Master's in nursing programs

Do you want to accelerate your nursing career? Enrolling in a master of science in nursing (MSN) program could be your next step.

An MSN prepares you for specialized roles in clinical practice, administration, education, leadership, and research settings. Whether you are a registered nurse (RN), earned your bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), or are seeking to enter the health field for the first time, use our guide to learn how to find an online MSN program that aligns with your lifestyle and professional goals.

What jobs can you get with an online master's in nursing?

As a graduate of an online master's in nursing program, you can apply for roles such as nurse practitioner (NP), clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse midwife, nurse educator, or nurse administrator.

Within these roles, you can specialize in neonatal care, oncology, and geriatric care. Graduates of MSN programs can work in hospitals, clinics, the public sector, private practice, educational institutions, and community health centers.

APRNs have expanded responsibilities that include examining, diagnosing, and treating patients; ordering diagnostic testing; prescribing medications; and managing patient care.

As an APRN, you may work independently or collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to enhance patient care.

Board certification and state licensure ensure that APRNs maintain high professional standards.To apply for APRN licensure, you must complete an accredited MSN program, pass a national certification exam in your specialty, and meet state-specific requirements.

Salary expectations for MSN-prepared nurses

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and nurse practitioners earned a median annual salary of $129,480 in 2023 — or an hourly wage of $62.25.

Specialization, certifications, and clinical experience can boost earnings for high-demand professionals like NPs. Salaries may be higher in urban areas, and compensation may vary between private practice and hospital settings.

Career outlook for MSN-prepared nurses

The BLS projects that job opportunities for APRNs will grow by 38% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average 3% for all occupations.

Additionally, it expects 29,200 job openings per year for nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and NPs over that time period.

Some of the largest employers for APRNs include:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient care centers
• Offices of physicians and other health practitioners
• Educational services

The BLS identified that a focus on preventive care, the healthcare needs of the aging population, and changing laws governing APRN practice authority may drive the demand for MSN graduates in the coming years. As laws pertaining to APRNs evolve, they may be able to offer a wider range of services, which could increase the demand for their expertise.

What's the ROI of an online MSN degree program?

To determine the , compare your program's cost with your expected salary. Consider the cost of living, expenses not covered by tuition and student loan interest rates.

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that students in online master's degree programs across all health fields paid a median of $7,980 in annual tuition in 2020. The may vary based on:

• The school's status (public or private)
• Program length and track (part-time or full-time)
• Specialization (neonatal nurse practitioner, nurse informaticist, nurse administrator, etc.)
• Residency status (in-state or out-of-state)

According to the BLS, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and NPs earned a median annual salary of $129,480. The Bureau projects 123,600 new job openings for these professionals from 2022 to 2032.

Between 2022 and 2023, the Bureau projects 6% job growth for nurse midwives. NPs are one of the fastest-growing occupations, with a projected 45% growth rate between 2022 and 2032, which could indicate a promising job market for graduates.

Types of master's in nursing programs

You can expand your career options through traditional, bridge, direct-entry, or dual-degree master's in nursing programs. Each program can be tailored to different individuals and their specific needs.

What can you learn in an online master's in nursing program?

In an online master's in nursing program, you will learn about advanced nursing practice, evidence-based care, leadership and management skills, healthcare informatics, and health policy and advocacy.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, in addition to regular coursework, learners are typically required to complete a minimum of 500 clinical practice hours. This requirement varies by school, specialty, and state. Before enrolling, check the in-person requirements for your chosen program.

Regardless of program type, you should choose a concentration based on your professional goals. Consider these nursing specialties and their career paths:

How does the online format of MSN degrees work?

Accredited online MSN degree programs typically require students to complete in-person clinical hours to gain practical experience. The number of hours needed varies by program and certification requirements.

Programs may offer resources such as placement assistance to help distance learners fulfill these in-person requirements.

Admissions requirements for an online master's in nursing

Admissions requirements for an online MSN degree vary by program. Traditional programs require a BSN. Bridge programs require the completion of an ADN. Direct-entry master's degree programs require a non-nursing bachelor's degree and prerequisite coursework.

Other requirements for an online MSN degree typically include:

• Official transcripts
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Active RN license
• Résumé or curriculum vitae
• Letters of recommendation
• Standardized test scores, if applicable (e.g., GRE or TOEFL)
• Statement of purpose
• One to two years of clinical experience

Direct-entry master's programs do not require an active RN license or nursing experience to apply. However, students must pass the NCLEX-RN after their first year of school in order to begin the graduate-level coursework and practicums that MSN degree programs require.