Best Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs Programs or Schools
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- Online master's in nursing administration programs prepare you to become a change leader.
- These programs are rigorous, require practicums, and take two years to complete.
- Administrators can work in hospitals, research facilities, prisons, and the government sector.
- The career outlook for nursing administrators is positive, and typical annual salaries are close to $95,000.
Nurses who graduate from an online master’s in nursing administration program can become change leaders in their field. These programs prepare nurses in administrative roles for increased responsibilities in healthcare.
A rigorous curriculum covering communication, leadership, and the global healthcare environment gives nurses a better perspective, preparing them to lead quality improvement initiatives and provide strategic planning and administrative oversight.
Explore what you can do with this degree and what to look for in your online master's in nursing administration program.
What Can I Do With an Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Degree?
Nurses graduating with an online master's in nursing administration degree have a variety of career paths to choose from. Opportunities extend beyond hospitals, with many nurses working at schools, governmental institutions, and physicians' offices.
Possible career choices include chief nursing officer, director of nursing, nurse administrator, clinical nurse researcher, and legal nurse consultant. You must maintain your nursing license and complete an accredited program to become certified.
The American Nurses Credential Center offers two examinations relevant to this field: the nurse executive certification and the nurse executive advanced certification. Eligibility for both certifications includes at least 2,000 hours of experience in a leadership or management role within the past three years.
Where Can I Work With an Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Degree?
- Hospitals: Hospital nurse administrators typically manage staff in healthcare departments and oversee clinical areas. Primary responsibilities include managing staff, writing reports and budgeting, and developing staff members' skills through effective training programs.
- Outpatient Clinics: The typical daily responsibilities for nurse administrators in an outpatient clinic include recruiting and managing nurse staff, counseling staff, and mediating patient and family conflicts. Nurse administrators must also develop and implement policies and communicate with medical and nursing staff.
- Research Facilities: Research is an integral part of the nursing profession, and administrators play an important role in identifying factors that can improve quality. In research facilities, nurse administrators are responsible for recruiting and supervising staff, advocating for their employees, and developing policies and procedures that support and promote quality research.
How Much Can I Make With an Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Degree?
The average annual base salary for a nurse administrator is $90,580, according to Payscale data from February 2023. However, the median salary reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is greater for medical and health service managers — a title that includes some nursing administrators. According to the BLS, these professionals earn a median annual salary of $104,830. However, a nurse's salary varies depending on their geographical location, certifications held, and years of experience.
Additionally, the career outlook for nurses with an online master's in nursing administration degree is bright. For example, MSN-prepared nurses who become medical and health services managers join one of the fastest-growing occupations in the U.S. The job outlook for medical and health services managers is projected to grow by 28% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the national average for all jobs.
Featured Online MSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What to Look for in an Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Program
While evaluating online master's in nursing administration programs, there are many variables to consider. The following metrics can help you identify the online program that will best meet your educational and personal needs.
Program Curriculum
The program should include coursework in the area you wish to pursue. For example, if working in the prison healthcare system is your first choice, the program you choose should address specifics about that system, such as how it differs from other healthcare systems.
Accreditation
Programmatic accreditation is a vital part of many master's programs. It allows you to apply for federal aid, transfer credits to another program, and pursue a higher degree. All programs on this list are accredited.
Program Length
The number of credits a program requires each term may be a vital consideration if you have outside responsibilities, such as those related to family or work. You may want to consider a part-time program or one that offers asynchronous courses.
Clinical Experience
All MSN programs require some type of clinical experience. However, each program is free to format clinical hours differently and may or may not offer assistance in finding a placement. Look for programs that offer you the ability to attain the skills or specialization you desire.
Program Graduation Rate
A program's graduation rate is public knowledge. This information can give you an indication of the program's level of difficulty and help you infer the likelihood you will graduate.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Accredited programs must include specific courses and clinical work, but the format and technology requirements vary between schools. Poorly designed online platforms or high-end technology requirements can create frustration during the program.
The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs
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Morningside College
Sioux City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $610
Out-of-State | $610
Credits to Graduate: 38
Based in Sioux City, Iowa, Morningside College offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) with a clinical nurse leader track. The curriculum comprises 38 credits, including 22 master's core classes and 16 clinical nurse leader specialty courses. MSN candidates take on 500 clinical practicum hours and one on-site residency. The program prepares graduates to apply for national certification as a clinical nurse leader through the Commission on Nurse Certification.
Interested individuals need a bachelor of science in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They should also hold a valid RN license and submit two recommendation letters, a professional goals essay, and a resume.
Spring Hill College
Mobile, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $411
Out-of-State | $411
Credits to Graduate: 36
The online master of science in nursing (MSN) in executive leadership at Spring Hill College allows nurses to earn their master's degree in one year. This concentration prepares students to work in leadership roles in healthcare business settings. Distance learners take 11-12 courses, including theoretical foundations for leadership, organizational behavior, and applied research and evidence-based practice.
Applicants should possess a bachelor of science in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA and an RN license. They must submit two references, a resume, and an essay describing how becoming a nurse leader will help them achieve their personal and professional goals.
La Salle University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $880
Out-of-State | $880
Credits to Graduate: 34
Philadelphia-based La Salle University offers several nursing degrees, including a master of science in nursing (MSN) with a clinical nurse leader track. The curriculum equips students with the skills they need to become leaders and change agents in healthcare settings. Specialization courses include clinical outcomes management, care environment management, and field study in clinical nurse leadership. Students should also complete 400 clinical hours.
Admission requirements include a bachelor of science in nursing with a minimum 3.2 GPA, an unencumbered nursing license, and one year of relevant clinical experience. The application also requires prospective students to upload a personal statement, a resume, and one letter of reference.
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $443
Out-of-State | $443
Credits to Graduate: 36
Students at the University of Southern Maine can enroll in an online master of science in nursing (MSN) with a concentration in nursing administration and leadership. The program — which students can complete in 12 months — teaches advanced nursing skills and business management. Graduates qualify to apply for American Organization of Nurse Leaders certification.
Those considering applying should possess a bachelor of science in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA and an unencumbered nursing license. Applicants with a 2.75-2.99 undergraduate GPA can still apply by submitting two professional references and GRE scores. All applicants should write a statement of purpose.
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT - 4 years
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $416
Out-of-State | $1,331
Credits to Graduate: 42
The master of science nursing degree in clinical nurse leadership at Montana State University trains students in advanced leadership skills in healthcare settings, ultimately preparing students to become eligible for national clinical nurse leader certification. Toward the end of their studies, learners complete a practicum and carry out and defend a professional project over the course of two semesters.
Nurses interested in enrolling must hold a bachelor of science in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA and an unencumbered RN license. The university's admissions preferences include prospective students who live in Montana, although the school does not require this.
Lander University
Greenwood, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $545
Out-of-State | $545
Credits to Graduate: 36
At Lander University, students can choose between two concentrations for the master of science (MSN) in nursing clinical nurse leader program: nurse educator, and nursing leadership and administration. For the latter, learners take four courses offered through Lander's College of Business in addition to their regular nursing courses. Enrollees must also carry out 500 practice hours in their specific nursing discipline.
Applicants should have graduated with a bachelor of science in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA and should hold South Carolina RN or APRN licensure.
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,060
Out-of-State | $2,010
Credits to Graduate: 39
The master of science in nursing (MSN) with a clinical nurse leader track at the University of Iowa operates mainly online, although students must visit the university for orientation and a capstone defense. Enrollees should carry out a practicum experience where they live. The program lasts six semesters, including one summer session. Specialization courses from the curriculum include applied epidemiology, clinical data management and evaluation, and health promotion and assessment for clinical nurse leaders.
Admission requirements include a bachelor of science in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least one year of nursing experience. Prospective students should also send in a resume, a statement of purpose, and contact information for three recommenders.
Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
Fayette, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $380
Out-of-State | $380
Credits to Graduate: 34
Central Methodist University offers an online MSN with a clinical nurse leader track through its College of Graduate and Extended Studies. The degree prepares students for leadership positions in the healthcare industry through classes in the professional role of the nursing leader and healthcare finance and economics. Learners also enroll in two residency courses.
To apply, interested individuals should hold a bachelor of science in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA along with an undisciplined nursing license. The university also asks applicants to submit a resume and cover letter, a formal written paper addressing a prompt, and two recommendation letters.
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $695
Out-of-State | $695
Credits to Graduate: 36
The online master of science in nursing (MSN) with a clinical nurse track at Mississippi College prepares students to take the clinical nurse certification. The curriculum not only involves core and advanced nursing courses, but also supervised clinical experience and clinical immersion. Specifically, students complete 400 hours with preceptor oversight in a clinical placement, including 40 hours of clinical immersion.
Applicants must possess a bachelor of science in nursing with at least a 2.5 GPA, and nursing licensure. The school also recommends applicants hold at least two years of work experience as a nurse. Prospective students must also write a goal statement and an autobiographical statement.
What Can I Expect From an Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Program
Online master’s in nursing administration programs typically require 30-45 credits of coursework. Some programs may accept previously earned credits from an accredited institution, which could decrease the number of credits that must be completed before graduation.
A BSN-prepared nurse can typically complete the coursework and clinical practicums of an MSN program in two years or less. A student's clinical hours are typically spent working with a licensed nurse administrator. The number of hours required depends on the program.
Additionally, a program's structure depends on the school. Some programs feature more flexibility in the curriculum or allow students to attend on a part-time basis.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs?
There are many typical requirements for an online master's in nursing administration program, but these can vary depending on the school. Additionally, the deadline for admission depends on the program. Some offer a rolling process that closes only when the program reaches capacity. Others offer several start times throughout the year.
Admission Materials
Most online nursing programs require a current and unrestricted RN licensure, a resume or CV, transcripts from all previously attended schools, letters of recommendation, an application, and proof of clinical hours.
Education
Most online MSN nurse administrator programs require a BSN degree from an accredited nursing school.
GPA
The minimum GPA for most programs is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some programs may also require a certain grade in a particular class, such as a minimum 2.0 in a bachelor's-level statistics course.
Entrance Exam
Entrance exams for an online master's program depend on the school. Some require the GRE or Miller Analogies Test (MAT). International students may be required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Experience
Because a master's in nursing administration prepares nurses for administrative and management roles, most programs require at least one year of RN experience at the time of application.
How Much Does an Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Degree Cost?
Various factors that can influence how much your nursing administration degree costs, such as whether you're attending a public or private institution. Additional costs students might need to cover include research fees, textbooks, and distance learning fees. The typical annual graduate tuition and fees cost roughly $12,000-$27,000. Tuition may be lower for online vs. on-campus programs, but this is not always the case.
However, online nursing students can save on traditional on-campus fees, such as room and board, parking and commuting costs, and facilities fees. Students can also reduce out-of-pocket costs by exploring nursing scholarships and grant programs.
Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Master's Degree | 2020-21
Public Institution
$12,394
Private Institution
$26,621
Everything Else You Need to Know About Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs
Is a master's in nursing administration worth it?
If you're seeking a nursing position with advanced responsibilities, the ability to make a difference in your community, or a higher income, then a master's in nursing administration could be well worth the time, effort, and cost.
What is a nurse administrator?
A nurse administrator is a supervisory position within a healthcare setting. These workers manage nurses and other healthcare team members. Nurse administrators are in leadership positions and take an active role in healthcare policy, ensuring the quality of the nursing practice.
What is the job of nursing management?
Nursing managers have a direct supervisory responsibility to staff nurses. They recruit and manage nursing staff, take care of scheduling, participate in policy and procedure development, and help improve patient care by promoting new ideas and practices.
What are the benefits of being a nurse manager?
Nurse managers command a higher salary and have greater flexibility in their work hours compared to many other nurses. Additionally, they often do not need to work weekends, holidays, or night shifts. The role offers opportunities for growth and plays a key role in the success of a nursing unit.
How hard is the nurse executive exam?
The difficulty of the nurse executive certification examination varies depending on your preparation and your comfort in taking standardized tests. Test-takers have three hours to answer 150 questions. Several study programs are available to help you prepare for the test.
