Best Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2025
Discover the cheapest online MSN programs. Learn about program length, cost, and potential careers.
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Nurses work in every part of healthcare to improve patients’ lives. With a master of science in nursing (MSN), you can pursue advanced roles that pay well, like nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, and nurse midwife.
After earning your MSN, you could also pursue a doctorate in nursing and go on to teach future nurses, specialize in an area of interest, or lead research projects.
Master’s programs can be expensive, though. Explore this page to find the cheapest MSN programs for registered nurses.
Online MSN Highlights
- Most (98%) online nursing and healthcare students and graduates say they would recommend online education to others.
- Of these respondents, 95% say they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
- 84% also say an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
- Part-time and online/hybrid students generally favor the same factors as full-time and on-campus students in their college choice.
Top MSN Online Programs
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2025. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,552
$28,844
19%
25%
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
$7,020
$37,360
97%
32,496
Public
Yes
$10,552
$28,844
Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,552
$28,844
19%
25%
$7,020
$37,360
97%
32,496
Public
Yes
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
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$5,467
$16,695
73%
68%
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
$6,099
$21,665
84%
30,849
Public
Yes
$5,467
$16,695
Boca Raton, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$5,467
$16,695
73%
68%
$6,099
$21,665
84%
30,849
Public
Yes
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
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,916
$25,759
43%
9%
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
$6,368
$22,467
92%
68,842
Public
Yes
$6,916
$25,759
Orlando, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$6,916
$25,759
43%
9%
$6,368
$22,467
92%
68,842
Public
Yes
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
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$8,108
$17,798
89%
36%
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)
$6,422
$13,995
68%
13,705
Public
Yes
$8,108
$17,798
Oshkosh, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$8,108
$17,798
89%
36%
$6,422
$13,995
68%
13,705
Public
Yes
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)
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT4 yearCampus + Online
$7,353
$25,961
87%
55%
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
$9,103
$31,861
85%
35,262
Public
Yes
$7,353
$25,961
Salt Lake City, UT4 yearCampus + Online
$7,353
$25,961
87%
55%
$9,103
$31,861
85%
35,262
Public
Yes
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
Auburn University at Montgomery
Montgomery, AL4 yearCampus + Online
$7,812
$17,550
93%
61%
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
$8,568
$19,224
66%
5,190
Public
Yes
$7,812
$17,550
Montgomery, AL4 yearCampus + Online
$7,812
$17,550
93%
61%
$8,568
$19,224
66%
5,190
Public
Yes
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
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$5,219
$18,937
90%
69%
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
$4,422
$19,582
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
$5,219
$18,937
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$5,219
$18,937
90%
69%
$4,422
$19,582
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
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
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$11,310
$23,100
49%
62%
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
$7,070
$26,860
89%
25,865
Public
Yes
$11,310
$23,100
Stony Brook, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$11,310
$23,100
49%
62%
$7,070
$26,860
89%
25,865
Public
Yes
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
Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville, TN4 yearCampus + Online
$10,480
$19,420
78%
46%
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)
$8,520
$18,552
78%
9,902
Public
Yes
$10,480
$19,420
Cookeville, TN4 yearCampus + Online
$10,480
$19,420
78%
46%
$8,520
$18,552
78%
9,902
Public
Yes
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)
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND4 yearCampus + Online
$11,963
$17,944
77%
68%
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
$9,237
$13,856
83%
14,172
Public
Yes
$11,963
$17,944
Grand Forks, ND4 yearCampus + Online
$11,963
$17,944
77%
68%
$9,237
$13,856
83%
14,172
Public
Yes
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
Why You Should Get an MSN
Ability to Specialize: In a master’s in nursing program, you can specialize in a specific area of nursing that interests you, such as education, leadership, or advanced practice (nurse practitioner).- Leadership Opportunities: Having an MSN can increase your opportunity for leadership roles in healthcare organizations.
- Pay Increase: By enabling you to pursue more advanced roles, an MSN can boost your earning potential.
- Teaching Opportunities: With an MSN, you can work as a nurse educator at universities, healthcare facilities, and businesses.
- Job Security: An MSN can raise your employability in a stable but competitive healthcare job market.
Benefits of Getting an MSN Online
93% of all students say their online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.- 97% of prospective online students, currently enrolled online students, and online program graduates would recommend online education to others.
- 81% of student respondents say that online learning is better than or equal to on-campus learning.
- Most online program graduates (73%) say their programs prepared them for employment after graduation — and 31% say they were extremely well prepared.
Curious what courses you’ll take online? Check out our complete nursing guide 
How to Choose the Best Affordable Online MSN Program for You
Before you apply to an online MSN program, consider factors like cost, program length, and accreditation. This way you can ensure the program is worth it for you. Be sure to research programs carefully before applying, as they may not offer a specialty that aligns with your interests.
How Much Does an Online MSN Cost?
Cost of Online Healthcare Master’s Degree, 2019-2020
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$11,229
Avg. Net Price
$9,621
Source: NCES PowerStats
The average tuition and fees of an online healthcare master’s degree — which includes MSN degrees — was just over $11,000 in 2019-2020, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The average net price — the cost after financial aid is applied — was around $9,600.
This reduction shows just how much financial aid can help offset the cost of your MSN program. Note, however, that these numbers are averages — the actual cost of your program will depend on the location, program length, and type of school (whether public or private).
Be sure to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year you’re enrolled in graduate school to offset some of these costs through grants and scholarships.
Find Financial Aid for Your MSN
How Long Does It Take to Get an MSN?
Typical # of Credits
40 Credits
Typical Program Length
2 Years
Online master’s in nursing programs typically take two years to complete. You’ll need to earn around 40 credits to graduate.
You can save time and money by enrolling in an accelerated program, transferring college credits, and earning credit for experience to reduce the amount of time you’ll have to spend in your MSN program.
If you’re employed, try looking into tuition reimbursement.
MSN Application Requirements
A current RN license- Application and fee
- Letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from previous institutions
- Resume or CV
- Personal statement
- Background check and drug screen
- Interview
Accreditation for MSN Programs
As you explore online MSN programs, be on the lookout for accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
These agencies provide programmatic accreditation for master’s in nursing programs.
Programmatic accreditation mostly applies to professional pathways and career-focused programs, such as nursing. This type of accreditation ensures the program can provide a quality education that prepares you for the field.
Ask an Expert: How Important Is Nursing Accreditation?
“Accreditation shows that the school and its curriculum meet rigorous curriculum standards, no matter where you study. This means that wherever you get your education, you are learning similar content as your peers.”
What Can You Do With an MSN?
After you earn your master’s degree in nursing, you’ll be qualified for advanced roles that are key to providing specialized care. These roles include nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, and nurse practitioner.
“Many nurses with an MSN are nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists [or] take on leadership roles like director of nursing or chief nursing officer,” says Brandi Jones, a nurse educator with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare field.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), specialized nurses with MSNs earned well above the national median wage for all jobs ($48,060).
| Job | 2024 Median Annual Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Anesthetist | $223,210 | Provides anesthesia care to patients in healthcare settings. |
| Nurse Midwife | $128,790 | Coordinates the birthing process and treats female production issues. |
| Nurse Practitioner | $129,210 | Diagnoses and treats acute and chronic illnesses. |
Learn More About Nursing Jobs
Is an MSN Worth It?
Nurses earn above-average salaries, which can make pursuing an MSN worth it. The mean starting salary for 2023 master’s in nursing graduates was $94,160 per year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
An MSN can lead to advanced roles that pay even more. According to the BLS, nurse anesthetists earned a median salary of $223,210 in 2024.
The BLS projects jobs for advanced practice registered nurses will grow 40% between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the average 4% growth rate across all jobs.
Still, there’s more to consider than just money and job growth. The flexibility of online learning can be a big advantage for busy adult online learners. Online master’s in nursing programs cater to working nurses, which can make an MSN a great choice if you want career advancement without taking a work break.
Ultimately, it’s crucial to consider the financial and time investments involved in an MSN. Even the cheapest online master’s program will likely cost at least $10,000 and take two years to complete as a full-time student.
Education Beyond an MSN
After you complete your master’s in nursing program, you can apply for doctoral programs in nursing.
A doctor of nursing practice (DNP) or a Ph.D. in nursing program can prepare you for leadership roles in healthcare administration, academic research, and advanced clinical practice.
Nurses with doctorates can earn higher salaries than MSN-holders. With a doctorate, you’ll have access to advanced roles like chief nursing officer, nurse researcher, professor, and dean of a nursing school.
An advanced degree can broaden your career options and increase your impact by enabling you to work in policy advocacy and healthcare innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions About MSN Degrees
A BSN is an undergraduate degree, while an MSN is a graduate degree that builds on the foundation of a BSN, focusing on advanced assessment, pharmacology, leadership, or education principles. Where a BSN opens doors to a range of nursing roles, many advanced roles require an MSN or higher.
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