The Best RN-to-MSN Programs (No BSN Required) of 2024

If you’re a registered nurse (RN) with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) who wants to advance your career by earning your master of science in nursing (MSN), an RN-to-MSN program can be a great option.

These specialized programs allow you to pursue a graduate-level nursing degree without first earning your bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. We’ve identified and ranked the nation’s top RN-to-MSN programs to help you make the right decision for your nursing career.

When assessing which program may be right for you, use the information in the following sections to narrow down your top choices.

Accreditation is the most important factor for an RN-to-MSN nursing program. Accreditation means that a third-party agency has reviewed the program and determined that it meets quality standards and follows industry best practices.

This guide lists only accredited programs. Attending an unaccredited program is an unnecessary risk of your time and money.

While an unaccredited program may look easier or cheaper, employers will consider graduates from only accredited programs. Attending an accredited program also ensures your eligibility for licensure. Credits from non-accredited programs almost never transfer to an accredited program, so joining an accredited program is more efficient.

The right RN-to-MSN program depends on your career goals, background, finances, location, learning style, and the program itself.

Consider a program’s admission requirements, academic reputation, specializations, and class format. While grants, loans, and scholarships can help you pay for school, you still want the best value for your investment of time and money, so it’s important to consider various factors before applying for an RN-to-MSN program.

A growing number of RN-to-MSN programs have online options. Online programs have advantages and disadvantages, depending on your circumstances and needs.

Some online ADN-to-MSN programs require in-person onboarding or have in-person components for some classes, while others offer coursework entirely online.

However, remember that most MSN programs, including online ones, require in-person clinical hours. Some schools will support finding placements in your local area, while others may rely on the student to make the arrangements. Ensure that you can arrange appropriate clinical placements in your local community.

Applying to an RN-to-MSN program is the first step in taking your career to the next level and earning your MSN. The following are several examples of RN-to-MSN programs, and the admissions materials and application requirements.

While the specifics vary by program — so be sure to check with your institution before making any assumptions or taking any action — common requirements include:

Earning an MSN can be an excellent investment in your future, but like other investments, it can have a high initial cost.

Most RN-to-MSN students will pay for their education with savings, current earnings, financial aid from their school, and external loans, scholarships, or grants. Some employers may also provide partial or complete tuition reimbursement.

When estimating costs beyond tuition, consider whether you must adjust your work schedule during clinicals or when studying for exams. Remember to factor in other program expenses, such as textbooks and any equipment you may need. You may also have expenses related to clinical placements, including tolls, gas, parking, and meals on clinical days.

Most MSN graduates become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners, nurse-midwives, or clinical nurse specialists. However, other RN-to-MSN specialties exist, such as nurse educator, nurse researcher, nurse informaticist, or nurse administrator. Many nurse leadership positions require at least a master’s degree.

You may also consider earning a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). A DNP is the highest degree in nursing and is required to become a nurse anesthetist, the highest-earning of all nursing specialties.

Page last reviewed April 26, 2024. This page’s information — not including school descriptions — was reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by NurseJournal.org.