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Cheapest Master of Science in Nursing Degrees
Earning a master of science in nursing (MSN) helps nurses enhance their careers and increase their earnings. Entry to online MSN programs requires a bachelor's in nursing or a similar field. Prospective students may also need work experience in the field before they apply.
MSN graduates can become nurse practitioners (NPs). These nurses see patients independently without physician supervision. Other MSN degree-holders become midwives, occupational therapists, or health services managers.
MSN costs vary by school and by students' needs and merit. See below for a breakdown of factors that affect the price. Also, review the list of the most affordable MSN programs offered online.
Why Get an MSN Degree?
Experienced nurses get many benefits from enrolling in MSN programs online. Completing an online MSN program lets them pursue new nursing jobs. These jobs include roles with more independence and responsibility, such as NPs and midwives. Other nurses use their MSN to step into leadership or management roles at healthcare facilities.
Earning an MSN degree online can increase nurses' earning potential. Generally, jobs that require an MSN pay more than those that do not. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that NPs earn a $117,670 median annual salary. Registered nurses (RNs) earn $75,330.
Many schools offer MSN programs online. The flexibility of an online MSN program lets nurses continue working while earning their degree. Many programs use an asynchronous format, letting students take classes at their convenience. This flexibility appeals to nurses, who often work busy, complex schedules.
How Much Does an MSN Degree Cost?
A master's degree in science averaged $62,340 in 2021, according to the Education Data Initiative. Public schools typically offer more affordable MSN programs than private schools. Students often save money by earning their MSN degree online.
Students should expect to earn their degree in 1-3 years. Online MSN programs offer different tracks and specializations, some of which take longer than others. Part-time students often take longer than students taking classes full time.
Prospective students can find many MSN programs online and in person. Online nursing schools often feature the most affordable MSN programs. However, they often require students to complete an in-person practicum during their studies.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online MSN programs may save students money over in-person programs. But, sometimes they come with added costs. These costs include reliable technology, such as a computer and a stable internet connection.
Enrollees need to buy learning materials, such as books and software. MSN programs usually require an in-person component in a healthcare setting. Degree-seekers should consider transportation costs.
Learners may also need to pay graduation fees. Licensure for healthcare positions includes exam fees not covered by tuition.
How Much Do MSN Graduates Make?
MSN degree-holders pursue many nursing and healthcare roles. High-paying jobs for MSN graduates include nurse anesthetist and occupational therapist. Nurse anesthetists earn a median of $183,580 per year, while occupational therapists earn $86,280. Graduates can also pursue healthcare management positions. Medical and health services managers earn a $104,280 median annual salary.
Earning an MSN degree can boost nurses' earning potential. NPs, who need an MSN, earn a median annual salary of $42,340 higher than RNs, who only need a bachelor's.
Courses in an MSN Program
In an online MSN program, students learn management, patient diagnosis, and pharmacology skills. Some schools offer specialized degrees, like MSNs in health system leadership. Other specializations include nursing education and public health nursing.
Some students take specialized nursing classes. Courses cover managerial topics like organizational leadership and fiscal management. Others explore more ethics-related topics, such as the legal healthcare system and quality improvement.
The class descriptions below provide an overview of courses offered by MSN programs online. Note that these courses only represent a sample curriculum. Not all schools offer these specific options.
Advanced Health Assessment
Advanced health assessment classes prepare nurses to provide primary care to patients from all populations. Students collect quantitative and qualitative patient data. They use this data to analyze patients' current health, future risks, and means for preventative care. Nurses use these skills on the job no matter their specialty.
Health Promotion in Families and Communities
This course covers specific health risks in certain communities and families. Students learn about risk appraisal and how to prevent risks in families, communities, and individuals. Nurses use these analytical skills when treating diverse populations.
Leadership and Management in Complex Health Systems
This course prepares enrollees to take on more responsibility in their healthcare roles. They learn strategy and leadership skills and how to manage a team and monitor organizational performance. Nurses use organizational and leadership skills even when not in management roles.
Licensure for Nursing
Most MSN graduates already hold RN status with state certification. After earning an MSN and completing necessary work experience, students need certification to work in their preferred field.
Nurse anesthetists in all states must take the National Certification Exam. Administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists, the exam costs $995.
Individual states license nurse practitioners. Some states let NPs practice without physician supervision, while others do not. Most states require that applicants already hold national certification, which several certification boards offer.
Some boards offer national certification for NP specialties, such as family nurse practitioner or women's health nurse practitioner. Certification typically costs a few hundred dollars.
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
These rankings include
BestCollegeReviews.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
Ohio State University helps students earn a degree at their own pace. Based in Columbus, the public, four-year institution offers 121 master's programs, enrolling graduate students on campus and remotely. Students interested in nursing can benefit from the online MSN program.
Nursing students benefit from a variety of institutional resources, including guidance in their academic and professional endeavors. Students can collaborate one-on-one with faculty members, and academic advisors help learners choose courses that meet their needs. The nursing program accommodates students from all walks of life, providing full- and part-time enrollment options.
Students should speak with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities, such as internal scholarships and federal financial aid. According to the institution, 84% of attendees receive aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,615
Out-of-state
$32,599
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,560
Out-of-state
$36,276
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
61,369
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Students hoping to balance graduate education with their busy schedule often find Grand Canyon University's online master's in public health nursing to be an attractive option. Educating master's students through 50 programs, the college delivers 45 of its master's programs online.
The institution prioritizes online education, reaching more than 103,000 students around the globe. After enrolling, nursing students connect with faculty mentors and institutional resources. Enrollees receive academic support throughout their program. The college's 21-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio allows learners to develop professional connections with faculty members.
The average cost per credit is $536. Many enrollees are eligible for financial aid, such as internal scholarships, fellowships, and federal aid. Students interested in funding opportunities should consult with the financial aid office.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,424
Out-of-state
$16,424
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,528
Out-of-state
$10,528
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
103,427
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Liberty University offers an affordable online MSN in nurse informatics, a strong option for working professionals and busy students. Of the 71 master's programs offered by the institution, 68 are available online.
Students in the nursing program complete a rigorous curriculum to prepare for careers in the field. Degree-seekers participate in foundational courses. In consultation with academic advisors, learners complete customizable, advanced coursework in nursing.
Prospective students should consider that 50% of the school's applicants are admitted each year. Online students can connect with institutional offices, such as career services and academic advising, to plan their studies and prepare for their future careers. Graduate students pay about $750 per credit. The institution offers numerous funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to make learners' graduate education more affordable.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of South Florida offers 111 master's programs in person and supports more than 45,000 online students. The public, four-year institution delivers 31 master's programs in an online format. The online MSN program provides students worldwide with a premier graduate education.
Students seeking to enter or advance in the nursing field often benefit from the master of science in nursing program. Upon enrollment, students join the institution’s robust online community and gain access to numerous institutional resources. Those interested in experiential learning opportunities can collaborate with their faculty advisor and professors on research projects and pursue nursing internships. The typical nursing student completes foundational courses at the start of their degree and later takes advanced classes.
Nursing students can expect to pay around $907 per credit. Consult with financial aid staff to identify funding opportunities, such as internal and external scholarships. The institution reports that 92% of all enrollees are awarded aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
50,626
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Central Florida, a public, four-year institution located in Orlando, provides flexible online master's programs across 42 subject areas. The college's MSN program is an appealing choice for students interested in the nursing field who require flexible study.
The MSN program features a rigorous curriculum. Students take foundational courses as well as advanced classes in nursing. Students can enroll in electives and modify their coursework in consultation with their academic advisor. The online nursing program connects students from around the globe, fostering a diverse and supportive remote learning community. Online students can connect with institutional resources and receive academic and career guidance throughout their program. Students interested in experiential learning opportunities can pursue internships that will familiarize them with the nursing field.
When considering the cost of education, students can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. Many students qualify for funding, such as internal scholarships, fellowships, and external financial aid. Other opportunities, such as employer-sponsored tuition remission, may be available. Students should keep in mind that about 94% of all enrollees at the school receive some form of aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
71,881
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Michigan State University is a public, four-year school, with a main campus in East Lansing. The college offers flexible educational options to learners from all walks of life, boasting 131 total master's programs, with 21 master's programs available online. The online modality allows individuals across the country and around the world to study at the university.
The institution's BSN-to-MSN program is a competitive degree ideal for working professionals seeking to advance in their nursing careers. Upon enrollment, students gain access to institutional resources and a robust online community of students, faculty, and staff. Students benefit from a variety of classes, including foundational classes and advanced nurse practitioner courses.
Students can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities to prepare for the rigor of the nursing field. Learners with work commitments can customize their course trajectory to complement their schedule. The nursing program provides a flexible education, allowing students to learn at their own pace. Students benefit from connections with faculty advisors, career services, and academic advising.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,555
Out-of-state
$40,384
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,858
Out-of-state
$37,056
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
49,695
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Looking for a flexible, accessible degree in nursing? The University of West Florida's MSN program is a wise choice. Headquartered in Pensacola, the public institution boasts 17 online master's programs, including the MSN program.
The institution prioritizes online education, reaching over 13,000 students across the globe. While in the nursing program, learners collaborate with faculty members and pursue internships to prepare for nursing careers. The college reports that the student-to-teacher ratio is 20-to-1.
Students in the MSN program can expect to pay $390 per credit and may pursue internal and external funding opportunities to defray these costs. The financial aid office can connect eligible students with funding opportunities. Out of all enrollees, 93% receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
13,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Looking for a flexible online MSN program? Consider Florida Atlantic University, a public, four-year institution boasting 18 online master's programs. Students from all walks of life can pursue the MSN with a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner concentration.
Students with an interest in nursing benefit from the rigorous master's curriculum. The program curriculum consists of foundational and advanced courses. Enrollees work with their academic advisor to adjust their course selections to best suit their academic and career trajectory.
The online MSN program connects students from around the globe, fostering a diverse and supportive remote learning community. Beyond the classroom, students can explore experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships, in consultation with their faculty advisor.
Degree costs vary, so students should meet with the financial aid office to discuss expenses. The college offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities to offset the costs of education. Working professionals may be eligible for employer-sponsored tuition remission. Of all students enrolled at the school, 87% receive some form of financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,522
Out-of-state
$14,374
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,467
Out-of-state
$16,695
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
30,805
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Alabama, a public, four-year institution, offers an impressive selection of master's degree programs. The college facilitates in-person learning on its main campus in Tuscaloosa and delivers online programs to over 34,000 distance learners. The MSN with a nurse administrator concentration is a competitive option for students interested in the nurse management field.
Enrollees benefit from a robust, supportive online community of peers and faculty, with access to institutional resources as well. During the MSN program, students benefit from faculty collaboration. Degree-seekers can pursue research, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities. Students in the online nursing program complete foundational courses, as well as advanced nursing classes.
Students can discuss eligibility requirements and funding opportunities with the financial aid office. The institution reports that 85% of all enrollees are awarded aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
37,840
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
4 years
Online + Campus
West Virginia University offers an affordable online MSN/MBA program, a wise option for working professionals and busy students. The institution delivers 96 master's programs, with the option to pursue remote study through 15 master's programs. Students looking for a flexible education in nursing and business can consider this dual degree program.
Through rigorous study, enrollees broaden their knowledge of the nursing and business fields to prepare for high-level careers. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced classes, which can be customized in consultation with academic and faculty advisors.
The institution admits 84% of all applicants.
Interested students can speak with the admissions department prior to applying to learn how to strengthen their application. Once enrolled, online students join a supportive learning community that connects them with colleagues, faculty, and institutional resources. The institution offers a variety of funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,976
Out-of-state
$25,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,134
Out-of-state
$26,154
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
26,269
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
Students hoping to balance graduate education with their busy schedule often find Johns Hopkins University's online MSN program to be an attractive option. The private, nonprofit institution educates students across 129 master's programs, including 43 online master's programs.
The college provides students with a robust online community, which can be a supportive resource for working professionals. Online learners can receive mentorship from their advisor and other faculty members, and they can access internship and experiential learning opportunities. The 6-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides opportunities for enrollees to collaborate with faculty members.
Many enrollees are eligible for financial aid, such as internal scholarships, fellowships, and federal aid. The financial aid office can provide guidance to students interested in exploring funding opportunities.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,160
Out-of-state
$54,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,010
Out-of-state
$57,010
Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
28,890
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#12 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners from all walks of life can benefit from a graduate education from the University of Utah. Located in Salt Lake City, the school provides master's-level education to students worldwide in a flexible leraning format.
After enrolling, nursing students connect with colleagues, faculty, and other members of the online academic community. Learners gain access to premier faculty, experiential learning opportunities, and institutional resources. Faculty advisors can guide students during research projects to build their resume. The nursing program accommodates students from all walks of life, providing full- and part-time enrollment options.
Many students are eligible for funding opportunities, such as internal scholarships and external financial aid. Of all attendees, 87% receive some form of financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,412
Out-of-state
$26,017
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,666
Out-of-state
$23,537
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
33,081
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#13 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Arizona's online MSN program offers a state-of-the-art education, delivering flexible coursework to learners from all walks of life. The public, four-year institution supports online study from its main campus in Tucson. Nursing students benefit from a supportive academic community and access to a variety of institutional resources.
Students and faculty learn and collaborate through a virtual classroom setting. The MSN curriculum includes foundational courses, strengthening baseline knowledge in nursing, as well as advanced classes specific to the field. Students can customize their coursework in consultation with faculty and academic advisors to suit their academic and career goals.
Eligible students can pursue internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Given the school's accreditation, degree-seekers can apply for federal financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
45,601
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
California State University-Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
California State University-Dominguez Hills, a public, four-year institution, offers an impressive selection of master's degree programs. The school supports 18,598 distance learners across five online master's programs, including an MSN program.
Students pursuing the master of science in nursing gain the tools and skills needed to succeed in the field. Online nursing students benefit from the university's robust online community, connecting with colleagues, faculty members, and institutional resources. Throughout their program, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research collaboration with faculty members. The MSN program features foundational courses and advanced classes that complement students’ professional interests.
Learners can discuss funding opportunities with the office of financial aid and determine their scholarship eligibility. About 93% of the school's degree-seekers are awarded aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
18,687
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#15 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR
4 years
Online + Campus
Looking for a premier graduate education in nursing? Consider the University of Arkansas's online MSN program. The school boasts 79 master's programs and 24 total online programs.
The master of science in nursing program connects students with a robust online learning community. Enrollees can collaborate with colleagues and faculty and access institutional resources. Students can work with faculty advisors to customize their degree trajectory based on their career goals. Students can choose from full- or part-time study based on their needs.
Depending on their eligibility, students can access external and internal funding opportunities through the institution. Interested learners should speak with the financial aid office to determine whether they are one of the 87% of attendees to be awarded aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,568
Out-of-state
$24,056
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,752
Out-of-state
$21,032
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
27,562
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, McNeese State University offers 17 master's programs, 12 of which are available online. The online MSN program is an attractive option for learners seeking to study nursing without compromising their schedule.
The MSN program's rigorous curriculum prepares students for the demands of the nursing field. The nursing degree features foundational courses, as well as advanced coursework that students can customize in consultation with their academic advisor.
Of applicants to the school, 63% receive admission. After enrolling, students connect with other online learners, faculty, and staff. Learners can pursue internal and external funding opportunities to ease the cost of education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,147
Out-of-state
$13,185
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,703
Out-of-state
$13,740
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
7,284
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#17 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN
4 years
Online
Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Capella University provides flexible master's programs in person and online. The college delivers 78 online master's programs, including nursing degrees.
The online MSN in nursing informatics program equips students with the tools and skills needed to succeed in the nursing field. Enrollees connect with colleagues, faculty, and institutional resources through the online learning community. Students can work with their faculty advisor to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships, that complement their career goals. Nursing students typically complete foundational courses at the start of their program and later fulfill advanced course requirements.
The average cost per credit is $792. To determine their eligibility and discuss funding opportunities, learners can contact the financial aid office. According to the university, 100% of students receive some form of financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,767
Out-of-state
$14,767
Retention Rate
45%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,930
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#18 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Greenville, East Carolina University educates nearly 29,000 students and delivers 41 online master's programs. Learners across the country can pursue their degree through the online learning modality.
The school's distance programs include a master of science in nursing. Throughout the nursing program, learners participate in a virtual classroom environment and take foundational courses and advanced nursing classes.
Students can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities to prepare for the rigor of the nursing field. The MSN program's online format is an attractive option for out-of-state students and working professionals currently employed in nursing-related careers. This flexible program enables advanced study at any pace. Students can further customize their education in consultation with faculty and academic advisors.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
28,798
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#19 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Northern Arizona University, a public, four-year institution boasts 24 online master's programs. The online advanced practice MSN program is an appealing option for working professionals and busy students who want to earn a master's without disrupting their schedule.
Students can choose to pursue the MSN through full- or part-time enrollment, gaining skills as they learn at their own pace. Nursing students complete foundational classes, along with advanced nursing coursework. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can select courses that suit their academic and career trajectory. Nursing students benefit from access to a supportive online learning community and institutional resources geared toward student success. Online learners can access academic advising and career services and explore research opportunities in consultation with their faculty advisor.
The university offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities to offset the costs of education. Working professionals may be eligible for employer-sponsored tuition remission. Students should keep in mind that about 95% of the school's enrollees receive some form of aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,243
Out-of-state
$16,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,309
Out-of-state
$18,630
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
29,566
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#20 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs 2023
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis is a public, four-year college. The institution provides education to 29,390 students and offers 15 online master's programs.
The master's in nursing is a competitive option for students interested in advancing in the field. Upon enrolling, students engage with the online community through virtual classrooms. Distance learners can access institutional resources and experiential learning options. Students complete foundational classes and specialized coursework, both of which can be customized to fit their career interests.
The online program accommodates busy students and working professionals who want to earn an advanced degree without compromising their career. The program allows students to pursue their nursing degree at any speed. Learners can consult with faculty advisors and the career services office to work toward specific career goals.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,795
Out-of-state
$30,477
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,090
Out-of-state
$24,864
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
29,390
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation for an MSN Program
Prospective nursing students should always choose an accredited online MSN program. Accredited programs meet the highest standards for training nurses. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education grant accreditation to nursing programs. Both organizations provide databases of accredited MSN programs, including online programs.
Only accredited nursing programs meet the requirements for advanced practice nursing licenses and professional certifications. Choosing an accredited program will thus shape a nurse's career opportunities after graduation. As a result, applicants should carefully research a program's accreditation status before applying.
In addition to an accredited program, applicants should look for an accredited university. Regionally accredited universities follow the best practices for educating students. Additionally, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited institutions. The U.S. Department of Education database lists accredited programs and schools.
