Top Self-Paced MSN Programs | 2025
Motivated registered nurses (RNs) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree can attend self-paced MSN programs to earn a graduate nursing degree at their own pace.
If you're a self-starter and want to earn an MSN at the speed that works for you, check out our list of the top self-paced MSN programs for 2026!
Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
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-NP 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
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.
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.
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
Nurse.org’s Top Self-Paced MSN Programs
Our ranking criteria is 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 |
| University of South Alabama | $21,384 | Varies | CCNE |
| Walden University* | $22,580 | 18 months | CCNE |
| Capella University | Less than $15,000 | 14 months | CCNE |
| Purdue Global University* | $10,368 | 16 months | CCNE |
| Western Governors University* | $10,470 - $31,410 | 12 - 36 months | CCNE |
| Post University | $21,168 - $31,752 | 16 - 24 months | CCNE |
$21,384
Why We Picked This School
South Alabama offers various Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs, including nursing informatics, nursing education, and several NP degrees. Students can apply four courses from this program to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, allowing them to earn a terminal degree faster and cheaper.
Program Highlights
- Apply 12 credit hours from four MSN courses to a DNP degree
- Choose from 14 specialties, some of which are not self-paced
- Only requires three additional courses for RN to MSN students
Requirements
- BSN from an accredited nursing program
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on all BSN coursework
- Resume documenting clinical experience
Program Information
- Application Deadline:
- Spring: November 1st
- Summer: April 1st
- Fall: July 1st
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (251) 445-9400
- Email Address: congradapp@southalabama.edu
- Specialties Offered: MSN, RN to MSN
$22,580
Why We Picked This School
Walden offers two learning options for students: self-paced Tempo Learning and the faculty-led Course-Based pathway. The self-paced online MSN program is specifically designed for motivated learners with strong time management skills. Tempo Learning is only available for select specializations, including nursing education, nursing informatics, and nurse executive.
Program Highlights
- A Practicum Pledge that guarantees clinical placements with an approved preceptor
- Tempo Learning option with self-paced course progression and no weekly deadlines
- A dedicated personal academic coach to guide the learning process
Requirements
- Application
- Employment history
- Academic history
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Active, unencumbered RN license
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (855) 342-1393
- Email Address: help@waldenu.edu
- Specialties Offered: MSN - Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, Nurse Executive
Less than $15,000
Why We Picked This School
Capella’s FlexPath learning pathway allows students to complete an online MSN program at their own pace. Students can choose from four specializations that include 100% online didactic courses and in-person practicums. Most students complete the MSN program in 14 months, but depending on course availability, students can complete it in just 11 months.
Program Highlights
- Four specialization offerings
- Tuition charged based on time in program, allowing self-paced students to save more money
- University offers every student a $2,500 Capella Progress Reward scholarship to reduce the financial burden of the MSN degree
Requirements
- BSN from an accredited nursing program
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale
- Active, unencumbered RN license verification
- A valid, government-issued photo ID
- Admission application (no application fee required)
- Background check
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (866) 933-5901
- Specialties Offered: MSN - Care Coordination, Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, Nursing Leadership and Administration
Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
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-NP 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
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.
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.
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
$10,368
Why We Picked This School
Purdue’s ExcelTrack is a self-paced MSN program that includes core and specialty nursing classes and standard online clinical and final project courses. Students must complete 12 courses in the accelerated online RN to MSN program, but may take assessments to skip content they already know. These capabilities allow Purdue ExcelTrack students to complete the program even faster.
Program Highlights
- Single-credit courses covering specific knowledge or skills allow students to move through the program quickly
- Allows students to complete clinical experiences in local communities or workplaces to gain hands-on experience
- Students can gain specialized expertise by attending the Executive Leader or Nurse Educator pathways
Requirements
- Approved criminal background check
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or BSN from an accredited nursing program
- Active, unencumbered RN license
Program Information
- Application Deadline:
- Fall: October 1st
- Winter: December 24th
- Spring: March 11th
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (844) PURDUE-G
- Specialties Offered: MSN - Nurse Educator, Executive Leader
$10,470 - $31,410
Why We Picked This School
WGU offers three specializations for students interested in an online self-paced MSN program. 62% of students can graduate within 24 months, resulting in a cheaper overall tuition cost. The university offers flexible start dates at the beginning of every month, allowing students to start whenever is ideal for them and continue working while attending the program.
Program Highlights
- Does not require applicants to currently work in an RN role to be eligible for this program
- Transfer up to 17 credits from MSN courses from another accredited institution
- Can earn the NAHQ (National Association for Healthcare Quality) HQ Principles certificate along with an MSN degree
Requirements
- BSN from an accredited nursing program
- Active, unencumbered nursing license in your state of residence or employment (Applicants do NOT need to work in an RN role currently)
Program Information
- Tuition Breakdown:
- 1 year - $10,470
- 1.5 years - $15,705
- 2 years - $20,940
- 2.5 years - $26,175
- 3 years - $31,410
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (801) 274-3280
- Specialties Offered: MSN - Leadership & Management, Education, Nursing Informatics
$21,168 - $31,752
Why We Picked This School
Post’s SIMPath offers 100% online classes during 16-week semesters. Monthly start dates allow nursing students maximum flexibility and the ability to start when it is most convenient for them. Students can enroll in as many courses as their schedule permits, which may help reduce the total program length.
Program Highlights
- Five non-NP specializations
- Competency-based SIMPath learning modality
Requirements
- Completed application
- BSN from an accredited nursing program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Driver’s license or state-issued ID
- Active, unencumbered RN license
- All official transcripts from post-secondary institution(s)
Program Information
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Contact Info:
- Phone Number: (800) 660-6615
- Specialties Offered: MSN - Infection Prevention & Control, Case Management, Nursing Education, Nursing Management & Organizational Leadership, Nursing Informatics
What to Expect in a Self-Paced MSN Program
Self-paced MSN programs allow students to complete courses at their own rate, depending on the specific program. Some will allow students to take exams to essentially “test out” of specific material. Overall, self-paced MSN programs can be as intense as you want - meaning the more classes you take, the more intense the program.
How to Choose a Self-Paced MSN Program
Choosing a self-paced MSN program can be overwhelming with all of the options available. You should consider several factors when selecting a program that suits you, including:
- Specialization availability
- Tuition (in-state vs. out-of-state)
- Financial aid options
- Self-paced options
- In-person requirements
- National accreditation
- Program length
- Access to clinical sites
- Student-to-faculty ratio
- Attrition rate
- Graduation rate
- Job placement percentage
- Clinical requirements and placement
- Program structure
- National certification pass rate
- Networking opportunities
Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
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-NP 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
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.
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.
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
Self-Paced MSN Program FAQs
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