An award-winning historian and writer, Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D., has published multiple scholarly articles and a book with the University of Chicago Press. She currently works as a writer and consultant. She holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern...
Rebecca Munday joins our team after serving as editor-in-chief for The George-Anne Inkwell at Georgia Southern University. She's never met a type of writing she didn't enjoy, and is especially passionate about making healthcare understandable for all...
Elizabeth Clarke is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. Her experience spans emergency departments, cardiac units, pediatric urgent care, and occupational health settings. She earned her bachelor of science in nursing and master's in nursing...
BestCollegeReviews.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
Provide specific, corrective feedback.
Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for BestCollegeReviews.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
BestCollegeReviews.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
Earning a master’s in nursing can boost your pay, and choosing an affordable program can mean a better return on your investment.
The cost of an MSN varies widely. Some programs cost as little as $300 per credit, while others cost more than four times that much. Finding the cheapest program could save you tens of thousands of dollars.
Find programs that fit your budget with our ranking of the most affordable MSN programs.
Popular Online MSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Most Affordable Online MSN Programs
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestCollegeReviews.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
California State University-Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Cost per Year: Full-time | $8,493 Part-time | $5,481 Out-of-State: +$396 per unit
Credits to Graduate: 30-48
Cal State Dominguez Hills offers an online MSN with tracks in clinical nurse specialist - adult/gerontology, neonatal, or pediatric, family nurse practitioner, nurse administrator, and nurse educator. Some concentrations require periodic on-campus attendance, and graduation requires a culminating oral slide deck presentation to faculty.
The School of Nursing offers scholarships to nurses focusing on oncology or hospice/end-of-life care and students involved in community service. Private scholarships and federal and state financial aid are also available to nursing graduate students.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
17,837
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Cost per Credit: In-State | $494 Out-of-State | $1,044
Credits to Graduate: 34
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2023): 94%
UNF lists two online BSN-to-MSN programs: one in nursing education and the other in nursing leadership and administration. Both tracks are full time and include nursing projects and a capstone. Nursing education graduates can pursue their Certified Nurse Educator credentials, and the nursing leadership and administration track prepares students for ANCC Nurse Executive certification.
Enrollment is limited to 15 students. Graduate nursing students can apply for scholarship and research fellowship opportunities through the nursing school's home, Brooks College of Health.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,996
Out-of-state
$16,799
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,570
Out-of-state
$19,585
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
16,594
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
77%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Cost per Credit: In-State | $367 Out-of-State | $1,030
Credits to Graduate: 31
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 83%
TAMIU's online MSN focuses on nursing administration, and students can complete the program in as few as 10 months. The curriculum emphasizes business and leadership skills, communication and relationship building, and understanding of the global healthcare environment. A 180-hour practicum prepares graduates for integrative leadership roles.
The $11,377 in-state tuition and the $31,930 out-of-state tuition for the program include all fees, and students can pay per course. The nursing school also offers an online RN-to-MSN bridge program in nursing administration.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,610
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,694
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,455
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Cost per two semesters: In-State | $5,652 Out-of-State | $17,064
Credits to Graduate: 34-37
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 85%
Students can enroll full or part time in UVU's online MSN nurse educator program. Coursework includes curriculum design and development, health systems and policy, leadership development, nursing informatics, and teaching nursing in clinical settings. The program's four semesters conclude with a project or thesis.
Online students can access financial aid resources, including resident and non-resident graduate scholarships. The university operates a food pantry that learners taking six credits or more can use once a week. The pantry accepts online orders.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,368
Out-of-state
$16,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,773
Out-of-state
$21,461
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
41,262
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
Weber State University
Ogden, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Cost per Credit: In-State | $542 Out-of-State | $1,601
Credits to Graduate: 31-34
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 84%
Weber offers two online MSN concentrations: nurse educator and nurse leadership management. An accelerated block format allows students to finish in 12 months. The nurse educator track emphasizes curriculum design, instructional strategies, and program evaluation. Nurse leadership management focuses on budgeting, performance measurement, workforce development, and retention. Both tracks include a community-based residency.
Nursing students can apply for departmental and private scholarships, including those funded by the Utah Nurses Association, HCA Healthcare, and the Johnson & Johnson company.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,329
Out-of-state
$15,745
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,880
Out-of-state
$17,459
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
29,774
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#6 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Cost per Credit: In-State | $327 Out-of-State | $1,152
Credits to Graduate: 31-36
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2023): 97%
The UCF's MSN program features online tracks in nursing and healthcare simulation, nurse educator, and nursing leadership and management. Nurse educator graduates qualify to take the Certified Nurse Educator exam. The program accepts applications from residents of Florida and most nurse-licensure compact states. Licensed registered nurses with non-nursing bachelor's degrees can also apply.
Distance learners are eligible for scholarships and grants, regardless of state residency. Scholarships A2O allows students to complete one application for consideration for more than 200 scholarships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
70,310
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
Georgetown University
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Cost per Credit: In-State | $2,441 Out-of-State | $2,441
Credits to Graduate: 40-49
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 94%
Georgetown's MSN program combines online learning with clinical placements and Washington, D.C., metro area intensives. Distance learners can specialize in adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, nurse-midwifery/women's health nurse practitioner, or women's health nurse practitioner. Most students take 10-27 months to complete their studies.
The dual nurse-midwifery/women's health track holds additional accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. The School of Nursing offers step-by-step guidance for online learners applying for federal financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,784
Out-of-state
$59,784
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,672
Out-of-state
$54,672
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
12%
Students Enrolled
20,935
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Cost per Credit: In-State | $372 Out-of-State | $1,027
Credits to Graduate: 25-49
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2023): 81%
FAU offers an MSN program with six specialization tracks: adult-gerontological nurse practitioner (AGNP), family nurse practitioner (FNP), nurse educator, advanced holistic nursing, nursing administration and financial leadership, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). The AGNP and FNP tracks also contain online core courses.
The nursing program arranges clinical placements for distance learners in the AGNP, FNP, nurse education, and PMHNP tracks. Students can enroll full or part time and continue working while they earn their MSNs.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,522
Out-of-state
$14,374
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,467
Out-of-state
$16,695
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
30,155
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
Northeastern State University
Tahlequah, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Cost per Credit: In-State | $370 Out-of-State | $371
Credits to Graduate: 32
The online MSN at Northeastern State University focuses on nursing informatics to meet a growing demand for nurses trained in data management. The program takes as few as 12 months to complete. It includes a capstone, master's project or thesis, and a 200-hour mentored practicum.
The program offers six start dates per year. Learners can pay for their courses one at a time, and the tuition cost includes all fees. Online in-state students can expect to pay $11,853, and out-of-state learners will pay $11,884 for the program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,000
Out-of-state
$14,640
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,581
Out-of-state
$10,242
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
7,025
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Most Affordable Online MSN Programs of 2024
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
4 years
Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Cost per Credit: In-State | $900 Out-of-State | $900
Credits to Graduate: 33-40.5
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 83%
The University of Utah offers MSN students four online specialty tracks: gerontology, nursing education, nursing informatics, and nursing leadership. Full- or part-time study options give distance learners flexibility. Full-time students can finish in as few as five semesters, including practicums, master's projects, and capstones.
Graduate funding sources include a nurse faculty loan program that provides up to an 85% debt reduction in exchange for four years of teaching in a nursing school after graduation. Gerontology track enrollees can apply for teaching assistantships while earning their MSNs.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,749
Out-of-state
$27,201
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,970
Out-of-state
$24,607
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
34,464
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Methodology Overview
Best College Reviews ranks schools based on over a dozen factors, including academic quality, affordability, and earning potential after graduation. To accurately and objectively evaluate each school's value, we consider factors such as student retention rate, average net price, and median student debt.
Completing an online MSN program allows graduates to pursue nursing leadership roles and advance their nursing practice. These jobs include roles with more independence and responsibility, such as:
Nurse practitioners
Nurse midwives
Nurse educators
Clinical nurse specialists
Some nurses use their MSNs to pursue advanced nursing practice roles. Other nurses use their MSNs to step into leadership or management roles at healthcare facilities.
Earning an MSN degree online can increase nurses' earning potential. Generally, jobs requiring an MSN pay more than those not. MSN graduates earn an average of $103,000, which is $9,000 more per year than BSN graduates, according to Payscale data from Feb. 2024
Many schools offer MSN programs online. The flexibility of an online MSN program lets nurses continue working while earning their degrees. This flexibility appeals to nurses, who often work busy, complex schedules.
Many programs follow an asynchronous format, letting students complete coursework when convenient.
How Much Does an MSN Degree Cost?
A master’s degree in a health field costs a median of $28,590 in 2020, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) Data Lab. This includes tuition, fees, books, transportation, and personal expenses. Tuition and fees alone cost a median of $11,160 per year in 2020.
Public schools typically offer more affordable MSN programs than private schools. Online nursing schools often feature the most affordable MSN programs. However, they often require students to complete an in-person practicum during their studies.
Students can earn their degree in 1-3 years. Online MSN programs offer different tracks and specializations, some taking longer than others. Part-time tracks take longer than full-time courseloads.
An MSN is a major investment. Fortunately, you can make your MSN affordable by choosing an online program, limiting expenses, and applying for financial aid.
You’ll pay less for tuition and fees with an online MSN. An online format can also mean lower transportation and living expenses. When researching costs, factor in textbooks, fees, and other required expenses.
Some employers, especially teaching hospitals or hospitals partnered with university systems, may reimburse you or help you pay for your MSN degree. Read the requirements carefully because they usually require a work commitment after earning your MSN.
How Much Do MSN Graduates Make?
Nurses with a graduate degree earn significantly higher salaries than those with a bachelor’s degree.
With an MSN, you can pursue high-paying nursing careers. For example, several nurse practitioner specialties report six-figure median salaries. You can also become a nurse educator, nurse midwife, or clinical nurse specialist with an MSN.
Your earning potential with an MSN depends on your specialization and job title. The table below provides salary data for popular careers for MSN nurses.
Courses in an MSN Program
You strengthen your health assessment, clinical decision-making, and nursing leadership skills in an MSN program. In addition to core MSN classes, you’ll take graduate-level courses in your specialization. MSN programs also incorporate hands-on training through practicums and clinical placements.
You’ll learn from experienced faculty who emphasize the best practices in nursing at an accredited online MSN program.
While the exact curriculum will vary depending on your program and specialization, many MSN programs incorporate the following courses:
Advanced Health Assessment
Advanced health assessment classes prepare nurses to provide primary care to patients from all populations. Students collect quantitative and qualitative patient data. They use this data to analyze patients' current health, future risks and means for preventative care. Nurses use these skills on the job, no matter their specialty.
Health Promotion in Families and Communities
This course covers specific health risks in certain communities and families. Students learn about risk appraisal and how to prevent risks in families, communities, and individuals. Nurses use these analytical skills when treating diverse populations.
Leadership and Management in Complex Health Systems
This course prepares enrollees to take on more responsibility in their healthcare roles. They learn strategy and leadership skills and how to manage a team and monitor organizational performance. Nurses use organizational and leadership skills even when not in management roles.
Accreditation for an MSN Program
Prospective nursing students should always choose an accredited online MSN program to ensure they meet the requirements for licensure, certification, and employers. Accredited programs meet the highest standards for training nurses. Employers, licensing boards, and certifying bodies require you to graduate from an accredited program to ensure you’re prepared for practice.
In addition to an accredited program, look for an accredited university. Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited institutions. The U.S. Department of Education database lists accredited programs and schools.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online MSN Programs
Are MSN degrees worth it?
An MSN degree can be worth it for nurses. You can move into advanced practice roles like nurse practitioner with an MSN. The degree can also lead to opportunities as nurse educators or administrators.
You can maximize your return on investment by choosing one of the most affordable MSN programs online.
What master's degree in nursing makes the most money?
High-paying MSN specialties include nurse practitioner, with a median pay of $121,610, and nurse midwife, with a median pay of $120,880.
How do I choose an MSN program?
You should choose an MSN program that matches your career interests and budget. With many MSN options, start by choosing a specialization. Then, research programs and look at costs, learning formats, degree requirements, clinical placement assistance, and graduation records.
Make sure to choose an accredited nursing school for your MSN. Accredited programs meet licensure and certification requirements.
How long does it take to get your MSN after your BSN?
Earning an MSN takes as little as one year. Many nursing schools offer accelerated MSN programs with specializations for nurse educators and nurse administrators. If you're interested in APRN roles like nurse practitioner, plan to spend 2-3 years meeting coursework and clinical requirements. You may also spend longer in school if you plan to work while earning your degree.
Is it hard to get your MSN?
Getting an MSN can be challenging. Graduate programs require strong organizational and time management skills, and MSN students take advanced nursing courses. The cost can also make it hard to get an MSN.
Choosing an affordable online MSN program can make earning your degree easier. The flexibility of an online format makes it easier to work while in grad school, and online programs are typically less expensive.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Best College Reviews. Page last reviewed on March 2, 2024.
Edited by