Best Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs
Discover the best online master’s in nursing administration programs. Find out how to earn your degree and learn about career options for graduates.
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Nurses who graduate from an online master’s in nursing administration program can become leaders in their field. These programs prepare nurses in administrative roles for increased responsibilities and supervisory roles in healthcare.
Master’s in nursing administration programs offer rigorous curriculums covering communication, leadership, and the global healthcare environment to prepare you to lead quality improvement initiatives and provide strategic planning and administrative oversight among nursing staff.
Explore what you can do with this degree and what to look for in your online master’s in nursing administration program.
The Best Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Morningside College
Sioux City, IA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,400
$5,400
69%
51%
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.
$32,460
$32,460
69%
2,411
Private
Yes
$5,400
$5,400
Sioux City, IA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,400
$5,400
69%
51%
$32,460
$32,460
69%
2,411
Private
Yes
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, AL4 yearCampus + Online
$7,182
$7,182
54%
77%
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.
$39,336
$39,336
81%
1,191
Private
Yes
$7,182
$7,182
Mobile, AL4 yearCampus + Online
$7,182
$7,182
54%
77%
$39,336
$39,336
81%
1,191
Private
Yes
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, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$25,680
$25,680
76%
91%
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.
$31,350
$31,350
78%
4,624
Private
Yes
$25,680
$25,680
Philadelphia, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$25,680
$25,680
76%
91%
$31,350
$31,350
78%
4,624
Private
Yes
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, ME4 yearCampus + Online
$7,776
$21,348
88%
88%
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.
$8,064
$21,532
70%
8,022
Public
Yes
$7,776
$21,348
Portland, ME4 yearCampus + Online
$7,776
$21,348
88%
88%
$8,064
$21,532
70%
8,022
Public
Yes
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, MT4 yearOnline
$5,089
$19,660
81%
94%
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.
$5,654
$25,087
78%
16,218
Public
Yes
$5,089
$19,660
Bozeman, MT4 yearOnline
$5,089
$19,660
81%
94%
$5,654
$25,087
78%
16,218
Public
Yes
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, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$8,856
$16,844
57%
81%
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.
$10,700
$20,300
75%
3,513
Public
Yes
$8,856
$16,844
Greenwood, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$8,856
$16,844
57%
81%
$10,700
$20,300
75%
3,513
Public
Yes
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, IA4 yearCampus + Online
$10,079
$26,026
84%
52%
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.
$8,073
$30,036
88%
30,318
Public
Yes
$10,079
$26,026
Iowa City, IA4 yearCampus + Online
$10,079
$26,026
84%
52%
$8,073
$30,036
88%
30,318
Public
Yes
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, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$6,075
$6,075
100%
59%
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.
$5,950
$5,950
67%
3,429
Private
Yes
$6,075
$6,075
Fayette, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$6,075
$6,075
100%
59%
$5,950
$5,950
67%
3,429
Private
Yes
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, MS4 yearCampus + Online
$11,610
$11,610
29%
42%
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.
$18,200
$18,200
80%
4,667
Private
Yes
$11,610
$11,610
Clinton, MS4 yearCampus + Online
$11,610
$11,610
29%
42%
$18,200
$18,200
80%
4,667
Private
Yes
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 Do With an Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Degree?
You’ll have a variety of career paths to choose from with an online master’s in nursing administration degree. You don’t only have to work in hospitals — many nurse administrators work at schools, government institutions, and physicians’ offices.
Possible career choices include chief nursing officer, director of nursing, nurse administrator, clinical nurse researcher, and legal nurse consultant.
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. You’ll also have to maintain your nursing credentials.
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 $96,540, according to Payscale data from August 2024. However, the median salary for medical and health service managers — a title that includes some nursing administrators — is even higher, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
These professionals earned a median annual salary of $110,680 as of May 2023. Ultimately, however, a nurse’s salary varies depending on their geographical location, certifications held, and years of experience.
The career outlook for nurses with an online master’s in nursing administration degree is bright. Nurses with an MSN who become medical and health services managers work in 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, much faster than the national average for all jobs.
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. Consider a part-time program or one that offers asynchronous courses, which allows you to complete coursework on your own schedule without real-time interaction with peers or instructors.
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. High-end or expensive technology requirements can be frustrating, so be sure to check what your program requires.
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 you must complete before graduation.
If you already have a BSN, you can typically complete the coursework and clinical practicums of an MSN program in two years or less. You’ll also complete in-person clinical hours by working alongside a licensed nurse administrator. The number of clinical hours required depends on your program.
Additionally, a program’s structure depends on the school. Some programs feature more flexibility in the curriculum or allow you to attend on a part-time basis.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs?
There are typically multiple 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 GPA of 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 also 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 can influence how much your nursing administration degree costs, such as whether you’re attending a public or private institution. Additional costs you might need to cover include research fees, textbooks, and distance learning fees.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average price of graduate tuition and fees was $20,513 as of the 2020-21 school year. Tuition may be lower at online vs. on-campus programs, but this is not always the case.
However, as an online nursing student, you may be able to save on traditional on-campus fees, such as room and board, parking and commuting costs, and facilities fees. You can also reduce out-of-pocket costs by exploring nursing scholarships and grant programs.
Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Master’s Degree | 2021-22
Public Institution
$12,596
Private Institution
$28,017
Source: NCES
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs
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.
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Best Online Master’s in Nursing (MSN) Programs
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by Marisa Upson
Updated September 24, 2021
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