Best Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2025
A master of science in nursing can lead to a high-paying job in a nursing specialty or healthcare administration. Explore affordable online MSNs.
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2025At a Glance: This Year’s Top Affordable Online MSN Programs
- #1: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — The university offers two online MSN programs: healthcare leadership and administration and nurse practitioner.
- #2: Florida Atlantic University — Students can choose from six degree types including advanced holistic nursing, nurse educator, and family nurse practitioner.
- #3: University of Central Florida — The university offers three MSN tracks: nurse educator, nursing and healthcare simulation, and nursing leadership and management.
If you want to advance your nursing practice and open new professional doors, a master of science in nursing (MSN) might be worth pursuing.
The following list includes some of the top affordable online MSN degree programs for 2025. However, note that these programs aren’t simply the cheapest available. Beyond their cost, we also considered student outcomes, ease of admission, reputation, flexibility, accessibility, and student diversity.
Affordable Online MSN Programs
How We Rank Schools
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, you can choose between two MSN degrees: healthcare leadership and administration and nurse practitioner advanced practice.
Offered online with both full-time and part-time options, the program gives you the flexibility to balance your education with your professional and personal obligations.
The faculty will provide you with a deep understanding of patient clinical progression, evidence-based practice, and patient safety.
The curriculum includes courses such as pathophysiology for advanced nursing, organizational theory for managing complex healthcare systems, and primary care of adolescents and adults.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- Scholarships available
- Part-time and full-time options
Know Before You Apply
- May involve teaching or research
25%
$10,552
97%
$28,844
- Acceptance Rate
- 19%
- Students Enrolled
- 32,496
- Institution Type
- Public
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
Florida Atlantic University's master of science in nursing program offers six degree types, including advanced holistic nursing, nurse educator, and family nurse practitioner. You'll gain the leadership and teaching skills you'll need to succeed as a nurse.
With flexible full-time and part-time options, you can continue your career while you study. You'll take classes like nursing informatics, advanced nursing practice grounded in caring, and psychiatric mental health nursing across the lifespan.
Highlights
- Graduate funding available
- Flexible full-time and part-time options
- Six concentrations to choose from
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $378 per credit (in-state)
- Costly out-of-state tuition
68%
$ 5,467
84%
$16,695
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 30,849
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
The University of Central Florida's online nursing MSN program offers three program tracks: nurse educator, nursing and healthcare simulation, and nursing leadership and management.
No matter which track you choose, you'll gain the clinical skills and knowledge you'll need to lead healthcare organizations.
This program is open to those who've completed a non-nursing bachelor's program as well as those with an associate in nursing. You can also apply if you have a nursing diploma.
Online student resources include a writing center, a library, tutoring, and online therapy assistance.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- No GRE requirement
- Three program tracks
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $327 per credit (in-state)
- Costs $1,151 per credit (out-of-state)
- 31-36 credits required
9%
$ 6,916
92%
$25,759
- Acceptance Rate
- 43%
- Students Enrolled
- 68,842
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
- Oshkosh, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh's master of science in nursing program offers two MSN study options: a nurse educator emphasis and an RN-to-BSN-to-MSN program.
Both programs are offered fully online, although all students must complete clinical hours near their homes in Wisconsin.
The nurse educator emphasis takes two years to complete as a full-time student and three years as a part-time student. The RN-to-BSN–to-MSN program usually takes 5 years, saving you time and money while you earn an advanced degree.
Highlights
- Two concentrations to choose from
- Full-time and part-time options
- CCNE-accredited
Know Before You Apply
- $558 per credit (in-state tuition)
- $1,108 per credit (out-of-state tuition)
36%
$ 8,108
68%
$17,798
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 13,705
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Utah
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
The University of Utah offers an online master of science in nursing program with four specialty tracks. You can choose between nursing leadership, nursing informatics, gerontology, and nursing education.
Each of these speciality tracks come in full-time and part-time options, and can be completed within five semesters. The curriculum includes coursework in health and systems, clinical decision support, and ambulatory care.
As a student at the University of Utah, you'll have opportunities for teaching and research assistantships as well as a nurse faculty loan program.
Highlights
- Scholarships and fellowships available
- Full-time and part-time options
- CCNE-accredited
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $932 per credit
55%
$ 7,353
85%
$25,961
- Acceptance Rate
- 87%
- Students Enrolled
- 35,262
- Institution Type
- Public
Auburn University at Montgomery
- Montgomery, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
Auburn University at Montgomery hosts an online family nurse practitioner program designed for those with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from a programmatically accredited program.
You can choose between two concentrations: nurse educator and health systems leader. As a student in this program, you'll learn how to diagnose and treat various health conditions, promote wellness, provide comprehensive care, and lead research and education initiatives.
This program has a 100% pass rate on the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- Career-focused education
- Family nurse practitioner concentration
Know Before You Apply
- Full-time program
- Intensive on-campus learning requirements
61%
$ 7,812
66%
$17,550
- Acceptance Rate
- 93%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,190
- Institution Type
- Public
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Greensboro, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro's master of science in nursing program offers four concentrations, including family nurse practitioner, nursing leadership management, and an accelerated master's program.
Each concentration offers opportunities to specialize in an area of interest and advance your career. After you graduate, you can pursue leadership roles.
In this program, you'll learn how to use evidence to improve healthcare outcomes and perform duties as an advanced nurse clinician, administrator, or educator.
Scholarships and graduate research assistantships are available.
Highlights
- Graduate funding available
- Four concentrations to choose from
- CCNE-accredited
Know Before You Apply
- Costs $8,614 per year (in-state)
- $23,329 per year out-of-state
69%
$ 5,219
76%
$18,937
- Acceptance Rate
- 90%
- Students Enrolled
- 17,743
- Institution Type
- Public
Stony Brook University
- Stony Brook, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
Stony Brook University's master of science in nursing program offers ten different master of science programs, including the nursing leader and nursing educator tracks.
In the nurse leader track, you'll prepare to assume leadership positions across all levels of the nursing professor. In the nurse educator track, you'll learn how to teach beginning and established nurses in clinical settings and nursing schools.
If those tracks don't interest you, you can choose to specialize in midwifery, mental health, or acute care, among other concentrations. Courework includes clinical pathophysiology across the lifespan, advanced health assessment, healthcare policy and advocacy, and clinical pharmacology.
Highlights
- Scholarships available
- Multiple concentrations to choose from
- Stepping stone to a Ph.D.
Know Before You Apply
- On-site requirements
- Clinical practice portfolio required for applicants without a bachelor's
62%
$11,310
89%
$23,100
- Acceptance Rate
- 49%
- Students Enrolled
- 25,865
- Institution Type
- Public
Tennessee Technological University
- Cookeville, TN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
Tennessee Technological University offers two MSN programs for future nurse practitioners: family nurse practitioner and psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner.
If a nurse practitioner track doesn't grab your attention, you can choose between two other concentrations: nursing education and nursing administration.
TN Tech also offers five post-master's tracks, including specializations in pediatrics, women's health, and adult geriatric acute care. Student services include academic advisement, a career development center, a student success center, and a women's center.
Highlights
- Two MSN tracks
- Five post-master's tracks
- CCNE-accredited
Know Before You Apply
- $765 per credit hour (in-state)
- $905 per credit hour (out-of-state)
46%
$10,480
78%
$19,420
- Acceptance Rate
- 78%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,902
- Institution Type
- Public
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose This School
University of North Dakota's online family nurse practitioner program takes 8 semesters to complete. This part-time program features courses such as role development of the NP, pharmacotherapeutics for primary care, and management of health conditions in primary care.
You'll also take an advanced clinical practicum, gaining advanced practice clinical experience in your area of specialization. You'll gain clinical experience in primary and specialty care settings.
As a University of Dakota student, you'll have access to the counseling center's telemental health services, disability resources, and academic and career support.
Highlights
- CCNE-accredited
- 100% online coursework
- Takes only eight semesters to complete
Know Before You Apply
- Two campus visits
- Costs $816 per credit hour
- Part-time
68%
$11,963
83%
$17,944
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 14,172
- Institution Type
- Public
Why the Cheapest Online MSN Program Isn’t Always the Most Affordable
Affordability is an important factor when choosing an MSN degree program. However, affordability involves more than just a program’s “sticker price.”
The cheapest program in terms of tuition and fees is not necessarily the most affordable when you take into account financial aid availability and overall program quality.
Many students rely on financial aid to help pay for their degrees. Some schools offer generous scholarship opportunities, institutional grants, or discounts, while others provide minimal financial support. It’s important to compare your options since financial aid can sometimes cut tuition prices by half or more, as shown in the table below.
Additionally, the quality of a program can significantly impact your out-of-pocket costs. For example, a low-cost program that lacks student support and educational rigor might increase your risk of repeating courses or extending your graduation timeline, potentially leading to added costs. Accredited programs led by experienced faculty can reduce this likelihood.
Program quality also impacts your overall return on investment (ROI). A cheap program isn’t helpful if you graduate without strong career prospects. Programs with strong outcomes can offset a higher upfront cost when your increased earnings begin to pay back that investment.
| Institution Name | Northwestern University | University of Missouri-St. Louis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Yearly Cost of Tuition | $87,804 | $38,132 |
| Avg. Net Tuition After Aid | $23,341 | $17,831 |
| Avg. Savings from Aid | ~73% | ~53% |
Benefits of Getting an Affordable MSN Degree Online
- 57% of prospective students note that cost is their biggest hurdle when choosing an online program.
- 90% of graduates of online programs believe their degree has or will have a positive ROI.
- 98% of all current, prospective, and former students surveyed would recommend online education.
How Much Does an MSN Degree Cost?
Master’s in Health Professions, 2019-2020
Online
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $11,229
Avg. Net Price: $9,621
On-Campus
Avg. Tuition & Fees: $19,144
Avg. Net Price: $16,428
Source: NCES PowerStats
According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of a MSN degree is around $19,000 per year without financial aid — or $76,000 for a four-year program.
However, online programs are often cheaper. Yearly tuition for online MSN degrees is around $11,000 before financial aid.
Undergraduate programs usually provide more federal aid options compared to graduate ones. Still, you may qualify for other financial aid options such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Find Financial Aid for Your MSN Degree
What Is an Online MSN’s ROI?
Nurses typically earn above-average salaries, making an MSN a degree with a strong return on investment (ROI).
The mean starting salary for MSN graduates was $94,160 per year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers’ (NACE) graduate salary report from the class of 2023.
Additionally, an MSN can help you qualify for advanced roles with higher salaries, such as nurse anesthetists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse aestheticians earned a median salary of $132,050 in 2024.
The BLS projects that jobs for advanced practice nurses will grow by 35% between 2024 and 2034. This suggests strong long-term career potential and job security, which further enhances the overall value of an MSN degree.
How to Save Money on Your Online MSN
To save money on your degree, consider the following:
1. Apply for Federal and State Financial Aid (FAFSA)
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal loans, grants, and work‑study opportunities. Although much federal aid is allocated toward undergraduate students, many states and schools also use FAFSA results to award need-based scholarships, assistantships, and tuition reductions geared toward graduate students.
2. Seek Out Nursing‑Specific Scholarships and Grants
Some professional associations, private foundations, and hospitals offer scholarships specifically for nursing graduate students. Well-known examples include the Dr. Margaret Comerford Freda Award by the March of Dimes and the Nursing Economic Foundation’s scholarships for advanced nursing degree students.
3. Look into Employer Tuition Reimbursement or Sponsorship
If you’re currently employed at a hospital or healthcare organization, check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement or sponsorship specifically for graduate nursing programs. Before enrolling in your MSN, carefully review your employer’s reimbursement policy to confirm that your chosen program qualifies. Keep in mind that employers often limit reimbursement to approved degrees or specializations and typically require you to maintain a minimum GPA.
4. Apply for Federal or Private Education Loan Forgiveness Programs
As a graduate student, you can apply for federal unsubsidized loans. You can also consider private student loans. However, these often have less favorable terms compared to federal loans and generally don’t qualify for federal forgiveness or income-driven repayment programs.
You may also qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or nursing‑specific forgiveness programs such as the Federal Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program or the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program. Keep in mind, however, that some of these programs may require service commitments in eligible locations, are highly competitive, and may not repay all of your debt.
5. Get Credits for Previous Education or Work Experience
Some schools allow you to earn credits for previous graduate coursework or relevant professional experiences. Check your school’s transfer credit policy for any credit hour limits and minimum grade requirements. Eligibility typically depends on factors such as the accreditation of your previous institution and the relevance of your previous credits to the degree program you’re enrolling in.
Frequently Asked Questions About MSN Degrees
The average cost of an online healthcare master’s degree, including MSN degrees, is just over $11,000 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics’ (NCES) data from 2020. The average net price (the cost after financial aid is applied) was roughly $9,600. Remember, however, that other factors — including location, school, and financial aid awards — can impact your final cost.
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