Nurse practitioners (NPs) provide primary, acute, and specialty care in physicians’ offices, hospitals, and outpatient clinics, among other settings. Currently, over 290,000 NPs hold licensure in the United States.
The demand for NPs has expanded dramatically as the nation copes with a looming physician shortage, increased reliance on team-based primary care, and the medical needs of a growing elderly population. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 45% increase in NP positions between 2019-2029, making it a promising field for current and prospective NPs.
NPs, as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), must have a valid RN license and a master of science in nursing (MSN). RNs without a bachelor’s degree may qualify for admission to RN-to-MSN bridge programs, allowing them to reach their career goals quickly.
Depending on the program, students may need up to three years to complete all requirements. Online RN-to-MSN programs provide nurses with the flexibility to pursue their degree part-time while employed, often offering asynchronous coursework or hybrid program formats that fit working schedules. We’ve used our methodology to rank the best RN-to-MSN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you.
Applying to an RN-to-MSN Programs
RN-to-MSN bridge programs are specifically designed for practicing nurses, enabling nursing professionals to enter the nurse practitioner field more quickly and affordably than the traditional pathway of first earning a bachelor’s degree before obtaining a master’s degree. Program requirements vary by school, and depend on the number of bridge credits accepted. MSN bridge programs work with nurses who have an associate degree in nursing, nurses who hold a nursing diploma, and students with a bachelor’s in a non-nursing field.
Applicants must possess a valid RN license, submit official transcripts from previous college courses, and document an overall 3.0 GPA. Many schools require GRE scores. Most applications ask for letters of recommendation, a resume describing relevant work experience in nursing, and a statement of purpose. Once accepted, MSN candidates must complete a criminal background check.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete an RN-to-MSN program?
Students can expect to finish a traditional RN-to-MSN bridge program within three years, completing between 120-150 credits. Some schools offer accelerated options that may take as little as 18 months. NP specializations require different clinical hours, and may lengthen the time needed to finish. Part-time learners, and those enrolled in online programs, can take up to four years to complete all degree requirements.
What is accreditation and why is it important?
MSN degree-seekers should only enroll in programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Accreditation ensures that the degree meets national academic standards, qualifies students for federal financial aid, and assures prospective employers that nursing graduates possess the skills and training needed to practice.
How much can I make with an MSN?
NP salaries depend on the type of employer, the location, and the practice specialty. Psychiatric, neonatal, pediatric, and gerontological specialties rank among the top-paying practice areas for MSN graduates. According to the BLS, nurse practitioners make a mean annual average salary of $111,840, with the top earners making well over $150,000 a year. California, the highest paying state for NPs, offers an annual mean salary of $138,000.
What can I do with an MSN?
NPs typically find employment in direct care clinical practice or indirect care settings in administrative roles. MSN graduates may also become nurse educators, often continuing on to earn a doctor of nursing degree. In general, APRNs enjoy more career possibilities and higher salaries than RNs with an associate degree or BSN.