Top Online Master’s (MSN) in Nursing for 2020

The nursing profession stands at the center of modern-day applied health care. Nurses bring together doctors and their patients, administer meds, and advocate for those under their care. Often heroic courage is on display by those in the nursing profession, as has been so prominent in the selfless actions of nurses during the Covid-19 pandemic. Nurses help every patient throughout their healthcare journey, working tirelessly to provide the care and advocacy patients need.

Currently, there are more than 3 million nursing jobs in the country as of 2018. The job outlook looks excellent for this profession as well, with projections showing nursing jobs will increase by 12% from 2018 to 2028, which translates into 371,000 new jobs.

For those who want to enter the nursing profession, the minimum educational requirement is a bachelor's degree in nursing. However, learning and training do not have to end with a four-year undergraduate degree.

Nurses andnursing graduates who want to further their education in preparation for moreflexible and challenging roles within the complex and ever-evolving healthcaresystem can consider earning a master's degree in nursing. With this graduatedegree program, they will be able to gain valuable skills and knowledge thatcan shape their roles as leaders in the nursing industry.

This includes leading change, promoting health, and elevating care in different roles and settings integral to the healthcare system. Nurses who have completed their master's degrees can significantly contribute to the improvement of individuals, populations and systems' healthcare needs. In 2018, it was recorded that 17.1% of the registered nurses in the country hold a master's degree.

This is an excellent opportunity for many students and working adults who need flexible schedules that online classes can offer. Most online MSN programs do not require classroom attendance. Students complete their course requirements through digital means, only needing a reliable computer and internet connection. By earning their master's in nursing online, students can still devote time to their personal and professional responsibilities while juggling their educational requirements.

Use our Page Jumps to explore your Master's (MSN) in Nursing program options:

* Georgetown University* John Hopkins University* Vanderbilt University* University of Central Florida* Western Governor's University* University of South Carolina* Liberty University* Ohio State University* Duke University* Walden University* University of Texas-Tyler* Florida Atlantic University* University of Central Arkansas* South University* Saint Xavier University* Michigan State University* Drexel University* University of West Georgia

While it iscommon practice to attend nursing school in person, the modern age allows for individualflexibility and convenience brought by the advent of online learning. Today, manycolleges and universities are offering fully online Master's in Nursing.

Tucked away in many parts of the country are academic institutions that deliver and award web-based degree programs, particularly a Master's (MSN) in Nursing. But combing the entire United States in search for the best online school among your multitude of options can be daunting!

Our writers andresearchers at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com are here to help! We present a shortlistof the best online schools offering the 20 Top Online Master's (MSN) inNursing, highlighting the numerous features that make them excellent choices.

The onlineschools on our list all share these salient characteristics:

• Core

  academic courses and up-to-date instructional techniques and materials that areat par with on-campus degree programs

• Anoutstanding virtual learning platform that allows for ease of access bystudents and instructors, and 24/7 support

• Onlinefaculty composed of experienced industry experts and professionals in advancedNursing fields, most of whom are also on-campus professors

• Accreditedby agencies and organizations that promote academic excellence

See our Methodology Page to know more about our ranking process.

Georgetown University

Online Master of Science in Nursing

GeorgetownUniversity, established in 1798, is one of the world's leading academic and research institutions. It provides a unique educational path for students for several centuries, preparing them to become global leaders who will make a difference in the world.

Its innovativenature expands to integrating the power of technology into student learning.They have been offering dozens of online degree programs and courses tostudents who need flexible and convenient schedules that distance education provides.One of these degree programs is the Master of Science in Nursing.

Fully availableonline, the MS in Nursing is perfect for students who have broad interests inthe field of nursing and who would want to delve deeper into a specificdiscipline. The university offers different specializations that can becompleted online, including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner(AG-ACNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Health Systems Administration, Nurse-Midwifery,and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP). The degree programs are donethrough synchronous class sessions and asynchronous didactic content.

Most of theseonline programs are designed for registered nurses who have completed aBachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). They will have the option to choose theirspecialization path, whether it is primary care, reproductive care, or women'shealth.

Campus Location: Washington, DC

• Middle

  States Commission on Higher Education

• LiaisonCommittee on Medical Education

• AccreditationCommission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

• Commissionon Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education

• Councilon Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs

• Advanced

  Physiology and Pathophysiology

• AdvancedHealth Assessment

• AdvancedConcepts in Pharmacology

• Biostatisticsand Epidemiology

• Evidence-BasedPractice I (EBPI)

• HealthCare Ethics

• ProfessionalRole of the Advanced Practice Nurse

• HealthPolicy

• Principlesof Economics and Health Care Finance

• Adult-GerontologyACNP II

Acceptance Rate: 17%

Retention Rate: 96%

Graduation Rate: 95%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER (FNP) PROGRAM FROM THE UNIVERSITY GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY.

John Hopkins University

Online Master of Science in Nursing

Founded in 1876, Johns Hopkins University instills the importance of teaching and research, two principles that go hand on hand when educating the students. This private institution offers degree programs for undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate tracks. Some of these are available in both traditional and online forms.

Their Master ofScience in Nursing degree program can be completed online. As one of theleading nursing schools in the country, the university provides students withan online, student-centered, and interdisciplinary approach. Students are giventhe necessary tools that will help them address a variety of changinghealthcare needs.

To qualify forthe master's degree program in nursing, students must first obtain a bachelor'sdegree in nursing if they want to take the DNP Advanced Practice degree. Forthose who have an undergraduate degree from another discipline can choose theEntry into Nursing Program.

Campus Location: Baltimore, Maryland

Accreditation:

• Middle

  States Commission on Higher Education

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education

• Teaching

  Strategies in Nursing

• ProgramDevelopment and Evaluation in Health Care

• Neurobiologyof Mental Disorders

• ClinicalPsychopharmacology

• DifferentialDiagnosis of Mental Disorders

• PsychotherapeuticFrameworks and Modalities

• PsychiatricMental Health Nurse Practitioner Practicum: Adult/Gero

• Familyas a Unit: Clinical Integration

• Leadershipand Management in Health Care

• HealthDisparities in Nursing Practice

Acceptance Rate: 13%

Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 93%

LEARN MORE ABOUTTHEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING FROM JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY.

Vanderbilt University

Online Master of Science in Nursing

Backed by itsrich history in education, leadership, and innovation, Vanderbilt University is one of the best universities forpreparing aspiring nurses in their chosen profession. They have demonstratedtrack record in providing excellence when it comes to nursing teaching,practice, informatics, and research.

Their master ofscience in nursing was first offered in 1955. Today, their traditional MSNdegree program is also available online. This program prepares skilled andexperienced practice nurses to advance their nursing career and find ways toincrease access to quality health care for Americans.

One of its bestfeatures is the flexibility of earning this master's degree. Due to its nature,students have the freedom to complete their coursework at their own pacewithout requiring regular face-to-face classes. This allows them to pursuetheir education while advancing their careers. They have innovative approachesthat provide a wealth of opportunities for experience in clinical practice.

The programalso allows multiple entry options, both for nurses and non-nurses. Thereoffered advanced practice specialties can suit varied professional interests.And, more importantly, they offer distributed course delivery and flexibleformats that are hallmarks of distance learning.

CampusLocation: Nashville, Tennessee

• Southern

  Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

• SouthernAssociation of Colleges and Schools

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education

• AccreditationCommission for Midwifery Education

• Pre-specialty

  Clinical Directed Study

• Legaland Ethical Accountability in Professional Nursing Practice

• HumanExperience of Health and Illness Across the Lifespan I

• Pharmacologyfor Nursing Care I

• Fundamentalsof Clinical Practice

• Inquiryand Evidence in Professional Nursing Practice

• Integrationof Theoretical and Clinical Aspects of Nursing II

• Epidemiologyand Population-Based Nursing

Acceptance Rate: 11%

Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 93%

LEARN MORE ABOUTTHEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM FROM VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY.

University of CentralFlorida

Online Master of Science in Nursing

Located in Orlando, Florida, the University of Central Florida was founded in 1963, providing educational opportunities since its establishment. Currently, there are more than 220 degree programs on offer. One of these is the Master of Science in Nursing.

The graduatedegree program is available in both traditional and online formats. The latteremploys the same curriculum and training opportunities as its conventionalcounterpart but with the added flexibility and convenience. Those who areinterested in advancing their leadership roles, teaching the next generation ofnurses, or developing healthcare simulation programs, this master's degree isan ideal choice. It will prepare them to lead in various settings, whether itis in academic or healthcare fields.

Aftercompletion, graduates will be able to find more opportunities for managementand leadership positions, greater earning potential, and a chance to acquire adoctoral degree.

Campus Location: Orlando, Florida

• Southern

  Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education

• Theory

  for Advanced Practice Nursing

• OrganizationalDynamics

• HealthCare Informatics

• ResearchManagement

• NursingEnvironment and Management

• ResearchMethods

• Evidence-BasedPractice

• FinancialManagement and Resource Development

Acceptance Rate: 50%

Retention Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 70%

LEARN MORE ABOUTTHEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA.

Western Governor'sUniversity

Online Master of Science in Nursing

As one of the top online institutions, Western Governor's University is focused on expanding access to education all over the country. They offer the flexibility and freedom that students and working adults need to succeed and advance their careers. One of their degree programs available online is the master of science in nursing.

This graduatedegree equips nurses with the right skills and credentials that they need tosucceed and find better career opportunities. They have several educationaltrack options, including nursing education, nursing leadership and management,nursing informatics, and healthcare and administration. These programs admitqualified students, whether they have a bachelor's degree in nursing or not.

Theuniversity's competency-based approach to education allows experiencedhealthcare professionals to graduate ahead of schedule and under budget. Theyare also offered personalized guidance and instruction of a competent andknowledgeable faculty.

Campus Location: Salt Lake City, Utah

• Northwest

  Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education

• Commissionon Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education(CAHIIM)

• Professional

  Presence and Influence

• TranslationalResearch for Practice and Populations

• OrganizationalLeadership and Interprofessional Team Development

• PathopharmacologicalFoundations for Advanced Nursing Practice

• ComprehensiveHealth Assessment for Patients and Populations

• Essentialsof Advanced Nursing Practice Field Experience

• Policy,Politics, and Global Health Trends

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Retention Rate: 71%

Graduation Rate: 68%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING DEGREE PROGRAMS FROM WESTERN GOVERNOR'S UNIVERSITY.

University of South Carolina

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

Established in 1801, the University of South Carolina holds the distinction as one of the educational institutions to earn the Carnegie top-tier designation in both research activity and community engagement. Their varied and innovative programs include a master's of science in nursing.

This degreeprogram is available in both traditional and online formats. Students have theoption to choose from four different specializations: Family Nurse Practitioner(FNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), PsychiatricMental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Nursing Administration (NA). Themaster's in nursing offers nurses the opportunity to acquire an advanceddegree, whether for expanding their clinical role or training for a newposition in nurse leadership.

The onlineprograms help students complete their master's degree with enhanced flexibilityand convenience, all the while devoting enough time for their personal andprofessional responsibilities.

Campus Location: Columbia, South Carolina

• Southern

  Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education

• Theoretical

  and Conceptual Foundation for Nursing

• Applicationof Basic Statistics for Nursing Practice and Service Management

• ClinicalApplication of Population Analysis

• ResearchMethods for Nursing

• DiagnosticInterpretation and Therapeutic Modalities

• FamilyNurse Practitioner Legal, Ethical and Role Transition

• AcuteProblems in Primary Care for the FNP

• DiagnosticInterpretation and Therapeutic Modalities

Acceptance Rate: 68%

Retention Rate: 88%

Graduation Rate: 73%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE INNURSING DEGREE PROGRAMS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA.

Liberty University

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

Since its establishment in 1971, Liberty University has taught and trained thousands of students from a variety of fields, from nurses and teachers to artists and pastors. This fast-growing university extends well beyond its campus borders to admit students from all 50 states and more than 86 countries through their online education.

One of thedegree programs available fully online is Master's of Science in Nursing. Thisonline program provides critical nursing skills that are necessary for advancedclinical practice, teaching, and research. It is known for its innovative andup-to-date approach to nursing education, taking in the advancements in themedical field and the latest industry expectations. Specialized training isalso in store for graduate students.

Thespecializations are designed to give students the necessary tools and skillsthey need to thrive in their chosen nursing-related field. The programs aretaught by nursing professionals with real-world experience and demonstratedknowledge of the industry.

Campus Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

• Southern

  Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

• AmericanOsteopathic Association Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation(AOA-COCA)

• Councilon Education for Public Health (CEPH)

• Health

  Policy & Ethics

• NursingTheory & Advanced Practice

• ManagingPopulation Health

• NursingIssues, Informatics & Technology

• Principlesof Epidemiology

• Principlesof Environmental Health

Acceptance Rate: 24%

Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 51%

LEARN MORE ABOUTTHEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM FROM LIBERTY UNIVERSITY.

Ohio State University

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

Located in Columbus, Ohio, Ohio State University is committed to academic excellence through its numerous degree programs, both on-campus and online. The latter, just like its traditional counterpart, is taught by the same world-class faculty. It also features high-quality courses that can prepare students for career advancement.

Their onlinemaster's of science in nursing can be completed anytime and anywhere. Thisdegree has four available program tracks, including Family Nurse Practitioner,Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, andClinical Nurse Leader. Each offers unique opportunities that can help nursesand those from nursing-related field to advance and hone their knowledge andskills and earn the specialization of their choice. They are prepared to meetthe challenges of healthcare and improving health outcomes in the country.

Graduates areexpected to create a positive impact in the healthcare industry while makingadvances for their professional and career growth.

Campus Location: Columbus, Ohio

• Higher

  Learning Commission (HLC)

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education

• AccreditationCommission for Midwifery Education (ACME)

• Leadership

  in Advanced Nursing Care

• QualityImprovement in Advanced Nursing Care

• HealthPromotion and Disease Prevention Across the Life Span

• AdvancedHealth Assessment

Acceptance Rate: 54%

Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 83%

LEARN MORE ABOUTTHEONLINE MASTER'S DEGREE PROGRAMS IN NURSING PROGRAMFROM THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY.

Duke University

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

Having opened its doors in 1931, Duke University is among the best universities for nursing education. They even earned the designation as a National Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing in 2020.

The Master ofScience in Nursing, of its degree programs, is available in both thetraditional and online formats. It currently offers eight advanced practiceregistered nurse majors and three non-clinical majors. Students have the optionto add a specialty to their course of study. No matter which major they choose,students are required to complete 11 credit hours of clinical courses. The MSNdegrees vary depending on their major; hence the period of completion differsfor each student.

As most onlinedegree programs, the Master's in Nursing at Duke University offers flexibilityin the course format, meaning students can complete the coursework at their ownpace.

Campus Location: Durham, North Carolina

• Southern

  Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education

• Nurse

  as Scholar I: Science Development, Study Design, and Statistics

• Nurseas Scholar II: Evidence-based Practice

• PopulationHealth in a Global Society

• ProfessionalTransitions: Advanced Nursing Practice

Acceptance Rate: 11%

Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 95%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEONLINE DEGREE FOR MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAMFROM DUKE UNIVERSITY.

Walden University

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Walden University has been serving the higher education needs of adult learners for 45 years through various degree programs. Today, students from all over the country and even those abroad can pursue their tertiary education through the university's online offerings.

One of these isthe Master's in Nursing. This graduate degree program helps registered nursesto pursue advanced clinical and leadership training at their own pace, whereverand whenever it is convenient for them. Students can learn the necessaryknowledge and skills from competent teaching faculty with real-worldexperience. Whether their passion lies in providing direct patient care orpositioning themselves for advanced leadership or educational roles, theuniversity offers the program specialization they need.

Aside from theflexibility and convenience that this online graduate degree offers, it is alsopossible for students to explore potential tuition savings through theuniversity's partner healthcare organizations. Graduate students who work forthese organizations may earn their MSN degree at a lower cost.

Campus Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

• Higher

  Learning Commission (HLC)

• Commissionon Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

• ProjectManagement Institute (PMI)® Global Accreditation Center for Project ManagementEducation Programs (GAC)

• Councilon Social Work Education (CSWE)

• Councilfor the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

• Transition

  to Graduate Study for Nursing

• Policyand Advocacy for Improving Population Health

• TransformingNursing and Healthcare Through Technology

• Essentialsof Evidence-Based Practice

• InterprofessionalOrganizational and Systems Leadership

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Retention Rate: 18%

Graduation Rate: 20%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSINGPROGRAMFROM WALDEN UNIVERSITY.

University of Texas-Tyler

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

Founded in 1971, the University of Texas-Tyler is part of the University of Texas system, with 14 institutions peppered throughout the state. The Tyler campus offers more than 80 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. Some of these are fully available online, just like the Master of Science in Nursing.

The program hastwo tracks, the Nursing Administration and Nursing Education. The formerprepares students to lead in an evolving health care environment. This involvesexecutive leadership roles that facilitate the link between a larger healthcare organization and those providing front-line patient care. The NursingEducation MSN degree, on the other hand, equips students with advanced skillsto train in diverse health care settings. Here they explore theories andprocedures of the educational program and course development that are appliedto nursing education.

The onlinemaster's in nursing degree programs give students a friendly format andflexible schedule that allow them to pursue their graduate education whilefulfilling professional and personal responsibilities. Graduates can take uppositions in healthcare systems, government agencies, clinical facilities, anduniversities.

Campus Location: Tyler, texas

• Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of

  Colleges and Schools

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

• Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education

• Teacher Education Accreditation Council

• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

• Translational

  Science I

• HealthCare Informatics

• OrganizationalSystem Leadership

• Evaluationin Nursing Education

• IntegrateAdvance Health Assessment

• NursingEducation Roles

Acceptance Rate: 69%

Retention Rate: 64%

Graduation Rate: 54%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEONLINE MASTER'S IN NURSING DEGREE PROGRAMS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS–TYLER.

University of Southern California

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

As one of the leading private research universities in the country, the University of Southern California is known for its diverse curricular offerings in different fields. It provides extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study and collaboration with researchers in highly advanced learning environments.

Offered in bothcampus and online settings, the university's Master of Science in Nursing isdesigned for advanced practice nurses who have earned a Bachelor of Science inNursing degree and licensed as Registered Nurses. This program incorporatesevidence-based nursing that teaches and trains nurse practitioner students toacquire comprehensive skills in advanced nursing practice. The aim is to helpthem deliver effective treatment and preventive care to patients andcommunities. There are also opportunities to learn different aspects ofresearch and policy.

The programoffers one specialization, which is the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)program. Taught by renowned nurse practitioners, this course is speciallydesigned for nurses who work directly with patients in primary care settings.

Students cancomplete the 49-unit program full-time or part-time. It is also 100% availableonline, featuring live face-to-face classes through videoconferencing.

Campus Location: Los Angeles, California

• Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the Senior

  College and University Commission (WSCUC)

• Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare ManagementEducation

• Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia EducationalPrograms

• Council on Education for Public Health

• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Accreditation Council forEducation in Nutrition and Dietetics

• Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education

• American Dental Association, Commission on DentalAccreditation

• American Occupational Therapy Association, AccreditationCouncil for Occupational Therapy Education

• Pathophysiology

• Pharmacology

• Quantitative

  and Qualitative Data Analysis & Research Methods

• Community-basedResearch

• HealthCare Technology & Innovation

• HealthCare Policy

• HealthCare Management

Acceptance Rate: 96%

Retention Rate: 17%

Graduation Rate: 91%

LEARN MORE ABOUTTHEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSINGPROGRAMFROM THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.

Florida Atlantic University

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

With a demonstrated tradition of providing quality education for more than six decades, the Florida Atlantic University currently offers more than 170 degree programs, many of which are also available online.

One of itsonline offerings is the Master of Science in Nursing. The program admitsgraduate students from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences. It isdesigned to offer leadership, clinical expertise, and teaching skills.

The onlinemethod of learning means that students have ample freedom to complete theircourses at their own pace, working around a suitable schedule that willcomplement their professional and personal life. Students have several programtrack options as well, including Clinical Nurse Leadership and NursingEducation and Financial Leadership.

Other optionsinclude Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Holistic Nursing,Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Psychiatric Mental HealthPractitioner.

Campus Location: Boca Raton, Florida

• Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of

  Colleges and Schools (SACS)

• Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

• Florida State Board of Nursing

• Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring

• Philosophical & Theoretical Foundations of Advanced

  Nursing Practice Roles

• Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice

• Advanced Health Assessment

• Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics

Acceptance Rate: 46%

Retention Rate: 79%

Graduation Rate: 60%

LEARN MORE ABOUTTHEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSINGPROGRAMFROM THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY.

University of Central Arkansas

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

Founded in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas is a learner-focused public comprehensive university that provides quality undergraduate and graduate education for traditional and adult learners. The university offers online learning for many of its degree programs, one of which is the Master of Science in Nursing.

There are twoavailable program tracks for this online degree: Nurse Educator with ClinicalSpecialty and Clinical Nurse Leader. Both program tracks are designed to meetthe professional standards for the practice doctorate developed by the AmericanAssociation of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Registered nurses with abaccalaureate degree in nursing can be admitted for this degree program.

The onlineformat allows working registered nurses to pursue their graduate studies whileearning a living. The flexible schedule makes it convenient for them tocomplete their coursework while juggling their professional responsibilities.

Campus Location: Conway, Arkansas

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

• Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education

• Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education

• Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and

  Dietetics

• NURS 6306: Research Methods

• NURS

  6420: Integrated Pharmacology and Pathophysiology

• NURS6315: Advanced Health Assessment

• NURS7365: Population Health

• NURS6360: Philosophy & Theory

• NURS6345: Evaluation in Nursing Education

• NURS6340: Clinical Specialty

Acceptance Rate: 90%

Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 45%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS.

South University

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

A non-profit academic institution, South University is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for a diverse student population. They offer dozens of undergraduate and graduate programs. Some of them can be earned online.

One of these online offerings is the Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner. This online program is built to prepare registered nurses in delivering primary care for individuals and families. Students are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge that promote positive health behaviors, practice preventive care and diagnose and manage common health problems at all developmental stages. The courses are also designed to help them strengthen their clinical judgment, critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities.

The onlinedegree program can be completed anywhere and everywhere, allowing students topursue their advanced education at a schedule that is most convenient for them.

Campus Location: Savannah, Georgia

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on

  Colleges

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

• Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education

• Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health EducationPrograms

• NSG5002 Advanced Theoretical Perspectives

  for Nursing

• NSG5003 Advanced Pathophysiology

• NSG6002 Health Policy and HealthPromotion in Advanced Nursing Practice

• NSG6101 Nursing Research Methods

• Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner

• NSG6001 Advanced Nursing Practice I

• NSG6005 Advanced Pharmacology

Acceptance Rate: 80%

Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 9%

LEARN MORE ABOUTTHEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSINGPROGRAMFROM SOUTH UNIVERSITY.

Saint Xavier University

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

Founded in Chicago, Illinois, in 1846, Saint Xavier University has been serving as a higher education institution for a diverse population. They offer undergraduate and graduate programs from a range of disciplines, including the Master of Science in Nursing.

This degreeprogram is also available online for adult learners who need to juggle theircareer and personal responsibilities along with their dream of advancing theirnursing education. In this program, students are equipped with knowledge andskills in management, business, and clinical practice, allowing them to haveimmediate impact in their workplace. It has four program tracks: ClinicalLeadership, Executive Leadership, Nurse Educator, and Family NursePractitioner.

The onlinedegree program helps registered nurses to integrate current, evident-basedpractices with new technologies and effective communication strategies intopatient care.

Campus Location: Chicago, Illinois

• Higher Learning Commission

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education(CCNE).

• Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and

  Speech-Language Pathology

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

• Association toAdvance Collegiate Schools of Business(AACSB)

• National Council for the Accreditation of TeacherEducation (NCATE)

• Philosophical

  and Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice

• NursingInquiry

• HealthCare Systems and Financing

• Epidemiologyand Population-Based Health Care

• Communication,Culture, Collaboration, and Conflict in Health Care

• InformationTechnology and Health Care Outcomes

Acceptance Rate: 75%

Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 54%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSINGPROGRAMFROM SAINT XAVIER UNIVERSITY.

Michigan State University

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

For more than 160 years, Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will. They are known as one of the top research universities in the world. Aside from the traditional on-campus degree programs, the university also offers degree programs through online learning.

One of theseprograms is the Master of Science in Nursing. It prepares registered nurses totake on advanced roles in different clinical settings. This includes Adult-GerontologyClinical Nurse Specialist, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner(Primary Care), Family Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care), and PsychiatricMental Health Nurse Practitioner (Acute and Primary Care).

Graduates ofthis program are ready to assume positions that reflect the current, emerging,and expanding roles of nurses, whether they choose to be providers ofhealthcare or educators. They can also opt to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practicedegree.

Campus Location: East Lansing, Michigan

• Higher Learning Commission

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

• Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational

  Programs (COA)

• Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health EducationPrograms (CAAHEP)

• Committee on Allied Health and Accreditation (CAAHEP)

• Scientific

  Foundations for the Advanced Practice Nurse

• HealthcareInformatics

• ClinicalEpidemiology for Healthcare Practice

• HealthPolicy and Advocacy

• Leadershipin Complex Health Systems

• AdvancedPathophysiology

• AdvancedPhysical Assessment

Acceptance Rate: 66%

Retention Rate: 91%

Graduation Rate: 79%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSINGPROGRAMFROM MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY.

Drexel University

Online Master of Science in Nursing

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University is a comprehensive global research university. It is known for employing a unique model of experiential learning, combining academic rigor with cooperative education programs.

One of theirprestigious degree programs is a Master of Science in Nursing, which alsohappens to be available entirely online. This accredited program is designed toprepare student nurses for leadership positions in the ever-evolving healthcareindustry. The online option allows students to take five core MSN coursesbefore selecting their concentration, giving them the chance to explore theirinterests and career goals.

They haveseveral specialization choices: Clinical Nurse Leader, Leadership in HealthSystems Management, Nursing Education, or Quality, Safety, and Risk Managementin Healthcare. Whether they want to enter positions in management,administration, or education, the university offers a concentration that isright for them.

This online programis taught by experienced and board-certified faculty through a highlyinteractive learning method at a flexible schedule.

Campus Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• MSCHE (Middle States Commission on Higher Education)

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

• Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational

  Programs

• Commission on Accreditation of Marriage and Family TherapyEducation

• Confronting

  Issues in Contemporary Health Care Environments

• AdvancedEthical Decision Making in Health Care

• Qualityand Safety in Healthcare

• ResearchMethods and Biostatistics

• Evaluationand Translation of Health Research

Acceptance Rate: 75%

Retention Rate: 89%

Graduation Rate: 67%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSINGPROGRAMFROM DREXEL UNIVERSITY.

University of West Georgia

Online Masterof Science in Nursing

As the state of Georgia's sixth-largest public university, the University of Georgia offers bachelor's, master's, specialist and doctoral programs in 87 fields of study. Some of these are available to be earned online, including the Master of Science in Nursing.

Nurse studentswho pursue this degree have several role options, whether in education orhealth systems leadership. This program offers high-quality graduate educationthat prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles in diverse healthcare settings. The coursework is 100% available online, allowing flexible andself-paced schedules. Students are required to complete a total of 36 semesterhours with six maximum hours transferrable into the program.

Building uponcourses in baccalaureate nursing programs, the master of science in nursingteaches students to apply research concepts, theories, and skills in thedevelopment of the role components of the program.

Campus Location: Carrolton, Georgia

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

• Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association-ASHA)

• Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET

• Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

• NURS 6101 – Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice 3

• NURS 6102 – Role of Caring Healthcare Prof 2

• NURS 6103 – Health Promotion & Advanced Health Assessment 3

• NURS 6104 – Scholarly Inquiry and Data Analysis in Nursing 3

• NURS 6105 – Leadership for Quality, Safety, and Health Policy 3

• NURS 6106 – Pathophysiology and Pharmacology I 3

Acceptance Rate: 59%

Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 41%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSINGPROGRAMFROM THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN GEORGIA.

As a graduatedegree program, a Master's in Nursing usually requires a bachelor of nursing asa prerequisite. While the undergraduate program imparts the general and overallknowledge of nursing as a profession, the Master's in Nursing involves studiesthat focus on a clinical specialty, including but not limited to, oncology,women's health, gerontology, anesthesiology, and many more. It can also involvea career path such as nursing administration or nursing education.

Usually, amaster's in nursing takes 2 to 3 years to complete. It is often considered asthe gateway to nurses' career development. If they want to enter specializedprofessional practice positions, then they will need a master's degree innursing to obtain a credential. This includes those who may want to becomenurse practitioners. A Master's in Nursing can also lead students to theirdoctorates, the nursing field's terminal degree.

Throughobtaining a master's degree in nursing, one will be equipped with the necessaryskills and advanced training that will prepare them for their specializedroles. Most master's in nursing degree programs offer four advanced practiceareas to focus on: nurse practitioner, certified nurse anesthetist, clinicalnurse specialist, and certified nurse-midwife.

A master's innursing offers a wealth of opportunities for those who are interested. Earningthis degree can allow nurses to try more advanced roles in the field, includingprescribing medicine, leading nursing teams, or conducting research that canimprove the system. This is their ticket in working as advanced practice nurseswithin several specialty areas, giving them the chance to advance their careers.This means they will be able to grow professionally while earning more.

Those with a Master'sin Nursing can enjoy higher profitability, making them in demand for employerslooking for their skills and ability. In terms of salaries and benefits,advanced practice nurses have the highest wages in the field of nursing. Theycan also assume greater clinical responsibility, especially in the time ofphysician shortages. They have opportunities to work as nursing instructors andeducators as well, providing them with a stable career with better chances foradvancement.

Most master'sdegree programs in nursing require aspiring students to earn a baccalaureatedegree in nursing first before they can be admitted. In many cases, they arealso needed to get their license as Registered Nurses. In some instances, theymust have worked as a practicing nurse for at least a year.

There are alsocases where universities require students to complete several courses beforethey can start earning their graduate degrees. This typically includes classeslike biochemistry, physiology, anatomy, chemistry, and human physiology.

Otherrequirements may include letters of recommendation from professionals workingwithin the nursing field, demonstrating one's proficiency in the nursing field,and the skills required for graduate work. It can be one's supervisor at work,a doctor one previously worked with, or a nursing professor. Students are alsorequired to pass the Graduate School Examination and submit their transcript ofrecords.

A master's innursing degree can open doors of opportunities. For one, graduates will havethe chance to advance their careers and take on specialized roles in theirchosen field. Some of the MSN graduates can work as:

• nursing

  consultants

• researchnurses

• administrators

• advancednurse practitioners

• clinicalnurse specialists

Others chooseto share their knowledge with future nurses by becoming educators. Many also wantto pursue a doctorate in nursing.