Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate-level degree advancing nursing expertise and leadership, opening paths to specialized clinical roles and healthcare management.
Careers open to registered nursing graduates
Institutions awarding this level in registered nursing (703)
Source: IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education). IPEDS records the field and level of each award, not its exact title.
- Walden University · Minneapolis
- Chamberlain University-Illinois · Addison
- Western Governors University · Salt Lake City
- Grand Canyon University · Phoenix
- The University of Texas at Arlington · Arlington
- Capella University · Minneapolis
- University of South Alabama · Mobile
- United States University · San Diego
- Frontier Nursing University · Versailles
- Northern Kentucky University · Highland Heights
- Miami Regional University · Miami Springs
- University of Alabama at Birmingham · Birmingham
- South University-Savannah Online · Savannah
- Maryville University · Saint Louis
- University of Cincinnati · Cincinnati
- Purdue University Global · West Lafayette
- Aspen University · Phoenix
- Emory University · Atlanta
- Simmons University · Boston
- Regis College · Weston
- Herzing University-Madison · Madison
- Vanderbilt University · Nashville
- University of Phoenix-Arizona · Phoenix
- Johns Hopkins University · Baltimore
- West Coast University-Orange County · Anaheim
- Columbia University · New York
- Drexel University · Philadelphia
- Texas Woman's University · Denton
- Marquette University · Milwaukee
- Post University · Waterbury
- University of Pennsylvania · Philadelphia
- University of South Florida · Tampa
- Nova Southeastern University · Fort Lauderdale
- Azusa Pacific University · Azusa
- Ohio State University-Main Campus · Columbus
- Georgetown University · Washington
- Southern New Hampshire University · Manchester
- Wilkes University · Wilkes-Barre
- Spring Arbor University · Spring Arbor
- Thomas Jefferson University · Philadelphia
- Samuel Merritt University · Oakland
- Duke University · Durham
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science · Los Angeles
- Alverno College · Milwaukee
- Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global · Marion
- University of Maryland, Baltimore · Baltimore
- DePaul University · Chicago
- Gonzaga University · Spokane
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center · Lubbock
- Long Island University · Brookville
- New York University · New York
- Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo Campus · Gurabo
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston · Houston
- The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston · Galveston
- University of San Francisco · San Francisco
- Stony Brook University · Stony Brook
- Ohio University Lancaster · Athens
- University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus · Denver
- George Washington University · Washington
- University of California-San Francisco · San Francisco
- University of South Carolina-Columbia · Columbia
- Liberty University · Lynchburg
- University of Arizona · Tucson
- Kent State University at Kent · Kent
- University of California-Los Angeles · Los Angeles
- University of North Dakota · Grand Forks
- NUC University · Bayamon
- Rush University · Chicago
- Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs · Colorado Springs
- Sacred Heart University · Fairfield
- Pace University · New York
- The University of Texas at El Paso · El Paso
- University of North Carolina Wilmington · Wilmington
- Augusta University · Augusta
- La Roche College · Pittsburgh
- William Paterson University · Wayne
- University of North Alabama · Florence
- University of West Florida · Pensacola
- Hunter College · New York
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University · Brooklyn
- Columbus State University · Columbus
- Carson Newman University · Jefferson City
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor · Ann Arbor
- Bradley University · Peoria
- Indiana University-Indianapolis · Indianapolis
- University of Alabama in Huntsville · Huntsville
- University of Miami · Coral Gables
- Lewis University · Romeoville
- Graceland University · Lamoni
- D'Youville College · Buffalo
- Regis University · Denver
- University of Mississippi · Oxford
- MGH Institute of Health Professions · Boston
- University of Virginia-Main Campus · Charlottesville
- Rivier University · Nashua
- Florida Atlantic University · Boca Raton
- Walsh University · North Canton
- University of Illinois Chicago · Chicago
- Jacksonville University · Jacksonville
- St. Thomas University · Miami Gardens
- Wilmington University · New Castle
- Eastern Kentucky University · Richmond
- George Mason University · Fairfax
- Florida International University · Miami
- Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences · Boston
- Yale University · New Haven
- Benedictine University · Lisle
- University of Missouri-Kansas City · Kansas City
- Molloy College · Rockville Centre
- Virginia Commonwealth University · Richmond
- University of San Diego · San Diego
- California State University, Long Beach · Long Beach
- Purdue University Northwest · Hammond
- Florida National University-Main Campus · Hialeah
- SUNY Upstate Medical University · Syracuse
- Saint Louis University · St Louis
- St. Catherine University · Saint Paul
- University of Alabama · Tuscaloosa
- The University of Texas at Tyler · Tyler
- University of Rochester · Rochester
- South College · Knoxville
- University of Central Florida · Orlando
- East Tennessee State University · Johnson City
- Western University of Health Sciences · Pomona
- Lehman College · Bronx
- St. John Fisher College · Rochester
- University of Minnesota-Twin Cities · Minneapolis
- Utica College · Utica
- Brenau University · Gainesville
- Houston Christian University · Houston
- South University-Tampa · Tampa
- Ana G. Mendez University · Orlando
- Middle Tennessee State University · Murfreesboro
- Duquesne University · Pittsburgh
- Clarkson College · Omaha
- University of Memphis · Memphis
- Medical University of South Carolina · Charleston
- Keiser University · Fort Lauderdale
- Youngstown State University · Youngstown
- Binghamton University · Binghamton
- Concordia University Wisconsin · Mequon
- University of Southern California · Los Angeles
- SUNY Polytechnic Institute · Utica
- Northwestern State University · Natchitoches
- Old Dominion University · Norfolk
- East Carolina University · Greenville
- California State University, Sacramento · Sacramento
- University of Missouri-Columbia · Columbia
- The University of Texas at Austin · Austin
- Webster University · Saint Louis
- Troy University · Troy
- University of Detroit Mercy · Detroit
- Case Western Reserve University · Cleveland
- University of Michigan–Flint · Flint
- King University · Bristol
- Russell Sage College · Troy
- West Coast University-Dallas · Richardson
- University of Toledo · Toledo
- Fairleigh Dickinson University · Teaneck
- University of Akron · Akron
- Boston College · Boston
- Oakland University · Rochester Hills
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte · Charlotte
- Nicholls State University · Thibodaux
- Pennsylvania Western University · California
- Olivet Nazarene University · Bourbonnais
- Georgia College & State University · Milledgeville
- University of New Mexico-Main Campus · Albuquerque
- Jacksonville State University · Jacksonville
- University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences · San Marcos
- Hofstra University · Hempstead
- Georgia Southwestern State University · Americus
- Arizona State University Campus Immersion · Tempe
- Lincoln Memorial University · Harrogate
- Seton Hall University · South Orange
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus · University Park
- University of Connecticut · Storrs
- California State University Los Angeles · Los Angeles
- Metropolitan State University · Saint Paul
- American University of Health Sciences · Signal Hill
- La Salle University · Philadelphia
- Saint Joseph's College of Maine · Standish
- Mount Carmel College of Nursing · Columbus
- University of Colorado Colorado Springs · Colorado Springs
- Dewey University-Hato Rey · Hato Rey
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School · Worcester
- University of Tennessee at Chattanooga · Chattanooga
- University of St. Francis · Joliet
- Indiana State University · Terre Haute
- Carlow University · Pittsburgh
- Barry University · Miami
- California State University, Dominguez Hills · Carson
- Northeastern University · Boston
- University of Central Missouri · Warrensburg
- McNeese State University · Lake Charles
- DeSales University · Center Valley
- University of New Hampshire · Durham
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill · Chapel Hill
- Florida Southern College · Lakeland
- Northwest Nazarene University · Nampa
About
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate-level degree pursued after earning a bachelor's degree, designed to deepen nursing knowledge and skills. It occupies a key place in the U.S. higher education system as an advanced study option for registered nurses or those with a bachelor's degree in nursing or related fields. The MSN prepares students for specialized clinical roles, leadership positions, or academic careers within healthcare. Accredited by regional and programmatic bodies, it is offered by universities and four-year institutions. This degree is essential for nurses aiming to advance professionally, engage in healthcare policy, education, or administration, and meet the growing demand for advanced nursing practitioners. The MSN also serves as a stepping stone toward doctoral studies in nursing or related health sciences.
- Graduate-level degree following a bachelor's degree
- Offered by universities and four-year institutions
- Accredited programs ensure quality and recognition
- Prepares for advanced clinical and leadership roles
- Pathway to doctoral studies in nursing or health sciences
- Addresses evolving healthcare needs and leadership
How to get in
Admission to an MSN program typically requires a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) or a related field, along with an active registered nurse (RN) license. Applicants often submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and sometimes GRE scores, depending on the institution. Selectivity varies by program, with some emphasizing clinical experience and academic performance such as GPA. Many programs consider applicants with non-nursing bachelor's degrees through bridge or accelerated options. The Common Application is generally not used for graduate nursing programs, and financial aid applications like FAFSA are applicable. Prospective students should research specific program prerequisites and accreditation status to ensure transferability and recognition.
- Bachelor's degree required, usually in nursing
- Active RN license often necessary
- Application includes transcripts, recommendations
- Selective admission based on experience and GPA
- Bridge programs for non-nursing degrees
- FAFSA available for financial aid
Format and schedule
MSN programs typically last two years of full-time graduate study, though part-time and online options offer flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum includes advanced coursework and clinical practicums or internships to develop specialized skills. Clinical hours and supervised practice are essential components, often required for licensure or certification exams. Evaluation methods combine exams, projects, clinical performance assessments, and sometimes comprehensive final exams. Some programs incorporate hybrid formats blending in-person and online learning to accommodate diverse student needs. The structured progression ensures readiness for advanced nursing roles and professional certification.
- Two-year full-time study typical duration
- Part-time and online options available
- Includes clinical practicums and internships
- Evaluations via exams and clinical assessments
- Hybrid learning formats common
- Prepares for certification exams and licensure
What next?
Graduates with an MSN can enter the workforce in advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator, or healthcare administrator. The degree also facilitates eligibility for professional certifications and licensure exams relevant to advanced nursing practice. Many graduates pursue doctoral degrees (DNP or PhD) for research, academic, or high-level clinical leadership roles. The MSN offers strong articulation agreements with doctoral programs, enabling smooth academic progression. Career opportunities expand in hospitals, clinics, academic institutions, and public health organizations, reflecting the degree's versatility and demand in the healthcare sector.
- Advanced clinical and leadership roles in nursing
- Eligibility for certification and licensure exams
- Pathway to doctoral studies (DNP, PhD)
- Strong articulation agreements with doctoral programs
- Careers in diverse healthcare settings
- Opportunities in education and administration
Frequently asked questions
What prior education is needed to apply for an MSN?
Applicants generally need a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) and an active RN license. Some programs accept related bachelor's degrees with additional prerequisites.
How long does it take to complete an MSN program?
Typically, full-time MSN programs last about two years, but part-time and online options can extend the duration to accommodate working students.
Can I work while studying for my MSN?
Many programs offer flexible schedules, including part-time and online courses, allowing students to balance work and study.
Does an MSN lead to licensure or certification?
Yes, the MSN prepares graduates for advanced nursing certifications and licensure exams required for specialized roles.
Is financial aid available for MSN students?
Students can apply for federal financial aid through FAFSA and may access scholarships or employer tuition assistance programs.
What career options does an MSN open?
Graduates can pursue advanced clinical roles, leadership positions, teaching careers, or continue toward doctoral studies.
Are online MSN programs recognized?
Online MSN programs are recognized if offered by accredited institutions, ensuring program quality and eligibility for certification.
Can I enter an MSN program without a nursing background?
Some programs offer bridge options for non-nursing graduates, but prerequisites and additional coursework may be required.