Best Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in Virginia | 2025

Explore the top Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs in Virginia, including curriculum details, admission requirements, salary expectations, and tips for choosing the right program.

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Virginia healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with nurses playing a crucial role in driving change. As patient care models and complexities shift, the demand for advanced and specialized nursing skills continues to grow. To stay ahead of these changes and make a significant impact in your community, consider pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). This guide will provide insights into the prospects of earning an MSN in Virginia and highlight the top programs available in the state.

Best MSN Programs in Virginia - Online & On-Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 University of Virginia, Main Campus

    allnurses College Ranking: A+
    0 reviews

    University of Virginia, Main Campus is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and on-campus programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 1827 University Avenue, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903, US
    • 1-434-924-2743

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 19% Acceptance Rate
    • 94% Graduation Rate
    • 17,103 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 8,638 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 76% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 15% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  2. #2 James Madison University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    James Madison University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, and NP degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 800 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807, US
    • 540-568-6211

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • 84% Graduation Rate
    • 19,968 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,878 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 82% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 11% Black
    • 4% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  3. #3 George Mason University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    George Mason University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, MSN to PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 90% Acceptance Rate
    • 75% Graduation Rate
    • 26,447 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 12,035 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 51% Men
    • 49% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 72% White
    • 9% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 8% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 Radford University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Radford University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 801 East Main St., Radford, Virginia 24142, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 93% Acceptance Rate
    • 63% Graduation Rate
    • 5,945 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,710 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 37% Men
    • 63% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 83% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 12% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  5. #5 Old Dominion University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Old Dominion University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 5115 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, Virginia 23529, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 95% Acceptance Rate
    • 57% Graduation Rate
    • 18,152 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 4,732 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 45% Men
    • 55% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 68% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 26% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  6. #6 Norfolk State University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Norfolk State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 700 Park Avenue, Norfolk, Virginia 23504, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 90% Acceptance Rate
    • 41% Graduation Rate
    • 5,328 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 446 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 33% Men
    • 67% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 50% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 42% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 Bluefield University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Bluefield University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs—including RN to BSN, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, Virginia 24605, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 63% Acceptance Rate
    • 44% Graduation Rate
    • 615 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 286 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 54% Men
    • 46% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 82% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 15% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  8. #8 Hampton University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Hampton University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, and PhD degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 200 William R. Harvey Way, Hampton, Virginia 23668, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 74% Acceptance Rate
    • 57% Graduation Rate
    • 2,846 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 440 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 35% Men
    • 65% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 51% White
    • 8% Hispanic
    • 38% Black
    • 4% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  9. #9 Mary Baldwin University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Mary Baldwin University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs—including RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, DNAP, and NP degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 318 Prospect Street, Staunton, Virginia 24401, US

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 37% Graduation Rate
    • 1,298 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 643 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 25 Average Age
    • 22% Men
    • 78% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 77% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 18% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  10. #10 Shenandoah University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Shenandoah University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 80% Acceptance Rate
    • 59% Graduation Rate
    • 2,104 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,799 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 42% Men
    • 58% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 80% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 12% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  11. #11 Liberty University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Liberty University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 99% Acceptance Rate
    • 36% Graduation Rate
    • 48,408 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 47,803 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 30 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  12. #12 Galen College of Nursing, Louisville

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Galen College of Nursing, Louisville is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, LPN to BSN, MSN, Other, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 7300 Beaufont Springs Dr, Richmond, Virginia 23225, US
    • 1-877-223-7040

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Other Health Professions Schools
    • 64% Graduation Rate
    • 3,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 444 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 30 Average Age
    • 8% Men
    • 92% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 77% White
    • 16% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  13. #13 Virginia Commonwealth University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Virginia Commonwealth University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, Masters, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, DNAP, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    School Overview

    • Located in Virginia
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 91% Acceptance Rate
    • 69% Graduation Rate
    • 20,552 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 7,124 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 36% Men
    • 64% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 69% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 23% Black
    • 3% Asian
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What Is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program?

An MSN is a graduate-level nursing degree program designed for nursing professionals or individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who wish to advance their careers in the nursing profession. MSN degrees provide nurses with advanced education and training in theory, research, evidence-based clinical practice, leadership, and management in the healthcare setting.

After completing an MSN, RNs can pursue clinical nursing roles as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners (NPs), clinical nurse specialists, or nurse midwives. Alternatively, post-MSN graduates can opt for non-clinical roles in nursing education, healthcare administration, informatics, or research.

MSN Program Pathways

MSN pathways include:

Where Do MSN-Prepared Nurses Work?

MSN degree holders work in most healthcare settings depending on their specialty and interests. Some of the most common include:

  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient Care Centers
  • Physicians Office
  • Nursing Schools
  • Home Health Care Services
  • Public Health and Community Clinics
  • Research Institutions

Can MSN Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Many MSN programs can be taken online. However, it's important to note that some online programs may have in-person requirements such as exams, hands-on training, and more, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.

Certain specializations, such as NP, typically require a certain number of clinical hours which need to be completed in person, under the supervision of licensed professionals. Some programs may also arrange clinical placements for their students.

Before selecting a program, it's important to research to ensure that it fits your needs, whether entirely online, hybrid, or in-person.

MSN Program Admission Requirements

Typical MSN admission requirements include:

  • Active RN License in good standing
  • Transcripts from accredited ADN or BSN programs
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • 1-3 Letters of recommendation
  • Responses to essay questions or equivalent writing projects
  • RN experience of 3 to 5 years
  • Graduation Record Examinations 
  • Interview to enter the program

MSN RN Salary Expectations in Virginia

MSN graduates can expect varying salaries depending on their specialization. To give you a clearer picture, we've compared salaries of the top MSN RN roles in Virginia with the national averages, highlighting how they stack up.

Nurse Practitioner

Virginia NP compensation:

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $58.11
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $120,870

Compared to the national nurse practitioner salary (BLS):

  • Low: $94,530 or $45.45 per hour
  • Mean: $128,490 or $61.78 per hour
  • High: $168.030 or $80.79 per hour

Top NP salaries by state: 

  • California: $161,540
  • Nevada: $148,670
  • Washington: $145,400
  • New Jersey: $145,030
  • Oregon: $144,950

Nurse Midwife

Virginia nurse midwife compensation:

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $57.09
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $118,750

Compared to the national nurse midwife salary (BLS):

  • Low: $87,320 or $41.98 per hour
  • Mean: $131,570. or $63.26 per hour
  • High: $177,530 or $85.35 per hour

Top nurse midwife pay by state: 

  • California: $183,740
  • Hawaii: $161,820
  • Massachusetts: $154,080
  • Maine: $140,440
  • Oregon: $139,490

Nurse Administrator

Virginia nurse administrator compensation: 

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $65.56
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $136,370

Compared to the national nurse administrator salary (BLS):

  • Low: $67,900 or $32.65 per hour
  • Mean: $134,440 or $64,64 per hour
  • High: $216,750 or $104.21 per hour

Top nurse administrator salaries by state:

  • New York: $179,160
  • District of Columbia: $170,710
  • Delaware: $164,190
  • New Jersey: $162,430
  • Massachusetts: $158,540

Nurse Educator

Virginia nurse educator compensation:

  • Mean Annual Wage:: $79,950

Compared to the national nurse educator salary (BLS): 

  • Low: $49,120
  • Mean: $86,530
  • High: $130,320

Top nurse educator pay by state: 

  • District of Columbia: $111,130
  • Oregon: $109,110
  • New York: $102,980
  • New Jersey: $101,540
  • Nevada: $99,320

When evaluating salary expectations, it's crucial to consider factors like experience, MSN specialty, location, cost of living, and pay variances across different healthcare systems. For more detailed insights on nursing salaries by location and specialty, explore our Nursing Salary Guide or our report on Nursing Salaries in Virginia.

Tips to Choose an MSN Program

Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of the education, while others may place greater emphasis on certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.

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

  1. Cost
  2. High 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 Course

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

MSN Programs Near Me

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Discover the best MSN programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

What's the highest-paying job you can do with an MSN in Virginia?

MSN graduates have many job opportunities, with the highest-paying role often being a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Nursing Administration. According to BLS data, the highest-paying MSN RN position in Virginia is currently in Nurse Management or Administration. However, salaries for both NP and administrative roles can exceed the estimated averages depending on specialty and experience.

Is an MSN worth it in Virginia?

Deciding whether or not an MSN is worth it will vary depending on the goals of each individual. Many MSNs find their careers as NPs and APRNs personally fulfilling and financially rewarding.

Is it better to have an MSN or DNP?

Whether an MSN or DNP best suits you depends on your career goals and interests. Some key things to consider are whether you prefer to work in direct patient care and become an APRN or are interested in more leadership-focused roles, influencing policy, implementing evidence-based practice at the system level, or considering a career in academia. If you're interested in a career as an APRN, an MSN may be sufficient for you. If you're interested in more leadership-focused roles, a DNP may be preferable.

Can I become a Nurse Anesthetist with an MSN?

CRNAs are APRNs who administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgery, requiring a high level of expertise. Therefore, an MSN is not sufficient for this career. As of January 1, 2022, all CRNA programs require enrollment in a doctoral program, such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). By 2025, a doctoral degree will be mandatory for entry into the field.

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 13 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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