrations for students who want to obtain their master’s degree in nursing and gain specialized skills.

Degree: MSN, numerous paths and concentrations

9. Duke University

When you are considering the best options for your master’s degree in nursing, you want to consider Duke University. Their MSN degree programs offer 11 concentrations for students who want to study nursing. That gives students the flexibility to advance in their careers and focus on an area of nursing that fits their personal goals and interests.

A key way Duke University differs from other nursing programs is the variety of programs. The school offers eight advanced practice majors for registered nurses and three programs for non-clinical work in nursing. That variety of options ensures that students are able to find a major that fits their specific goals and interests. It also allows students who are not interested in clinical work to focus on different aspects of nursing.

Our Favorite Facts: Duke University is the #2 graduate nursing college according to U.S. News and World Report, with #1 rankings for Family and Adult-Gerontology, #2 for Pediatric Primary, and #3 for Nurse Administration.

Degree: MSN, 11 concentrations

10. Emory University

Obtaining your MSN from Emory University allows you to focus on your career objectives as a nurse. The MSN program focuses on giving students the clinical experience they need to provide appropriate care to their patients. The clinical work in a simulated lab ensures that students are able to function well when working with patients and can act quickly when an unexpected emergency arises. Students gain the practice they need to address the concerns of a patient.

The way Emory University differs from other programs is its focus on flexibility. Students are able to work on their degree through full-time or part-time courses. That means students can take as many classes as they feel comfortable taking based on their current situation and lifestyle. The program recognizes that students in the MSN program are likely to work full-time as a nurse and may need to work out a schedule that fits their job and family obligations.

Our Favorite Facts: Emory University offers nine concentrations for advanced practice nurses in its MSN program, which allows students to focus on specific areas of nursing.

Degree: MSN, 9 concentrations

11. Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University’s master’s degree in nursing has a reputation for excellence, just like its medical programs. The MSN program takes an interdisciplinary approach to education and ensures that students are able to understand different aspects of nursing when providing care to their patients. It also recognizes that choice is a powerful tool to help students accomplish their goals and it provides options that allow students to focus on their plans.

A key advantage that sets Johns Hopkins University apart is the specialty tracks the school offers to students. The school offers four specialty tracks for nursing students: entry into nursing, health systems management, advanced nursing, and public health nursing. Students are able to focus on their career objectives after evaluating the best option to fit their long-term plans.

Our Favorite Facts: Johns Hopkins University allows students who have an undergraduate degree in a different field to start studying nursing at the master’s level.

Degree: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Entry into Nursing Program or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Healthcare Organizational Leadership Track

12. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University offers an MSN program that prepares students for a rigorous career in nursing. It allows students to accomplish their goals and focus on their plans by providing the education they need to adjust their career. The school allows registered nurses, as well as students who have an undergraduate degree in a different field of study, to learn more advanced areas of nursing practice. It gives students the flexibility to advance in their careers by concentrating on a specific area of interest.

Vanderbilt University offers 14 concentrations for students who want to study nursing at the master’s level. The number of concentrations gives students an opportunity to focus on different interests and gain the skills they need to work in a specialized field. The school also offers modern facilities that help students prepare for the advancements that impact modern medical facilities.

Our Favorite Facts: Vanderbilt University students have a high rate of passing certifications and specialized examinations in nursing after completing their master’s degree.

Degree: MSN, 14 concentrations

13. Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University offers a master’s degree in nursing that prepares students to handle the challenges of their careers. The school recognizes that nursing is a changing field of study and that technology impacts the way nurses handle the needs of their patients. The degree program takes measures to help students improve their skills and prepare for their careers.

A key advantage of the program at Pennsylvania State University is the recognition of modern advances and changes that impact nurses in a clinical setting. Students learn about the latest advances in nursing research and practice, as well as the current regulations that apply to their patients. The degree program prepares students to handle the rigors of their work in a medical facility.

Our Favorite Facts: Pennsylvania State University offers five concentrations for students who are looking for an MSN program that fits their career goals.

Degree: MSN, 5 concentrations

14. New York University

New York University’s MSN program has 12 concentrations, so students have no shortage of options. All 12 concentrations start with rigorous core knowledge. This program prepares students for specialized roles in the nursing world. It also provides preparation for doctoral studies, should students choose that route. Out of all of MSN programs in the US, NYU provides some of the best courses in nutrition and holistic health, so those who want to pursue the whole-person approach to nursing should look into this school.

NYU, of course, is one of the most well-known schools across the US. An NYU degree carries a lot of weight and looks excellent on a resume. The College of Nursing in particular garners a lot of attention. As a matter of fact, it ranks #5 in funding from the NIH. Overall, this school provides one of the best nursing education options in the world. With its challenging academics, diversity, and innovation, NYU has helped plenty of nurses take their careers to the next level.

Our Favorite Facts: NYU makes a great choice for those who want to have a global impact. The results of NYU’s research stretch all across the globe.

Degree: MSN with concentrations in:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
Clinical Research Nursing
Family NP
Nurse-Midwifery
Nursing Administration
Pediatrics NP Primary Care
Nursing Education
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
Nursing Informatics
Pediatrics NP Primary Care/Acute Care
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP

15. University of California, Davis

The University of California, Davis’s MSN program boasts one of the fastest paths to an advanced degree. Students can graduate in as little as 18 months. In those 18 months, students go beyond the basics of nursing to become leaders in their field. This program doesn’t stagnate. Rather, it consistently takes new research into account. This way, it can provide the most up-to-date education for its students. It also offers some of the most cutting-edge technology in nursing education. The MSN Family Nurse Practicioner professional degree program is full time. The curriculum includes academic courses, clinical skills courses, and also supervised clinical practice in clinical settings.

UC Davis has always been a diverse, research-oriented school. This research means that students employ new ideas in their learning. For nurses, this means that they get used to finding new information and incorporating it into their work. Since the healthcare field grows so quickly, this adaptability makes alumni the ideal nurses for today’s world. At UC Davis, students learn both from their professors and from each other.

Our Favorite Facts: UC Davis offers plenty of high-tech learning spaces, including simulation suites.

Degree: UC Davis direct entry MSN or Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN), or a MSN Family Nurse Practicioner (FNP)

16. University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Master of Nursing program offers 12 specializations. Many of these tracks have gained high rankings for reputation. Tracks like Clinical Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and Clinical Nurse Leader have all gained positive recognition from the nursing community. Whether students want to go directly into a Doctoral degree or if they want to take on more specialized professional roles first, UAB provides a great choice. Since this program takes place in one of the world’s biggest academic health centers, it’s ideal for those who want lots of practical experience.

UAB is an innovative school. It provides top-level technology and other resources. For nursing students, this means access to advanced healthcare tech. Furthermore, UAB has strong research, which puts nurses at the forefront of new knowledge. The Nursing school not only provides some of the best education; it also aims to create a healthier community.

Our Favorite Facts: In 2019, US News and World Report ranked this MSN program as one of the top grad schools for nursing.

Degree: MSN with concentrations in:

Family Nurse Practitioner
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA)
Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

17. University of Miami

The University of Miami’s MSN program combines practical and theoretical studies. Students get lots of hands-on experience here. By the end of their studies, nurses here have the confidence and skills that they need to take charge. This school has strong academics, but it also has cutting-edge research. With UM’s discoveries, leadership development, and medical aid opportunities, it provides one of the best Master’s Degree Nursing programs.

The University of Miami is a private research school. This diverse, tight-knit community has grown quickly in the last several years. It has used that growth to serve the Florida community. For nursing students, this means lots of opportunities to help and serve others as they grow their skills. It also means becoming a part of a strong and vibrant group.

Our Favorite Facts: Recently, nursing students from the University of Miami provided medical care to communities in Guatemala.

Degree: MSN with concentrations for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and Family Nurse Practitioner.

18. Michigan State University

Michigan State University has an MSN and a DNP program. The DNP program is newer, but it’s just as robust as the MSN program. Since MSU offers several paths to a DNP, it provides the flexibility that a lot of nurses need. These advanced degree programs help nurses gather top-level knowledge for their field. By graduation, they’re fully equipped and ready to take on all kinds of leadership roles. These students learn how to handle deeply complex situations and environments, which makes the MSU MSN program one of the top programs in the United States.

MSU is a widely recognized school. They often lead the way in research and academics. The nursing programs here have brought excellent medical care to Michigan as a whole. The school encourages students to push their limits. By graduation, students are surprised to learn just how capable they really are. With its challenge and opportunity, it’s no wonder why MSU has become a top global university.

Our Favorite Facts: MSU leads the way in Opioid Crisis research. MSU ER nurses are empowered to examine the crisis from several angles.

Degree: master’s in nursing (MSN) with nurse practitioner specialties in Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health NP.

19. University of Rochester

Located in upstate New York, the University of Rochester’s MSN program provides flexibility. The program provides several pathways to an MSN. Faculty and staff here understand that most of their students will also work full time. This program helps students provide the best care for their patients. It equips them to consider several factors at the same time so that they can provide comprehensive care. With accelerated programs and lots of other options, Rochester stands out among Master’s Degree Nursing programs.

Rochester’s research community has been recognized around the world. This research has a direct impact on patient wellbeing. As a result, nursing students get to help make the medical community better and stronger. Between their in-classroom studies and their hands-on training, these students strengthen and sharpen all of their nursing skills.

Our Favorite Facts: US News and World Report has ranked Rochester’s Nursing school among the best. Students here have no doubt that they’re receiving one of the best possible educations.

Degree: MSN, 4 concentrations

20. University of South Florida

The University of South Florida’s MSN program offers seven concentrations. This program plays an important role in Florida’s healthcare quality. It trains strong, confident nurses who are ready to become specialized leaders. Nurses here perform a lot of clinical outreach hours, meaning that they get to be a part of this overall healthcare impact. Many alumni have stayed in the Tampa Bay area, and continued to serve the southern Florida community. With a strong curriculum and part-time options, SFU is an excellence choice.

FSU takes pride in its healthcare impact. It has made healthcare better both in Florida and around the world. A large part of the impact comes from its cutting-edge, specialized research. This school empowers students to reach their full potential. In fact, students are often surprised to find out what they’re capable of. This school has plenty of resources.

Our Favorite Facts: The Master’s programs at USF’s College of Nursing have been ranked among the top graduate schools in the US.

Degree: MSN with master’s concentrations in:

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nursing (45 credit hours)
Family Health Nursing (52 credit hours)
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nursing/Occupational Health (62 credits)
Concurrent MPH/MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nursing (83 credits)
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nursing (48 credits)
Pediatric Health Nursing (45 credits)

21. University of San Diego

The University of San Diego has a great Master’s Entry Program. This program is ideal for those with a non-nursing Bachelor’s degree. Those who want to switch careers get the tools they need from this program. They become eligible for various nurse certification exams, and many become advanced nurses or generalists. Combining clinicals with classroom knowledge, this MEPN provides plenty of challenges. For those who can handle a highly demanding education, this is one of the best Master’s Degree Nursing programs.

USD values excellence and community. Students have plenty of opportunities to learn and explore while forging deep connections along the way. These programs empower students to find challenges and meet them head-on. As a Catholic university, USD blends faith and reason into its high academic standards.

Our Favorite Facts: For nursing students, the Dickinson Nursing Simulation Center provides a fantastic educational experience. This environment simulates real-life medical situations, preparing students for future nursing experiences.

Degree: Master’s Entry Program

22. George Mason University

The MSN program at George Mason University prepares students for all kinds of healthcare settings. Graduates go on to work in hospitals, universities, nursing homes, and many more. Students learn how to blend complex ideas into hands-on practices. They also gain the leadership skills that they’ll need in their specialized fields. For those who want to serve a diverse community, the GMU program is a great choice.

George Mason University is Virginia’s largest public research university. As such, it upholds progressive values, innovative resources, and academic excellence. For nursing students, this means that they become equipped to handle a range of diverse health needs. Their motto is simple and embodies the school’s spirit: Freedom and Learning.

Our Favorite Facts: GMU offers some of the best technology and resources. For example, nursing students learn with realistic simulations. They even have a pregnant mannequin that can deliver a baby.

Degree: traditional and online MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner

23. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago’s MSN program offers three concentrations. Though it does require clinical experience, it also offers some distance learning options. Loyola’s nursing programs emphasize service. They prepare nurses to meet the needs of their communities. Since more than 85% of Loyola’s full-time nursing faculty and staff have Doctorate degrees, these Master’s Degree nursing programs provide both challenge and excellence.

Loyola University is a Jesuit Catholic school. Students who want to blend faith and science feel right at home here. Loyola absolutely challenges its students. It also has a strong, tight-knit community. Because of its Jesuit tradition, it equips students to serve others. For nursing students, this means plenty of opportunities to serve communities through medical care.

Our Favorite Facts: Those who want a career boost should look into Loyola Chicago. On average, nursing graduates get hired within two months of graduation.

Degree: MSN, 3 concentrations

24. Marquette University

With seven concentration options, Marquette University’s MSN program provides great choices for its students. These choices include Gerontology, Pediatrics, and Midwifery. This program also has a direct entry pathway for non-nurses. This particular program delivers some flexibility. Students can either learn full-time on campus, or they can choose a hybrid program that combines online courses with in-classroom learning. Either way, with its urban setting and service opportunities, Marquette provides one of the top MSN programs.

As a whole, Marquette University values diversity, excellence, and research. This Jesuit Catholic school also places a high value on service. In fact, students often get to learn through service. Its downtown location means that the campus is thriving and vibrant. Students have plenty of opportunities to take their learning into the broader city. This school’s motto embodies its faithful roots: Be the Difference.

Our Favorite Facts: Marquette is on the radar for research. Recently, a Physical Therapy professor was awarded a $2.3 million grant for stroke research.

Degree: MSN, 7 concentrations

25. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida’s MSN program has three concentrations. All three options build on a nurse’s foundation of core skills. The program teaches nurses how to participate in research, thrive in a specialized field, and develop leadership skills. Students don’t just study the details. They also study the big healthcare picture, including socioeconomic factors, teaching strategies, and more. For a well-rounded approach to nursing, UCF is one of the best Master’s Degree Nursing programs.

UCF values discovery, especially when it comes to the sciences. Recognized both for its great value and its innovation, this school is a top choice for lots of students. Nursing is UCF’s 4th most popular majors. This school mixes challenge with opportunity, providing a recipe for student success.

Our Favorite Facts: UCF also has a top-notch simulation center for on-campus training.

Degree: online nursing master’s programs with concentrations in nursing and Healthcare Simulation, Leadership & Management, and Nurse Educator.

Learn more at Miami’s program website!

Why Should I Get a Master’s in Nursing?

Because the profession is so hands-on, and many desires to advance their career in some way when working on a BSN to master in nursing, they desire equal interaction in the classroom as proper preparation. Clinical experience for some programs may be required, for example, to become a Nurse Practitioner.

Furthermore, an online degree option may not offer that clinical experience in the same way that the traditional on-campus MSN program offers it. The MSN programs that offer both formats of the program are the most flexible. Nursing students can craft their schedule to fit their needs.

What Are Some In-Demand Specialties for MSN Degree?

There are several different in-demand nursing specialties that allow nurses who are pursuing a Masters in Nursing specialties to advance their careers. Below are the most in-demand options. These types of MSN degrees can be online programs or traditional classroom formats.

The Nurse Practitioner (NP) has growing demand and these individuals are able to see patients in the same manner as a doctor, treating them for general disorders, and common diseases. A family nurse practitioner (FNP) is an in-demand specialty for those pursuing a Masters in Nursing.

This is the highest specialty that was in demand, as they offer relief in doctor’s offices across the states, seeing patients and prescribing medications to assist with common disorders such as colds, viruses, and infections. Many patients prefer to see these nurse practitioners, as they have more insight, and they also take patients for wellness check-ups, providing a sound medical history.

Common Specialties for a Master of Science in Nursing

Nurse midwifery is one of the most common specialties that are in demand and focuses on both pregnancy and labor. Many new moms are turning to midwives for birth assistance with natural births. Maintaining traditional birth practices and teaching birth classes to couples are essential duties for nurse-midwifery.

The nurse anesthetist can be found on the surgical floor, as they are used for numerous medical procedures within the hospital. The main job duty of nurse anesthetists is to ensure that anesthesia is properly dosed and administered to patients prior to having a procedure conducted.

A nurse educator is another focus area of a master’s in nursing program. Nurse educators teach and instruct other nurses enrolled in a nursing education program. These professionals earn an MSN with a nurse educator concentration or MSN with a nurse educator track.

A nursing administration or nursing leadership degree prepares an individual for a role as a nurse administrator
in a variety of healthcare facilities.

No matter which advancement is chosen with the newfound degree, the nurse will gain respect from their peers based upon their degree level. These nurses are also able to become educators for the local nursing program and lead nursing students into the profession.

What Will I Learn in an MSN Program?

A good graduate program in nursing offers professional development opportunities, develops critical thinking skills, and teaches quality patient care. Clinical experiences are one of the main aspects of master’s in nursing requirements. The MSN program will take previous clinical experiences to the doctors’ offices, where nursing students will interact with the patients in their specialty, and determine the different diagnoses and treatments that are associated specifically in that field. MSN program requirements will not allow licensure in these different socialities until students have moved forward and successfully completed the clinical portion of the program.

Skill Proficiency is also one of the main aspects of master in nursing requirements. Current skills are taken and made proficient, especially with patient interaction. Because the interaction in many of these specialties will be more intimate and on a more personal level than an average nursing position in a hospital, these nurses are taught common core courses that enhance these skills. Also, these programs give all MSN students a more in-depth insight into the operations of a practice or smaller facility in areas that are usually reserved for administrators of the facility and their job duties. With this degree, these nurses will be eligible for administrative positions requiring the need for these courses.

Can You Get an Master’s in Nursing Without a Bachelor’s in Nursing (BSN)?

Yes. Students who are Registered Nurses (RNs) with an associate degree can enter a program for a RN to MSN or ADN to MSN. These programs cover the coursework for the bachelor’s degree and then complete the master’s requirements. The programs are designed to optimize existing education and work experience for a faster path to a MSN.

RN to BSN to MSN: about 30 months
RN to MSN: about 24 months
BSN to MSN: about 18 months

10 Fastest 1 Year Online MSN Programs

The fastest 1 Year online MSN programs are accelerated degrees that offer a fast and flexible path to earning a master’s in nursing. Schools and universities that offer a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is available entirely online, clearly recognize that nursing professionals are busy working individuals. Some are even too busy to even attend traditional classroom teaching methodologies.

The coursework offered by nursing schools and universities through their distance learning platforms provides the same quality education offered by the professors who instruct on-campus students. This was an initial concern at the advent of online learning. However, time shows that online degree programs are simply a different format. They offer the same level of education as traditional on-campus nursing education programs.

Many accelerated online MSN tracks are a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) format. Furthermore, some of the most in-demand careers in nursing are available in accelerated formats. And, to be eligible to enroll in some MSN degree programs, degree applicants must be a Registered Nurse and already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (MSN). In addition to fast track BSN to MSN online programs, there are accelerated options for Registered Nurses (RN) to earn their MSN online. Also, both types are some of the most affordable online MSN programs!

Our Method: Ranking the Best Accelerated BSN to MSN Programs

Accelerated MSN programs online are a challenge to compare. But, to rank the best 1 year online MSN programs, Best Health Degree’s editors sought out accredited colleges and universities offering a quicker way to get a master’s in nursing education.

Along with speed, though, we ranked programs according to 5 criteria: Cost, Graduation Rate, Job Placement, Student Reviews, and also Salary Potential. We use data from IPEDS, Niche, and also College Scorecard. So, students can trust their accelerated BSN to MSN programs to provide a real return on investment.

1. Saint Francis Medical Center

Saint Francis Medical Center’s College of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an accelerated academic path.

The program from SFMC is for nursing professionals who hold an associate’s degree or a diploma in nursing with a significant amount of experience and a baccalaureate degree from a different discipline than nursing. Degree candidates must enter the program with a minimum of 59 pre-nursing education credits. Then, the core curriculum includes the completion of 33 semester hours.

Saint Francis Medical Center opened in 1876. It is the teaching hospital within the University of Illinois’s College of Medicine. Additionally, the medical center is among the top hospitals in Illinois for the recovery of organs. Saint Francis Medical Center is a level I trauma center and is also the largest hospital in the Peoria regional area.

Degree: Accelerated MSN

Interested: Check here to find out more about 1 year MSN programs!

2. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University’s School of Nursing offers a 1 year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to a Master of Science of Nursing (MSN) degree program. Furthermore, this is one of the fastest BSN to MSN programs students can complete entirely online.

Vandy’s accelerated BSN to MSN programs offers nursing professionals an opportunity to add a master’s specialty degree in just a year. This 1 year online MSN program prepares graduates for careers in many nursing health care professions. They find employment as Midwives, Nursing Informatics, Nurse Practitioners, and also Psychiatric Nurses. Students complete 40 credit units over 4 consecutive semesters. However, students who choose dual specialties may take one extra semester.

Vanderbilt University started in 1873 as Central University. Cornelius Vanderbilt was a shipping magnate who provided the university’s first endowment of $1,000,000, which is approximately $20,000,000 in current dollars. So, the school changed its name to honor him. The school’s 325+-acre campus is home to nearly 13,000 students. Additionally, more than 4,000 academic staff members operate its ten colleges.

Degree: BSN to MSN – 1 year

Interested: Check the program site for more on this BSN to MSN online fast track!

3. University of Arizona

The University of Arizona College of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is entirely online. U of A’s MSN accelerated track in Clinical Systems Leadership takes about fifteen months to complete.

Furthermore, the 1 year online MSN program has accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the state of Arizona’s Board of Nursing. Courses in this advanced degree in healthcare administration include Foundations of Systems Leadership, Health Information and Patient Care Technologies, and also Evidence-Based Practice Improvement. US News recognizes the U of A’s affordable online MSN program among the top 50 in the entire country.

The University of Arizona opened in 1885 when Arizona was not yet a state. Today, the university operates 19 schools and colleges, including a law school and also two medical facilities. Additionally, its 375-acre urban campus is home to nearly 45,000 students. The Council for Aid to Education (CAE) also recognizes U of A for its financial support of students in need.

Degree: MSN – 15 months

Interested: Check here to find out more about this BSN to MSN online fast track!

4. Union University

Union University’s 1 year online MSN programs prepare graduates with the skills and aptitudes in nursing specialties. These MSN concentrations include an MSN in Administration, an MSN in Education, an MSN Nurse Practitioner, and also an MSN/MBA dual degree option.

These graduate degree programs also prepare students for a doctorate degree, for those interested. In about 16 months, graduates learn how to integrate theory and research methodologies with practical experiences to become the next generation’s nursing leaders. Furthermore, Union has accreditation from the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Union University opened in 1823 as a private institution of higher learning affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention. Its urban campus is home to more than 3,250 students. Union University runs a Scholarship Banquet that includes prominent speakers like President Bush, Colin Powell, and also Margaret Thatcher. US News recognizes Union University among the top universities in the US Southern Region for nearly two decades.

Degree: MSN – 3 concentrations – 16 months

Interested: Check the program site!

5. Liberty University

Liberty University offers an MSN accelerated academic track to earn a degree in Nursing Administration. Students must finish at least 42 credit units through LU’s distance learning platform.

LU’s MSN in Nursing Administration has accreditation from the CCNE. Liberty University provides a generous transfer credit policy of up to 50% of the degree’s total credit requirements. On average, students complete Liberty University’s MSN program in about two years.

Liberty University started in 1974. Furthermore, Liberty is one of the largest private institutions of higher education that has affiliations with the Christian Church. The Lynchburg campus is home to more than 15,000 students; however, other 90,000+ students study online. Liberty University’s Freedom Tower is 275 feet tall and the largest standing structure in Lynchburg, VA.

Degree: 1 Year Accelerated MSN – 1 year

Interested: Check out the MSN Nursing Administration program!

6. Roberts Wesleyan College

Roberts Wesleyan College offers two separate online Masters of Nursing (MSN) degree programs. These accelerated BSN to MSN programs offered by RWC include a Master of Science (MS) in Nursing Education and a Master of Science (MS) in Nursing Leadership & Administration.

Each of these online graduate nursing programs requires the completion of 39 credit units and 20 months to complete. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has accredited RWC’s MSN degree programs.

RWC opened in 1866 and remains affiliated with the Free Methodist Church. The school started as a seminary by a social activist named Benjamin Titus Roberts. This private institution of higher learning is located in the western portion of New York State and is home to more than 1,700 students. The Northeastern Seminary was also chartered by RWC. Today, it operates as a graduate college offering an MA in Theology, a Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Divinity.

Degree: 2 concentrations – 20 months

Interested: Check the program site!

7. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an accelerated RN to MSN degree program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This program prepares students for roles as educators and administrators.

Degree candidates take classes online using a sophisticated distance-learning platform that is easily accessible and available every day. Coursework includes Patient Assessment, Population Health, Legal & Ethical Considerations in Health Care, and a final capstone at the end of all coursework. Graduates find rewarding work as Nurse Leaders and Nurse Educators, among other options. SUNY graduate nursing degrees are:

SNHU started in 1932. However, much of its recent impressive growth is due to its distance learning divisions. The school operates with six colleges and schools, with the College of Online & Continuing Education headquartered in Manchester, NH. The school’s press release noted that online enrollment in 2001 grew to more than 80,000 students.

Degree: MSN – accelerated

Interested: Check the program site!

8. Herzing University

Herzing University offers an online accelerated Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program with three academic concentrations. Herzing’s MSN sampling includes an MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, an MSN Nurse Educator, and an MSN in Nursing Leadership & Administration.

Each online master’s in nursing concentration takes about 24 months to complete. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits all three of Herzing University’s graduate nursing degree academic tracks. These accelerated BSN to MSN programs offer working nurses great flexibility and convenience in light of a nursing professional’s busy schedules.

Herzing University opened in 1965 as a private higher learning institution specializing in computer training. Currently, the university operates with nine campuses across 7 different states. The school offers healthcare, nursing, business, legal studies, and technology programs. Herzing University has received accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Degree: 3 concentrations – less than 2 years

Interested: Check the program site!

9. Western Governors University

Western Governors University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program that is entirely online. Accelerated BSN to MSN programs, like Western Governors University’s, take approximately eleven months to complete.

To be eligible for WGU’s graduate program online, degree applicants must already have earned their baccalaureate nursing degree. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits Western Governors University’s graduate nursing degree distance-learning degree programs. Students graduate prepared to work in varied health care settings like schools, agencies, hospitals, and also businesses.

Western Governors University started in 1997 as a private online institution of education. The online school’s administration has headquarters in Utah, and its current student population exceeds 110,000 students. WGU offers online undergraduate and graduate degrees in the areas of Health Professions, Information Technology, Education, and also Business.

Degree: MSN – 11 months

Interested: Check the program site!

10. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University offers an accelerated online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program which a special emphasis on Leadership in Nursing. KSU’s online graduate nursing degree program is entirely online, and students can complete it in as little as fifteen months.

KSU’s distance learning graduate degree program focuses on nursing issues like ethical decision-making, Conflict Management, Healthcare Policy, and also Leadership Strategies. Students must complete a minimum of 40 credit units to graduate with their MSN in Leadership in Nursing.

Kennesaw State University started in 1963. It is a member school of the University of Georgia. The university operates with two campuses in Georgia cities of Kennesaw and Marietta. Annual enrollment exceeds 35,000, which makes KSU the 3rd largest school in the Peach State. KSU’s campus is also home to a sculpture that weighs more than 345,000 pounds, entitled Spaceship Earth.

Degree: MSN – Leadership in Nursing – 15 months

Interested: Check the program site!

How Do Colleges Make an MSN Program Shorter?

There are a few time-tested ways to reduce the time required to complete your Master of Science Nursing degree, sometimes in only twelve months. The shortest MSN program generally applies to one of the following time-reduction tactics:

Revised Degree Formats

nursing schools now offer classes that run for only six or eight weeks, rather than the more traditional semesters that lasted far longer. The fastest MSN program classwork tends to be a bit more intensive, but you get to progress through the material in no time.

Updated Credit Transfer Policies

For students with college-level nursing-related coursework, a transfer policy is a great way to shorten the degree path and reduce the costs to attain your degree. So, an online MSN program may offer nurse-specific transfer credits.

Credit for Work Experience

Another strategy used by the shortest MSN program options is creating a program that objectively provides credit for the degree applicant’s previous work experience. Since many MSN students became nurses long before, they may have many years of experience to use for credit.

Reduced Clinical Requirements

Some nursing schools offer online MSN programs without clinical for certain MSN specialties.

There are many legitimate ways to reduce the time and cost of earning a Master of Science in Nursing degree through a distance learning platform using any one of the suggestions noted above. Remember though, the committed effort required to earn an MSN from an accelerated degree program reaps tremendous rewards on those ready for the challenge.

What are the Benefits of an Accelerated MSN Program?

Earning your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in an accelerated MSN degree program has some great benefits. Below are some of the benefits a BSN to MSN online fast-track degree program offers.

Tuition Expenses are lower

First, most online degree programs have less expensive tuition than traditional on-campus programs. Additionally, if you take fewer credits, then your overall tuition cost will be less. This is where the transfer and work credit policies can help!

Convenience and Flexibility

Classes are accessible 24/7 from anywhere with an Internet connection. So, busy working nursing professionals can go to school around their work schedule.

Commuting

Online students don’t have to go to campus every week. This saves you time. But, it also saves you money on the costs to commute either by bus, train, subway, or gas for your car.

Are Online MSN Programs Easier than On-Campus?

Do you want to know the easiest online nurse practitioner program available? Great question, but quite challenging to answer.

While some online MSN programs, in general, are challenging to attain, however, there are schools with easier MSN programs. The easiest online nurse practitioner program is the MSN degree program that meets your career objectives, with tuition expenses that land within your budget,

What are the Admission Requirements for Accelerated MSN Online Programs?

Admission requirements for accelerated online MSN programs vary by institution and type of program. However, general requirements for most schools include the list below.

official transcripts
a 3.0 undergraduate GPA or grade point average
an active and unrestricted nursing license/unrestricted RN license

What Do You Learn in an MSN Program?

A typical MSN program consists of core classes and specialized classes in a focus area. Students may also complete a capstone project, thesis, and a practicum or clinical placement, depending on the program.

Core courses in an MSN program cover topics like advanced health assessment, nursing theory, advanced pathophysiology and genetics, and health and public policy for advanced nursing practice.

These classes expand a student’s knowledge base and cultural perspective. Projects and practicums offer an opportunity to reinforce classroom education using hands-on experiences.

and evidence-based practice as well as current issues and trends facing professional nursing practice. A capstone will give you the opportunity to demonstrate the synthesis of administrative leadership and nursing competencies through a master’s project or thesis.

What are Nurse Specializations?

In an MSN program, nurses can choose a specialized area of practice. Online MSN degrees or an RN to MSN program typically offer these areas of concentration.

Examples are Midwifery, Advanced Holistic Nursing, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Public Health Nursing, Advanced Nursing Practice, Legal Nurse Consultant, Nursing Informatics, Nursing Research, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Executive, Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, and Anesthesia.

Nurse Anesthetist learn more
Nurse-Midwife learn more
Nurse Practitioner learn more
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner learn more
Nurse Informaticist learn more

What is the Job Outlook with an Accelerated MSN?

Are career prospects and salaries for MSN program graduates good? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the overall job outlook for individuals with an accelerated MSN degree is great! For the ten-year period covering 2020 to 2030, the employment of nurse practitioners will grow 52%. This growth far outpaces all occupations’ overall average growth rate of 8%.

Job	Salary	Job Growth
Nurse Midwife	$112,830	11%
Nurse Anesthetist	$195,610	13%
Nurse Practitioner	$120,680	52%
Medical and Health Service Manager	$101,340	32%
Nurse Educator	$82,040	yes

BLS job growth for nurses with a master’s nursing degree.

How Long Does it Take to Earn an Accelerated MSN Online Degree?

Accelerated MSN online degree programs vary in length depending on prior education, the type of program, and the school or institution. Direct-entry MSN programs typically take the longest because these students are new to nursing. An RN to MSN nursing student usually starts with an associate degree or two years of prior education. And a BSN to MSN is shorter because students start with a bachelor’s or BSN degree.

Who Accredits 1-Year Online MSN Programs & Why Does Accreditation Matter?

Accreditation of nursing programs demonstrates the program offers quality education. An accredited school meets the standards for content, and teaching methods have proven to be successful. The best 1-year online MSN programs generally have accreditation from either the ACEN or the CCNE.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Graduates of an advanced practice nursing program can sit for certification exams. For example, the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) grads can take the FNP Certification Examination. It is offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Can I Get an Accelerated MSN if I Have a Bachelor’s in Another Field?

There are generally three general categories of online MSN programs. For the most part, most Master of Science in Nursing degree programs offered as a fast track option fall into one of the following online degree program formats:

BSN to MSN fast-track online degree program
RN to MSN accelerated track online degree program
Second-degree nursing programs without prerequisites

Prerequisites for Most MSN Programs

Those schools and universities offering an RN to MSN with bachelor’s in another field allow MSN degree candidates to avoid re-taking prerequisites they have already successfully passed. Second-degree nursing programs without prerequisites programs are a great transition degree that allows working professionals to easily transfer to the nursing profession from another industry.

This transition-type MSN degree program helps the nursing industry stay on top of the many nursing shortages faced in many geographic areas across the country. An alternative degree some choose is an affordable online MHA degree.

MSN degree candidates should remember to keep their eye on the prize. Tremendous job opportunities often bring rewarding responsibilities and more lucrative salaries and compensation packages.

Related:

10 Online Accelerated DNP Programs

Working nurses often want the opportunity to advance with a DNP degree quickly. Some accelerated Online DNP programs allow students to complete their DNP quicker than if they took the traditional route of earning their MSN in between. These are BSN to DNP programs. On the other hand, a student can take an accelerated program to go from their MSN to DNP. There’s also the option of earning a DNP for students who don’t already have a nursing degree but have a bachelor’s degree in another field of study.

Accelerated Online DNP programs are much shorter programs than standard college degree programs. However, they’re more time-consuming because a student is completing more work in a shorter period of time. Accelerated DNP programs online allow students to work online at a fast pace, so they can earn their degree sooner. Ultimately, this means a student can start to work in a nursing leadership role, work as an educator, or even practice as a healthcare provider sooner. It could also be a money-saving method for students, depending on the school they choose. This is especially the case for those who want to change from a bachelor’s degree program to an advanced practice nurses program.

Our Method: Ranking the Best Accelerated DNP Programs Online

Of course, if you’re looking for an accelerated DNP program, your main interest is how quickly you can finish the degree, but Best Health Degrees is concerned with more than that. All of the collegiate nursing education programs featured in the BHD Fastest Online DNP ranking are accredited and trusted by employers. They have been ranked according to cost, salary potential, and student satisfaction.

1. University of Miami

Students looking for a fast DNP program online will want to consider the hybrid online DNP program from the University of Miami. The advanced practice nursing degree program is primarily online and allows students to finish their degree within one year. The accelerated pace of the program is ideal for students who have a complicated schedule and who want to move forward with their careers in a short amount of time. Students must complete three to four weekends of classes on campus each semester, so it does have some offline classes.

The University of Miami encourages students to take a hands-on approach to their education. It requires 560 hours of clinical work before students graduate with a doctor of nursing practice degree, so it allows students to focus on gaining experience throughout their time working on their degree. It does assume that students have some clinical experience before they start working on a doctoral degree, so students will need to verify that they meet the clinical work standards before starting the program.

Favorite Facts: The University of Miami is one of the most innovative research universities and it encourages research as part of the advanced nursing practice program.

Degree: DNP Hybrid (primarily online) – 1 year

2. Samford University

Samford University offers one of the best accelerated DNP programs online for students who want to advance in their nursing careers. The school offers an MSN to DNP program that takes one year to complete. It also offers an on-campus BSN to DNP in Nurse Anesthesia for students who want to gain specialized skills. The advanced practice nursing options ensure that students are able to select a program that fits their long-term goals.

Samford University focuses on providing a flexible solution for working nurses. It offers online and on-campus programs for nurses who want to obtain a doctor of nursing practice degree. That flexibility allows nurses to work around complicated scheduling and personal obligations while still finishing up a degree to advance into an advanced practice registered nurses leadership role.

Favorite Facts: Samford University offers a residency program to help nurses gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting.

Degree: BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia (Campus) or MSN to DNP (online) Online – 1 year

Learn more at Samford’s program website!

3. Frontier Nursing University

Students who are looking for accelerated BSN to DNP programs online will want to consider the program at Frontier Nursing University. The online DNP program takes around 15 to 18 months to complete and it allows students to focus on their career goals. Students will find that the advanced practice nursing program works around their schedules and encourages them to continue their normal nursing roles while working on advancing in their educations.

Frontier Nursing University takes an evidence-based approach to education. It prepares students for the challenges they will face by using research and data to clarify the way theories work in a clinical setting. It recognizes that students must learn the practical skills to apply theories to medical treatments and it provides the evidence to help students gain confidence in their skills.

Favorite Facts: Frontier Nursing University started as a program designed to provide a nurse midwife with the nursing skills they needed to provide effective care to women and families.

Degree: DNP Online – 15-18 months

Learn more at Frontier’s advanced practice registered nurses program website!

4. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers one of the best BSN to DNP online accelerated programs for students who want to become an advanced practice nurse. The school offers a BNS to DNP program on-campus as well as an MSN to DNP program online and on campus. Students can select the program that fits their long-term goals and can complete their DNP within 18 months, or four semesters, when they are taking courses online.

The University of Cincinnati focuses on teaching leadership skills and evidence-based clinical skills for students who are working on their DNP degree. The program recognizes the value of hands-on experience and requires students to complete 504 hours of clinical work as a nurse before they graduate with a doctoral degree. It ensures that students are qualified to take on leadership roles and to work with patients in a variety of settings.

Favorite Facts: The University of Cincinnati offers scholarships and graduate assistantships to students in the DNP program.

Degree: MSN to DNP – 18 months/4 semesters

Learn more at Cincinnati’s program website!

5. Thomas Edison State University

Students looking for the best BSN to DNP online accelerated programs will want to consider the program at Thomas Edison State University. The online DNP program takes around 18 months to complete and students can move forward to become an advanced practice nurse. The prepares students for the challenges of working in a hospital or medical facility in a leadership position.

Thomas Edison State University focuses on the leadership aspects of working as a doctor of nursing practice. The fully online program is designed to provide systems leadership training that students can apply to their work environment. It also ensures that students have the clinical skills they need to provide effective care to patients when working directly with patients.

Favorite Facts: Thomas Edison State University allows students to transfer up to nine doctoral-level credits into the DNP program.

Degree: DNP Online 18 months

Learn more at TESU’s program website!

6. Northeastern University

Northeastern University offers one of the best accelerated BSN to DNP programs online for students who want to work at a higher level in their careers. The degree program takes a practice-oriented approach to nursing and focuses on the clinical aspects of providing care to patients. It helps students develop the relevant skills they need to work with patients to improve their health.

The way Northeastern University stands apart from other programs is the emphasis on nursing leadership. Students are given the tools they need to work with nurses and healthcare professionals in different areas of medicine and treatment. Students learn the basics of informatics, health policy, population health, and leadership when they work on the degree program.

Favorite Facts: Northeastern University allows students to finish their DNP program within 16 months.

Degree: DNP Online – 16 months

Learn more at Northeastern’s program website!

7. University of New Hampshire

The University of New Hampshire offers a DNP online that prepares students for their work as a doctor of nursing practice. The degree program emphasizes leadership in a clinical setting and recognizes that nursing professionals may face a variety of complicated challenges when working with patients. It helps students learn the practical skills they need to address problems that may arise in a medical facility.

The University of New Hampshire stands out by focusing on flexibility. The fully online program allows students to work at their own pace. You can finish a degree within 18 to 28 months, depending on your goals and the number of credits you take each semester. Students who arrange a full-time schedule can finish the degree in 18 months. It gives a flexible solution to work around the needs of nurses who may have a complex schedule.

Favorite Facts: The University of New Hampshire requires two residency programs that last for two days.

Degree: DNP Online – 18 months

Learn more at UNH’s program website!

8. St Catherine University

St. Catherine University offers a DNP program online that has two intensive residency programs throughout the degree program. The intensive residency programs require students to visit the campus for intensive studies with faculty. It is designed to fit around the needs of working nurses, so it does offer a flexible strategy to ensure that students are not facing challenges when attending the campus.

St. Catherine University stands out by emphasizing networking when students are working on their degree programs. The focus on networking starts with the faculty and allows students to engage professionals who have worked in a variety of settings within the healthcare industry. It strives to help students make effective connections when they are working on an 18-month degree program.

Favorite Facts: Students in the DNP program may qualify for scholarships and financial assistance that help reduce the cost of obtaining the degree.

Degree: DNP Online with 2 intensives – 18 months

Learn more at St Kate’s program website!

9. Maryville University

Maryville University offers an MSN to DNP program online that takes around 20 months for full-time students to complete. The accelerated program helps students accomplish their goals without wasting time while they work on a doctoral degree. The school emphasizes nursing skills and encourages students to focus on a specialized set of skills based on their own interests and goals.

Maryville University focuses on flexibility and does not require students to attend campus at any time when working on their degrees. The DNP program is fully online and allows students to obtain clinical experience at a local medical facility or hospital. It does not require students to visit the campus or spend time as a specific medical facility to gain hands-on experience.

Favorite Facts: Maryville University does not require students to complete a GRE or GMAT test to get into the program.

Degree: MSN-DNP Online – 20 months

Learn more at Maryville’s program website!

10. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University offers an accelerated DNP online that allows students to complete the program within 21 months. The online degree program prepares students to take on leadership roles in a medical facility and ensures that students are prepared for the challenges they may face in a clinical environment.

Colorado Technical University stands apart from other programs by emphasizing a student-centered approach to teaching. It focuses on helping students succeed by evaluating their needs and catering to their situation. As an online program, it gives students a flexible solution to help with studies and maintaining their work responsibilities. It also allows students to work at their own pace when focusing on a doctoral degree.

Favorite Facts: Colorado Technical University offers multiple starting dates for online students, so it is possible to start working on a degree when it fits your schedule.

Degree: DNP Online – 21 months

Learn more at Colorado Tech’s program website!

How is the Job Market for Doctor of Nursing Practice?

The DNP job outlook is extremely good. Many of the career paths people can choose from when they want to earn a DNP are highly in demand now and are only supposed to grow in the future.

For instance, one of the DNP jobs is a certified registered nurse anesthetist. This particular person assists dentists, surgeons, and doctors in administering anesthesia, determining proper dosages, and monitoring patients during and after their anesthesia. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this particular profession is expected to grow by 26 percent from 2018 until 2028. This is much faster than average.

Another one of the potential DNP jobs is a nurse-midwife. This job consists of helping women during their pregnancy and performing uncomplicated labors and deliveries. The DNP job openings for this profession are expected to grow faster than average.

Jobs for DNP graduates may also include nurse practitioner positions. Often, these jobs for DNP graduates differ from state to state. In some states, DNP job openings include the ability to practice as a primary healthcare provider either at their own practice or underneath a physician.

A person may enter into general medicine or may choose a specialty. Some specialties that could equal numerous DNP job openings include gynecology/obstetrics, pediatrics, and behavioral health, among others. The DNP job outlook for specialties may vary greatly from one area to another. In general, though, the DNP job outlook for nurse practitioners is expected to grow rapidly until 2028.

How Much Can I Make with a DNP?

Whether a person is wondering whether they should attend medical school rather than an extensive nursing degree program, it’s important to know the average DNP salary. Although the salary varies from one location to the next and from one specialty to another, someone with a DNP usually earns around $100,000 per year.

The DNP salary for a nurse practitioner is $110,030 annually, as reported by the BLS. This is the same as $52.90 per hour. On the other hand, the DNP salary for a nurse anesthetist is $174,790 per year, which is the same as $83.03 per hour. A nurse-midwife earns an average of $51.40 per hour or $106,910 per year.

The DNP jobs salary isn’t the same in all states. One primary example is in Montana, which is the highest paying state on average for a nurse anesthetist. In Montana, someone with a DNP who’s a nurse anesthetist earns an average of $246,370 annually. The top-paying state for a nurse practitioner is California, where the DNP jobs salary for someone with this title is $133,780. On the other hand, in Arkansas, the average salary of a nurse practitioner is only $99,740 per year.

Can I Finish a DNP in 12-18 Months?

If a person searches “MSN to DNP how long,” they’ll find a variety of answers. Some people say it takes two years while others say it takes many more years than that.

Many programs let a person go at their own pace to earn their DNP. That’s why some people complete theirs in two years and others take six. However, some programs are 12-month online DNP programs. A person still has the same coursework, but they work at a quicker pace to complete it. Besides 12-month online DNP programs, a person may also find 18-month programs. Generally, both of these accelerated program types are for individuals who have the time to commit to school.

The bottom line when asking “MSN to DNP how long” depends on the course itself and how much time a person can dedicate to the program, but it’s possible to complete the program in a year or a year and a half. Furthermore, this program may be a good fit for nurses with a Master’s in Healthcare Administration degree.

Related Rankings:

25 Best Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs

15 Best Online DNP Programs

10 Most Affordable Online DNP Programs

50 Best Scholarships For Nurse Practitioner

10 Best Online Nutrition Certificates

Since the 18th century, scientists have studied the relationship between nutrition and health. Some of the earliest research was done on sailors with scurvy until the link between Vitamin C and the disease was determined. Through the centuries, the study of diets, nutrition, and individual health has evolved into a precise science.

Today’s certified Clinical Nutritionists and Dietitians rely on scientific research to evaluate and assess a patient’s nutritional needs to prevent disease and to maintain health. The need for certified professionals in this field is projected to grow at 11% between 2018-2028 which is considered much faster than average (Bureau of Labor Statistics). The Bureau of Labor Statistics also places the salary for clinical nutritionists and dietitians to range between $38,460-$84,610, depending on geographic and employment areas. Jobs in this field can be found in government agencies, healthcare systems, long-term or assisted living care centers, as well as outpatient centers.

Most states require Nutritionists and Dieticians to be licensed or certified, in addition to holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree in clinical nutrition, foods, and nutrition, or related area. Colleges and universities offering degree programs in the field of nutrition frequently will offer nutrition certification programs to prepare students and nutrition professionals to sit for certification exams. Certification is awarded by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) or the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (CNS) and nutrition certification programs is available online.

Best Health Degrees have identified some of the best certification programs we found.

Our Method: Best Online Nutrition Certification Programs

To rank the best online nutrition certification programs, Best Health Degree editors focus exclusively on Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) known for mentorship, networking, and exceptional education. Programs are ranked according to cost, reputation, and outcomes, including data from IPEDS, College Scorecard, Niche, and U.S. News & World Report.

1. Colorado State University

Through its Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University Online offers a graduate Nutrition Science certificate focusing on disease prevention and health promotion. This year-long certificate program is specifically created for bachelor prepared nutritionists, as well as other healthcare professionals.

The program’s objective is to enhance nutritional research skills and communication with clients and patients. An emphasis is placed on evidence-based dietary research and it’s application to a daily practice. CEU credits are available as well.

Established in 1870, Colorado State University has been innovative in its commitment to supporting online/distance education for over 50 years. The university prides itself on providing the same quality education for its online students as the students enrolled on campus. This dedication to quality is expressed by the 70 faculty and staff working with the Division of Continuing Education. CEU credits are available with this program

2. University of Texas San Antonio

Offered 100% online, UTSA offers a Graduate Certificate in Community Nutrition that requires 12 credit hours for completion. You’ll need an accredited Bachelor’s degree in Health Education, Health Promotion, Public Health, Psychology, Nutrition, or Dietetics.

The certificate provides a solid foundation in evidence-based practice, community nutrition advancement, and nutritional needs across the lifespan. Communication, promotion, and analyzation skills are highlighted to train students in addressing community nutritional needs and program development. The program includes studies in the connection between nutrition and disease, community resources, economic and social impact of nutritional programs, and influences of nutrition on various life stages.

UTSA developed this program in response to the growing nutritional needs of rural Texas communities and across the country. The graduate certificate is provided by the College of Kinesiology, Health, and Nutrition and requires students maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the program.

3. Simmons University

The Certificate in Sports Nutrition (CSN) Simmons University appeals to students from a wide variety of disciplines. Professionals in athletic training, nutrition, physical therapy, sports medicine, biology, and other backgrounds will find this CSN beneficial. The certificate concentrates on studies in nutrition, wellness, sports psychology, assessment, as well as nutritional consultation. An undergraduate degree is required for admission with certain studies needed in anatomy, physiology, fundamentals of nutrition, and nutritional science classes.

Located in Boston, MA, Simmons University has a long history dating to 1899 devoted to expanding opportunities for women. Today, the university is coed and offers more than 60 majors and programs, both on campus on online. U.S. News and World Report rates Simmons University one of its “Best Value Schools.”

4. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University has an online Graduate Certificate in Public Health Nutrition that requires 15 credit hours for completion. The certificate provides a comprehensive program curriculum which includes topics in nutrition and disease prevention, health promotion, physiology, as well as nutrition and food policy.

The part-time program takes approximately 12 months for completion and may require prerequisite coursework. Test scores aren’t required, but you do need a bachelor’s degree and submit an application requires academic transcripts, resume, and a personal statement.

Tuition costs at Appalachian State are competitive (NC residents pay $266 per credit hour). More than 98% of fulltime faculty hold terminal degrees in their field and the school offers a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. Appalachian State rightfully boasts of its national recognition by Forbes, The Princeton Review, MONEY, and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazines. Applachian State University is a member Association of Graduate Programs in Public Health Nutrition (AGPPHN)

5. University of Arizona

Long known as a leader in online education, Arizona University offers an online graduate certificate in Applied Nutrition (GCAN) which focuses on skills and studies in clinical nutrition. This program examines nutritional assessment and support, medical nutritional therapy, nutrigenomics, research methods, and more. Intended for continuing education for physicians, nurses, health/wellness coaches, etc.

Admission to this 14-credit hour certificate program requires a Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences degree (a Bachelor of Arts in Nutrition is also accepted) with a 3.0 GPA. The GRE is not required and there’s no residency requirement for tuition purposes.

6. University of Wisconsin Madison

The University of Wisconsin online Clinical Capstone in Clinical Nutrition program is designed to be completed within a year while you continue working. The 12-credit hours in this program can be applied toward a graduate degree. Topics covered include advanced clinical nutrition in pediatrics, critical care nutritional support, counseling, education, and nutritional research. CEU credits are available as you complete the courses.

Admission requires a baccalaureate degree (minimum 2.80 GPA) with a completed didactic dietetics program or prerequisite courses. The University of Wisconsin, established in 1848, is a highly regarded school and recognized for its innovation, value, and national standing by U.S. News and World Report. UWM has offered nutritional studies since 1965.

7. KU Medical Center – University of Kansas

Kansas University Medical Center is well known for its quality online degrees and certificates and the Dietetics and Integrative Medicine Graduate Certificate is one of those programs. The certificate program is specifically designed for working professionals and concentrates on a multidisciplinary approach to the prevention and treatment of chronic disease and illness.

The four, 3-credit hour courses include topics in dietary issues, herbal supplements, integrative medicine, regulation of immune and inflammatory processes, nutrigenomics, and nutrigenetics.

Admission to the certificate program is not limited to dietitians, but is open to other healthcare professionals, as well. A Bachelor of Science in any field is required for admission (completion of a medical nutrition therapy course is needed, however), a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, as well as a background check. The reasonable tuition costs are not subject to residency requirements.

8. University of Cincinnati

This is an online graduate certificate in Human Nutrition. The program is ideal for medical students, clinicians, and other health care professionals and concentrates on nutritional therapy and metabolism throughout the life cycle. This program requires 12- credit hours in Vitamins and Minerals, Macronutrients, Nutrition and Wellness, Study Design and Analysis, Nutrition in Health and Disease, IRB Submission Process, and Community-Based Participatory Research.

You’ll be required to have a baccalaureate degree with a 3.0 GPA, and prerequisites. These prerequisite courses include biochemistry, anatomy and physiology, general chemistry and lab, and introductory nutrition. The school has a rolling application and accepts applications for fall and spring semesters. Scholarships are available for this certificate through UC’s Department of Rehabilitation, Exercise, and Nutrition Sciences.

9. Bowling Green State University-eCampus

Bowling Green University’s eCampus offers an online Food and Nutrition Graduate Certificate (FNGC) program. This is a 15-credit hour certificate requiring graduate-level courses in food and nutrition. Students may take courses in Community Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, Special Topics: Environmental Nutrition, and others. Dietetics interns may classes in Community Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, Dietetic Internship, etc. The program is not currently approved by any professional organization and doesn’t carry any licensure privileges.

Applicants need to hold baccalaureate degree with coursework in anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, and nutrition. Additionally, GRE scores are required, letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, as well as a resume. Bowling Green is ranked #1 in midwest universities for student satisfaction by the Wall Street Journal.

10. Tufts University

Tuft University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy believes in options. have six considerations for its online Graduate Certificates in Nutrition. Among the certificate choices are: Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems , Developing Healthy Communities, Nutrition Science for Health Professionals, Nutrition Science for Communications Professionals, Global Nutrition Programming, or Nutrition for Industry Professionals and Entrepreneurs.

All certificates are designed with the working professional in mind. Each certificate can be completed in 1-3 years and requires 3 courses to gain a Certificate of Graduate Studies from Tufts University. Some courses may require prerequisites. Working with the Program Director, you can even “Build Your Own Certificate,” by choosing courses to fit your needs. Depending on the course, you may need to complete prerequisites to continue.

Online courses at Tufts are interactive and you’ll be expected to participate in virtual classroom discussions. This certificate program has been accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and courses meet the same academic standards as on-campus programs.