15 Best ASN to MSN Programs That Skip The BSN [2025 Guide]

Looking to advance your nursing career without extra years in school? ASN to MSN programs create a direct path to higher qualifications, better positions, and your earning potential increases by a lot. These specialized bridge programs help you skip the traditional BSN route and save valuable time while opening doors to advanced practice roles.

You can complete your master’s nursing degree in just 2-3 years through an ASN to MSN program. The programs cater specifically to registered nurses with an Associate of Science in Nursing. Online ASN to MSN programs give you flexible learning options that fit your work schedule. This means you can keep building experience while you study.

The money side makes a compelling case too. ASN-prepared nurses earn an average of $97,201, while MSN-prepared nurse practitioners take home around $128,490 yearly. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing points to a national push for master’s-prepared nurses to lead healthcare reform. This explains why these professionals’ job outlook shows impressive 38% growth from 2022-2032. Chamberlain University is the largest nursing school with over 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. Along with specialized programs at schools like Albany State and Georgia State, this piece helps you find your ideal ASN to MSN pathway that matches your career goals.

University of Mississippi Medical Center

The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) is an excellent choice for nurses who want to advance from an ASN to MSN degree. UMMC’s legacy as Mississippi’s first nursing school has built a strong foundation for both undergraduate and graduate nursing education.

Degree highlights

UMMC’s ASN to MSN program offers five specialized tracks: three nurse practitioner options, a nurse educator path, and a healthcare administrator concentration. Students achieve high pass rates on national certification examinations [link_1] while paying relatively low tuition costs. The state’s only Level 1 trauma center, Level 4 neonatal intensive care nursery, and organ transplant program are housed at UMMC, giving students an unmatched clinical experience.

Online learning experience

Working professionals will find the ASN to MSN program’s online degree coursework especially convenient. You can easily balance your education with work and family commitments thanks to this flexible format. The program combines online delivery with hands-on clinical experiences at four major hospitals: Children’s of Mississippi, University Hospital, Wallace Conerly Critical Care Hospital, and Wiser Hospital for Women and Infants.

Cost breakdown

Master’s level program tuition ranges from $10,859 for two semesters to $16,289 for three semesters. Students can expect total costs of approximately $36,541 for two semesters or $56,829 for three semesters, which includes housing, books, transportation, and other expenses. The Bower Foundation gave a $3.80 million grant that funds full scholarships for qualified RN-to-MSN students.

Ideal candidate profile

Successful applicants should have:

• An associate degree or diploma in nursing from an ACEN or CCNE accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (overall or nursing-specific)
• Current unrestricted RN license with Mississippi eligibility
• At least one year of clinical experience (required for nurse practitioner tracks)
• Completion of all prerequisites with at least a “C” grade

Candidates pursuing the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care track need one year of critical care/emergency department experience before starting the program.

Ball State University

Ball State University offers an ASN to MSN program that creates a clear path for registered nurses to advance their careers. RNs who have an associate degree in nursing and a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field can complete this program entirely online.

Program overview

The nursing program at Ball State ranks as the 37th best online graduate program in U.S. News & World Report. Students can choose from three specialized concentrations: nurse educator (36 credits), nurse administrator (36 credits), and family nurse practitioner (47 credits). The program’s excellence shows in its results – 100% of Family Nurse Practitioners passed their first-time exam in 2023. Students interested in joining can start with the next cohort on August 18, 2025.

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has fully accredited the program. This accreditation ensures the program meets national professional standards of quality and integrity for nursing education. Employers and academic institutions value this accreditation and recognize Ball State graduates as competent professionals.

Online learning experience

Ball State’s ASN to MSN programs give you control over your learning schedule through an asynchronous format. You won’t need to attend live lectures or log in at specific times. The program lets you complete weekly assignments, watch videos, and join group projects and discussion boards when it suits you best. Working nurses find this flexibility valuable as they balance their careers and personal lives.

The program requires just one day on campus for orientation at the start. You can complete your clinical requirements with a nursing mentor-preceptor in your local community. This means you’ll only visit campus once for your original orientation.

Cost breakdown

Indiana residents pay $10,208 in graduate online tuition, with total costs reaching $11,058 after fees. Students from other states pay $16,162, which includes $15,312 in tuition plus fees. The complete program costs between $22,983 for in-state students and $33,887 for out-of-state students. Students can access various financial aid options to help manage these costs.

Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University has a RN to MSN Degree Bridge program that helps registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing and a non-nursing bachelor’s degree advance their careers. This specialized pathway lets you skip the BSN degree and gives you the quickest way to move forward in your nursing career.

Program highlights

U.S. News & World Report ranked Seton Hall #1 in New Jersey for Top Online Master’s in Nursing Programs through its College of Nursing. Students complete two bridge courses worth 11 credits and easily move into various MSN tracks. The program lets you specialize in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Psychiatric/Mental Health, Family Nurse Practitioner, or Nursing Administration. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the program, which ensures high educational standards.

Online learning experience

The ASN to MSN programs at Seton Hall run completely online with flexible coursework that fits working professionals’ schedules. While assignments and exams have fixed deadlines, you can complete weekly tasks at your own pace. Students learn through discussion boards and online chats. On top of that, you get complete support services with 24/7 technical help, academic resources, library access, and career guidance.

Cost breakdown

Each credit in the graduate nursing program costs $1,570. Students also pay a Graduate Nursing Fee of $300 per semester. The Technology Fee runs $495 for full-time or $160 for part-time students. The University Fee is $215 for full-time or $145 for part-time students. Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner tracks total about $66,384 plus fees.

Ideal candidate profile

Strong candidates should have:

• An associate degree in nursing from an accredited institution
• A non-nursing bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Current RN license in the state of intended clinical practicum
• At least one year of nursing experience

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care track needs higher qualifications: a 3.2 minimum GPA, a “B” average in nursing courses, and one year of acute care experience.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) stands out nationally with recognition from multiple publications. Their nursing program offers a clear path for ASN-prepared nurses who want to earn their MSN degree. The College of Nursing makes available options for registered nurses with associate degrees and non-nursing bachelor’s degrees.

Program highlights

UCF’s nursing programs have got impressive recognition. They rank among the best online graduate nursing programs by both U.S. News & World Report and Fortune Magazine. The Master of Science in Nursing program holds full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Nurses with an ASN and a bachelor’s degree in another field need only 9 credits of undergraduate upper-division coursework to start graduate study.

The MSN program prepares graduates to:

• Analyze social, economic, and ethical issues influencing global nursing practice
• Develop leadership and teaching strategies for healthcare improvement
• Create evidence-based nursing practice models
• Influence health policy to improve community care systems

The program’s success shows in certification exam results. Family Nurse Practitioners achieved 100% pass rates, while Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners scored 92.31%.

Online learning experience

Students can complete the MSN program entirely online through UCF Online. This setup gives working nurses flexibility without compromising educational quality. Students who take only online classes pay reduced campus-based fees. The program fits various professional schedules with both full-time and part-time study options.

Students get detailed support services throughout their education. A graduate shared their experience: “I chose UCF because of their great reputation within the simulation community. I feel honored to have studied under some of my scholarly heroes”.

Cost breakdown

Florida residents pay $327.32 per credit hour for online graduate tuition, with total program costs starting at $11,784. Out-of-state students pay $1,151.72 per credit hour, bringing minimum total costs to $41,462. Students can apply by April 1st for fall admission and September 1st for spring.

UCF Online students pay less in fees compared to on-campus programs. Florida residents’ tuition and fees for 2025-2026 total $5,902 for 9 credit hours per semester. Financial aid options help qualified students manage these costs.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing has a prestigious RN to MSN pathway. This program serves registered nurses who have associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing fields.

Program highlights

U.S. News & World Report ranks UAB’s BSN program #10 in the nation. The MSN program holds an impressive #11 national ranking. Students can skip the BSN degree and earn their MSN directly through this pathway. The program has specialization options in nurse practitioner tracks that include Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Family, Pediatric, Psychiatric/Mental Health, and Women’s Health. The graduate specialties have earned several top-10 rankings nationally.

Online learning experience

Students learn through a mix of real-time and self-paced instruction. The program needs occasional virtual classroom lectures and discussions. While most coursework is available online, students must visit the campus four times during their studies. These visits include orientation and three on-campus sessions. Students benefit from UAB’s academic medical center setting and learn about everything from pediatrics to geriatrics with Level 1 trauma care experiences.

Cost breakdown

Each credit hour costs $510, plus a $250 fee for every online course. The complete MSN program costs about $22,950 plus fees for BSN to MSN students, while RN to MSN students pay $27,540 plus fees. UAB’s scholarship program helps students financially with 76 endowed scholarships and 3 active sponsored scholarships from a $10.10 million endowed fund.

Ideal candidate profile

Successful applicants typically have:

• A bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field from a regionally accredited institution
• An associate degree in nursing
• Current RN license in their clinical practicum state
• Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or on the last 60 semester hours)
• One year of clinical experience before specialty courses

The program cannot accept students from Colorado, Delaware, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and West Virginia.

Drexel University

Drexel University has created a direct ASN to MSN program with a bridge pathway. This program serves registered nurses who already have a bachelor’s degree in a different field.

Program features

The bridge program at Drexel requires students to complete just one course before moving to graduate-level work. This course is NURS 335: Genetics and Genomics: Application to Nursing Practice (4.5 quarter credits). Students can then advance into several MSN Advanced Role tracks. These tracks include Leadership in Health Systems Management, Nursing Education, and Quality, Safety, and Risk Management in Healthcare. The pathway does not include nurse practitioner programs. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has fully accredited the program, which ensures high educational standards.

Online learning experience

Working professionals can easily access the bridge course, which runs entirely online in a 10-week quarter term format. The MSN coursework follows Drexel’s quarter system instead of traditional semesters. This allows students to complete more courses in less time. Students must attend mandatory synchronous class meetings during the bridge course. Drexel’s clinical practice environments and simulated healthcare scenarios become available to students throughout their studies.

Cost breakdown

The MSN bridge program’s tuition for 2025-2026 costs approximately $1,260 per credit hour for online nursing programs. Your chosen specialty track determines the total cost. Online graduate programs require an annual general fee of $125. Students who use FAFSA must take at least 4.5 credits per term to qualify for financial aid. Students can use tuition payment plans to manage their educational costs.

Admission requirements include:

• A bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field
• Current, unrestricted US RN license
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (though lower GPAs with relevant professional experience are considered)
• Two professional letters of recommendation

Lewis University

Lewis University, a private institution in Romeoville, Illinois, offers ASN to MSN programs that help nurses advance their careers without a BSN degree. The College of Nursing and Health Sciences creates flexible paths for nurses with associate degrees who want to earn graduate credentials.

Program highlights

U.S. News & World Report ranks the College of Nursing and Health Sciences #92 in Best Nursing Schools: Master’s. Students benefit from a small 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio that provides tailored attention throughout their studies. The program offers several specializations:

• Healthcare Systems Leadership (online available)
• Nursing Education (online available)
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• School Nurse

The program’s success shows in its certification results. All Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner graduates passed their exams in 2023, while Family Nurse Practitioner graduates achieved a 92% pass rate.

Online learning experience

Lewis’s ADN to MSN programs give students multiple study options. They can choose between 8-week accelerated courses, 16-week regular sessions, and evening classes. Students get ground experience in seven fully equipped patient exam rooms and acute care labs that mirror emergency and critical care settings. These facilities help nurse practitioner students develop their advanced clinical skills.

Cost breakdown

Graduate nursing programs at Lewis cost $820 per credit hour. Each specialization needs different credits and clinical hours:

• Nursing Education: 40 credits plus 450 clinical hours
• Healthcare Systems Leadership: 36 credits plus 300 clinical hours
• Family Nurse Practitioner: 48 credits plus 630 clinical hours
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 49 credits plus 540 clinical hours

Students can complete the School Nurse non-degree program in one year. Master’s programs take up to 3½ years, depending on full-time or part-time study. MSN-prepared nurses earn about $42,000 more per year than RNs according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This salary boost makes the program a smart investment for career growth.

University of St. Francis

The Leach College of Nursing at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois offers a unique ASN to MSN program that helps nurses advance their careers without needing a BSN degree first. This program creates skilled clinicians who can promote patient care through a detailed approach to nursing education.

Program highlights

Quality education standards at the University of St. Francis nursing program come from accreditation by both the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Higher Learning Commission. Students excel with NCLEX pass rates between 90-100%, which surpass the national average by a lot. The program builds advanced clinical skills through courses that sharpen critical thinking and cultural awareness with hands-on learning. Students learn to provide nursing care throughout patients’ lives in healthcare settings of all types, with extra focus on older adult care.

The curriculum spans these healthcare areas:

• Hospital and acute care settings
• Home health and public health
• Managed care and primary care clinics
• Hospice and long-term care facilities
• Mental health services

Online learning experience

USF keeps class sizes small to create a tight-knit learning community where students receive individual attention and guidance. This approach works well for both online and on-campus students. The Leach College of Nursing’s simulation labs help students improve their skills as they work with four computerized mannequins representing different genders and ages. Students gain ground experience in various healthcare settings beyond simulations.

Cost breakdown

Undergraduate tuition costs about $51,600, while graduate tuition runs around $33,878. USF provides strong financial support to students. Students should budget $1,000-$2,500 yearly for extra costs like CPR training, background checks, drug screening, textbooks, and clinical uniforms.

James Madison University

James Madison University (JMU) welcomes nursing alumni into their ASN to MSN program with guaranteed admission. Associate degree nurses can advance their education directly without completing a BSN first.

Program highlights

JMU’s Master of Science in Nursing program lets you choose from several concentrations that align with your career goals:

• Clinical Nurse Leader
• Nurse Administrator
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Midwifery (in conjunction with Shenandoah University)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (in conjunction with Shenandoah University)

The program addresses the needs of adult students who want to maintain their clinical practice while pursuing higher education. U.S. News & World Report currently ranks the program #68 in Best Nursing Schools: Master’s. JMU’s nursing graduates show excellent performance on certification exams and qualify for tests through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners or the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Online learning experience

JMU’s ASN to MSN programs give students a lot of flexibility. Some concentrations meet once weekly, while others run completely online with occasional intensive dates. Students benefit from web-enhanced curriculum and flexible practicum course placement. Working professionals can choose between full-time and part-time study options.

Students in nurse practitioner tracks must complete 750 contact practicum hours. Leadership paths require 480 hours of practicum experience. This ground training equips graduates with advanced nursing skills they can use right away.

Cost breakdown

Virginia residents pay $573 per credit hour for graduate nursing tuition, while non-residents pay $1,314. Students should factor in an additional $97 per credit hour differential fee for nursing classes. The Family Nurse Practitioner concentration costs $28,077 total for Virginia residents (49 credits), and the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care program costs $26,358 (46 credits).

The Nurse Administrator track proves most economical at $18,336 for Virginia residents (32 credits). The Clinical Nurse Leader program follows at $21,774 (38 credits).

Albany State University

Albany State University (ASU) ranks as the #1 HBCU nursing program for 2025. The university excels in ASN to MSN programs that help nurses advance their careers quickly.

Program highlights

ASU’s nursing department offers complete graduate pathways with three MSN concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
• Nursing Informatics

ASU is ranked #6 among the “Best Nursing Schools in Georgia in 2024”. The university tackles healthcare workforce shortages by preparing nursing graduates who provide culturally-competent care. The master’s program equips you with skills for advanced practice as a nurse practitioner or a leader in nursing education, based on your chosen track.

Online learning experience

ASU delivers quality education with flexibility through its online approach. The fully online RN-to-BSN program creates a solid foundation for ADN to MSN program pathways. Students who need bridge programs can benefit from the Healthcare-Professional-to-RN Bridge option that meets once weekly. This program blends classroom lectures, online activities, and clinical rotations.

Students get practical experience in the new Nursing and Health Sciences Simulation Center, where they can complete up to 50% of required clinicals. This modern facility improves hands-on training while letting students maintain flexible schedules.

Cost breakdown

The ASN to MSN program at Albany State comes with competitive tuition rates:

• MSN-FNP: $13,552 tuition + $2,015 fees = $15,567 total program cost
• MSN-NE (Nurse Educator): $10,780 tuition + $1,612 fees = $12,392 total program cost
• MSN-NI (Nursing Informatics): $10,164 tuition + $1,612 fees = $11,776 total program cost

Students should budget for extra costs: a $90 Typhon fee, $65 for RN licensure renewal, and $295-$395 for certification exams after graduation. In spite of that, ASN to MSN programs prove to be a valuable investment that opens doors to career advancement.

Brenau University

Brenau University’s Mary Inez Grindle School of Nursing offers a detailed ASN to MSN program backed by 50+ years of experience in training qualified nursing professionals. This accelerated pathway helps registered nurses advance their careers through specialized graduate education.

Program explained

The Family Nurse Practitioner (RN to MSN) accelerated program at Brenau needs just 6 undergraduate bridge credit hours before moving to graduate coursework. Students earn 56 semester hours upon completion. The Georgia Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education have fully accredited the program. The faculty brings extensive field experience and believes nursing combines knowledge with caring for others. The program has advanced courses in pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacology, and clinical practicums.

Online learning experience

Brenau’s ADN to MSN program gives working professionals flexibility through asynchronous learning. Students participate through Blackboard’s course management system with an asynchronous bulletin board that makes shared learning possible. The clinical component lets students work with state-of-the-art human patient simulators in simulation labs. The program’s supportive environment maintains a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, which ensures customized attention throughout your educational trip.

Cost breakdown

Graduate tuition at Brenau runs $885 per credit hour, and the MSN program totals 56 semester hours. Students pay a University Services Fee of $325 each semester and an I&I Development Fee of 2.5% of tuition costs. Military members get special rates – active duty members pay $250 per hour, while veterans and their dependents receive a 10% discount. Students can access financial aid options and payment plans to manage their educational expenses.

Georgia State University

Georgia State University’s Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing & Health Professions offers a distinctive ASN to MSN program that allows registered nurses to pursue graduate education without a BSN degree.

Program features

The nursing master’s program at Georgia State welcomes RNs with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees through multiple pathways. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits this program. Students can specialize in:

• Adult Gerontology Primary Care
• Pediatric Primary Care
• Family Health
• Psychiatric Mental Health

The program’s graduates have achieved remarkable certification exam results. Adult-Gerontology NP, PMHNP, and informatics graduates maintained a 100% pass rate, while Family NP students achieved a 95% pass rate. Students interested in nursing leadership can complete their concentration entirely online.

Online learning experience

Georgia State’s ADN to MSN program combine virtual and hands-on learning. Students complete most coursework online, with clinical rotations at partner organizations for two specific courses. The collaborative courses run in 8-week sessions, while Georgia State-specific courses take 7-week sessions.

Students can access recorded lecture materials at their convenience. The faculty helps with clinical placements, though students should take initiative in finding their own sites.

Cost breakdown

Graduate tuition rates vary by residency status. Georgia residents pay $414 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $1,328. The total program costs Georgia residents $3,726 full-time or $2,484 part-time. Out-of-state students pay $11,952 full-time or $7,968 part-time.

The program delivers strong value despite costs. Recent data shows 70% of 2023-2024 graduates had debt averaging $55,390. Students can access various scholarships through the School of Nursing and external sources via the Scholarship Resource Center.

Thomas University

Thomas University in Georgia offers a fast-track RN-MSN program. Associate degree nurses can earn graduate credentials without completing a separate BSN degree. This approach cuts down your educational timeline by a lot and advances your nursing career.

Program features

The RN-MSN program uses a simplified curriculum. Students complete 18 credits of BSN bridge coursework before moving directly to graduate studies. The program offers two specialization tracks:

• Nursing Administration
• Nursing Education

The university also provides a RN-MSN/MBA joint degree option that prepares students for healthcare leadership roles. Both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredit the program. This ensures your degree meets high quality standards.

Online learning experience

The ADN to MSN programs at Thomas University fit perfectly with working professionals’ schedules. Students can take all classes online and complete the program while working full-time. The MSN portion runs in 16-week modules. This gives students enough time to grasp complex concepts. The program has built strong partnerships with regional healthcare providers. These connections help arrange clinical experiences at convenient times for students and preceptors.

Cost breakdown

Graduate students pay $100 per credit hour as a program fee. Students must also pay a $175 graduation application fee and buy textbooks. The total program tuition comes to about $31,860. This price point makes it competitive among private universities. Military members and their families receive dedicated support that can lower their costs. Nursing students can access various scholarships and “service-cancellable loans” to help with expenses.

Herzing University

Herzing University stands out among schools that provide direct paths to advanced nursing credentials. The university’s extensive specialty options and clinical placement guarantee make their ASN to MSN programs particularly attractive.

Program emphasis

Students enjoy much flexibility with nine specialized tracks in Herzing’s RN to MSN program. The specializations available now include:

• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Education
• Nursing Leadership and Administration
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Public Health
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

Students can choose between two paths: an Accelerated RN to MSN they can complete in 20-28 months, or an RN to BSN to MSN track that takes 28-32 months. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Higher Learning Commission have fully accredited both options. U.S. News & World Report recognized Herzing as one of the best online graduate nursing programs in 2025.

Online learning experience

Herzing’s ADN to MSN programs combine 100% online coursework with hands-on clinical training. Students get support through a unique Clinical Guidance Process that ensures appropriate placement settings. The university makes an exceptional commitment – they will secure placement if students can’t find clinical sites on their own. Students also receive dedicated support from experienced faculty and academic coaches throughout their journey.

Cost breakdown

The RN to MSN-FNP program costs $755 per credit. Students can reduce their expenses through transfer credits and employer partnerships. The Nurses Circle of Achievement scholarship can cut tuition by up to 10%. Military members, veterans, and their spouses might qualify for 10-20% tuition reductions. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows promising earning potential – nurse practitioners earn $132,000 on average annually.

Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University stands out as the nation’s largest nursing school with over 130 years of educational experience. Their detailed ASN to MSN programs help registered nurses become advanced practice professionals.

Program highlights

The National League for Nursing has recognized Chamberlain University College of Nursing as a Center of Excellence™ in Nursing Education for its faculty’s teaching expertise. The university has built a variety of graduate pathways that serve the largest network of nursing students in the United States. More than 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni have been part of its rich history. MSN students can choose from several specialized tracks:

• Non-Clinical Specialties: Healthcare Policy, Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, Nursing Leadership, Population Health
• Clinical Specialties: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP, Family NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP

Online learning experience

Chamberlain’s programs offer 100% online coursework with a direct care component that fits busy working nurses’ schedules. Students can access course materials 24/7 through structured pathways that keep their academic progress on track. The online learning platform has advanced tools for safe patient care interaction practice. Students can customize their educational experience while building connections with healthcare professionals who share their commitment to patient care.

Cost

RNs with active licenses receive 77 proficiency credits toward their BSN, with only 45 credits remaining. Students can transfer more credits, but they must complete at least 30 credits through Chamberlain. Starting July 2025, online programs will cost $750 per credit hour. Students should budget for additional costs: a Student Services Charge of $235 per session and a Course Resource Fee of $75 per course for online BSN options. Financial aid makes education accessible – 99% of RN-BSN graduates in 2023-24 received some form of financial support.

Comparing ASN to MSN Programs Across Schools

Pick the Right Program

Picking the right ASN to MSN program is a game-changing career move that can speed up your professional growth and boost your earning potential. This piece covered 15 outstanding programs that offer direct paths from associate-level nursing to master’s specializations without needing a BSN first.

The numbers make a strong case for this educational path. ASN-prepared nurses earn about $97,201 yearly, while those with MSN credentials pull in around $128,490—this is a big deal as it means that your educational investment pays off fast. The healthcare industry values advanced nursing education more than ever, with job growth for MSN-prepared professionals expected to hit 38% by 2032.

These programs shine when it comes to flexibility. You’ll find options that fit your schedule and learning priorities, from Ball State and Herzing’s online formats to UAB’s hybrid model with just a few campus visits. You can choose from various specializations, ranging from clinical nurse practitioner tracks to administrative and educational roles, to match your career goals.

Of course, accreditation should be high on your checklist. Programs with CCNE or ACEN credentials meet quality standards that employers trust nationwide. Money matters too—tuition runs from about $300 to $1,500 per credit hour, but many scholarships, employer reimbursement programs, and military discounts can help cut costs.

Your decision to take the ASN to MSN path depends on your career goals, time limits, and budget. Notwithstanding that, this route is a quick and rewarding option for nurses ready to level up their practice. Take your time to research each program’s specializations, format, cost, and clinical requirements before you decide.