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

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

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Article fact-checked by our Editorial Team.

North Carolina's 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 North Carolina and highlight the top programs available in the state.

Best MSN Programs in North Carolina - 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 North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    allnurses College Ranking: A+
    0 reviews

    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including MA, BSN, Entry Level BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNL, NP, 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.

    • 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, US
    • 1-919-966-4260

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 17% Acceptance Rate
    • 91% Graduation Rate
    • 19,921 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 11,676 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 40% Men
    • 60% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 75% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 18% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  2. #2 Winston-Salem State University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Winston-Salem State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, MSN to 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.

    • 601 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27110, US
    • 1-336-750-2000

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 73% Acceptance Rate
    • 64% Graduation Rate
    • 4,449 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 491 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 24% Men
    • 76% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 60% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 33% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  3. #3 Western Carolina University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Western Carolina University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, DNAP, NP, and Post Grad Certificate 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 North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 85% Acceptance Rate
    • 65% Graduation Rate
    • 9,809 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,679 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 84% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 11% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 Duke University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Duke University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and on-campus programs—including BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, Masters, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, PhD to DNP, 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 North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 6% Acceptance Rate
    • 96% Graduation Rate
    • 6,570 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 11,383 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 48% Men
    • 52% Women
    • 3% Veterans
    • 76% White
    • 9% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  5. #5 University of North Carolina at Charlotte

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of North Carolina at Charlotte is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, CRNA, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, 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.

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 80% Acceptance Rate
    • 62% Graduation Rate
    • 23,063 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 6,090 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 52% Men
    • 48% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 75% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 18% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  6. #6 University of North Carolina, Wilmington

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of North Carolina, Wilmington 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, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, 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.

    • 601 S. College Road, Wilmington, North Carolina 28403, US
    • 1-910-962-3200

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 72% Graduation Rate
    • 13,960 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 3,549 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 35% Men
    • 65% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 16% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 East Carolina University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

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

    • E 5th Street, Greenville, North Carolina 27858, US
    • 252-328-6131

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 68% Graduation Rate
    • 20,385 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,463 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 70% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 24% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  8. #8 University of North Carolina at Pembroke

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

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

    • 1 University Drive, Pembroke, North Carolina 28372, US
    • 1-910-521-6000

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 46% Graduation Rate
    • 5,544 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,023 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 38% Men
    • 62% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 54% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 26% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  9. #9 Gardner-Webb University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

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

    • 110 S Main St., Boiling Springs, North Carolina 28017, US
    • (704) 406-4000

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 54% Graduation Rate
    • 1,811 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,332 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 25 Average Age
    • 36% Men
    • 64% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 80% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 16% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  10. #10 Queens University of Charlotte

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Queens University of Charlotte is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, CNL, Entry Level BSN, MSN, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, 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.

    • 1900 Selwyn Ave, Charlotte, North Carolina 28274, US
    • 704-337-2200

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 71% Acceptance Rate
    • 54% Graduation Rate
    • 1,301 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 556 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 36% Men
    • 64% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 75% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 19% Black
    • 2% Asian

  11. #11 South College

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    South College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, CNA, LPN/LVN, MA, and MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN, CAAHEP, and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 140 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, North Carolina 28803, US

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 38% Graduation Rate
    • 4,855 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,276 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 27 Average Age
    • 14% Men
    • 86% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 90% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  12. #12 University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    University of North Carolina at Greensboro 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, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, 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.

    • 1007 Walker Avenue, Greensboro, North Carolina 27412, US
    • 1-336-334-5000

    School Overview

    • Located in North Carolina
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 92% Acceptance Rate
    • 58% Graduation Rate
    • 13,862 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 3,780 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 34% Men
    • 66% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 74% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 20% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated
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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 North Carolina

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 North Carolina with the national averages, highlighting how they stack up.

Nurse Practitioner

North Carolina NP compensation:

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $58.46
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $121,590

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

North Carolina nurse midwife compensation:

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $57.05
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $118,660

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

North Carolina nurse administrator compensation: 

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $61.36
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $127,620

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

North Carolina nurse educator compensation:

  • Mean Annual Wage:: $76,970

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 North Carolina.

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

Discover the best MSN programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: What's the highest-paying job you can do with an MSN in North Carolina?

MSN graduates have many job opportunities, with the highest-paying role often being a Nurse Practitioner (NP). However, according to BLS data, the highest-paying MSN RN position in North Carolina is currently in Nurse Management or NursingAdministration. However, salaries for both NP and administrative roles can vary based on specialty and experience.

Q: Is an MSN worth it in North Carolina?

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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Edited by Erin Lee

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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