15 Shortest Online RN to MSN Programs for 2025

Want to speed up your path to an MSN degree? The quickest online RN to MSN programs take just 20 months to complete without cutting corners on educational quality.

Working nurses can advance their careers through accelerated MSN programs. These condensed programs help you earn your MSN degree much faster than traditional pathways. The online format gives busy healthcare professionals the flexibility they need, and many programs offer rolling admissions that let you begin within weeks. MSN-prepared nurses command an impressive average salary of $104,000 annually, which is substantially higher than BSN holders at $98,000 and ADN nurses at $79,000.

Chamberlain University leads the pack as America’s largest nursing school with over 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. Liberty University stands out by offering multiple nursing specializations completely online. Here, we look at 15 student-approved programs for 2025. You’ll discover options ranging from 18-month programs to those with specialized concentrations that align with your career goals.

Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University ranks as the #1 largest nursing school with over 177,000 students, faculty, and alumni. Their RN to MSN pathways are among the quickest ways to advance your nursing career today.

Program length

Students can complete the Accelerated RN to MSN program quickly. The Leadership track needs just 3 semesters (45 credits), while the Clinical Nursing Leadership track takes 4 semesters (52 credits). Traditional RN-BSN to MSN students typically complete their program in 8+ semesters. Nurse practitioner specialties require additional time. The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care track takes at least 2 years and 8 months, and other NP tracks need about 2.5 years.

Specializations

Students can choose from 10 MSN specializations that match their career goals:

• Nurse Practitioner Tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology (Acute or Primary Care), and Psychiatric-Mental Health
• Non-Clinical Tracks: Healthcare Policy, Nurse Educator, Nurse Executive, Nursing Informatics, and Population Health

Tuition and fees

Credit hour costs range from $735 to $765 depending on campus location. Students pay a services charge of $235 per session. More than 90% of students receive financial aid. Alumni get a 20% tuition reduction, saving over $5,000. The Become Extraordinary Grant offers qualified MSN students 15% tuition savings.

Delivery format

The program uses an 8-week format where students usually take two courses each semester. Most programs offer 100% online coursework. Nurse practitioner tracks require one to three weekend campus visits for intensives and skills development. New sessions start six times throughout the year – January, March, May, July, September, and November.

Admission requirements

Candidates need a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA minimum. Those with 2.75-2.99 GPA might receive provisional acceptance. A current, active, and unrestricted RN license is required. The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP track requires at least one year of RN experience. Transfer students can apply up to six semester hours toward their MSN nursing degree.

Liberty University

Liberty University provides a faith-based nursing education through flexible online programs designed for working registered nurses.

Program length

The RN to BSN to MSN track at Liberty creates a faster path that helps nurses complete both degrees quicker than separate programs. Students can finish the program in about 2.5 years. The university’s program structure includes 8-week courses with six start dates throughout the year, making it one of the quickest RN to MSN online programs for nurses who want to advance without long-term commitments.

Specializations

Students can select from several MSN tracks that match their career goals:

• Nurse Educator – prepares graduates to teach in nursing schools or hospital education departments
• Nursing Administration – focuses on leadership and management skills
• Nursing Informatics – combines nursing knowledge with information management
• Community Health – emphasizes population-based care
• Health Policy – centers on healthcare legislation and advocacy

The university also offers dual degree options like MSN/MBA and MSN/MSHA combinations that give students business expertise with clinical knowledge.

Tuition and fees

Liberty sets competitive tuition rates at $580 per credit hour for full-time master’s students in the 2025-2026 academic year. The RN to BSN to MSN track comes with a lower rate of $330 per credit hour for undergraduate and graduate courses. Military service members get an additional discount at $290 per credit hour. Students pay a technology fee of $349 each semester.

Delivery format

Students can complete all courses online without campus visits for most programs. The university provides eight start dates yearly without set login times, so students can finish coursework when it suits them. Students can access recorded and archived lectures anytime.

Admission requirements

Students need a current, active, and unrestricted RN license. The program requires a minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA, though students with GPAs between 2.75-2.99 might qualify for provisional acceptance. Before starting practicum components, students must show current immunization status, CPR certification, and pass background checks.

Capella University

Capella University makes it easier for nurses to earn their MSN degree online through their unique self-paced learning programs.

Program length

The FlexPath format lets nurses complete their RN-to-MSN degree in just 15 months. This makes it one of the quickest online RN to MSN programs you can find. Students finish at different speeds – quick learners take 13 months, average students need 22 months, and those who prefer a gentler pace take 34 months. The program needs 33 program points in FlexPath (or 66 quarter credits in GuidedPath). Students must complete three bridge courses, seven core courses, four specialization courses, and two practicum courses.

Specializations

Nurses can pick from four different specializations:

• Care Coordination – helps identify gaps in healthcare delivery and matches resources to patient needs
• Nursing Education – teaches students how to create comprehensive education programs
• Nursing Informatics – blends nursing expertise with information management
• Nursing Leadership and Administration – builds skills needed for executive positions

Tuition and fees

Students in the FlexPath program pay $2,985 for each 12-week billing session instead of paying per credit. Total costs depend on how fast you complete the program:

• Quick pace (13 months): $14,925
• Regular pace (22 months): $23,880
• Slower pace (34 months): $38,805

Students also need to pay $125 for a resource kit, $32 for a background check, and $2.99 for CastleBranch service.

Delivery format

Students can choose between two learning formats:

1. FlexPath – Students learn at their own pace without fixed deadlines. They can take one or two courses at once and move forward when ready
2. GuidedPath – Students follow a structured 10-week quarter system with weekly deadlines. They take 1-3 courses each quarter

Both options offer 100% online classes with one to two local practicums.

Admission requirements

Students need to submit:

• At least 135 undergraduate quarter credits (or 90 semester credits)
• Official transcripts showing a minimum 2.8 GPA (on 4.0 scale)
• Current, unrestricted RN license valid in the United States
• Government-issued photo ID
• Background check results

FlexPath students should have a 3.0 GPA. The university might accept lower GPAs if students provide extra documentation.

Walden University

Walden University stands out with its innovative Tempo Learning® format that lets nurses customize their program length, cost, and pace based on what works best for them.

Program length

Registered nurses can complete their MSN program through the Tempo Learning® platform in as few as 14 months for select specializations. The university gives students three paths to choose from: BSN to MSN (53-63 quarter credits), RN to MSN (79-89 quarter credits), and RN to BSN Accelerate Into Master’s. Students can finish faster or slower based on their progress and transfer credits, making this one of the quickest RN to MSN online programs you can find.

Specializations

Students can pick from nine specialized tracks in two categories:

Nurse Practitioner Specializations:

• Adult/Gerontology Primary Care
• Adult/Gerontology Acute Care
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care
• Psychiatric and Mental Health

Specialty Practice Specializations:

• Nurse Executive
• Nursing Education
• Nursing Informatics
• Public Health Nursing

Tuition and fees

Select specializations with Tempo Learning® can cost as low as $13,000. Core and specialization courses have standard tuition rates of $775 per quarter credit hour. Students need to plan for a quarterly program fee ($180) and clinical course fees ($160 per practicum). The total cost for books and materials ranges from $1,800-$2,500, which includes a required $299 clinical skills resource.

Delivery format

Students complete all didactic coursework 100% online, and unlike many other programs, they don’t need to travel for health assessments. The competency-based option starts monthly on the first Monday. Students can start their accelerated MSN program right after getting accepted.

Admission requirements

Students need a 2.5 GPA or higher in bachelor’s coursework or 3.0 in master’s coursework. The university has made the admission process easier with no application fee, simple credit transfers, and no essay or SAT/ACT requirements. Students must have a current, active, and unrestricted RN license to enroll.

Charleston Southern University

Charleston Southern University stands out with its five-week intensive class format. Students take only one class at a time, which appeals to nurses who want a focused educational experience.

Program length

Students can complete the MSN program at Charleston Southern in 16 months. The program ranks among the quickest RN to MSN online programs. Students progress through ten 5-week classes over 12 months using a web-based cohort model. This structure lets students concentrate on one subject before moving to the next. The result is a quick learning path that doesn’t overwhelm students with too much coursework.

Specializations

Charleston Southern offers two specialized tracks:

• Nursing Education – prepares you for teaching roles in nursing programs or hospital settings
• Nursing Leadership and Healthcare Administration – develops skills for management positions within healthcare systems

Nurses who already have a master’s degree in nursing can pursue a Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing Education.

Tuition and fees

The MSN program costs $625 per credit hour. Students need 39 credit hours to graduate, bringing the total tuition to about $24,375. Students can access federal loans, tuition reimbursement, and VA funding. South Carolina’s BOLD Nursing Faculty Loan Forgiveness Program offers up to $90,000 to students who plan to teach as nursing faculty.

Delivery format

The program runs mostly online but requires two campus visits. Students come to campus first for orientation in August and return for final presentations in December. The program uses a cohort model with five-week intensive classes during fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Admission requirements

Students need a 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA. The application package should include a goals statement, resume, and official transcripts from all colleges attended. An active, unrestricted nursing license is required. Students with GPAs below 3.0 must submit GRE or MAT scores from the past five years. Previous graduate coursework might waive this requirement.

University of Mary

The University of Mary offers a fast-track program for registered nurses who want to earn advanced credentials. Nurses can balance their full-time jobs with their studies through this well-designed program.

Program length

Nursing professionals at University of Mary can earn their RN to MSN in Nursing Leadership and Management in just 20 months while working full-time. The fast-track format combines bridge courses, core classes, and specialty courses over five semesters. Students need to complete 500 hours of hands-on clinical experience. They must also finish a capstone seminar or service project that combines nursing and management theory with real-world practice.

Specializations

The Division of Nursing provides several MSN concentration options:

• Nursing Leadership & Management
• Nursing Informatics
• Nurse Educator
• Dual degree opportunities:
  • MSN/MBA in Healthcare Administration
  • MSN Leadership/MS Bioethics
  • MSN Informatics/MS Bioethics

These specialized paths help graduates take on leadership roles in healthcare settings, from administration to education.

Tuition and fees

The University keeps costs competitive with $495 per credit hour for all MSN programs. MSN candidates who qualify can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships. Students pay a technology/distance learning fee of $45 per credit. The program charges $25 per credit to cover clinicals, placement, liability insurance, and project advising.

Delivery format

Students can complete the program entirely online, making it perfect for working professionals anywhere in the country. The accelerated structure builds knowledge through sequential bridge courses, core classes, and specialty courses.

Admission requirements

Students need official transcripts from regionally accredited institutions with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75. The university welcomes students from different backgrounds, including transfers from institutionally accredited colleges recognized by the US Department of Education. Students with work experience can earn credits through testing or portfolio review. Military service may count toward degree requirements.

William Paterson University

William Paterson University helps nurses advance their careers through flexible RN to MSN online programs. Students can choose from multiple specializations while continuing their professional work.

Program length

The program length at William Paterson varies based on your chosen concentration. Nursing Education stands out as one of the shortest RN to MSN online programs, taking just 18 months to complete (53 credits). The Nursing Administration track is 20 months (58 credits), while Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner is 24 months (57 credits). Family Nurse Practitioner takes 28 months (65 credits). Students must complete 30 credit hours in the RN to BSN portion before moving to MSN coursework.

Specializations

Students can choose from four distinct RN to MSN specializations:

• Nursing Education – gives you skills to design complete education programs
• Nursing Administration – combines MBA courses from Cotsakos College of Business
• Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – teaches primary care for adults throughout lifespan
• Family Nurse Practitioner – prepares you to provide primary care to patients of all ages

Tuition and fees

Students pay $329.75 per credit hour for all RN to MSN tracks. Total costs differ by specialization: Nursing Education costs $26,058.05, Nursing Administration $26,769.50, Adult Gerontology NP $30,351.75, and Family NP $38,128.75. The program includes a nursing course fee that supports online nursing students with resources.

Delivery format

Students can complete their coursework 100% online without any campus visits. The university’s six annual start dates give working professionals great flexibility. Each course lasts seven weeks in an accelerated format.

Admission requirements

Students need an associate degree or diploma from an ACEN, CCNE, or NLN CNEA-accredited institution with a 2.5 GPA minimum. A valid, unencumbered RN license must be active in your practice state. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA in the BSN portion to progress to MSN curriculum.

University of Mississippi Medical Center

The University of Mississippi Medical Center is the state’s only academic health science campus. Students in the RN to MSN program benefit from hands-on experience at four major hospitals that create an exceptional learning environment.

Program length

Students can complete the RN to MSN program at UMMC in as few as five semesters with full-time study. The program offers part-time options that take about seven semesters. Nurses looking for the quickest way to advance their careers often choose UMMC’s Nursing Education track, which ranks among the shortest online RN to MSN programs.

Specializations

UMMC’s RN-MSN pathway features five complete master’s tracks out of seven available options:

• Nursing Health Care Administration
• Nurse Educator
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (MSN only)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (MSN only)

The school also provides a concentration in Nursing Education and Instruction (NEI). This option works with most graduate tracks except the Nurse Educator specialty.

Tuition and fees

Students find UMMC’s tuition costs lower than private universities and neighboring states. Each specialization comes with different program costs—Healthcare Administration starts at $4,758 while Adult-Gerontology tracks reach $7,747. The program’s value becomes even more appealing since it’s part of a major academic medical center.

Delivery format

Students complete most coursework online alongside required clinical practicums. The university partners with local hospitals to help students complete their in-person clinical hours. Students must log 360 hours of in-person practicum time to gain essential ground experience.

Admission requirements

The program requires:

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program (for MSN) or associate degree/diploma (for RN-MSN)
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (undergraduate and graduate)
• Current unrestricted RN license with Mississippi practice privileges
• One year of RN experience for nurse practitioner tracks

The comprehensive admissions process might include preadmission counseling and an interview.

Northeastern State University

Northeastern State University offers an optimized online MSN program with three distinct specialization tracks. The program helps working nurses advance their careers without long-term commitments.

Program length

NSU’s master’s program stands out as one of the quickest RN to MSN online programs. Students who meet all requirements can complete it in as few as three academic semesters (10 months). Each course runs for 7 weeks, which lets students focus without feeling overwhelmed. Working professionals usually finish the program in 6 semesters (two years). Students have up to six years to complete all requirements after starting their nursing courses with field experiences.

Specializations

NSU’s three specialized MSN tracks include:

• Nursing Education – prepares graduates to teach in academic settings or staff development roles
• Administrative Leadership in Nursing – builds management skills for healthcare leadership positions
• Nursing Informatics – teaches technology integration in healthcare facilities

The university also offers certificate programs in each specialization that students can complete in under two semesters.

Tuition and fees

Oklahoma residents pay graduate tuition of $320.57 per credit hour. Online MSN students pay about $371.40 per credit. The 32-credit curriculum costs approximately $11,872 in total. These rates make NSU one of the most affordable accelerated MSN programs available.

Delivery format

The program runs 100% online and includes a required 200-hour field experience through a practicum. The first course uses a blended format, while all other courses happen entirely online. Students can start the program at multiple points throughout the year, with seven-week courses.

Admission requirements

Students need:

• Bachelor’s in nursing from an accredited program OR associate degree in nursing plus a non-nursing bachelor’s degree with specific prerequisite courses
• Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA or 3.0 GPA in nursing major
• Current, unencumbered RN license
• Statistics and nursing research courses completed with grades of “C” or better
• $25 application fee

Students must live in NC-SARA states to enroll in this online program.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s RN to MSN bridge program gives working nurses a quick path to advance their careers. The program leads to leadership roles in education, research, quality improvement, and informatics.

Program length

ASU’s online RN to MSN bridge program has 36 credit hours spread across 13 classes. Each course runs for 7.5 weeks. Students can focus on their studies without getting overwhelmed. Full-time students can finish the program in one year, while part-time students take about two years. The program starts with two bridge courses that connect associate-level knowledge to graduate-level nursing concepts.

Specializations

The university offers two main paths:

• General MSN track – This track focuses on leadership concepts, practices, and improvement science to deliver safe, effective healthcare
• Nursing Education concentration – Students learn to become teachers in academic or clinical settings

Both paths have two practicum experiences that match your career goals. You’ll also complete an applied project capstone where you create an evidence-based proposal for a nursing issue you choose.

Tuition and fees

The program costs $675 per credit hour, with a total cost between $20,250-$22,275. More than 80% of ASU’s students get some type of financial help each year. Students can access federal loans, grants, scholarships, and employer tuition benefits.

Delivery format

The program runs 100% online without any campus visits. Students can watch recorded lectures and access course materials anytime. The program starts six times a year – in January, March, May, June, August, and October.

Admission requirements

You need an associate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited school with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You must also have a current, unrestricted RN license, at least 72 transferable credit hours, and a statistics course with a C grade or better.

Franklin University

Franklin University offers a streamlined RN to MSN degree program that lets nurses skip the BSN requirement. This direct path helps nurses advance their careers faster.

Program length

Students can complete their advanced nursing degree at Franklin University through one of the quickest paths available. The program starts with a 12-week online bridge course and takes 16-30 months to finish. Each specialization has its own timeline:

• MSN-Generalist: as few as 18 months
• MSN-FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner): 27 months
• MSN-AGPCNP (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care): as few as 28 months
• MSN-Nurse Administrator: as few as 16 months
• MSN-PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health): as few as 28 months

Specializations

The university’s five MSN specializations meet diverse career goals:

• Nurse Administrator: Prepares RNs to lead teams and create organizational change
• MSN-Generalist: Equips nurses for advanced practice, leadership roles, or doctoral studies
• Family Nurse Practitioner: Teaches primary care skills for patients of all ages
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care: Focuses on primary care for patients 13 and older
• Psychiatric Mental Health: Develops expertise in mental health care and treatment

Tuition and fees

Each specialization has specific tuition rates:

• MSN-FNP, MSN-PMHNP, MSN-AGPCNP: $670 per credit hour
• MSN-Generalist, MSN-Nurse Administrator: $598 per credit hour
• RN-MSN Bridge Course (NURS 500): $298 per credit hour

Students should budget for a $150 background check and clinical screening fee. Practitioner tracks include additional clinical course fees of $250 per course.

Delivery format

Students complete all coursework 100% online and do clinical practicums at healthcare facilities. Course lengths vary between 6, 12, and 16 weeks. This flexible schedule helps working nurses manage their studies and job duties effectively.

Admission requirements

The program requires:

• An associate degree/diploma in nursing from an accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (lower GPAs may qualify for conditional enrollment)
• Valid, active, and clear/unencumbered RN license
• Completion of the 12-week bridge course for direct RN to MSN entry

The university’s nursing faculty includes active practitioners who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. This ensures students learn the latest skills and knowledge in their field.

Herzing University

Herzing University stands out with its accelerated RN to MSN program. Students can choose from several specializations and advance directly from an ADN to an MSN degree without needing a BSN first.

Program length

Students can complete Herzing’s accelerated RN to MSN nurse practitioner tracks in as few as 24 months. This includes both the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) programs. The Public Health Nursing and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner tracks take 28 months to complete. Students who prefer a traditional approach can choose the RN to BSN to MSN path, which typically takes 32 months.

Specializations

The university’s program has these specialized tracks:

• Family Nurse Practitioner – 64 credits with 630 clinical hours
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP – 64 credits with 540 clinical hours
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner – 70 credits
• Public Health Nursing – 52 credits
• Nursing Education – 36 credits
• Nursing Leadership & Administration

Tuition and fees

Each specialization comes with different tuition rates:

• Nurse Practitioner tracks (FNP, AGPCNP, WHNP): $755 per credit
• Public Health and Nursing Education: $625 per credit

Students can access several financial aid options. The Nurses Circle of Achievement scholarship provides up to 10% tuition reduction. Veterans and active military personnel might qualify for 10-20% tuition discounts.

Delivery format

Students can complete their coursework 100% online and fulfill clinical practicums locally. The nurse practitioner programs require extensive hands-on experience. The FNP track needs 630 clinical hours with 500 unique patient encounters. The AGPCNP program requires 540 total clinical hours.

Admission requirements

The program maintains consistent admission requirements. Candidates must:

• Live in a state where Herzing is authorized to offer the RN to MSN program
• Hold a current, active, and unrestricted RN license in their practice state
• Possess an associate degree (ADN/ASN/AASN) from a nationally or regionally accredited institution
• Participate in an admission interview

DePaul University

DePaul University collaborates with Chicago’s Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science to deliver a fully online RN-to-MSN program. Students gain access to exceptional networking opportunities through nearly 2,000 nursing alumni working in prestigious Chicago area institutions.

Program length

Your educational background determines the program timeline. Nurses can complete their MSN in 2-4 years if they have an ADN or an ADN plus a bachelor’s in a non-nursing field. Working professionals will find the program structure accommodating. BSN-prepared nurses start graduate coursework right away. Students with ADN and non-nursing bachelor’s degrees must complete three undergraduate bridge courses (NSG 330, NSG 376, and NSG 377) before starting graduate studies.

Specializations

The university offers four complete tracks:

• Family Nurse Practitioner – 64 credits with 500 clinical hours
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – 64 credits with 500 clinical hours plus specialized gerontological coursework
• Nursing Leadership – Has a 105-hour practicum in healthcare administration
• Nursing Education – Prepares graduates for teaching roles in academic or clinical settings

All nurse practitioner tracks end with intensive clinical experiences that total 500-600 hours.

Tuition and fees

Graduate tuition costs $811 per credit hour, which amounts to $23,519 per year for most students. This investment connects students to DePaul’s extensive clinical partnerships with leading Chicago hospitals. The university works to minimize tuition increases and develops substantial financial aid options.

Delivery format

Students complete the program completely online with required clinical practicum hours. The university offers four start dates each year, giving working professionals flexibility in their schedules. DePaul maintains NC-SARA (National Council for State Authorization and Reciprocity Agreements) approval to ensure quality standards across state lines.

Admission requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a BSN from an ACEN, CNEA, or CCNE accredited program OR an ADN and bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field
• Show proof of current unencumbered RN license in the state where clinical practicum will occur
• Keep a minimum 2.75 GPA
• Pass a statistics prerequisite course with grade ‘C’ or better

The program cannot accept students planning clinical practicums in Arizona, California, Colorado, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Tennessee, and Washington.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers RN to MSN pathways through their online Master of Science in Nursing Clinical Systems Leadership program. Students can take seven-week courses to complete their degree quickly while continuing their clinical practice.

Program length

The online MSN program features accelerated 7-week classes designed for working professionals. ADN track students need to complete 11 courses, while BSN track students take 8 courses. Both tracks end with a 16-week capstone project where students develop an evidence-based care management plan with faculty mentorship. Students who enroll full-time can finish the program in about 24 months. This timeline makes it a competitive option among other accelerated MSN programs.

Specializations

Students can choose from several MSN specializations:

• Clinical Systems Leadership – focuses on leadership in healthcare settings
• Nursing Education – prepares graduates for teaching roles
• Family Nurse Practitioner – requires 68 credit hours and 720 clinical hours
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Students looking for specialized career paths can also pursue post-master’s certificates.

Tuition and fees

The graduate nursing tuition changes based on residency status. The full-time master’s program costs about $36,000 per year for in-state students and $51,000 for out-of-state students. Students should budget for additional expenses like clinical resources, background checks, and program fees. The university helps students with various financial assistance options, and more than 80% of students receive aid.

Delivery format

The RN to MSN program runs completely online with asynchronous learning, so most specializations don’t require campus visits. You can keep your current nursing job while advancing your education.

Admission requirements

You’ll need a current, unrestricted RN license to apply. The university wants a minimum 3.0 GPA on undergraduate coursework. You should also have completed a 3-credit, college-level statistics course in the past five years. Students without recent statistics can add NURS 629 when starting the program. The application package needs official transcripts, a resume or CV, and two recommendations.

Post University

Post University lets nurses choose between structured classes and self-paced competency-based learning for their RN to MSN programs. Students can pick the approach that works best for them.

Program length

The SIMPath® competency-based option helps students complete their MSN in as little as 16 months. This makes it one of the fastest RN to MSN online programs available. Traditional term-based programs take 18-24 months based on specialization. Students need to complete 36-54 credit hours depending on their chosen concentration.

Specializations

Students can choose from eight complete MSN specializations in two categories:

Nurse Practitioner Specializations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Non-NP Specializations:

• Management and Organizational Leadership
• Case Management
• Nursing Education
• Nursing Informatics
• Infection Prevention & Control

Tuition and fees

The standard MSN programs cost $588 per credit hour. Nurse practitioner tracks have different pricing: $588 for core courses and $603.75 for role and population-focused courses. The competency-based SIMPath® option costs $420 per semester. Students must pay a $50 technology fee each term and a $90 electronic course materials fee for each course.

Delivery format

Students can choose between two flexible learning formats:

Term Based (All Specializations)

• 100% online classes
• 8-week terms
• Monthly start dates
• Consistent due dates
• One class at a time

SIMPath® (Non-NP Specializations Only)

• 100% online classes
• 16-week semesters
• Monthly start dates
• Self-paced format
• Multiple courses simultaneously possible

Admission requirements

Students need an active, unencumbered registered nursing license and a bachelor’s degree in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The university requires official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions. RN to MSN bridge students must provide their active US RN license, proof of residence, and a completed application.

Comparing the Shortest RN to MSN Programs

Finding Your Perfect Fast-Track Nursing Path

We’ve explored several pathways to advance your nursing career through accelerated RN to MSN programs. The options range from Chamberlain University’s impressive 3-semester Leadership track to Post University’s competency-based program that you can complete in just 16 months. These accelerated options maintain educational quality and substantially reduce your time investment.

The right program should fit your career goals and lifestyle needs. Let’s look at everything you need to think over before making your decision:

• Program Length – Programs run anywhere from 13 months (Capella) to 2-4 years (DePaul), based on your specialization and enrollment status
• Specialization Options – Schools give you 2-10 distinct pathways to choose from, with nurse practitioner tracks usually taking longer to complete
• Delivery Format – Most programs offer 100% online coursework, but nurse practitioner tracks often need campus visits or in-person clinicals
• Cost Considerations – Tuition costs per credit hour range from $329.75 (William Paterson) to $811 (DePaul), and many schools offer military discounts and scholarships

MSN graduates earn an average annual salary of $104,000 compared to $79,000 for ADN holders. This big difference in pay quickly makes up for your educational investment.

Healthcare’s growing complexity has created more opportunities for MSN-prepared nurses. Without doubt, accelerated online programs give you a strategic edge – you can keep your current job while preparing for advanced roles. Your perfect program awaits, whether you’re passionate about direct patient care, education, administration, or informatics.

Research your preferred schools’ admission requirements carefully. GPA minimums vary from 2.5-3.0 across these institutions. You should also gather your transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of licensure well before application deadlines.

Your nursing career deserves thoughtful planning and steady progress. These innovative accelerated pathways put your advanced nursing degree within reach – without sacrificing years of your career or personal life.