The Most Affordable Online MSN Programs
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: SDI Productions / E+ / Getty ImagesA master of science in nursing (MSN) degree can lead to opportunities as a nurse practitioner (NP), nurse educator, or nurse administrator. But earning an MSN also requires a significant investment of time and money.
Our guide to the cheapest online MSN programs can help you find the right program for your budget. Explore these affordable and accredited programs to take the next step in your nursing career.
The Most Affordable Online MSN Programs
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$58,276
- Out-of-state$58,276
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate41%
- Students Enrolled12,039
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
University of Southern Maine
- Portland, ME
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,064
- Out-of-state$22,041
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled7,996
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Rivier University
- Nashua, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$34,412
- Out-of-state$34,412
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate84%
- Students Enrolled2,424
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Ottawa University-Kansas City
- Overland Park, KS
- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$12,229
- Out-of-state$12,229
- Retention Rate0%
- Acceptance Rate0%
- Students Enrolled551
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$9,446
- Out-of-state$38,822
- Retention Rate0%
- Acceptance Rate0%
- Students Enrolled7,244
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Jacksonville University
- Jacksonville, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$42,250
- Out-of-state$42,250
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled3,995
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Goodwin University
- East Hartford, CT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$19,988
- Out-of-state$19,988
- Retention Rate0%
- Acceptance Rate0%
- Students Enrolled3,258
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the most affordable online MSN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list was created prior to 2025.
How Do Online MSN Programs Work?
A master’s degree in nursing gives registered nurses (RNs) the clinical knowledge and skills to expand their nursing practice. Specialized MSN programs prepare graduates to become nurse practitioners, nurse educators, and nurse leaders.
Online MSN programs offer flexible schedules designed for working nurses. Nursing students expand their knowledge of nursing leadership and healthcare technology through online courses while developing advanced patient care and health assessment skills during in-person clinical experiences.
To be successful in an online MSN program, you’ll need the following skills:
Resourcefulness
Don’t be afraid to contact professors or instructors with coursework questions. They maintain virtual office hours to be available for questions or clarification about learning objectives.
Organization
It is crucial to stay organized while balancing online coursework and other responsibilities. Try to keep a system — like folders on your computer or within the learning portal — to stay on top of assignments and deadlines.
Persistence
Nursing school is hard work, but remember, it’s only temporary. Always keep your long-term goals in mind as you work toward them.
Depending on the specialization, an online MSN can take 18 months to three years to complete. Most programs also offer part-time tracks.
- Comprehensive health assessment
- Advanced pharmacology
- Healthcare leadership
- Clinical diagnostics
- Healthcare delivery systems
Applying to an Online MSN Program
Before applying to an online MSN program, applicants need to meet admission requirements, which can include prerequisite courses and clinical experience.
Some schools accept applications during certain times of the year, while others allow for year-round admission. Give yourself ample time to prepare your application, write your essay, and organize your recommendations.
While the admission requirements and process vary by nursing school, many include the following:
Admission Requirements
- An accredited BSN degree
- A current RN license
- 1-2 years of clinical nursing experience (required or recommended)
Admission Materials
- Official transcripts
- Resume or CV
- Statement of purpose
- 1-3 letters of recommendation
GPA Requirement
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
Why Is Online MSN Program Accreditation Important?
The accreditation process ensures that nursing programs prepare graduates for licensure and nursing practice. Before applying to online MSN programs, check whether they hold nursing accreditation. Accreditation indicates that experts have determined that the school meets rigorous quality standards. Online and on-campus nursing programs must meet the same standards to receive accreditation.
You’re putting your hard work and money into an advanced nursing degree, so you want to know your program follows the best practices to educate nurses. Accredited programs prepare graduates to practice nursing safely and effectively. All programs in our ranking of the most affordable MSN programs are accredited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, online MSN programs offered by accredited nursing schools are respected. These MSN programs meet the same quality standards as on-campus programs while delivering coursework in a flexible format. Online learners complete in-person clinical requirements to develop their skills.
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