11 Best Most Affordable Master of Science (MSN) Programs in 2025

Discover the most affordable MSN programs in 2025, including detailed information about their requirements, salary expectations after graduation, and everything else you need to know.

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If you're a nursing professional seeking to elevate your career while on a budget, the top most affordable Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs may be a great fit for you. Learn more about the top cheapest MSN programs below as we explore their nuances and what to expect after graduation.

Top Most Affordable MSN Programs in 2025 — Online & On-Campus

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 graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States. 

1. Appalachian State University 

Appalachian State University is located in Boone, NC, and offers a 39-credit hour, part-time affordable online MSN program. The 39 hours consist of advanced master's nursing courses, nursing education concentration courses, cutting-edge clinical and nursing education practicum hours, and a thesis or research project. Admission rates for this online program are 80% with 15:1 student-to-faculty ratios. 

  • Cost: $319/credit hour
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Graduation rate: 73%
  • Accreditation: CCNE

2. Liberty University

Located in Lynchburg, VA, Liberty University offers one of the cheapest online MSN programs, featuring flexible eight-week courses. The university also provides dual degree options, such as the MSN/MBA and MSN/MSHA, for those interested in combining nursing with business or health administration. With a 50% admission rate and a student-to-faculty ratio of 21:1, Liberty University offers an affordable pathway to advanced nursing education.

  • Cost: $330/credit hour
  • Duration: 1.5 years
  • Graduation rate: 54%
  • Accreditation: CCNE

3. The University of Alabama 

Located in Tuscaloosa, AL, The University of Alabama offers three start times for their cheap MSN program: Spring, Summer, and fall. Students can choose a nurse practitioner or nurse administration focus in the MSN program. It also offers an online MSN with dual specialization: Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. Admission rates are 80%, and student-to-faculty ratios are 17:1.

  • Cost: $440/credit hour
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Graduation rate: 72%
  • Accreditation: CCNE

4. Baker University 

Among the cheapest online MSN programs are those offered by Baker University in Baldwin City, KS, with start dates available in January, June, and August. Baker University's MSN degree offers students two paths: the MSN in Nursing Education or MSN in Nursing Administration. It has a flexible online program, allowing you to switch between a full-time or part-time education, or pause for up to 12 months.  Admission rates are 93%, and student-to-faculty ratios are low at 8:1.

  • Cost: $480/credit hour
  • Duration: 24 months
  • Graduation rate: 62%
  • Accreditation: CCNE

5. Purdue University

Purdue University Northwest, located in Westville, IN, provides another of the most affordable online nursing master's programs. The fully online MSN program offers flexibility by allowing students to complete their practicum hours close to home.

Purdue NW provides scholarships for MSN students who completed their RN-BSN at PNW or are employed by one of their partner healthcare facilities. The university also offers dual degree programs MSN and MBA, MSN and Master of Health Care Administration (MHCA), and MSN and Master of Public Health (MPH). Admission rates are 63%, and student-to-faculty ratios are 20:1.

  • Cost: $420/credit hour; $3,200 per term
  • Duration: 2 years or less
  • Graduation rate: 83%
  • Accreditation: CCNE

6. Galen College of Nursing

Galen College of Nursing in Louisville, KY, offers one of the cheapest online MSN programs with two pathways: Nursing and Healthcare Leadership or Nurse Educator. The fully online courses are structured in eight-week modules, with a 100% admission rate and a low student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, making it an affordable and accessible choice for advancing in nursing.

  • Cost: $525/credit hour
  • Duration: 2 years or less
  • Graduation rate: 53%
  • Accreditation: ACEN

7. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix, based in Phoenix, AZ, provides one of the cheapest online MSN programs with flexible start dates, offering up to six opportunities per year. Students can choose from three concentrations: Informatics, Nurse Administration, and Nurse Education. Most online courses are brief, lasting only 6 to 8 weeks, with a 100% admission rate and a student-to-faculty ratio of 77:1.

  • Cost: $698/credit hour
  • Duration: 21 or 31 months 
  • Graduation rate: 27%
  • Accreditation: CCNE

8. Post University 

Post University, located in Waterbury, CT, offers a flexible and affordable online MSN program with monthly start dates. After completing the program coursework, students can choose one of eight specializations to focus on classes that align with their career interests. The SIMPath (Non-NP Specializations Only) offers 100% online classes with 16-week semesters and monthly start dates. The self-paced format allows you to complete as many classes as you can. Admission rates are high at 100%, and student-to-faculty ratios are low at 7:1. 

  • Cost: $560/credit hour
  • Duration: 24 months or less
  • Graduation rate: 69% 
  • Accreditation: CCNE

9. Ohio University

Among the cheapest hybrid MSN programs, Ohio University in Athens, OH, offers a flexible program combining online coursework with on-campus intensives specifically designed for actively practicing registered nurses. MSN students can choose from four tracks: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program has an 87% admission rate and a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1.

  • Cost: $527 - $578 per credit hour
  • Duration: Five semesters
  • Graduation rate: 65%
  • Accreditation: CCNE

10. Southern New Hampshire University 

In Manchester, NH, Southern New Hampshire University offers a cheap online MSN program for students with active, unencumbered registered nurse licenses. Students who do not yet have a BSN can take advantage of the online RN to MSN program that allows RNs to achieve their MSN faster and for less money. You can choose from 5 program tracks aligned with the latest AACN Essentials. Admission rates are 94%, and student-to-faculty ratios are 26:1.

  • Cost: $637/credit hour
  • Duration: less than 2 years
  • Graduation rate: 40%
  • Accreditation: CCNE

11. Frontier Nursing University 

Frontier Nursing University, located in Versailles, KY, offers one of the cheapest nursing master's programs with 100% online coursework, allowing students to easily transition into FNU's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curriculum. The MSN program includes pathways like Nurse Midwife and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, with a 73% admission rate and a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1.. 

  • Cost: $712/credit hour
  • Duration: 2 to 3 years part-time
  • Graduation rate: 72% 
  • Accreditation: ACEN

What Is a Master of Science in Nursing Program?

An MSN program is a graduate-level nursing degree designed for Registered Nurses (RNs) ready to take their careers to the next level. If you're thinking about advancing your education, this program offers the opportunity to gain specialized knowledge and skills that go beyond basic nursing practice. A master's degree in nursing prepares you for roles that require advanced clinical expertise, leadership abilities, and a deeper understanding of healthcare research and education. Whether you're looking to become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) or move into leadership or academic positions, an MSN is a key step toward achieving those goals.

MSN Program Specialty Concentrations

Nurses with an MSN can pursue various roles, but before entering the program, students must choose a specialty concentration. Some of the most popular options include:

Clinical APRN MSN Roles:

Non-Clinical MSN Roles:

Dual Master's Degree: Nurses also have the option to opt for dual MSN programs that offer an in-depth focus in a related field of study. Nationwide, there are over 120 dual master's degrees available, combining nursing with business, public health, health administration, and other areas. Some examples of dual MSN programs include: 

Cheapest MSN Program Educational Pathways 

The pathway to obtaining an MSN degree varies based on your prior education. While many think a BSN or nursing experience is required, several universities offer MSN programs for those with an associate's degree in nursing or even a non-nursing bachelor's degree.

  • Entry-Level Master's Degree: Specifically designed for non-nurses holding a bachelor's or graduate degree outside the nursing field. This MSN program entails completing baccalaureate-level coursework, with students obtaining RN licensure during the initial year of study. The typical duration for completion is 2-3 years.
  • ADN-RN to Master's Degree: Tailored for nurses with an associate's degree, this MSN program addresses missing baccalaureate-level content. Admission requirements vary based on the institution, prior coursework, and nursing experience. The expected duration for completion is 2-3 years.
  • BSN-RN to Master's Degree: The BSN to MSN pathway is the most traditional and, ultimately, the cheapest nursing master's program, as it requires fewer credits than entry-level or bridge programs. This route is ideal for nurses looking to advance their careers while keeping costs low. Requirements vary by institution and specialty, with a typical duration of 18-24 months.

Cheapest MSN Program Coursework and Curriculum

When looking for the cheapest MSN program or an affordable MSN program, it's important to consider the structure of the coursework. Most MSN programs consist of core nursing courses, specialized classes based on the student's chosen field, and electives. This coursework builds on the foundational knowledge gained from your undergraduate nursing education. 

Common foundational coursework in MSN programs includes:

  • Advanced Health Assessment: Students learn to conduct comprehensive health assessments, including physical, psychological, and social aspects, to inform patient care.
  • Advanced Pharmacology: This course covers the principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, focusing on the use of drugs in the treatment of disease and the promotion of health.
  • Advanced Pathophysiology: An in-depth study of the changes in body physiology that result from disease, including the mechanisms of disease processes.
  • Advanced Nursing Research: Focuses on research methods, analysis, and application in nursing practice, allowing nurses to base their practice on solid evidence.
  • Leadership and Management in Nursing: Prepares nurses for leadership roles by covering topics such as healthcare policy, ethics, and organizational management.
  • Healthcare Policy and Ethics: A study of the ethical and legal issues in healthcare, as well as the impact of healthcare policies on practice and patient outcomes.

In addition to the core courses, a significant portion of the coursework will focus on your chosen specialty concentration—such as Nursing Informatics, Education, Leadership, APRN, or other fields—allowing you to gain in-depth knowledge and skills specific to your advanced nursing role. Depending on the program, your concentration could account for up to 50% or more of the total coursework.

Cheapest MSN Program Clinical Training

Clinical training is a critical component of MSN programs for developing advanced practice skills. Requirements vary by specialization but typically include:

  • Clinical Hour Requirements: All advanced-level nursing programs require at least 500 clinical hours, covering both direct and indirect practice, to meet Level 2 sub-competencies as per the 2021 AACN Essentials. Nurse practitioner programs specifically require a minimum of 750 direct patient care hours according to the 2022 National Task Force standards.
  • Direct Patient Care: Hours spent in clinical settings under the supervision of experienced practitioners, providing care to patients and gaining hands-on experience. 
  • Specialized Practicums: Depending on the nurse's focus area, practicums might be in settings like hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health organizations, or schools, focusing on specific populations such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or psychiatric care.
  • Simulation Labs: Many programs use simulation labs to allow students to practice advanced nursing skills in a controlled, realistic environment before applying them in real-world settings.
  • Capstone Projects: These projects often involve a clinical component, where students implement and evaluate a project in a healthcare setting, applying their knowledge and skills to solve a real-world problem.

Whether you're seeking the cheapest MSN program or an affordable MSN program, clinical training requirements will vary based on your concentration. Non-clinical tracks like Informatics, Education, or Leadership offer more flexibility, often with few or no clinical hours. However, some programs may still incorporate hands-on training for skill development. APRN programs, in contrast, require more intensive in-person clinical hours to prepare for direct patient care.

Are There Affordable Online MSN Programs?

Yes, there are many affordable online MSN programs available for a variety of nursing specialties, including both clinical and non-clinical tracks. These programs offer the flexibility to pursue advanced nursing education while balancing work and personal responsibilities, all without the need for in-person attendance.

From Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist roles to Nursing Education, Informatics, and Leadership, you can find some of the cheapest online MSN programs that maintain high academic standards. With reduced tuition costs, fewer campus fees, and the ability to study from home, online MSN programs provide a cost-effective solution for advancing your nursing career.

It's important to note that clinical requirements vary depending on the program. Some online MSN programs offer clinical placement support near your home, while others may require you to attend clinical sessions on or near campus. Alternatively, some graduate nursing programs offer MSN programs without clinicals. Whether you're seeking clinical or non-clinical roles, online MSN programs provide a flexible, affordable pathway to advancing your nursing career.

Cheapest MSN Program Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for MSN programs can vary by school and specialization, but there are some common standards, even among the cheapest and most affordable MSN programs. These general conditions help ensure students are prepared for advanced nursing studies:

  • Prior Undergraduate Degree: While most MSN programs require a prior nursing degree, some offer pathways for those without one. If you hold a non-nursing undergraduate degree, you may qualify for a direct entry MSN program.
  • Prerequisite Courses: Prerequisite courses for an MSN degree will vary depending on the program, but typical courses include Anatomy and Physiology; Human Growth and Development; Nutrition; Microbiology; Statistics; and Pharmacology.
  • Entrance Exams: Some programs require applicants to pass specific entrance exams, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), with a minimum score.
  • Academic Transcripts: Applicants should be prepared to present transcripts from all colleges they have previously attended.
  • Healthcare Work Experience: Some programs require applicants to have previous healthcare or clinical experience to be eligible.
  • Background Check, Drug Screening, and Health Requirements: Many programs also require a background check, drug screening, physical health exam, and up-to-date immunizations as part of the admission process. 

Since admission requirements and prerequisites can vary across institutions, it's essential for prospective students to review specific criteria for each program. This ensures they meet all qualifications when applying to the most affordable MSN programs that best fit their needs.

Cheapest MSN Program Costs

The financial aspects of embarking on an MSN journey are intricate, with expenses dependent on variables like the chosen specialty, program length, and type of degree. Before making any commitments, it's crucial to consider the following financial aspects of pursuing an MSN:

  • Educational Tuition: Tuition costs vary based on institution type, residency status, and program structure (per-credit-hour or flat rate).
  • Institutional Charges: Additional fees for application, enrollment, and facility usage can significantly increase total expenses.
  • Study Materials and Supplies: Textbooks, materials, and attire contribute to the overall cost.
  • Clinical Training Expenses: Travel costs for clinical placements may be required, especially if sites are distant.
  • Certification and Licensure Expenses: Fees for certifications and obtaining a license are necessary post-graduation costs.
  • Living Expenses: Full-time study limits earning potential, making housing, food, and commuting costs important considerations.

MSN Financial Aid Considerations

When planning for your MSN education, be sure to explore financial support options such as grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships. Understanding these financial avenues can help you manage the costs effectively. For more detailed information on how to finance your nursing education, including scholarships, grants, and loan options, check out our guide on the best ways to pay for nursing school. 

MSN RN Salary Expectations 2025

Depending on your chosen MSN specialty, salary expectations can vary significantly. For instance,  the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), reports that NPs can earn an average annual salary of $128,490, and an hourly rate of $61.78, with the highest-paying states being:

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

However, the BLS does not provide detailed salary data for each advanced nursing specialty. To fill this gap, we've compiled salary data from ZipRecruiter for various MSN roles, both clinical and non-clinical, to help you better understand the potential earnings in your chosen field.

Non-Clinical MSN Pay by Role

Clinical Nurse Leader

  • Mean Hourly: $43
  • Mean Annual: $89,949
  • Lowest 25% Hourly: $34.00
  • Lowest 25% Annual: $71,000

Nurse Administrator

  • Mean Hourly: $41
  • Mean Annual: $84,334
  • Lowest 25% Hourly: $33.00
  • Lowest 25% Annual: $68,000

Nurse Educator

  • Mean Hourly: $41
  • Mean Annual: $85,955
  • Lowest 25% Hourly: $33.00
  • Lowest 25% Annual: $68,000

APRN MSN Pay by Role

Nurse Practitioner

  • Mean Hourly: $69
  • Mean Annual: $142,481
  • Lowest 25% Hourly: $61.00
  • Lowest 25% Annual: $126,600

Clinical Nurse Specialist

  • Mean Hourly: $45
  • Mean Annual: $94,545
  • Lowest 25% Hourly: $34.00
  • Lowest 25% Annual: $71,000

Nurse Midwife

  • Mean Hourly: $55
  • Mean Annual: $113,401
  • Lowest 25% Hourly: $47.00
  • Lowest 25% Annual: $98,500

For more detailed insights into advanced nursing salaries, check out the Nursing Salary Guide, which provides a comprehensive breakdown of nursing career earnings by location and other factors.

Are Affordable MSN Programs Worth It?

There's a common misconception in the nursing field that choosing the cheapest MSN program or an affordable MSN program means compromising on quality. This perspective can be unfair, as affordability doesn't always equate to lesser value. Many affordable MSN programs offer the same high-quality education, career advancement opportunities, and professional preparation as their more expensive counterparts. It's important to recognize that pursuing a cost-effective education is a smart decision for many, especially in an industry where the financial burden of higher education can be overwhelming.

To decide whether pursuing an affordable MSN program is worthwhile, it's essential to weigh both the benefits and drawbacks:

Pros of MSN Programs

  1. Career Advancement: Obtaining an MSN can unlock pathways to advanced practice roles, including but not limited to Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, or Nurse Administrator, providing expanded career opportunities.
  2. Increased Earning Potential: Typically, nurses holding an MSN degree experience enhanced earning potential in comparison to those with a BSN or ADN, owing to their advanced skills and qualifications.
  3. Specialization Options: MSN programs present opportunities for specialization in various areas such as pediatrics, gerontology, family practice, or acute care, enabling individuals to pursue focused career paths aligned with their interests.
  4. Leadership Opportunities: The degree equips nurses for leadership and management positions, empowering them to shape healthcare practices and policies.
  5. Intellectual Fulfillment: The pursuit of an MSN can be intellectually rewarding, fostering personal and professional growth and the satisfaction of attaining a high level of academic and clinical expertise.

Cons of MSN Programs

  1. Financial Considerations: Engaging in MSN programs can incur significant expenses, encompassing tuition, books, fees, and the potential loss of income if work hours are reduced for study.
  2. Time Commitment: Striking a balance between a rigorous academic program and one's work and personal life can pose challenges, particularly for full-time working nurses.
  3. Stress and Exhaustion: The intensity of graduate-level coursework, coupled with clinical hours and work responsibilities, may contribute to heightened stress and burnout.
  4. Competitive Job Market: In certain regions, the presence of numerous advanced practice nurses may saturate the job market, intensifying competition for positions in specific specializations.
  5. Return on Investment (ROI): The financial and time investment in an MSN program may require several years for recovery, and the ROI can vary based on geographical location and nursing specialty.

Ultimately, choosing an affordable MSN program is about finding the right balance between cost and career goals. Affordable options can still offer high-quality education and open doors to advanced roles without the financial strain of more expensive programs.

MSN Scope of Practice Considerations 

Understanding the scope of practice for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) is essential, as state regulations significantly impact their autonomy. When selecting a graduate nursing program, ensure it aligns with the scope of practice in your intended state of practice. Opting for a program that prepares you for nationwide practice offers flexibility for future moves, as some programs may not provide such comprehensive training.

Key APRN Organizations & Certifying Bodies

State scope of practice for APRNs will be defined by these organizations, but the regulations will be set by each state board of nursing. For NPs and CNMs, the scope of practice is generally categorized as full, reduced, or restricted practice. National certification is required for all APRNs. 

Key Considerations for Non-APRN MSN Graduates

Not all MSN graduates are APRNs. Non-APRN MSN nurses, whose roles may be administrative or educational, often obtain additional certifications such as:

  • Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) from the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), tailored for nurse leaders. 
  • Nurse Executives have the option to take the Nurse Executive Certification (NE-BC) or the Nurse Executive Advanced Certification (NEA-BC) by the ANCC. 
  • Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) from the National League for Nursing (NLN), designed for nurse educators.

Actionable Advice

All MSN students should familiarize themselves with the certifications pertinent to their specialty and required for their role. Awareness of these credentials ensures adherence to professional and state regulations, facilitating a seamless transition into their professional career.

Master of Science in Nursing Program Accreditation 

Choosing an accredited MSN program holds substantial importance for several compelling reasons:

  1. Guaranteed to meet nursing education standards
  2. Ensures compliance with state regulations
  3. Guarantees minimum clinical hour requirement
  4. Supports APRN licensure eligibility
  5. Prepares for certification exams
  6. Facilitates credit transfers
  7. Enhances professional credibility
  8. Improves employment prospects
  9. Enables access to financial aid
  10. Promotes long-term career success

Given these considerations, prospective students should verify that their chosen MSN programs hold accreditation from reputable bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Educationn (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) for nurse-midwifery programs.

Tips to Choose the Best Cheapest MSN Program

Selecting the right affordable MSN program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. A survey by allnurses revealed the top 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 Courses

For prospective master's level students, additional considerations include:

  • Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen NP specialty.
  • Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
  • Program Location and Format: Consider if you prefer online learning from home or in a classroom setting.
  • Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
  • Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
  • Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support. 
  • Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
  • Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
  • Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
  • Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
  • Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
  • State Regulations: Ensure your desired NP Program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state you want to work. 

You and your preferences should determine how you choose the program. If you feel you study better without the constraint of limited time, then consider a traditional MSN program, which typically offers a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice.

On the other hand, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and are comfortable with an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated MSN program might be the better choice.

MSN Programs Near Me

Discover the best MSN programs in the following states:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there a certification exam similar to the NCLEX-RN that nurses must take after completing an MSN degree?

his is not a one-size-fits-all situation. For non-clinical roles, MSN graduates typically only need to maintain their RN license and are not required to obtain additional nursing licensure. Your RN license will be sufficient for roles in leadership, education, or informatics.

However, for those pursuing APRN roles such as NP, CNS, or Nurse Midwife, passing a national certification exam in your specialty is required. For example, aspiring nurse midwives must take the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) exam. After passing the exam, you'll need to obtain APRN licensure in addition to maintaining your RN license.

Q: Are you required to have an RN license to apply for an MSN program?

While most MSN programs require an ADN or BSN degree along with an active, unencumbered RN license, not all do. Some programs, like direct-entry MSN programs, allow individuals with a non-nursing degree to pursue an MSN.

Q: Where Can I Find the Cheapest RN to MSN Online Programs?

This page highlights the most affordable BSN to MSN programs, which generally require fewer credits and offer a quicker, more cost-effective path to earning a master's degree. If you're specifically interested in the cheapest RN to MSN programs for those with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), visit our dedicated page Online RN to MSN Programs for a curated list of budget-friendly options.

Q: Is it possible to work while completing an MSN degree?

Numerous MSN programs accommodate nurses who wish to work concurrently while pursuing their master's degree. However, it's essential to note that certain specialty programs or universities might necessitate nursing students to commit to full-time coursework. The feasibility of working while studying can vary, and it's advisable to assess this based on the requirements of your chosen program and specialty concentrations.

Q: What distinguishes an MSN from a DNP if the job prospects are comparable after graduation?

A: Although both MSN and DNP degrees can result in similar employment opportunities, there are nuances between the two. The primary distinction lies in the level of education, with a doctorate-level nursing degree representing the highest attainable degree for nurses. As per the CCNE, a doctorate-level preparation is becoming essential for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), with the goal of making the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) the entry-level degree for APRNs by 2025.

For individuals with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an MSN program typically spans two years, whereas DNP programs usually extend over three to four years. While both degrees may open doors to comparable job opportunities, variations in job responsibilities, salary, and career progression could exist. It is crucial for individuals to thoroughly research and comprehend the specific requirements and advantages of each program before making a decision.

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Lauren Thayer

About Lauren Thayer, RN

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