15 Best Master’s in Nursing Administration Programs
Are you a nurse looking to take the next step in your career? Pursuing higher education is a precious asset, and a master’s degree in nursing administration is one of the nursing degrees that can open new doors for furthering your knowledge and professional goals. With specialized instruction on crucial topics, this program equips nurses with all the skills they need to excel as nursing leaders.
This comprehensive guide explores some of the best master’s degrees available in nursing administration, helping you make informed decisions on which one could potentially set you up for long-term success in your profession.
What is a Master’s in Nursing Administration Program?
A master’s in nursing administration is a graduate-level program designed to equip nurses with the skills and knowledge necessary for leadership roles within healthcare organizations. The program focuses on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and organizational management skills that are important for the effective and efficient administration of healthcare services.
Students in a master’s program learn the fundamentals of health policy, quality systems, finance and budgeting, leadership, organizational behavior, staffing and recruitment, information technology and data analysis, legal issues in healthcare, risk management, ethics, and more.
Courses may also address patient safety and education, operational processes for increasing efficiency, managing change, strategic planning, and policy development. In addition, students may have the opportunity to participate in practicums or clinical experiences to gain real-world experience in the administration of healthcare services.
Upon completing the program, graduates will be prepared for roles such as:
- Nurse Executive
- Health Services Administrator
- Medical Center Director
- Nursing Department Manager
- Nurse Educator
These positions are critical to ensuring that healthcare organizations run efficiently, effectively, and ethically.
Graduates may also pursue doctoral studies in nursing or related fields to continue their education. With the proper credentials, they can achieve even higher levels of success in nursing administration. Overall, a master’s in nursing administration is an excellent way for nurses to transition into leadership roles within the healthcare field.
Who Needs a Master’s in Nursing Administration?
If you are a nurse looking to take your career to the next level, you may want to consider earning a master’s degree in nursing administration. This degree can open many opportunities for advancement within the healthcare industry and prepare nurses for leadership roles.
Registered nurses
A master’s in nursing administration can benefit registered nurses (RNs) looking to move up into management roles. This degree will provide the skills and knowledge needed to manage groups of nurses effectively, oversee complex healthcare projects, or lead entire departments. A master’s program can also help RNs develop their administrative expertise and better understand the organizational dynamics of working in a healthcare setting.
Specialists
Moreover, those who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing but want to specialize can benefit from a master’s program. A master’s program could be helpful for nurses seeking to understand policymaking and management skills that will allow them to take on more challenging roles within their organizations.
Interested in trends
Additionally, if you desire to understand the latest knowledge and trends in the healthcare industry, a master’s degree in nursing administration can help you stay ahead of the curve. With its focus on research-based learning and practical skills, this degree will provide you with the tools to navigate today’s unique healthcare environment.
Shift to administrative
Earning a master’s program is also ideal for those who want to shift their focus from the clinical field into a more administrative role. Nursing administrators are vital to providing high-quality care, and those with an advanced degree in nursing administration will be able to understand the complexities of modern healthcare systems and make decisions that can benefit both patients and nurses alike.
Looking for advancement
Overall, if you are looking for advancement opportunities or want to gain advanced skills and knowledge, a master’s degree in nursing administration could be the perfect pathway for you. With its focus on developing research-based learning and practical skills, this degree can open many opportunities for professional growth and provide you with the tools needed to succeed in the modern healthcare industry.
15 Best Online Master’s of Nursing Administration Degrees
Are you looking to advance your career in nursing administration but don’t have the time or ability to attend traditional on-campus classes? An online master’s of nursing administration is what you need to achieve your career objectives. The online format allows students to complete their coursework from anywhere with an internet connection.
With no need to commute, this option is ideal for working professionals seeking added convenience in pursuing their degree. Plus, the program meets the same high standards of quality and rigor as the traditional on-campus offerings.
With flexible scheduling, you can earn your master’s in nursing administration without forfeiting your current job or other commitments. The faculty members are experienced professionals who bring real-world knowledge to the virtual classroom. They will provide guidance and support as you complete your program.
You may have considered an online master’s of nursing administration degree program, but you are uncertain which school best suits your needs and goals.
Here is our rating of 15 of the best online master’s of nursing administration degrees and available programs. You can read more about our methodology here.
1. Duke University – Master of Science in Nursing
One of the top online master’s degrees in nursing administration is offered by Duke University. You may improve your nursing leadership and management abilities from the convenience of your home with the help of this curriculum. A bachelor’s degree in nursing or a closely related discipline, a minimum GPA of 3.0, a passable GRE or MAT score, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement are all prerequisites for admission to Duke University’s online program. Additionally, candidates must hold a license as a registered nurse and have completed an undergraduate statistics course with a grade of C or above.
2. University of South Carolina – Healthcare Leadership MSN
The master’s in nursing administration program at the University of South Carolina is intended to give students the information and abilities they need to succeed as nurse administrators in various healthcare settings. The program asks candidates to submit official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a personal goal statement, a résumé, an authorized bachelor’s degree in nursing, and a valid RN licensure.
3. Saint Xavier University – Master of Science in Nursing
For students interested in pursuing successful careers in nursing administration in major hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, Saint Xavier University offers an online master’s degree program in nursing administration. The program has a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and quality improvement, equipping graduates to lead teams as they seek to enhance patient outcomes and advance organizational performance. Official transcripts, an RN nursing license, one written recommendation, a personal statement, a current résumé, and at least one year of full-time work experience are needed for admission to this program.
4. University of Central Florida – Nursing Leadership and Management Online MSN
Consider submitting an application for the online master’s of nursing administration program at the University of Central Florida. This program offers nurses convenience through its online courses while giving advanced management and leadership training. To be eligible, you must have completed an undergraduate statistics course, possess a valid RN license, and fulfill any other requirements specified during the admissions process. Most notably, entrance into the program at UCF is independent of GRE results.
5. East Carolina University – Master of Science in Nursing
With the online master’s of nursing administration program from East Carolina University, you may acquire the information and abilities required to succeed as a leader in the nursing industry. This program is perfect for people who want to avoid attending on-campus classes but still want to advance their professional knowledge or job. A bachelor’s degree in nursing from an authorized university, a minimum GPA of 3.00 in the nursing major, a written statement of purpose, three professional references, and statistics with a grade of “C” or above are all prerequisites for admission to this program. Candidates also need to be proficient with computers in addition to these requirements.
6. Ball State University – Nursing MS
A ground-breaking online master’s program offered by Ball State University raises the bar for nursing education quality. This recognized program provides a cutting-edge method to boost your career by assisting you in gaining the abilities and understanding required to run healthcare companies. Ball State’s graduate program will equip you for success with an excellent staff, a thorough curriculum, and access to top-notch resources. To begin with, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing from a recognized institution and have an undergraduate GPA between 2.8 and 2.99 to be eligible for enrollment. Students must also complete all clinical hours in their state of study and have a current RN licensure.
7. Florida Atlantic University – Master of Science in Nursing
With Florida Atlantic University, you may earn a master’s degree in nursing administration online. Their curriculum examines the foundations of nursing administration from a leadership viewpoint and is created for working professionals. You will gain expertise in various areas, including healthcare legislation, policy formulation, budgeting, and marketing outreach techniques. An official transcript demonstrating successful completion of a BSN with a grade point average of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale is required for admission to our program. In addition, candidates must have taken baccalaureate-level nursing research courses and basic statistics, offer one letter of recommendation, submit a CV, and be currently licensed as a registered nurse in one of the US territories.
8. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center – Master of Science in Nursing Administration
Students who earn a master’s degree in nursing administration from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) will have the knowledge and abilities necessary to succeed as leaders in the healthcare industry. The TTUHSC Nursing Administration program has a very competitive admissions process. Other non-academic characteristics, such as prior relevant job experience, may be considered in addition to academic standards, like a GPA of 3.0 or above. All accepted candidates must also submit documentation of their immunizations and successfully pass a criminal background check to finish the admissions process.
9. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus – Nursing Master’s Program
An authorized online master’s of nursing administration degree is available from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. With a comprehensive grasp of healthcare operations, policy, and systems, students who complete this degree will be prepared with the knowledge and abilities necessary to hold leadership positions in the healthcare sector. Candidates for this degree program must have a minimum undergraduate GPA in nursing of 3.0, a valid, unrestricted RN licensure, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. A résumé with relevant job experience and leadership positions in healthcare companies is also required for the program.
10. Thomas Jefferson University – Master of Science in Nursing
Nursing professionals wishing to further their careers with a Master’s degree in Nursing Administration can choose Thomas Jefferson University. To give students the managerial and organizational abilities required to lead effective healthcare teams, this online program offers a broad curriculum. A current RN license, successful completion of all the necessary courses, and a GPA of 3.0 or above are needed for admission to this program. Letters of recommendation, transcripts from an approved college or institution, and a personal statement detailing the applicant’s educational objectives must also be included with the application.
11. Virginia Commonwealth University – Master’s in Nursing Leadership and Organizational Science
A recognized online Master of Nursing Administration degree is available from Virginia Commonwealth University. With the help of this training, nurses may become influential decision-makers and leaders in a range of healthcare environments. The curriculum emphasizes the fundamental information, abilities, and attitudes required for efficient and successful nursing administration. A bachelor’s degree from an approved university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher is required for admission to this program. This program doesn’t need the GRE, making it a fantastic choice for students who want to get their degree without taking another test.
12. University of Connecticut – Nurse Leader MSN
Students who want to advance their nursing careers can enroll in an online master’s of nursing administration degree program at the University of Connecticut. The abilities required for leadership positions in nursing, health services management, and other fields will be acquired by you. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, three letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources, a personal statement explaining your aims for earning the degree, a CV outlining your relevant job history, and three letters of recommendation are all criteria for admission to the program. There is no need for a residence affidavit or GRE.
13. University of Alabama – MS in Nursing, Concentration in Nurse Administrator
When looking for an online master’s program, the University of Alabama can be a fantastic option. Its high-quality curriculum focuses on the duties, responsibilities, and skills required to become a successful leader in nursing administration. The provision of advanced knowledge and skills in healthcare policy and management, as well as training nurses for possibilities for career growth, are all included in this. A bachelor’s degree in nursing, an unencumbered RN license, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 are required for admission to the master’s in nursing administration degree program at the University of Alabama.
14. George Washington University – MSN Nursing Leadership and Management
George Washington University offers an excellent, cutting-edge curriculum for the master’s program. This online curriculum was created with the busy RN in mind, enabling them to continue their education without compromising their career or personal obligations. To be accepted into this program, candidates must achieve specific standards, such as holding a bachelor’s degree in nursing and upholding a GPA of at least 3.0. In addition to transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a recent CV, and a Statement of Purpose are further required. A current, unrestricted RN license is another need for candidates.
15. Oregon Health and Science University – Master’s in Nursing Education
Finally, among the top master’s in nursing administration programs available online is offered by Oregon Health and Science University, giving students a thorough grasp of healthcare institutions. This program gives students the knowledge and abilities to successfully plan and carry out nursing services in various clinical settings. An approved bachelor’s degree is one of the prerequisites for admission. A CV, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and official transcripts are also required of applicants. The applicant’s academic background, career experience, and educational objectives are considered while judging them.
Salary and Job Prospects for MS in Nursing Administration Degree Graduates
If you’re considering earning a Master of Science in Nursing Administration degree, you should know that job prospects for those with this degree are promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, On average, $60,780 is the lowest wage for health services managers graduates. At the same time, those at the higher end of the spectrum, including MS in Nursing Administration personnel, can earn up to $205,620.
For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found out that the median annual wages for medical and health services managers in May 2021 were $119,450 for those working in hospitals, $117,000 for those working for the government, $99,540 for those working in outpatient care centers, $98,230 for those employed with offices of physicians and $83,550 for nursing and residential care facilities.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, due to the aging baby-boom generation and the increased use of electronic health records (EHRs), job possibilities in this industry are anticipated to grow faster than average (approximately 28%) between 2021 and 2031. Furthermore, during the next ten years, there will be about 56,000 employment openings in medical and health services management.
As a result, those who get a Master of Science in Nursing Administration have outstanding career possibilities and lucrative incomes that guarantee them a stable position for many years.
If you’re looking for a rewarding career and an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, consider earning an MS in Nursing Administration degree.