The Fastest Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in 2024

As the landscape of healthcare undergoes continuous transformation, the need for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) has reached unprecedented levels. APRNs play a pivotal role in delivering top-notch healthcare services, spanning from primary care to specialized practice areas. Attaining a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree serves as a key entry point to these advanced roles, presenting registered nurses (RNs) with the opportunity to elevate their professional paths and make a substantial impact on patient care.

Numerous MSN programs are available, and we’ve gathered information on the swiftest ones for individuals seeking an expedited educational journey. This compilation includes details on prerequisites, requirements, salary expectations, and more.

What Is an MSN Degree?

An MSN represents an advanced practice nursing degree that builds upon the foundational knowledge acquired in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. It equips RNs to become leaders in evidence-based practice within healthcare, allowing them to specialize in clinical or non-clinical settings.

The majority of MSN coursework can be completed online, supplemented by in-person clinical hours and skills labs emphasizing patient care-focused advanced degrees.

Upon MSN completion, RNs can pursue various nursing roles, such as:

– Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care or Family, Adult-Gerontology, Pediatric, Women’s Health, Psychiatric Mental Health)
– Clinical Nurse Specialist
– Certified Nurse Midwife
– Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
– Nursing Administration/Nursing Leadership
– Nursing Informatics
– Nursing Education
– Nursing Research

Clinical Nurse Specialist: Job Description, Salary, and How to Become One

Achieving an MSN empowers nursing professionals to advance their careers, enabling them to positively influence healthcare outcomes for both patients and communities through higher education.

Even individuals without a nursing background or with a different degree can undertake an MSN by enrolling in an entry-level nursing program, an accelerated BSN program, or a direct-entry MSN program.

Researching specific program and admission requirements is crucial, as eligibility and prerequisites vary across institutions.

MSN Coursework

– Advanced Nursing Theory: Covers theoretical frameworks in nursing, healthcare policy, and ethics.
– Health Assessment: Develops advanced skills in physical and psychosocial assessment across various age groups.
– Pathophysiology: In-depth study of disease processes and their impact on the human body.
– Pharmacology: Advanced study of pharmacology, encompassing drug therapy and medication management.
– Research Methods: Provides training in research methodologies, data analysis, and evidence-based practice.
– Specialty Courses: Tailored to the chosen specialization, these courses may include family nursing, pediatric care, gerontology, women’s health, psychiatric care, and more.
– Leadership and Management: Focuses on healthcare systems leadership, quality improvement, and patient safety.

MSN Clinical Training

– Primary Care Settings: Clinical hours in family practice, internal medicine, or pediatric clinics, emphasizing primary care skills.
– Hospital and Acute Care: Training in hospital settings, including emergency rooms, intensive care units, and specialized departments.
– Specialized Clinics: Clinical rotations in areas like women’s health, mental health, or geriatric care, depending on the chosen specialization.
– Community Health Settings: Experience in community health centers, schools, or public health departments.
– Simulation Labs: Utilization of high-fidelity mannequins and simulation technology for practicing clinical skills in a controlled environment.
– Capstone Project/Clinical Practicum: Involves a comprehensive clinical project or practicum that synthesizes learning and applies it in a real-world setting.

Prerequisites and Requirements

Several pathways exist to apply for an MSN degree program, including RN to MSN or BSN to MSN programs, whether through traditional or accelerated routes. Regardless of the chosen pathway, prior completion of an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a BSN from an accredited program is essential for progressing to an MSN program.

Admission requirements commonly include:

– GPA of 3.0 or higher
– Letter of recommendation
– Application fee
– Transcripts from an accredited BSN or ADN program
– Active RN license
– Standardized tests (e.g., GRE for some programs)
– Interview
– Work experience
– Background check and immunizations

Prerequisites may vary based on the program, and similar to BSN programs, students typically complete core classes before advancing to more specialized nursing courses such as advanced physiology, pharmacology, leadership, and health policy. The specific advanced courses depend on the chosen MSN specialty path.

The Fastest MSN Degree Programs in 2024

Nursing students can often complete the MSN degree program in under two years, though individuals without a BSN may require a longer duration.

The following schools have been chosen based on the methodology of Online Nursing Writings, which involves surveying readers to discern their priorities in school selection. This selection process incorporates graduation rates, student-faculty ratios, pricing, mode and duration of programs, as well as admission rates for a multitude of prominent nursing schools across the United States.

1. University of North Carolina at Wilmington

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers a fully online Nurse Educator MSN degree program, catering to APRNs aspiring to lead in the academic realm. With six convenient start dates annually, this program aims to meet the diverse needs of prospective students.

Program Details:
– Length: 12 months
– Admissions Rate: 68%
– Graduation Rate: 73%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: $276.62 per credit hour (in-residents)

2. Weber State University

At Weber State University, nursing professionals can advance their careers through two MSN degree track options: Nurse Educator and Nursing Leadership. Post-master certificates, including Nurse Educator Certificate and Nurse Executive Certificate, are also available for those holding an existing MSN degree.

Program Details:
– Length: 12 months
– Admissions Rate: 100%
– Graduation Rate: 42%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
– Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
– Cost: $5,471 (full-time tuition for 2 semesters)

3. Baker University

Baker University offers MSN degree programs in Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. With transferable credits, three start times annually, and accelerated course options, Baker University stands out as a military-friendly institution.

Program Details:
– Length: 24 months (depending on transfer credits)
– Admissions Rate: 99%
– Graduation Rate: 64%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: $480 per credit hour

4. Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University’s MSN degree program provides six career tracks, offering both clinical and non-clinical options. Designed for full-time or part-time study, the program also includes post-master degree certificates for Nurse Practitioner specialties.

Program Details:
– Length: 12-24 months
– Admissions Rate: 80%
– Graduation Rate: 47%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: $664 per credit hour

5. Capella University

Capella University stands out with nine different MSN degree tracks and flexible learning options, including the FlexPath or GuidedPath. Students can tailor their learning approach based on individual needs, providing a personalized educational experience.

Program Details:
– Length: 14 months
– Admissions Rate: 100%
– Graduation Rate: 50%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: Depends on specialization; Nursing Education ($2,850 per 12-week billing session, $14,250 total accelerated pace)

6. Emory University

Emory University offers four clinical Nurse Practitioner MSN degree track options, starting each Summer semester. While the program is primarily online, in-person intensives are required, particularly for the Acute Care specialty programs, which demand one to two years of prior RN experience.

Program Details:
– Length: 15 months
– Admissions Rate: 13%
– Graduation Rate: 90%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: $24,986/semester ($2,082/hour)

7. Herzing University

Herzing University offers eight MSN degree tracks, encompassing both clinical and non-clinical options. In addition, they provide Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs for further advancement. The university accommodates online and direct-entry programs, ensuring flexibility for busy students.

Program Details:
– Length: 16-32 months
– Admissions Rate: 94.5%
– Graduation Rate: 50%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: $675 program fee for each semester

8. Western Governors University

Western Governors University offers five nursing-focused MSN degree tracks, including options for BSN to MSN, RN to MSN, Nurse Practitioner Programs, Healthcare Master Degree, and Post-Master’s Nursing Program Online. Their fully online programs provide flexibility for students to complete courses at their convenience.

Program Details:
– Length: 2 years
– Admissions Rate: 100%
– Graduation Rate: 89-97%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 42:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost per 6 months term: RN to MSN ($4,685), BSN to MSN ($4,795), Family Nurse Practitioner ($6,525), PMHNP ($6,625), Master of Healthcare Administration ($4,755)

9. Drexel University

Drexel University provides numerous clinical and non-clinical MSN degree track options, delivering interactive online courses. With a guarantee of tuition stability for three years, the university emphasizes accessibility for students completing the MSN degree within the stipulated timeframe.

Program Details:
– Length: 2 years
– Admissions Rate: 83%
– Graduation Rate: 69%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: Depends on the type of MSN program; MSN program starts at $1,101

10. Kent State University

Kent State University offers both clinical and non-clinical MSN degree track options with a variety of specialties. Some specialty options are available 100% online, providing flexibility for students. Full-time and part-time opportunities cater to different preferences.

Program Details:
– Length: 2 years
– Admissions Rate: 87.3%
– Graduation Rate: 63.84%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: $20,000 to $24,000 approximate

11. Simmons University

Simmons University features two clinical-based MSN degree tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Despite being primarily online, the program requires in-person immersion in Boston, Massachusetts. The university ensures flexibility by offering program start options in January, May, and September.

Program Details:
– Length: 30 to 36 months
– Admissions Rate: 84%
– Graduation Rate: 81%
– Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
– Cost: $1,235 per credit hour

Costs of MSN Programs

The expenses associated with pursuing an MSN degree exhibit considerable variation, influenced by diverse factors such as the institution type, program specifics, online versus on-campus delivery, and more:

1. Type of Institution: Public universities often levy lower tuition fees for in-state residents compared to their out-of-state counterparts, whereas private universities generally maintain a uniform rate, often higher than public institutions.
   Program Length: The duration of MSN programs spans from 12 months to over 30 months. Extended programs may entail higher overall costs, whereas shorter, intensive programs might have elevated per-semester fees.
2. Online vs. On-Campus: Online programs can potentially be more cost-effective due to reduced commuting and housing expenses. However, this is not universally applicable, as certain online programs may have comparable tuition rates to their on-campus counterparts.
3. Specialization: Specific specializations within the MSN program, such as Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Anesthetist tracks, may feature distinct tuition rates owing to the differing nature of coursework and clinical training requirements.
4. Additional Fees: Apart from tuition, supplementary costs may encompass expenses for books, supplies, lab fees, technology fees, and miscellaneous items. Some programs might impose specific fees for clinical placements or access to simulation labs.

Drawing insights from the swiftest MSN programs outlined above, the cost per credit hour for MSN programs spans a range from approximately $275 to over $1,000, with total program costs exhibiting significant variability. For instance, the University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers rates as low as $276.62 per credit hour for in-state residents, whereas other institutions like Emory University may reach up to $2,082 per credit hour.

Prospective students should also take into account the availability of financial aid, scholarships, and grants, which can substantially mitigate the overall cost of an MSN program. Numerous universities extend financial assistance tailored for nursing students, and various external scholarships are accessible for individuals pursuing advanced nursing degrees.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Job Description, Salary, and How to Become One

Salary Expectations in 2024

Whether in clinical or non-clinical roles, holding an MSN degree opens up greater earning potential compared to ADN or BSN degrees, with salaries varying based on geographical location and other contributing factors.

Below are the average salaries for nurses with an MSN across different specializations:

• Nurse Practitioner: $124,680
• Clinical Nurse Specialist: $84,631
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist: $205,770
• Nursing Administration: $101,512
• Nursing Informatics: $90,000
• Nursing Education: $84,180

While clinical specialties tend to have higher average salaries, non-clinical MSN specialties also present the opportunity for an enhanced income.

Nursing Administrators, for instance, can progress to roles such as Chief Nursing Officers or top healthcare administrators. MSN degree holders can also pursue leadership positions as Chief Informatics Officers.

Among MSN graduates, certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) command the highest salaries. As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean hourly wage is $98.93. The top three industries with the highest employment levels for CRNAs are offices of physicians (24,340), general medical and surgical hospitals (15,290), and outpatient care centers (2,560). Moreover, the top three paying industries include outpatient care centers ($246,980), specialty ($230,220), and ambulatory health care ($219,790).

Frequently Asked Questions about the fastest Master of Science in Nursing

Q: Do I need to be certified as an NP after obtaining an MSN degree?

A: Yes, certification as an NP is mandatory. Successful completion of a national certification exam corresponding to your specialty is a prerequisite for practicing as an NP.

Q: Is direct patient care obligatory with an MSN degree?

A: No, direct patient care is not mandatory. MSN degree holders can explore numerous non-clinical options in healthcare settings, such as nursing management, healthcare administration, and executive leadership. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) often excel in leadership roles in these areas.

Q: What financial assistance is available to help pay for my MSN degree?

A: Financial assistance options for MSN programs vary widely. Many programs offer part-time coursework to accommodate working professionals. Military members may benefit from tuition discounts, and various avenues such as scholarships, tuition assistance, and student loans are available. Prospective students are encouraged to discuss their specific needs with the financial aid counselor at their chosen university.