Top 10 Accelerated RN to MSN Online Programs | 2025
Advancing your nursing education to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree can open doors to leadership, education, and advanced practice roles. For RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), accelerated RN to MSN online programs offer a faster, more cost-effective path to an MSN.
Read on to discover the top ten accelerated RN to MSN online programs, including tuition, program length, contact information, and available specialties.
Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Whether you’re taking the first steps toward a nursing degree, seeking to advance as a nurse or want to hone your craft with specialized study, there’s a path for you at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Our programs were designed so that you can easily balance your lives at home and work with school - without sacrificing the rigor and cutting-edge curriculum of a quality nursing education.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
-
MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
-
MSN - Family NP
-
MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
-
MSN - Health Informatics
-
MSN - Nursing Education
-
MSN - Public Health Nursing
-
MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
-
MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
-
MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers MSN programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education. Chamberlain's Commitment to Completion Grant helps RNs earn advanced degrees with savings up to $9,100.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI
Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
Nurse.org’s Top 10 Accelerated RN to MSN Online Programs
Our ranking criteria are based on factors such as tuition, acceptance rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and accreditation, and we use the latest and most robust U.S. government data sets, specifically the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard.
| School | Tuition | Program Length | Accreditation |
| Midwestern University | $20,682 total | 18 months | CCNE |
| University of Texas at Arlington | $19,500 total | 36 months | CCNE |
| University of Alabama | $399 - $480 per credit hour | 2 years | CCNE |
| Capella University | $14,925 - $38,805 total | 15 months | CCNE |
| University of Mary | $17,820 total | 16 - 24 months | CCNE |
| William Patterson University | $25,848.30 - $38,210 total | 18 - 28 months | CCNE |
| Franklin University | $670 per credit hour | 16 - 28 months | CCNE |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $342 - $659 per credit hour | 20 - 26 months | CCNE |
| Wilkes University | 38,301 - $40,554 total | 30 - 36 months | CCNE |
| Baker University | $150 - $366 per credit hour | 15 - 30 months | CCNE |
Why We Picked This School
Midwestern University’s small cohort size allows students enrolled in the accelerated online RN to MSN program more one-on-one time with expert faculty instructors. While this program requires an in-person leadership capstone, students complete didactic coursework entirely online.
Program Highlights
- Approximate cohort size of eight students, providing a personalized approach to nursing education
- Distance learning format with in-person capstone balances flexibility with hands-on experiences
Requirements
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Personal statement
- Official transcripts
Program Information
- Application Deadline: July 31st
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (623) 572-3200
- Email Address: admissaz@midwestern.edu
- Specialties Offered: Nurse Leadership in Global Health
Why We Picked This School
UTA’s accelerated online RN to MSN bridge is well-regarded for its flexibility, accessibility, and low tuition. Its practicum guarantee and expert faculty guidance allow students to move seamlessly through the 36-month online program.
Program Highlights
- Awards students a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree en route to MSN
- Offers eight-week courses with 12 convenient start dates annually
- Students who complete the program with uninterrupted enrollment receive a tuition-lock guarantee
Requirements
- Completed online admission application
- Official transcripts
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Relevant registered nursing experience
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (866) 489-2810
- Email Address: utaadmissions@uta.edu
- Specialties Offered:
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
- Family NP
Why We Picked This School
More famously known for its Championship football team, Alabama also has an award-winning nursing department. ADN or diploma-prepared RNs can attend a BSN/MSN nurse executive bridge program. This accelerated RN to MSN program is entirely online, providing the highest level of flexibility to students.
Program Highlights
- Online students learn from the same professors and curriculum as in-person students
- Students must complete the entire core curriculum before nursing coursework and clinicals
- Lower tuition rates for bachelor’s-level courses help keep the program affordable
Requirements
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Prerequisites courses
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale
Program Information
- Tuition Breakdown:
- Bachelor’s-Level Classes: $399 per credit hour
- Master’s-Level Classes: $480 per credit hour
- Application Deadline: March 1st
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (800) 467-0227
- Email Address: sarahh.bama@ua.edu
- Specialties Offered: Nurse Executive
Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Whether you’re taking the first steps toward a nursing degree, seeking to advance as a nurse or want to hone your craft with specialized study, there’s a path for you at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Our programs were designed so that you can easily balance your lives at home and work with school - without sacrificing the rigor and cutting-edge curriculum of a quality nursing education.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
-
MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
-
MSN - Family NP
-
MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
-
MSN - Health Informatics
-
MSN - Nursing Education
-
MSN - Public Health Nursing
-
MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
-
MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
-
MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers MSN programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education. Chamberlain's Commitment to Completion Grant helps RNs earn advanced degrees with savings up to $9,100.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI
Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
Why We Picked This School
Capella’s FlexPath is a self-paced MSN program that offers steep tuition discounts to students who complete it faster. The accelerated online RN to MSN in Nursing Education allows ADN-prepared nurses to elevate their education and begin working in academia swiftly. Capella, unfortunately, does not award a BSN degree as part of this program, and while it is mostly online, the degree does require two in-person practicum courses.
Program Highlights
- Competency-based FlexPath and structured GuidedPath completion options
- Assigned academic coaches tailor programs and goals to individual students
- Offers substantial discounts via associations with organizations, associations, and employers
Requirements
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 2.8 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Background check
- Completed admission application
- Valid government-issued photo ID
Program Information
- Tuition Breakdown:
- FlexPath 13-Month Pace: $14.925
- FlexPath 22-Month Pace: $23,880
- FlexPath 34-Month Pace: $38,805
- GuidedPath 36-Month Pace: $30,690
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (866) 933-5901
Why We Picked This School
The University of Mary offers an accelerated RN to MSN online in Nursing Leadership & Management. Despite being among the most affordable private nursing schools nationwide, the university offers over $10K in scholarships for eligible programs.
Program Highlights
- Number one nursing program in North Dakota
- Specializing in online, adult learning and education
- Flexible, affordable, and rooted in Christian, Catholic, Benedictine values
Requirements
- Minimum 2.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Current resume/CV
- Letters of recommendation
- 2 years of relevant registered nursing experience
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (800) 288-6279
- Email Address: enroll@umary.edu
- Specialties Offered: Nursing Leadership & Management
Why We Picked This School
WPU offers four online accelerated RN to MSN programs to eligible students, among the most options on this list. While students complete coursework entirely online, all the specialties except nursing education require in-person practicum experiences. Regardless of specialty track, students should expect a fast-paced program with pay-by-the-course tuition.
Program Highlights
- Leading New Jersey University that produces the largest number of graduates statewide
- Extensive alumni network with over 92,000 WPU graduates nationwide
- The MSN-FNP program has a 100% pass rate on the national certification exam
Requirements
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- All official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
- Current resume/CV
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Relevant registered nursing experience
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (833) 960-0139
- Email Address: admissions@wpunj.edu
- Specialties Offered:
- Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
Why We Picked This School
With six specialty options, Franklin University offers versatile accelerated online RN to MSN programs. The unique structure requires one 12-week bridge course, which students must pass with a B or better, before starting the MSN curriculum.
Program Highlights
- Tuition lock-in from day one through graduation
- 98% of graduates would recommend Franklin to their family, friends, and colleagues
- One 12-week online bridge course required before starting MSN curriculum
Requirements
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Personal essay
- Relevant bedside nursing experience
- Completed admission application
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (877) 341-6300
- Email Address: admissions@franklin.edu
-
Specialties Offered:
- Family NP
- Generalist
- Nurse Educator
- Psychiatric Mental Health NP
- Nurse Administrator
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
Why We Picked This School
Students can complete SNHU’s accelerated RN to MSN online programs in less than three years. They are eligible to take several MSN courses while completing the BSN portion of the degree, allowing them to waive those classes later to save time and money.
Program Highlights
- Accelerated program model with MSN courses embedded into the BSN
- Option ot participate in HEaRT (Higher Education and Real-world Training) challenges
- Easy to apply with no application fee, no test scores, and no personal essay
Requirements
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Current resume/CV
- Completed admission application
- 2 years of relevant registered nursing experience
Program Information
- Tuition Breakdown:
- Bachelor’s-Level Courses: $342 per credit hour
- Master’s-Level Courses: $659 per credit hour
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (800) 668-1249
- Email Address: enroll@snhu.edu
- Specialties Offered:
- Nursing Education
- Population Healthcare
- Family NP
- Healthcare Quality & Safety
- Nurse Executive Leadership
Why We Picked This School
Wilkes University is well known in the online nursing community. Students find success with their online didactic learning platform and in-person clinicals. Wilkes prides itself on saving students a significant amount of money while earning their MSN.
Program Highlights
- Save over $10K and 7 months completing RN to MSN instead of earning a separate BSN
- Over 80% national certification pass rate
- Dedicated clinical placement teams help students secure local clinical placements
Requirements
- ADN from an accredited nursing program
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Official transcripts
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Current resume/CV
- 1 year of relevant registered nursing experience
Program Information
- Tuition Breakdown:
- FNP: $40,554
- AGPCNP: $38,301
- PMHNP: $39,803
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (888) 413-5633
- Email Address: admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu
- Specialties Offered:
- Family NP
- Psychiatric/Mental Health NP
- Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP
10. Baker University
Why We Picked This School
Baker ranks among the most affordable RN-to-MSN bridge options and offers two specialty pathways. The program does not award a BSN en route, which can shorten the time for accelerated RN to MSN programs online.
Program Highlights
- 24/7 flexibility, allowing students to continue working full-time throughout their education
- Focus on inclusivity and individuality regarding coursework and expectations
- Evidence-based practice emphasis with research methods and application
Requirements
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Current resume/CV
- Letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- Relevant bedside nursing experience
Program Information
- Tuition Breakdown:
- ADN Bridge courses: $150 a credit hour
- MSN courses: $366 a credit hour
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (785) 354-5873
- Email Address: marlene.eicher@bakerU.edu
- Specialties Offered:
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Administration
What to Expect in an Accelerated RN to MSN Online Program
The requirements of each program will vary greatly. As universities continually refine their curricula, the program may even differ from the published information on the university’s website. Knowing exactly what to expect may require speaking with an admissions representative, and perhaps, even a fellow student or program alum.
Regardless of the specific program requirements, all accelerated RN to MSN online programs are fast-paced and designed for working professionals. Not only do these programs apply your prior ADN or diploma education toward your degree, but they also consider your RN experience, which may help shorten the program length.
Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Whether you’re taking the first steps toward a nursing degree, seeking to advance as a nurse or want to hone your craft with specialized study, there’s a path for you at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Our programs were designed so that you can easily balance your lives at home and work with school - without sacrificing the rigor and cutting-edge curriculum of a quality nursing education.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
-
MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
-
MSN - Family NP
-
MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
-
MSN - Health Informatics
-
MSN - Nursing Education
-
MSN - Public Health Nursing
-
MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
-
MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
-
MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
Chamberlain University is the #1 largest school of nursing with a community of more than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. The school offers MSN programs online and has a long history of successfully delivering top quality education. Chamberlain's Commitment to Completion Grant helps RNs earn advanced degrees with savings up to $9,100.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide except CT, NY, RI
Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, ND, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
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Additional Resources
- Best RN to MSN Programs | Online Options 2025
- Top RN to MSN Programs (With No BSN Required)
- 10 Best Online RN to MSN Programs of 2025
