10 Best BSN to MSN Programs in 2024

In healthcare's dynamic landscape, the role of a nurse is ever-evolving. As a BSN RN, you've already shown dedication and a solid grasp of nursing practices. But what if you could elevate your expertise and step into nursing leadership and innovation? Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) could be your next professional milestone.

The U.S. offers numerous graduate-level MSN programs, each with unique specializations. This abundance of choices can be overwhelming. To help you navigate, we've curated a list of the top 10 BSN to MSN programs for 2024. Discover key aspects like core components, admission prerequisites, curriculum details, potential salaries, and career paths post-graduation.

What Is a BSN to MSN Program?

A BSN to MSN is a graduate-level program designed for bachelor's degree-prepared RNs who want to earn a master's in nursing. This pathway is the most common choice for nurses seeking advanced education, building on their undergraduate knowledge and skills.

MSN programs allow nursing students to specialize in specific concentrations, such as nursing administration, education, or advanced practice roles like nurse practitioners.

Best BSN to MSN Programs in 2024

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of CCNE accreditation, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rate of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

All of the schools on this list are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that the MSN programs align with the APRN consensus model for APRNs. 

It is worth noting that there are ranges for many of the school ratings because each institution offers a variety of career pathways for their MSN students. For more detailed information on a specific program, it is recommended that you research the institution and program of interest. 

1. California State University, Fresno

California State University, Fresno offers a BSN to MSN program with a concentration in primary care family nurse practitioner (FNP). This master of nursing program stands out because the curriculum and outcome goals are based on the AACN Master's Essentials as well as the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). NONPF is the only organization solely dedicated to promoting high-quality nurse practitioner education. 

• Price:  $2,082 (6 or less credit units per semester); $3,588 (6.1 or more credit units per semester); $ 396 (non-resident fee per credit unit per semester)
• Credit Hours: 40
• Clinical Hours: 630
• Mode: On-campus, Online, or Hybrid
• Duration: 2 years

2. University of Memphis

The University of Memphis provides three tracks for BSN to MSN students: Nursing Education, Executive Leadership, and Family Nurse Practitioner. 

While its traditional MSN program can be taken entirely online, the Executive Leadership track requires nursing students to attend in-person learning sessions and national conferences. The Executive Leadership MSN program stands for its curriculum alignment with the American Organization for Nursing Leadership and its recognition by the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program. 

• Price:   $623 per credit (residents); $846 per credit (non-residents); $744 per credit (online)
• Credit Hours: 31-46
• Mode: Online—Traditional MSN track; Hybrid—Executive Leadership Track
• Duration: 2-2.5 years

If you are a resident outside of Tennessee and plan to enroll in the APRN-FNP online program, it is your responsibility to contact your state nursing licensing body to ensure eligibility for this program. 

3. Duke University

Duke University School of Nursing is acclaimed for having one of the most advanced health systems in the world as well as state-of-the-art technology and simulation labs for nursing students to obtain real-world clinical skills in a controlled environment, making them an industry leader for graduate-level nursing degrees. BSN to MSN students at Duke can choose between three non-clinical majors and eight APRN majors. 

• Price: $14,525 per semester
• Semesters: 6-7
• Credit Hours: 42-49
• Mode: Hybrid
• Duration: 2-2.5 years

APRN MSN Options at Duke: Adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, neonatal nurse practitioner, pediatric acute care nurse practitioner, pediatric primary care nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and women's health nurse practitioner.

Non-Clinical MSN Options at Duke: Nursing Education, Health Informatics, and Nursing and Healthcare Leadership.

4. University of Texas at Arlington

The BSN to MSN online program at the University of Texas Arlington distinguishes itself through its flexible and affordable approach, specifically designed for working nurses. As the number one public school in the United States, the university offers one-on-one personal advisement throughout the program, ensuring you always have the support you need.  All of the master's of nursing programs offered by UTA require two years of clinical RN experience, except the primary care NP tracks.

• Price: $19,500
• Credit Hours: varies
• Mode: Online
• Duration: 36 months

APRN MSN Options at UTA: Family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, pediatric acute care nurse practitioner, and pediatric primary care nurse practitioner.

Non-Clinical MSN Options at UTA: Nursing administration and nursing education.

5. University of Texas Medical Branch

The online BSN to MSN program at the University of Texas Medical Branch is tailored to working RNs as it prioritizes flexibility and convenience. All coursework is completed entirely online, aside from orientation and semester commencement.

The program's tuition is calculated per credit per semester and includes all one-time fees for the semester. Therefore, the price listed here may not accurately reflect the program's total cost.

• Price: $1,452.67 per credit hour (in-state); $1,881.54 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Credit Hours: 39-49
• Clinical Hours: 720–740
• Mode: Online
• Duration: 28 months

APRN MSN Options at UTMB: Adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, and neonatal nurse practitioner.

Non-Clinical MSN Options at UTMB: Clinical nurse leader, executive nurse leader, and nurse educator. 

6. Azusa Pacific University 

Azusa Pacific University offers an array of BSN to MSN programs at an affordable price, allowing you to choose between eight different concentrations. This program will enable nurses to earn an MSN in school nurse service credentialing (SNSC), which can also be pursued as a dual degree alongside an FNP or PNP degree. 

Furthermore, Azusa provides online and face-to-face education, making them an excellent option for nurses seeking individualized learning and flexibility. 

• Price: $860 per credit unit
• Credit Hours: 44-56
• Mode: Hybrid
• Duration: 2-3 years

APRN MSN Options at Azusa: Adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, psychiatric nurse practitioner, and clinical nurse specialist.

Non-Clinical MSN Options at Azusa: Healthcare administration and leadership, nursing education, and school nurse services credential.

7. Carlow University 

Located in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, Carlow University is a Catholic institution emphasizing teamwork, collaboration, and professional networking focused on your future career. Their APRN MSN programs meet the requirements for national board certification and APRN licensure in all U.S. states. Carlow University provides full-time and part-time options for their MSN programs, allowing you to pursue your career at a convenient pace.

Non-Clinical Program Information: Nursing Leadership and Education

• Price: $812 per credit; $26,796 total
• Credit Hours: 33 
• Mode: Hybrid
• Duration: 20 months 

APRN Program Information: Family Nurse Practitioner and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

• Price: $918 per credit; $44,982 total
• Credit Hours: 49
• Mode: Hybrid
• Duration: 28 months

8. University of Maryland

The University of Maryland prides itself on its researchers making groundbreaking discoveries driving the transformation in the healthcare industry. Not only does the University of Maryland provide clinical placements with top healthcare organizations, but it is consistently ranked among the best nursing programs, and the master's degree programs are also affordable.

The BSN to MSN program at the University of Maryland offers three pathways: Community/Public health nursing, health services leadership, and nursing informatics. You also have the option to pursue a dual degree, earning an MSN degree with either an MBA (master of business administration) or a public health specialization. 

• Price: $873 per credit / full-time and part-time online resident; $1,549 (out-of-state)
• Credit Hours: 38-40; 66-72 for dual degree pathways
• Mode: Hybrid or Online, depending on the program specialty
• Duration: 2 years

9. Barry University 

The BSN to MSN program at Barry University offers two APRN specialties, which are noteworthy for their high ANCC board examination rates. As per the 2020 report, graduates from the family nurse practitioner program had a passing rate of 96.88%, while those in the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner program had a passing rate of 93.55%.  

• Price: $1,020 per credit hour
• Credit Hours: 48-51
• Mode: Hybrid
• Duration: 2-2.5 years 

10. Drexel University 

Drexel University in Philadelphia offers an online BSN to MSN program for busy nurses seeking career advancement. The program provides various clinical and non-clinical pathways, with rigorous coursework to prepare nursing graduates for leadership roles in the healthcare and nursing industry.  

Drexel's Dual Accelerated RN-BSN-MSN program is tailored for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders, focusing on technology, evidence-based practice, care customization, interdisciplinary leadership, and specialty track skills.

One unique option is the master of nursing degree undeclared program, allowing students to take core courses before choosing a concentration area. However, this option excludes enrollment in the direct NP Program track, requiring you to apply for a post-master NP certificate upon program completion. 

Drexel operates on a quarterly system, with each semester credit hour valued at 1.5 quarter credit hours. 

• Price: $888 per credit (accelerated RN-BSN-MSN); rates vary for the graduate program
• Credit Hours: 60 (quarter) for non-clinical specialties; 52-63 (quarter) for APRN specialties
• Mode: Online
• Duration: 2-3 years; 4 years for dual degree

APRN MSN Options at Drexel: Adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner with emergency specialization, pediatric acute care, pediatric primary care, pediatric acute and primary care (dual degree), psychiatric mental health, and women's health/gender-related. 

Non-Clinical MSN Options at Drexel: Clinical nurse leader, healthcare simulation, leadership in health systems, nursing education, public health nursing, and quality, safety, and risk management in healthcare.

BSN to MSN Admission Requirements

The eligibility criteria for MSN programs vary depending on the chosen specialty pathway and the graduate school's specifications. BSN RNs seeking to advance their nursing careers with an MSN will typically need to meet the following prerequisites to gain entry:

• Active RN License in good standing
• Transcripts from an accredited BSN program with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• 1-3 professional or academic letters of recommendation
• Response to essay questions or equivalent writing projects on professional goals 
• RN experience in a relevant clinical setting; minimum one year up to five years, program dependent
• Interview to enter the program
• Graduation Record Examinations, program dependent

The prerequisites mentioned above are intended as a general guide. Before applying to an MSN program, verify the specific admission requirements that are mandatory by the nursing school and the specialty you are interested in, as they will vary.  

BSN to MSN Curriculum and Pathways

MSN programs build on BSN knowledge and are tailored to specific concentrations. The curriculum varies by specialization, providing advanced education in the chosen nursing field.

Non-Clinical MSN Programs

Emphasize leadership, communication, healthcare systems, quality improvement, research, and evidence-based practice.

• Career Pathways:

  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Nurse Administrator
  • Nurse Educator
  • Nurse Informaticist
  • Public Health Nurse

APRN MSN Programs

Focus on the patient population of the specialty concentration, including advanced education in health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, nursing management, healthcare policy, and research.

• Career Pathways:

  • Nurse Practitioner (NP)
  • Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
  • Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)

Program requirements and credits vary by institution and concentration. Most BSN to MSN programs take 18 to 24 months of full-time study. Graduation typically requires 30 to 50 credit hours and 500 to 1,000 clinical hours, depending on the specialty.

Before enrolling, determine your career path. Note that the AACN is shifting advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) preparation from a master's to a doctoral degree (DNP). While current MSN graduates are still eligible to practice as APRNs, future changes may require doctoral-level training, such as the recent requirement for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) students to pursue doctoral programs.

An excellent way to evaluate a master's program curriculum is to ensure the program is following the AACN Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education.

BSN to MSN Costs 

When assessing the expenses for BSN to MSN programs, here's a detailed rundown of costs that prospective students should factor in:

MSN Program Tuition Fee Insights:

• Resident vs. Out-of-State Tuition: Public universities often charge lower rates for state residents.
• Online Programs: Typically more cost-effective but still require clinical hours.
• Cost Per Credit Hour: Varies between programs, with some specializations costing more.

MSN Program Additional Cost Considerations:

• Books and Supplies: Textbook and supply costs can add up quickly.
• Technology Fees: Common in online or hybrid programs for digital resources.
• Lab & Clinical Fees: Charged for courses requiring specific materials or equipment.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Include application, graduation, and administrative costs.
• Living Expenses: Relevant for students who relocate or reduce work hours.
• Certification & Licensing Fees: Necessary for advanced practice credentials.
• Opportunity Costs: Potential financial impact of reduced work hours.
• Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
• Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or maintaining employment may affect program choice.

Strategic Financial Planning for MSN Studies

Approaching the financial side of MSN studies requires strategic thinking. Search for scholarships, consider work-study options, and apply early for federal funding. Understand loan agreements and choose cost-effective programs. For more about financial planning strategies, explore the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and the Most Affordable MSN Programs in 2024. 

MSN Salary Expectations in 2024

According to American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), master's prepared nurses can demand six-figure salaries, although several factors, such as your area of specialization, location, work experience, and employer, can influence salary. Although there can be salary variations between different master's degree graduate specialties, an overview of MSN salaries per specialization is provided below. 

Salary Expectations for Non-clinical MSN Graduates

Clinical Nurse Leader

• Average Hourly: $43.00
• Average Annual:  $89,949.00
• Lowest 25% Hourly:  $34.00
• Lowest 25% Annual: $71,000.00
• Highest Pay Hourly: $64.00
• Highest Pay Annual:  $133,500.00

Nurse Administrator

• Average Hourly: $41.00
• Average Annual:  $84,334.00
• Lowest 25% Hourly:  $33.00
• Lowest 25% Annual: $68,000.00
• Highest Pay Hourly: $53.00
• Highest Pay Annual:  $110,000.00

Nurse Educator

• Average Hourly: $46.00
• Average Annual:  $94,727.00
• Lowest 25% Hourly:  $38.00
• Lowest 25% Annual: $78,500.00
• Highest Pay Hourly: $61.00
• Highest Pay Annual:  $126,500.00

Salary Expectations for APRN MSN Graduates

Nurse Practitioner

• Average Hourly: $61.78
• Average Annual:  $128,490.00
• Lowest 25% Hourly:  $51,42
• Lowest 25% Annual: $106,960.00
• Highest Pay Hourly: $80.79
• Highest Pay Annual:  $168,030.00

Clinical Nurse Specialist

• Average Hourly: $45.00
• Average Annual:  $94,545.00
• Lowest 25% Hourly:  $34.00
• Lowest 25% Annual: $71,000.00
• Highest Pay Hourly: $66.00
• Highest Pay Annual:  $137,000.00

Nurse Midwife

• Average Hourly: $63.26
• Average Annual:  $131,570.00
• Lowest 25% Hourly:  $52.89
• Lowest 25% Annual: $110,000.00
• Highest Pay Hourly: $85.35
• Highest Pay Annual:  $177,530.00

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, APRN jobs are projected to grow much faster than the average of any other occupation, at 38% from 2022 to 2032. While there is no specific data on graduate-level non-clinical nursing needs, with the current state of healthcare, it can be assumed that this industry will also grow as nursing leaders are needed to advocate and implement the change required to transform the healthcare system.  

Are BSN to MSN Programs Worth It?

When contemplating the transition from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), it's essential to consider the specific benefits and potential drawbacks associated with BSN-to-MSN programs.

Pros of BSN to MSN Programs

1. Streamlined Education Pathway: These programs offer a direct route for BSN-prepared nurses to advance their education, often with the flexibility to work simultaneously, thanks to online or part-time options.
2. Customized Specializations: BSN to MSN programs typically offer various tracks, enabling nurses to hone skills in specific fields, from family care to informatics or nurse leadership.
3. Career Mobility: BSN to MSN programs cater to RNs seeking broader career opportunities. MSN credentials pave the way for specializations and advanced roles that aren't accessible with a BSN alone.
4. Leadership and Autonomy: An MSN equips nurses with the tools for leadership, potentially leading to roles in management, policy-making, or independent practice depending on the state laws.
5. Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Graduates may have the chance to collaborate across various healthcare sectors, contributing to multidisciplinary teams and shaping comprehensive patient care.

Cons of BSN to MSN Programs

1. Substantial Investment: The cost of advancing from a BSN to MSN can be considerable, accounting for tuition, materials, and potential income loss if reducing work hours.
2. Intense Academic Workload: Nurses must manage rigorous coursework on top of their professional duties, which can be a significant strain, particularly for those juggling family responsibilities.
3. Emotional and Physical Toll: The stress associated with graduate studies, clinical requirements, and maintaining employment can impact mental health and wellness.
4. Job Market Competition: Certain MSN specializations may lead to a crowded job market, requiring graduates to be flexible in location or role to secure employment.
5. Varied Return on Investment: The financial and professional payoff of an MSN can depend greatly on regional demand for advanced practice nurses and the chosen specialty's compensation trends.

For nurses weighing the decision to pursue a BSN-to-MSN program, these considerations should be balanced against long-term career aspirations and personal circumstances.

How to Choose a BSN to MSN Program

The criteria for choosing a nursing school vary based on personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations.

Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that best fit them.

BSN to MSN Accreditation

In addition to the aforementioned factors, accreditation is a critical consideration in choosing a master's in nursing program. The significance of accreditation may not be immediately apparent, but it holds substantial importance, especially for RN to BSN programs. Here's why you should choose an accredited RN to BSN program:

• Quality Education: Accreditation ensures programs meet high educational standards.
• Skill Enhancement: Programs focus on advanced competencies for healthcare needs.
• Innovation: Accredited programs integrate new research and practices.
• Practical Training: Required clinical hours provide real-world experience.
• Job Prospects: Employers prefer graduates from accredited programs.
• Educational Mobility: Credits are more likely to be recognized for further studies.
• Professional Status: Graduates gain a competitive edge and respect.
• Financial Aid: Accreditation is often required for federal financial aid.
• Licensure Pathway: Accredited programs typically meet education requirements for RN or APRN licensure in any state. 
• Certification: MSN program accrediation is a requirement to sit for the national APRN certification exams. 

For a robust foundation in nursing leadership and educational roles, prioritize a BSN to MSN program accredited by entities like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).

Navigating MSN Scope, Certification & Licensing

The range of practice, along with the requirements for certification and licensure for MSN graduates, varies based on the specific field of specialization and if they are on the path to becoming an APRN.

MSN APRN Organizations & Certifying Bodies

The autonomy and practice scope for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) are determined by state legislation. Those pursuing an MSN should select a program tailored to the legislative requirements of their intended practice location. Programs providing training relevant across state lines offer greater career versatility for those considering relocation.

• Nurse Midwifery: Engage with the practice boundaries and state-advised protocols through resources like the American College of Nurse-Midwives and achieve certification via the American Midwifery Certification Board.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist: Understand the scope of practice and state directives from the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. For certifications in various specialties, consult either the NACNS or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
• Nurse Practitioners: Gather comprehensive scope of practice information from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and seek national certification through boards like the AANPCB and the ANCC.

State nursing regulatory boards delineate the scope of APRN practice, often categorizing it into full, reduced, or restricted levels. National certification is usually required before state licensure for all MSN-prepared APRN roles.

Guidance for MSN Graduates in Non-Clinical Roles

MSN graduates in non-clinical paths may not seek APRN classification. Those focusing on leadership or academia will need specific certifications to substantiate their expertise:

• Nursing Leadership: Contemplate credentials like the Nurse Executive Certification (NE-BC) or the Nurse Executive Advanced Certification (NEA-BC) offered by the ANCC.
• Management and Leadership: For those aiming for administrative roles, the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) credential provided by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) is pertinent.
• Nursing Education: For a career in nursing education, the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) offered by the National League for Nursing is an appropriate qualification.

Proactive Steps

1. Ensure your graduate nursing program aligns with the state requirements where you intend to practice, especially significant for MSN APRN students.
2. MSN students must be aware of the certifications associated with their specializations. This awareness is vital for meeting professional benchmarks and state mandates, ensuring a smooth transition from education to a thriving professional career.

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: How many years does it take to go from BSN to MSN?

Most BSN to MSN programs take between 18 to 24 months of full-time study. However, part-time options may extend the duration to 3-4 years, depending on the student's pace and the program's structure.

Q: What master's degree should I get after BSN?

The choice of a master's degree after a BSN depends on your career goals. Common options include a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with the most common specializations in areas like Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Nurse Educator, or Nursing Administration.

Q: Is it better to get BSN before MSN?

It is typically recommended to complete a BSN before pursuing a master's degree because it provides a solid foundation in nursing practice and education, which is crucial for advanced study. Additionally, many MSN programs require a BSN for admission. A caveat to this is the RN to MSN program options. For ADN-prepared registered nurses, this pathway bridges from ADN to BSN to MSN, allowing ADN students to gain advanced qualifications more efficiently

Q: Does MSN pay more than BSN?

Yes, an MSN typically leads to higher-paying positions compared to a BSN. Advanced roles such as Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Administrators usually offer significantly higher salaries due to their specialized skills and responsibilities. 

Q: Are there Online BSN to MSN Programs?

Yes, there are Online BSN to MSN programs available. These programs offer flexibility for working nurses, allowing them to complete coursework online while fulfilling clinical requirements locally. Online master's programs typically provide the same curriculum and accreditation as traditional on-campus programs, making them a convenient option for advancing your nursing education. Depending on your career goals and MSN pathway, in-person clinical experience or senior practicums will be required.

Edited Jul 14 by Erin Lee