Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want advanced training. Programs may emphasize specialized practice areas, leadership, or advanced clinical methods depending on the school. MSN graduates earn a median of $107,358 one year after graduation, rising to $119,619 by year five (College Scorecard).
This page explains how master’s programs are structured, what coursework typically includes, and what to compare across schools.
An MSN is a graduate-level program that builds advanced nursing knowledge through online coursework, clinical practicum hours, and specialized concentration tracks.
The most common title is Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). Some schools offer MS in Nursing or specialized titles based on the concentration track.
Common options include nurse practitioner tracks (FNP, AGACNP, PMHNP), nurse educator programs, nursing leadership/administration, and nursing informatics.
Most programs include a shared core in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment before electives or concentrations, plus a capstone or thesis option.
Most programs require a completed BSN from a CCNE or ACEN accredited program, an active RN license, transcripts, a resume, and written statements.
Programs may use standard term schedules, accelerated shorter terms, or part-time options with lighter course loads. Clinical practicum hours are completed in person.
How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only—always confirm details directly with each school.
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Advanced Pathophysiology | Disease mechanisms at the cellular and system level |
| Advanced Pharmacology | Complex drug interactions, prescribing principles |
| Advanced Health Assessment | Comprehensive diagnostic reasoning and clinical decision-making |
| Population Health | Epidemiology, health disparities, public health policy |
| Healthcare Systems and Policy | Healthcare delivery, regulation, quality improvement |
| Clinical Practicum | Supervised clinical hours in a specialty area |
| Evidence-Based Practice | Research design, data analysis, clinical application |
Outcomes vary by program, but you can compare:
For pacing and delivery comparisons, see: Online Course Formats
Requirements vary by school, but most programs require a completed BSN from an accredited program and an active RN license. Common elements include transcripts, a resume, and written statements. Some programs may request clinical experience or prerequisite coursework.
For a full checklist, see: Nursing Admissions Requirements
| Career | SOC Code | Median Salary | Employment | Projected Growth (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 29-1141 | $93,600 | 3,282,010 | 4.9% |
| Nurse Practitioner | 29-1171 | $129,210 | 307,390 | 40.1% |
| Nurse Anesthetist | 29-1151 | $223,210 | 50,350 | 8.6% |
| Nurse Midwife | 29-1161 | $128,790 | 8,280 | 11.1% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.
| Level | Typical Credits | Median Earnings (1yr) | Median Earnings (5yr) | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate (ADN) | 60-70 | $67,894 | $74,418 | $15,439 |
| Master’s (MSN) | 36-48 | $107,358 | $119,619 | $44,576 |
| Doctoral (DNP) | 60-90 | $125,952 | $134,953 | $67,862 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, latest academic year.
Compare degree options:
For a value and fit discussion, see: Is a Nursing Degree Worth It
