Shortest Online RN to MSN Programs (Alphabetically Ordered) | 2023 Edition
Use the links below to jump to detailed profiles of the Fastest Online RN to MSN programs in the country. Each entry contains a list of MSN specialties, notes on scheduling, and a rundown of admissions requirements. Choose an accelerated MSN that works for you!
American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Post University | Waterbury, CT
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to BSN/MSN
- Time to Completion: ~6 Semesters (SIMPath) or 3 Years or Less (Term-Based)
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: For-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Case Management
- Infection Prevention and Control
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Informatics
- Nursing Management and Organizational Leadership
How ASU Made the RN to BSN/MSN Faster
ASU’s program is made up of 3 key elements: 7 BSN-level nursing courses; 6 MSN-level core courses; and 6 specialty courses, including an MSN capstone.
The time it takes to finish will depend on the format you choose:
- Term-Based: In this traditional set-up, you can take 1-2 structured courses per 8-week term. You’ll have consistent due dates and class discussions.
- Powered by SIMPath®: In the SIMPath, you can complete courses at your own pace, taking advantage of virtual simulations and weekly meetings. To progress, you’ll need to show mastery of competencies and submit required projects at the end of each 16-week semester.
ASU states that SIMPath students often complete BSN-level work in 3 semesters and MSN-level coursework in 3 semesters. But you may be able to accelerate that schedule!
Important Admissions Requirements
All RN to BSN/MSN applicants are expected to have an:
- ADN or ASN from an accredited university or a diploma in nursing or the foreign education equivalent recognized by an NACES evaluator
- Active, unencumbered RN license or its international equivalent
- 3.0 GPA on any undergraduate coursework
Keep in mind that if you are unable to transfer 30 general education credits, you may have to take extra courses at ASU.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Brenau University | Gainesville, GA
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Accelerated RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2 Years + 1 Semester or 3 Years + 1 Semester
- Delivery Method: Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- FNP
- Nursing Leadership & Management
Note: Brenau also offers a standard RN to MSN program with RN-BSN coursework. This is based on a full-time/part-time schedule and takes 3-4 years to complete.
How Brenau Made the Accelerated RN to MSN Faster
Because Brenau’s accelerated pathway is aimed at BSN graduates or those with equivalent credits, it’s not that different to a traditional MSN. You’ll take:
- 2 online undergraduate bridge courses in the first semester.
- Hybrid MSN courses for the remainder of the program.
The leadership track takes 2 years + 1 semester; the FNP track takes 3 years + 1 semester.
Important Admissions Requirements
Brenau states that Accelerated RN to MSN applicants should have a:
- BSN from an accredited nursing program or the equivalent credits
- Nursing GPA of 3.0
- RN license
- Undergraduate credits in physical assessment and research methods
- Minimum of 1 year of full-time work experience in nursing within the past 5 years
If you don’t have a BSN, talk to the program coordinator to see if your undergraduate nursing coursework and your liberal education credits meet the requirements for accelerated students.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Chamberlain University | Addison, IL
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online Accelerated RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 3-4 Semesters
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: For-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Clinical Nursing Leadership (CNL)
- Leadership (General)
Note: Chamberlain also offers a longer RN-BSN to MSN in multiple specialty tracks, including the FNP. This takes 7-8 semesters to complete.
How Chamberlain Made the RN to MSN Faster
To start with, Chamberlain grants 77 proficiency credits to anyone with a state-approved RN license. What’s more, accelerated RN to MSN students do not complete a BSN. Instead, they plunge straight into 500- and 600-level courses.
- Leadership Track: This 45-credit program can be completed in 3 semesters on a full-time schedule. Chamberlain’s 16-week semesters are split into two 8-week sessions. That means you’ll usually be taking 3 courses per session!
- CNL Track: If you’re interested in pursuing the CNL track, you can tackle the longer 52-credit program. This takes 4 semesters (e.g. 7 sessions) to complete on a full-time basis and it includes 432 practicum hours.
Chamberlain states that all courses for the Accelerated RN to MSN program are 100% online. It’s a similar story for RN-BSN to MSN specialties, except for the FNP, which includes a campus immersion.
Important Admissions Requirements
Accelerated RN to MSN candidates are expected to have an:
- Associate degree or diploma in nursing from an institution accredited by an agency that’s recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- Current, active, and unrestricted RN license or its international equivalent
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on undergraduate coursework
Chamberlain is willing to consider applicants with a cumulative GPA of 2.75-2.99. They will be granted provisional acceptance and placed on academic warning.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Charleston Southern University | Charleston, SC
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online ADN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 19 Months / 7 Semesters
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Status: Private (Southern Baptist), Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Leadership & Healthcare Administration
How CSU Made the ADN to MSN Faster
The ADN to MSN program is 51 credit hours. You’ll be expected to complete 3 undergraduate “bridge” nursing courses in the summer (e.g. 3 months) prior to enrolling in the master’s degree. For the 39-credit MSN, you’ll be enrolled in 5-week courses. All MSN courses can be completed in 16 months/6 semesters.
Almost all of the program is online, but MSN-level students are expected to visit the campus for an orientation residency day in August and a final presentation/pinning residency day in December.
Important Admissions Requirements
As the title suggests, this program is tailor-made for ADN graduates. But you’ll also need another undergraduate degree. To apply, you must have an:
- ADN
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Active, unrestricted RN license
- Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0; CSU will want to see GRE or MAT scores if your GPA is under 3.5
- Undergraduate statistics course within the past 10 years (students may also be given the option to test out)
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
DePaul University | Chicago, IL
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MS in Nursing
- Time to Completion: 2 Years or 4 Years
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private (Roman Catholic), Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- AGPCNP
- FNP
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
How DePaul Made the RN to MSN Faster
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s: You’ll only be expected to complete 3 undergraduate “bridge” courses before proceeding to the graduate section of the degree. The MS itself usually takes 2 years on a full-time basis.
- ADN or Diploma in Nursing: If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, you must also take 6 nursing courses at the 400-level and 500-level. These will count toward a BS and an MS in Nursing. Once you’ve fulfilled all your liberal studies requirements (e.g. through transfer credits) and earned the BSN, you can tackle the MSN in your choice of specialty. This pathway can take up to 4 years to complete.
If you choose the nurse educator or nurse administrator track for the MS in Nursing, you’ll also earn a certificate in health administration or health professions education through DePaul’s alliance with Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science.
Important Admissions Requirements
DePaul’s RN to MSN program has 2 points of entry—candidates with an ACEN- or CNEA-accredited ADN and bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field can apply for the 2-year pathway; candidates with an associate degree or diploma in nursing can apply for the longer pathway.
All RN to MS in Nursing candidates must have the following:
- Current, unencumbered RN license, with eligibility to practice in the state where clinical practicums will take place
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Grade of C or better on prerequisite statistics course
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
East Tennessee State University | Johnson City, TN
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 6 Semesters
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Public, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- FNP
- PMHNP
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
How ETSU Made the Accelerated RN to MSN Faster
ETSU’s program is only open to RNs with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, so it keeps things pretty streamlined. You must complete 1 semester of undergraduate bridge courses (e.g. 4 courses/12 units) before you launch into MSN credits.
On a full-time schedule, you can finish the MSN is as little as 5 semesters. Coursework is online, but students may be required to visit the ETSU campus for certain classes or assessments, including clinical training.
Important Admissions Requirements
Online RN to MSN candidates must have a:
- Non-nursing bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA or BS)
- Unencumbered RN license in Tennessee or the state in which the clinical assignments are completed
- 3.0 GPA or higher
- Undergraduate-level statistics course (3 semester hour or 4 quarter hour)
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Franklin University | Columbus, OH
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 19-31 Months / 1.5 Years – 2.6 Years
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- AGPCNP
- FNP
- PMHNP
- Nurse Administrator (ADM)
- Generalist
How Franklin Made the Accelerated RN to MSN Faster
All RN to MSN students at Franklin are required to take a 3-month/12-week undergraduate bridge course—”Essentials of Professional Nursing”—and earn a grade of B or better before they can be admitted into an MSN concentration.
Once you’re over that hurdle, you can select an MSN pathway. The MSN-ADM takes 16 months, the Generalist MSN takes 18 months, the FNP takes 27 months, and the AGPCNP & PMHNP tracks take 28 months. Coursework is online, but campus visits may be required for NP clinical training. There are multiple start dates per year.
Important Admissions Requirements
Online RN to MSN candidates must have an:
- Associate degree or diploma from a regionally accredited institution
- 2.75 GPA or higher for the Generalist & Nurse Administrator tracks; 3.0 GPA or higher for NP tracks
- Valid, active, and unencumbered RN license in the U.S. or in a jurisdiction that is an associate member of the NCBSN
Franklin will consider applicants with lower GPAs on a conditional basis. GMAT/GRE scores are not required.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2.5 Years / 30 Months
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: For-Profit
MSN Specialties
- AGACNP
- FNP
- Health Care Quality and Patient Safety
- Health Informatics
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
- Public Health Nursing
How GCU Made the Accelerated RN to MSN Faster
- ADN or Diploma Holders: RNs without a bachelor’s degree can opt for the Fast Track RN to BSN to MSN option. You’ll complete 2 graduate-level courses from your chosen MSN emphasis as electives for BSN requirements. Both degrees can be earned in as few as 30 months/2.5 years.
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s: Nurses with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree can enroll in the Bridge to MSN program. You’ll be required to complete 6 undergraduate bridge courses/24 credits before you choose an MSN concentration. No BSN is awarded in this program.
Coursework is 100% online, but any clinical practicums & experiences will be in-person.
Important Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for the College of Nursing & Health Care Professions are listed in the University Policy Handbook.
- Fast Track RN to BSN to MSN: Candidates should have an associate’s degree in nursing from an accredited, GCU-approved college, university, or program; hold a current unencumbered, and unrestricted RN license; and have a minimum 2.8 GPA on any undergraduate work.
- Bridge to MSN: Candidates must meet the Master Admission Requirements for their chosen concentration (see the Handbook for full details); provide evidence of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited, GCU-approved college, university or program (e.g. BA or BS); hold a current & unencumbered RN license; and have a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Herzing University | Milwaukee, WI
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online Accelerated RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 20-28 Months
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private, Non-Profit (Formerly For-Profit)
MSN Specialties
- AGACNP
- AGPCNP
- FNP
- PMHNP
- Nurse Educator
- Nursing Leadership & Administration
How Herzing Made the Accelerated RN to MSN Faster
In Herzing’s Accelerated pathway, you won’t earn a BSN. Instead, you’ll complete 5 required bridge courses/16 credits in standard subjects (e.g. Statistics, Community and Public Health Nursing, Advanced Leadership and Management, etc.) before you start to tackle MSN-level coursework.
The length of your degree will depend on your concentration. Nursing Leadership and Nurse Educator programs can be finished in 20 months. Most NP tracks will take 24 months. The longest option is the AGACNP concentration, which is 28 months.
Important Admissions Requirements
Accelerated RN to MSN candidates should:
- Have an associate degree (ADN/ASN/AASN) in nursing from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university
- Hold a current, active, and unrestricted RN license in their state of practice
- Live in a state where Herzing University is authorized to offer the RN to MSN program
Herzing lists eligible states for enrollment in the Admissions section. Candidates will also need to participate in an interview.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Holy Names University | Oakland, CA
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: ADN (RN) to MSN
- Time to Completion: ~2 Years
- Delivery Method: Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private (Roman Catholic), Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Care Transition Management
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Informatics
Note: ADN to MSN applicants are not eligible for HNU’s Nurse Practitioner option.
How HNU Made the ADN to MSN Faster
The full curriculum for the ADN to MSN is detailed in HNU’s catalog. The undergraduate portion includes 9 credits of prerequisites (e.g. statistics) and a number of BSN essentials. However, you may be able to transfer existing credits. Plus you’ll be able to progress through the BSN while you’re concurrently enrolled in core graduate nursing courses.
The program can be completed in two years and will take 49-51 units, depending on the concentration. The Nurse Educator specialty is shorter than the other options.
Important Admissions Requirements
Because of its hybrid nature, this program is best-suited to California residents. ADN to MSN candidates need to have an:
- ADN from a NLNAC or CCNE-accredited program
- Current, unrestricted California RN license
- Cumulative GPA of 2.8 or better and a GPA of 3.0 in prior baccalaureate level nursing courses
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
La Roche University | Pittsburgh, PA
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2 Years + 1 Semester
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Status: Private (Roman Catholic), Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
How LaRoche Made the RN to MSN Faster
La Roche’s program includes a BSN. If you’ve fulfilled all the necessary prerequisites (e.g. liberal arts credits), you can start working on the baccalaureate. This will involve 18 credits of core nursing courses and 6 credits of nursing electives.
To speed up the learning process, La Roche allows you to waive 2 elective courses during the undergraduate portion of the program. This means you can earn both the BSN and MSN in 7 semesters. RN to MSN courses are online, but international students must meet the on-campus component for this program.
Important Admissions Requirements
La Roche is looking for RN to MSN candidates with an:
- Associate degree or diploma in nursing
- Current RN license
- Overall GPA of 2.5 or higher from their previous educational program
International candidates have separate admissions requirements. It’s also important to note that all RN to MSN students must have a 3.0 GPA before entering the MSN portion of the program.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health | Omaha, NE
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2.5 Years / 30 Months
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private (Methodist), Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Executive
- Nursing Informatics
How NMC Made the RN to MSN Faster
NMC does not ask you to earn a BSN. Instead, all RN to MSN students, regardless of the specialty, are required to take 5 undergraduate bridge courses (18 credit hours). Online courses are 5 or 10 weeks in length, with 1 week off before the start of the next course. Once you’ve finished the undergraduate portion, you can tackle your graduate degree. You must earn a minimum of 36 credit hours for the MSN.
Important Admissions Requirements
NMC is expecting to see RN to MSN applicants who have an:
- Associate degree or diploma in nursing from a state-approved program or a program professionally accredited by the CNEA or ACEN
- Current, unencumbered RN license
- GPA of 3.0 or above; candidates with a GPA below 3.0 will be considered on an individual basis
After you’ve finished your bridge courses, your GPA will be reviewed again. A GPA of 3.0 or above is required on undergraduate work; GPAs below 3.0 will be considered on an individual basis.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Queens University of Charlotte | Charlotte, NC
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2.5 Years
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
- Nurse Administrator
- Nurse Educator
- Nursing Informatics
How QUC Made the Accelerated RN to MSN Faster
QUC is a good fit for anyone who wants a non-clinical MSN and doesn’t care about earning a BSN in the process. The RN to MSN program consists of 14 courses and takes 2.5 years to finish. You’ll be expected to complete 2 bridge courses in nursing practice & population health before you can study for 12 courses in the MSN. No campus residency is required; practicums can be tackle at a location of your choice.
Important Admissions Requirements
QUC’s program is open to RN to MSN candidates with an:
- Associate degree in nursing or above
- Current & unrestricted RN license
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
No GRE or GMAT scores are required.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Union University | Jackson, TN
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online/Hybrid RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: ~2.25-3.25 years
- Delivery Method: Online or Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private (Christian), Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- FNP
- PMHNP
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
How Union Made the RN to MSN Faster
Union’s RN to MSN program is open to candidates with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or candidates with an associate degree or diploma. If you put the pedal to the metal, you can finish the cohort-based MSN in 16 months (e.g. 4 semesters), but you may be taking 4-5 courses per term. And you’ll need to take undergraduate prerequisites into account:
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s: In addition to completing science prerequisites, you’ll be expected to take 2 courses in scientific writing & research. After that, you can tackle MSN-level coursework.
- Associate of Science or Diploma in Nursing: There are more General Education requirements for folks without a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. As well as science prerequisites, there are additional liberal arts requirements.
Administration & education specialties are online and can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Hybrid NP tracks at Union are only offered on a full-time schedule.
Important Admissions Requirements
Union is looking for RN to MSN candidates with an associate degree or diploma in nursing from an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited and state approved nursing program or a non-nursing bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA or BS). All candidates must have a:
- Current, unencumbered Tennessee or compact state RN license
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 on their last 60 credit hours
- Cumulative science GPA (e.g. anatomy & physiology and statistics) of 3.0 is preferred
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2 Years / 24 Months
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Public, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Clinical Systems Leadership
How U of A Made the RN to MSN Faster
If you’re accepted into the ADN pathway, you’ll take 11 courses: 3 undergraduate bridge courses (11 credits) and 8 graduate-level courses (31-33 credits). There is no BSN involved. Almost all of the courses are 7 weeks long, but there is a final 16-week capstone project. Most students take 2 courses per term for a total of 6 courses per year.
Important Admissions Requirements
RN to MSN candidates must have an:
- Associate degree in nursing from an accredited institution (ACEN, CCNE, or the international equivalent)
- Current, unrestricted RN license in the state where you now practice
- 3.0 GPA or higher on the last 30 credits of the ASN or ADN
- Minimum of 1 year of full-time RN work experience within the last 5 years
You should have a recent statistics course on your transcript. However, if you do not meet this requirement, you can still be admitted to the program and will have several options to complete it.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
University of Mary | Bismarck, ND
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online ADN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 20 Months / 5 Semesters
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private (Catholic), Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Nursing Leadership & Management
How UMary Made the RN to MSN Faster
The ADN to MSN pathway is 43 credits and doesn’t include a BSN. Instead, it consists of 2 undergraduate bridge courses in nursing and 41 credits of graduate work, including core courses and specialty subjects (e.g. management, HR, economics & finance, etc.). The program finishes with a service project (500 experiential hours).
Important Admissions Requirements
UMary has a relatively open admissions policy. ADN to MSN candidates should have an:
- Associate’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Current, unencumbered RN license
- Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher
You’ll be expected to transfer or take certain undergraduate prerequisites (e.g. statistics, anatomy, psychology, etc.) to fulfill graduation requirements.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
University of Maryland Baltimore | Baltimore, MD
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2-3 Years
- Delivery Method: Online or Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Public, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Community/Public Health Nursing
- Health Services Leadership and Management
- Nursing Informatics
How UMB Made the RN to MSN Faster
UMB’s accelerated program is technically a RN to BSN to MSN. On a full-time schedule, your first 2 semesters will involve BSN studies (e.g. 4-5 courses per semester). There are 31 credits in total for the undergraduate portion; 2 MSN core courses are substituted for BSN electives. Once you have the BSN finished, you can complete the MSN, which is 38-40 credits (depending on your choice of specialty).
Informatics and leaderships specialties are online, but community/public health is hybrid. Full-time and part-time study options are available. UMB says the program can be finished in as little as 2 years, but we’re estimating it may take up to 3 years.
Important Admissions Requirements
UMB’s program is open to RN to MSN candidates with a non-nursing bachelor’s or an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Candidates should have a relevant background and demonstrate an interest in pursuing leadership studies.
All RN to MSN candidates are expected to have a:
- Current, unrestricted RN license
- Overall GPA of 2.5 on undergraduate work
- Science GPA of 2.75 (chemistry, anatomy and physiology I and II, microbiology)
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
University of Mississippi Medical Center | Jackson, MS
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2 Years / 5-6 Semesters
- Delivery Method: Online & Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Public, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- AGACNP
- AGPCNP
- FNP
- PMHNP
- Nurse Educator
- Nursing and Health Care Administrator
How UMMC Made the Accelerated RN to MSN Faster
UMMC made its RN to MSN speedy by packing a lot of coursework into each semester! Almost all of the concentrations can be completed in 6 semesters; you start in the summer and end in the spring of the second year. The Nurse Educator track is even quicker—it can finished in 5 semesters. Be prepared to tackle 3-5 courses each semester.
Coursework is online, but keep in mind that anyone enrolled in NP tracks will have to complete some intensives that meet on campus. And the AGACNP track is hybrid—half of its courses occur on campus up to four times per semester. Due to regulations of state boards of nursing and education, all NP clinical practicums must take place in Mississippi.
Important Admissions Requirements
RN to MSN candidates should have:
- An associate degree or diploma in nursing from an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited program which included clinical practice courses in nursing
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Evidence of a current & unrestricted RN license and eligibility for licensure in Mississippi
- At least one year of clinical experience as an RN for any NP concentrations (AGACNP applicants must have one year of clinical experience in a critical care/ED setting)
- Certain prerequisites with a minimum “C” grade in each course
GRE scores are no longer required.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
University of San Francisco | San Francisco, CA
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2 Years / 6 Semesters
- Delivery Method: Online or Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private (Jesuit), Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Clinical Nurse Leadership (CNL)
How USF Made the RN to MSN Faster
This 38-credit RN to MSN is available in 100% online or hybrid format. No BSN is awarded. Instead, you’ll get stuck into 500-level and 600-level coursework immediately. There are 3-4 courses in the first two semesters, including a Community Health practicum, but ADNs with a BA or BS will be able to waive 2 courses early on. Semester 5 includes a practicum in Quality Improvement & Outcomes Management; the final semester includes an internship.
Important Admissions Requirements
USF states that this program is open to RN to MSN applicants with an:
- ADN, ASN, or diploma in nursing
- Active, unencumbered RN license in the state where candidates plan to complete practicums
- GPA of 3.0 or higher
RN-MSN applicants who are accepted with less than a 3.0 GPA—or accepted conditionally due to writing deficiencies—are required to take extra graduate courses in the first semester.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
West Coast University | Irvine, CA
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2 Years or 4 Years
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: For-Profit
MSN Specialties
- FNP
- Advanced Generalist
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Leader
- Nursing Informatics
How WCU Made the RN to MSN Faster
WCU awards up to 90 transfer credits, including credits for your RN license.
- Leadership & Education: These specialties can be completed in 2 years. The first year (3 trimesters) is primarily devoted to undergraduate work. MSN coursework tends to appear in the third trimester and the second year.
- Family Nurse Practitioner: The 68-credit FNP track is much longer—it takes around 4 years (40 months) to complete, including clinical hours. MSN core courses are delivered online, but FNP specialty courses include two on-site weekend intensives (3 days each).
Important Admissions Requirements
WCU is looking for RN to MSN applicants with an:
- Associate degree or diploma in nursing from a Board of Nursing licensed program
- Current, unobstructed RN license prior to entering the third trimester of the program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on undergraduate work; WCU will consider lower GPAs (2.7-2.99) on a probational basis
- FNP candidates must have a minimum of 1 year of recent direct patient care experience prior to entering FNP courses; 1 year of direct patient care nursing experience within the past 5 years is preferred for other specialties
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Western Governors University | Millcreek, UT
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN-to-MSN
- Time to Completion: ~2 Years / 24 Months
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Education
- Leadership and Management
- Nursing Informatics
How WGU Made the RN to MSN Faster
WGU’s unique RN to MSN is administered in a self-paced, competency-based format. You’ll begin by taking an online course in Inter-Professional Leadership & Communication in Healthcare within the first month.
After that, the schedule is up to you! Lower-division coursework (e.g. statistics) can be cleared through transfer credit. But you will need to take upper-level BSN courses, MSN core courses, and courses in your choice of specialty.
Important Admissions Requirements
To apply, RN to MSN candidates must have an:
- Associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited institution
- Current, unencumbered RN license in your state of residence or employment
Applicants are also expected to be actively working as an RN at the time of application & enrollment.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Western University of Health Sciences | Pomona, CA
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: ADN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2 Years / 6 Semesters
- Delivery Method: Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- Administrative Nurse Leader
- Ambulatory Care Nursing
- Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
How WesternU Made the RN to MSN Faster
WesternU’s ADN to MSN program is aimed at RNs who want to skip the BSN and go straight to the MSN. You’ll start with a pre-program course and on-campus orientation, and then you’ll get stuck into 500-level coursework.
On a full-time schedule, you can finish the ADN to MSN in 2 years (e.g. 6 semesters), with 3-5 courses per semester. Just keep in mind that all specialties include on-campus weekend intensives (twice each semester) and clinical experiences.
Important Admissions Requirements
ADN to MSN candidates should have an:
- Associate degree in nursing from a BRN-approved school
- Active, unencumbered RN license in the state where clinical hours will be completed
- Minimum 3.0 GPA—overall and last 60 semester or 90 quarter units
- 1 year of experience (1,800 hours) as an RN is preferred
You’ll also need to have completed a series of undergraduate prerequisites (e.g. statistics, nutrition, psychology, etc.) with a grade of C or better.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Wilkes University | Wilkes-Barre, PA
Online RN to MSN Program Overview
- Program: Online RN to MSN
- Time to Completion: 2.6-3 Years / 8-9 Terms
- Delivery Method: Online
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Status: Private, Non-Profit
MSN Specialties
- AGPCNP
- FNP
- PMHNP
How Wilkes Made the RN to MSN Faster
The only RN to MSN concentration at Wilkes that can count as “accelerated” is the AGPCNP track—this takes 17 courses/8 terms/2.6 years. Students who choose the FNP or PMHNHP will need to budget for 18-19 courses/9 terms/3 years.
All coursework is 100% online, but nursing clinicals & residencies are in-person. Most coursework is asynchronous, which means you can tackle it in your own time. There are 3 start dates per year.
Important Admissions Requirements
Wilkes is looking for RN to MSN candidates who have an:
- Associate degree in nursing (ADN)
- Unencumbered RN license
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
Check the State Authorizations section to ensure you’re eligible to apply. Wilkes has no GRE or GMAT requirements.
Learn More: Program Website | Admissions Information | Tuition Prices
Short RN to MSN vs. Standard RN to MSN
How Long is a Standard RN to MSN Program?
On a full-time schedule, standard RN to MSN programs may take anywhere from 3-5 years to complete. Of course, this will depend on your starting undergraduate degree:
- ADN/ASN/Diploma: For these folks, universities often like to combine their existing MSN degree programs (e.g. 2 years for a leadership specialty or 3-4 years for an NP specialty) with 1 year of “catch-up” undergraduate work. Some schools will award the BSN; some won’t.
- BA or BS in a Non-Nursing Subject: Bacccalaureate holders have it easier. For example, you may only have to take 3-5 undergraduate courses in nursing subjects before you can start the MSN.
How Fast are the Shortest RN to MSN Programs?
Some universities have been able to shorten the time-frame of the RN to MSN by condensing the MSN into one year, allowing for overlap between BSN and MSN credits, and/or cramming a lot of coursework into each semester.
- Full-Time: On a full-time schedule, accelerated RN to MSN programs often fall into the range of 2-3 years. You’ll find a few faster RN to MSN programs in our listings (e.g. 19 months), but we recommend you take a close look at the admissions requirements and the course schedule before you make your decision.
- Part-Time: The length of a part-time program will depend on the format (e.g. self-paced vs. cohort-based) and your other commitments.
Keep in mind that the shortest RN to MSN programs tend to be in specialties such as leadership, education, and informatics. If you’re interested in a nurse practitioner or CNL specialty, it may be longer than 2 years. That’s because Schools of Nursing need to meet national certification requirements (e.g. mandatory core courses & minimum clinical practicum hours).
Benefits of Online & Hybrid Delivery
Fast RN to MSN programs are almost always delivered in an online or hybrid format. You can take advantage of shortened semesters, 24/7 access to online content, and asynchronous learning. In a few cases, you may even be able to study & take exams at your own pace.
Before you sign on the dotted line, have a look at the fine print and talk to the program coordinator about how the accelerated RN to MSN actually works. Do you have to log-in at certain times for virtual meetings or lectures? Will you be expected to visit the campus? How many assignments will you have to tackle per week? Can you handle the reading requirements? How much extra time will you have to spend on your capstone project?
How Short RN to MSN Programs Work
Who Offers Short RN to MSN Programs?
Schools that offer fast RN to MSN programs tend to fall into four broad categories:
- For-profit universities
- Public universities with a strong online presence
- Catholic/Jesuit universities
- Christian universities
In our listing, we have only included schools that are a) regionally accredited and b) CCNE- or ACEN-accredited. You can decide whether you’re comfortable earning an MSN program from a for-profit university or a school with a Christian focus!
Time to Completion
In our listings of the fastest RN to MSN programs in the country, we’ve quoted the university’s estimated time to completion.
- You’ll notice a lot of programs that fall into the 6-7 semester range, which equals out to around 2 years (or a little over).
- A few schools have managed to squeeze the RN to MSN into a 20-month time-frame, which is around 5 semesters.
- Chamberlain has an even shorter calendar, but it splits each semester into 2 sessions, with 3 courses per session.
This is almost always a full-time schedule. And it can be intense—many schools pack 3-5 classes into one semester. If you can’t handle the pace, you can ask about part-time options—they may or may not be available. Some schools only offer accelerated RN to MSN tracks on a full-time basis.
Admissions Requirements
Minimum Degree
For short RN to MSN programs, the minimum degree requirement will vary:
- ADN/ASN/Diploma in Nursing: Many universities are willing to consider ADN, ASN, or diploma holders, as long as your qualification is accredited. Some schools are even willing to accept international students with an equivalent qualification.
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s: However, some RN to MSN programs are solely designed for students with a BA or BS. For instance, Charleston Southern University’s accelerated RN to MSN is only open to RNs with a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
RN License Requirements
Typically, schools want to see that you have a current, unrestricted RN license. But check the admissions page. Some schools will ask for an RN license in the state where you intend to complete your clinical practicums. Others will insist that the RN license be from the state where the university is located (e.g. Holy Names University).
GPA Requirements
The standard GPA requirement is 3.0, but our listings include schools that are willing to consider folks with a 2.5 GPA or above. Some schools will accept students with a low GPA on a conditional basis. For example, you may be asked to take extra coursework, submit GRE or MAT scores, or maintain a certain GPA in your first year of undergraduate work at the university.
Previous Undergraduate Coursework
Typically, schools will want to see certain general education & liberal arts credits and undergraduate science coursework (e.g. physiology). Statistics is almost always a mandatory requirement. Because each accelerated RN to MSN program (and specialty) is slightly different, check the admissions page and talk to the program coordinator for more details.
Prior Work Experience
On top of degree & RN requirements, schools may also be interested in your previous work experience. Sometimes prior work experience is preferred; sometimes it’s mandatory (especially if you’re interested in an NP specialty).
Types of Accelerated RN to MSN Formats
Accelerated RN to BSN to MSN
Short RN to MSN programs in this category do exist! They’re designed for diploma or associate degree holders who would like to earn a BSN on the way toward a master’s degree. You’ll usually need to complete a fair amount of BSN-level coursework before you can progress to the MSN (e.g. 7 courses), but you’ll often be able to avoid certain BSN electives and take BSN and MSN-level courses at the same time.
Accelerated RN to MSN (No BSN Awarded)
To speed up the process of earn an MSN, some schools have done away with the BSN altogether. Instead, RN to MSN students take a certain number of BSN-level courses in nursing and then plunge straight into the master’s degree. These kinds of programs may appeal to RNs with significant work & life experience.
Accelerated RN to MSN for BA or BS Holders
We’ve mentioned this format before, but it’s worth repeating. If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, you’ll usually be eligible for an accelerated pathway that only requires a few undergraduate nursing courses. You’ll notice that some schools in our listings have 2 pathways: one for ADN/ASN/diploma holders and a separate one for BA or BS holders (e.g. DePaul University).
Self-Paced RN to MSN Programs
Don’t like the idea of a traditional, semester-based schedule? You could consider the self-paced options at American Sentinel College at Post University and Western Governors University. These competency-based RN to MSN programs allow you to complete coursework at your own pace. Again, these may be best for learners with a lot of discipline and prior work experience.
Accelerated RN to MSN Programs: Specialties
Accelerated RN to MSN Programs in Leadership, Education & Informatics
You’ll see a lot of these titles in our listings:
- Nursing Leadership & Management: Leadership is the most popular specialty for fast/short RN to MSN programs. That’s because universities—usually—don’t have to worry about certification requirements. Instead, they can offer a speedy program in management & leadership with an internship or relevant capstone project at the end.
- Nursing Education: If you’re interested in earning an MSN that’s focused on education, make sure it aligns with employer requirements. For instance, some universities advertising for nursing instructors will want to see a DNP or PhD, not an MSN. You should also ask if the program prepares you for the CNE exam.
- Nursing Informatics: Do a little digging into these accelerated RN to MSN programs. Some Schools of Nursing have strong data science departments or research centers & experienced informatics instructors; others are just trying to offer a “popular” specialty.
Accelerated RN to MSN Programs in NP & CNL Specialties
Proceed with caution when you’re looking at fast/short RN to MSN programs in nurse practitioner or CNL specialties. For the money you’re paying, you deserve a program that meets national certification and state licensing requirements.
- Does it cover mandatory courses (e.g. pathophysiology)?
- Does it meet the minimum number of clinical practicum hours?
- Does it really ground you in everything you need to know for your next job?
Be aware, too, that the quoted “time to completion” for RN to MSN programs may be longer if you’re opting for an NP or CNL specialty. In addition to challenging coursework, you’ll need to factor in the time required for practicum work (including your commutes!) and any campus visits for required training (e.g. hands-on labs).
It’s one of the reasons why you’ll rarely find short RN to MSN programs in acute care specialties—universities have to cover a lot of intense clinical education.
Accelerated RN to MSN Programs in Unique Specialties
And then there are the outliers! A few schools in our listings have accelerated RN to MSN programs in unusual majors such as care transition management, infection prevention & control, and ambulatory care.
Traditionally, these won’t lead to any major certifications. However, they may be ideally suited for your job aspirations. In some cases, you may also be able to sit for certification in a super-specialized area. Ask the program coordinator if this is possible.
The Fine Print: Important Considerations
For-Profit vs. Non-Profit
All of the schools in our listings are regionally accredited and CCNE- or ACEN-accredited. So whether you choose a for-profit or non-profit university is going to be a judgement call.
- For-profit options tend to be short, online, and convenient (e.g. self-paced or shortened semesters).
- Non-profit options may have more experienced instructors and more in-depth coursework. And they may look better on your résumé.
As always, we recommend you read independent reviews and talk to recent MSN graduates before you make a decision.
Shortest vs. Best
You don’t have sacrifice quality for speed! Some of the schools in our Shortest list also appear in our rankings of the Best Online RN to MSN Programs with no non-nursing bachelor’s degree required. These tend to be programs from brick & mortar universities with well-respected Colleges of Nursing. Have a look at all of your options.
State Authorization
Because of distance learning restrictions, accelerated online & hybrid RN to MSN programs may not be available in your state. Universities are usually up-front about who they can consider, but you should feel free to ask the program coordinator for more details. The term you’re looking for on the program website is “state authorization.”
Undergraduate Credit Transfers
Short RN to MSN programs usually come with a lot of prerequisites. If you don’t have the necessary credits or subjects (e.g. statistics) from an accredited undergraduate program, you may have to “make up” these courses or pass competency exams. Talk to the program coordinator about your situation.
Course Schedules
Wondering if you can handle the full-on nature of a shortened RN to MSN? Ask the program coordinator for a sample schedule. Then ask recent RN to MSN graduates if they had any trouble meeting the demands of the program. The program website is always going to give you the best-case scenario for the completion time. If you have a job, kids, and other responsibilities, you may have to rethink your time-frame.
GPA Thresholds for the MSN
To ensure you don’t fall behind, universities may insist that you earn a certain GPA on your BSN-level coursework before you’ll be allowed into the MSN portion of the program. And this GPA may be higher than the one that was required for your initial admission. It’s usually 3.0.
On-Campus Expectations
Online RN to MSN programs aren’t always 100% online. In some cases, students are expected to visit the campus—briefly—for an orientation, final project presentation, and/or labs. It’s worth checking on this, because you’ll have to budget for travel and time away from work.