Nursing masters degree programs online

Professional associations, private foundations, and government agencies offer scholarships and grants for graduate students in nursing. In addition to the following opportunities, nurses can research scholarships based on their state, employer, or career goals.

Independence University , a private nonprofit online institution, offers 2 Master of Science in Nursing MSN degrees that can be earned with online coursework. Students in the MSN in Nursing Education program learn about nursing theory and current trends, teaching techniques and methods, to become educators in a range of health care settings.

The MSN in Nursing Administration degree program prepares graduates for entry-level leadership, management and administrative positions throughout the health care industry. Both degree programs require 56 credit hours of coursework and are designed to be completed in 15 months. All coursework is provided online. However, students must participate in a practicum experience typically completed at an approved facility in the student's local community. Other requirements include a current unrestricted RN license from the state in which the student's practicum assignments will be completed, and a minimum of 1 year of nursing practice within the last 5 years.

IU distance learners have access to a number of support resources, including academic assistance through the Student Success Center and career counseling services through IU's Career Services department.

Additionally, all IU students are assigned an associate dean who acts as their personal learning coach. The University of Alabama's fully online Master of Science in Nursing MSN degree is designed for current RNs interested in pursuing a nursing specialization while seeking to advance their careers in the healthcare field.

The program offers 3 concentrations. The Clinical Nurse Leader concentration 39 credit hours of coursework prepares nurses as decision makers in coordinating care of distinct patient groups. The Case Manager concentration 39 credit hours of coursework is for nurses interested in the care of patients in a specific age group or those diagnosed with a particular disease. Graduates with a Nurse Administrator concentration 32 credit hours of coursework focus on health care policy and organizational operations issues while serving in executive-level positions.

All 3 programs culminate in a practicum experience, and each program offers a thesis option. Support services for distance students include career and academic counseling, writing assistance and technical support. South Dakota State University's online Master of Science in Nursing MSN program is offered fully online, with 3 specializations: Clinical Nurse Leader , which prepares nurses for leadership positions throughout the health care field and qualifies them to apply for AACN Clinical Nurse Leader certification; Nurse Educator , which prepares graduates to create and evaluate nursing education programs and provides eligibility for the NLN's Certification for Nurse Educators; and Nurse Administrator , which prepares nurses for advanced practice in nursing leadership, education, clinical practice and administration.

SDSU additionally offers a Family Nurse Practitioner specialization in a hybrid format for students seeking the knowledge and skills for advanced practice care of patients in all stages of life, with a particular emphasis on rural health care. Credit hour requirements and program lengths vary depending on the chosen specialization.

Admission requirements include a bachelor degree in nursing earned with minimum 3. Students must also have completed hours of RN practice prior to enrollment in the first clinical nursing course. SDSU student support resources include career and personal counseling, disability and veteran's services and tech support. Academic advising is available through Nursing Student Services.

The purpose of the University of Central Florida's online Master of Science in Nursing MSN degree prepares RNs for leadership positions as nurse educators, advanced practice nurses and managers in all sectors of the health care field. The degree is offered with 3 specialization tracks: Nurse Educator 35 credit hours , which prepares graduates for teaching on college and university campuses and in private settings; Leadership and Management 36 credit hours , designed to prepare nurses to take leadership positions throughout the health care industry, and; Nursing and Health Care Simulation 31 credit hours , for nurses seeking to become simulation-based educators in university and private settings.

Each of these MSN tracks can be completed with online coursework, although not all elective options or program prerequisites may be available online. Students are also required to complete a 60 clinical hour practicum, which is typically completed with an approved preceptor in the student's local area.

An additional clinical hour internship is required for Nursing and Health Care Simulation students. Applicants with an RN license and non-nursing bachelor's degree may also be admitted, but must complete 3 prerequisite courses with a "B" or better prior to starting their graduate coursework.

However, the Nursing Administration and Nurse Educator specializations require clinical hours, typically completed as part of the student's current employment.

Regular MSN tracks require 42 units of coursework, which may be completed in as little as 12 months. The 2 dual-degree programs each require completion of 60 units of coursework. Distance learners can access an array of online support services and resources through LU's Online Student Life program.

Resources include counseling services, support groups, IT assistance and even prayer requests. Admission requirements into any of the 5 MSN degree programs include a BSN degree from a properly-accredited college, university or nursing school and a current and active RN license within the U.

Applicants with a non-nursing bachelor's degree may also be admitted but must complete 5 specified bridge courses during their first year of degree study.

The private, Catholic-affiliated University of Mary has been in the business of training nurses since its establishment in While all coursework is delivered online, students are required to complete hours of practical leadership experience with the exception of the Nursing and Healthcare Informatics, which requires clinical hours , normally at the student's current place of employment.

Total credits needed for graduation and program completion times vary by specific program. UM online students have access to a wide range of support resources, including personal counseling through the Counseling Services program and academic assistance through the Student Support Center. The Master of Science in Nursing MSN degree offered by Maryland's public Towson University employs a "population-based" approach that teaches nurses the knowledge and skills needed to help patients navigate the complexities of today's health care system.

The program is available with 2 concentrations: Nursing Education , which prepares graduates for teaching at nursing schools and for education and staff development positions at health care agencies; and Clinician-Administrator Transition , which prepares graduates for leadership positions throughout the health care field. TU's online MSN program is open to holders of a bachelor's degree in nursing with a minimum 3.

Students must complete 36 units of coursework. The program is offered in a hybrid format that alternates weekly online coursework and weekday evening on-site classroom instruction. Student support resources include career and academic counseling, childcare services from the University Child Care Center, financial aid assistance and much more. The program prepares its graduates to be educators and leaders in health advisory positions at state agencies and private nursing facilities, as well as on nursing education faculties.

The degree is offered with 2 concentration options: Nurse Educator and Nursing Leadership. Both options require completion of 30 units of coursework and feature theoretical course content that is presented entirely online.

However, both concentrations include a 4-unit practicum requirement that must be completed in person working closely with an approved experienced nurse mentor nurse educator or nurse leader typically residing in the student's local community.

The practicum requires hours of student time with the nurse mentor. Midwestern State University offers online graduate nursing programs through its Wilson School of Nursing. Students at Midwestern State learn advanced nursing practices in patient care, as well as academic research skills. Applicants should have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a nationally accredited program and a current RN license to practice in Texas and the student's state of residence.

Competitive applicants have an undergraduate GPA of 3. Prospective students must also submit their official transcripts and answers to the supplied essay questions. Students who pass the first round of the admissions process will participate in a personal interview with the graduate program coordinator.

This is a competitive program and incoming learners are expected to have documented work experience in the field. Online students at Midwestern State have access to counseling services, student leadership and involvement opportunities, financial aid support, tutoring and career planning services.

Online students can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing degree entirely online at the University of Central Missouri. A nursing educator may work in many settings. Potential jobs fall into a number of categories including college or university teaching, staff development in hospitals or other clinical settings, or nurse educators in government or the private sector, working with non-profits, government or businesses.

Salaries will vary widely, depending on location, your education, and your job experience. In addition to teaching and working in hospitals or clinical settings, technology is opening new career possibilities, including nursing informatics specialists who integrate data and information to better support patients. Nurse educators can work online for hospitals, nonprofits or pharmaceutical companies to answer questions directly from patients or health care personnel.

They can also work with many government entities, such as fire departments, to assure first-class delivery of their job-related health care. Salaries for hospital nurses also vary widely, depending on the type of hospital and the details of the particular job. Specialty hospitals, such as those dealing with substance abuse or geriatric medicine may pay differently than teaching hospitals or those who offer general medical or surgical services.

In addition, many health organizations, such as those dealing with chronic conditions, employ nurse educators to help patients and families understand and cope with their diseases. And government agencies may hire you to work with or research quality control, policies or education needs. Salaries typically rise when more experience is gained in a particular area and with movement into positions of increased responsibility.

Since there are many choices, consider making a chart that allows you to compare the criteria you value among the universities.

Here are some factors:. Additional criteria may be added depending on what you learn during your comparison research and what is important to you. A Masters in Nursing Education combines education courses with clinical ones.

The following list describes some of the classes that you may take during your program. Each university develops its own requirements, and you should study the similarities and differences to make sure the universities you are considering offer curriculum you want to take. This is a Master of Nursing in Nursing Education program so admission will be limited to those who have completed undergraduate nursing degrees.

Many applications can now be completed online, but be sure to read all requirements carefully and pay close attention to deadlines. You do not want a missing piece to hinder your acceptance chances. In you search for online Masters in Nursing Education Online Programs, one of the most important criteria to look for is accreditation. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation CHEA lists all organizations that meet its standards for high academic quality and continual program improvement.

The first place to start your search for funds that can help you pay for your education is the Federal Student Aid Office. Their website is easy to use and can help you navigate to all the pages and forms you need to begin the application process. The financial aid office at each university you are considering is a great place to begin your search for funds that can help you pay for your education. In addition, because of the nursing shortage our country is currently experiencing, several private, government and military organizations offer funding to qualified applicants.

Check out the Nurses Educational Funds Organization for information about funding for nurses who wish to advance their education. Other public or private donors may also provide scholarships or other income sources to help nursing education students with tuition and related expenses.

Appalachian offers an online MSN degree with flexible, part-time enrollment. The curriculum draws from nursing, healthcare, and professional studies to help prepare graduates to become nurse educators in academic and healthcare settings. The online MSN includes a practicum component. Applicants must hold a bachelor of science in nursing degree with specialized nursing accreditation or a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field with an associate degree or diploma in nursing.

They also need a minimum 3. A current, unencumbered registered nurse license and prerequisites in statistics and research are also required. UA's online MSN program features a concentration in nurse administration. The curriculum emphasizes nursing policy, management, and leadership. It helps prepare graduates to pursue careers as nursing services directors, chief nursing executives, and clinical coordinators.

Students must complete a practicum and may opt to complete a thesis. Program applicants need a regionally accredited bachelor's degree in nursing with a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.

Georgia Southern offers an online MSN program with a choice of tracks in chronic care management or nursing education. Each track requires completion of core coursework, specialized lab or practicum components, and a final capstone project. Applicants must have a bachelor of science in nursing degree with specialized nursing accreditation and a minimum 3.

A current, unrestricted registered nurse license in Georgia or in a Georgia-nursing-compact affiliate state is required. Applicants also must have one year of clinical nursing experience. Georgia Southern does not require GRE scores. Designed for transfer students with previous academic experience, the program enables learners to complete their bachelor of science in nursing on the path toward earning a master's.

Students can choose a nursing education or nurse executive track. UWF also requires prospective students to hold an accredited associate degree with a GPA of at least 3. Before beginning master's-level coursework, participants must complete all BSN requirements. U of A's online master's program in nursing offers thesis and non-thesis options.

Students can apply at any time during the academic year and enroll full time or part time. The curriculum includes online coursework, an in-person practicum, and minimal campus visits. Qualified applicants hold a nationally accredited bachelor's degree in nursing with a cumulative 3. Admission also requires a current, unencumbered nursing license. An online master's degree in nursing allows students to focus their education on their career goals, leading to advanced nursing positions and increased earning potential.

Graduates can pursue various careers, including nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, and clinical nurse specialist. Earning an online MSN degree in nursing can take years. Completion times vary widely because of the breadth of MSN programs and specializations.

Students may find that public schools in their state offer the lowest tuition rates, while private universities tend to charge the highest rates.

Nurses are in high demand. Salaries vary based on position, employer, location, and experience. However, many nursing professionals with a master's degree earn six-figure salaries. One of the highest-paying careers for those with an online master's degree in nursing is nurse anesthetist.

As an assistant professor of nursing and entrepreneur with nearly 20 years of varied nursing experience, Brandy Gleason offers a unique perspective. She currently teaches in a prelicensure nursing program and coaches master's students through their culminating projects.

Gleason brings additional expertise as a bedside nurse and nurse leader, having held past roles at the supervisory, managerial, and senior leadership levels. Her passion and area of research centers around coaching nurses and nursing students to build resilience and avoid burnout. Gleason is also an avid change agent when it comes to creating environments and systems that contribute to the well-being of students and healthcare professionals.

Brandy Gleason is a paid member of the Red Ventures Education freelance review network. Elizabeth Clarke Poon is a board-certified family nurse practitioner.

A Boston native, Clarke tired of the cold and snowy winters and moved to Coral Gables, Florida, to complete her undergraduate degree in nursing at the University of Miami UM. Since completing her MSN degree, Clarke has worked providing primary and urgent care to pediatric populations. Elizabeth Clarke is a paid member of the Red Ventures Education freelance review network. View the most relevant school for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to find your college home.

Reviewed by Elizabeth M. These experts: Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information. Provide specific, corrective feedback.

Identify critical information that writers may have missed. Share this Article. Ready to start your journey? The following requirements apply to most MSN programs. Letters of Recommendation Most schools require at least two letters of recommendation.

Resume Many online MSN programs require at least one year of clinical work experience. Essays Essays or personal statements demonstrate an applicant's goals, long-term career plans, and educational aspirations.

Official Transcripts Schools require official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions that applicants have attended. Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs. Location It may seem counterintuitive, but distance learners should also consider geographic location when choosing an online program.

A master's in nursing degree can expand your nursing career employment and leadership opportunities and prepare you to serve in many roles depending on your chosen track. Take advantage of some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation, plus financial aid for those who qualify. Founded in , Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over , graduates across the country.

Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:. At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than , students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field.

Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.

Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 5 graduate terms. You can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials. MSN admission requirements for nursing executive leadership, population healthcare, healthcare quality and safety, and nursing education tracks:. This course requires you to travel to New Hampshire for one immersion experience, where you'll participate in simulation activities and perform assessments with standardized patients.

This multi-day experience should help prepare you for your clinical practicums and provide pivotal hands-on learning to supplement your educational journey. The fee covers items associated with the immersion, such as facility rentals, on-site faculty, training materials and standardized patients. Travel including transportation costs, flights, lodging and meal costs are not included in this fee and are the responsibility of the student to pay for and secure.

After the Immersion Experience, you'll embark on your practicum experiences, which includes clinical hours across five courses. SNHU nursing programs are not authorized in the state of Washington or US territories and we are not accepting students residing in Washington state or US territories into nursing programs at this time. Currently enrolled students who move into the state of Washington or a US territory will not be able to continue in nursing courses until they move out of the state of Washington or the US territory.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact admission, and current students should contact their advisor, for more information. Students must reside in one of these states while taking FNP courses at SNHU, and all practicum experiences must be completed in one of these states.

Please note that the family nurse practitioner track is accepting applications from a limited number of students per term. Applicants and students are advised that their success in their chosen program may be dependent on an ability to meet the Nursing Program Health and Technical Requirements PDF.

Simply contact an admission counselor , who can help you explore financial options , answer all your questions and walk you through the application process, which includes:. The master's in nursing online degree is designed to help you build key competencies you need for nursing practice at the master's level. All online MSN tracks begin with the same 5 core courses — giving you the opportunity to explore before you choose the direction you want to go.

Each online MSN program track integrates hands-on learning to help you succeed in the role of your choice. These requirements may include but are not limited to a criminal background check, active and unencumbered license verification, immunization records, professional liability insurance. Students may incur additional costs to meet organizational requirements ex. These requirements must be met prior to registering for the clinical practice experience course.

It is a requirement that nursing students carry their own medical malpractice insurance while enrolled in practicum courses. At least two terms prior to the start of the clinical components, students will be required to demonstrate proof of having an active individual medical malpractice certificate. Students enrolled in the MSN program courses are responsible for ensuring they have the minimum system hardware, software and equipment.

Visit Dell. Visit Apple. Tuition rates for SNHU's online degree programs are among the lowest in the nation. Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed Annually.

Students enrolled in MSN programs may be subject to ongoing licensure checks through a third party vendor, additional fees will apply and may vary by state. Yes, you can enroll in and graduate from online nursing programs that are accredited and can help you in your career. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, or CCNE, is an autonomous accrediting agency that ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate and residency programs in nursing across the country.

The short answer is yes. Assuming the program is accredited and aligned with the latest industry standards, an online MSN degree is respected by today's employers. According to her, she not only got a respected degree that helped her build skills as a nurse — she also gained invaluable support along the way. Of her academic advisor, Smith said: "It was just really nice to have that support and have someone in my corner that I could turn to that understood the academic world.

Smith's MSN also positioned her to pass on her skills and help build an even stronger nursing community. This depends on many factors, depending on how many courses you take per term and your chosen track. The credit MSN tracks at Southern New Hampshire University include healthcare quality and safety, nursing education, nurse executive leadership and population healthcare.

These tracks are comprised of 12 courses. Full-time status means you'd take 2 courses during each week term. Full-time students who satisfactorily complete their coursework in these tracks could expect to complete an MSN degree in less than 1.

The family nurse practitioner track is 51 credits, or 17 courses. Full-time students could finish this track in less than 2 years. Attending school as a full-time student isn't always feasible for working adults. At SNHU, taking 1 class per term puts you at part-time status, which means it would take longer for you to earn your degree, but could work better with your life and schedule.