This page is for RNs preparing for advanced practice weighing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). The list below is every accredited online program in our index that offers this credential — schools sorted alphabetically, not ranked, because accreditation is the binary gate and the variables that actually decide fit (cohort dynamics, clinical placement, your state's licensure rules) sit outside what a table can show. Skim three columns: accreditor, delivery format, and the school's own review. If you can only check one signal here, it is the accreditor.
New to the abbreviations? See the nursing terms glossary.
How we list schools. We list a program only when its accreditation is confirmed against primary sources — accreditation is a hard gate. We do not rank, score, or rate the schools, and we never estimate NCLEX, salary, or tuition figures we cannot source. See the full methodology.
Accredited online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs
Each links to a full school review with accreditation, format, and trade-offs.
Walden University
CCNEFully onlineRead the reviewCapella University
CCNEFully onlineRead the reviewWestern Governors University
CCNEFully onlineRead the reviewChamberlain University
CCNEHybridRead the reviewFrontier Nursing University
ACENHybridRead the reviewPurdue University Global
CCNEFully onlineRead the review
| School | Accreditation | Delivery format | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walden University | CCNE | Fully online | Confirm with school |
| Capella University | CCNE | Fully online | Confirm with school |
| Western Governors University | CCNE | Fully online | Confirm with school |
| Chamberlain University | CCNE | Hybrid | Confirm with school |
| Frontier Nursing University | ACEN | Hybrid | Confirm with school |
| Purdue University Global | CCNE | Fully online | Confirm with school |
More on Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs
What does a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) cost?
Tuition varies widely by school, residency status, and transfer credit, and published sticker price rarely matches what you pay — employer tuition assistance and graduate aid change the real number. ScrubScope does not publish an estimated figure; confirm current tuition directly with each accredited school before you inquire.
How long does a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) take?
Most Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs take 18-36 months, depending on transfer credit and whether you study part or full time. Part-time pathways, which most working RNs choose, sit at the longer end of that range.
What are the prerequisites?
- BSN from an accredited program (or RN-to-MSN bridge)
- Active RN license
- Clinical experience (track-specific)
What comes after this program?
Pathway varies by track; APRN tracks lead to national certification and state APRN licensure.
Who this path is wrong for
- If a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prerequisite above does not match where you are now, this is not yet the right move — close that gap first.
- If the typical 18-36 months timeline does not fit your constraints, an accelerated or part-time alternative will serve you better.
- If a shorter or lower-cost pathway reaches the same goal, weigh that honestly against the prerequisites before you inquire here.