Anticipated Benefits of Pursuing an RN to MSN Bridge Program
For registered nurses aiming to advance their careers through various nursing specializations, several reputable RN to MSN online bridge programs stand out based on program length, specializations offered, accreditation, and cost. These programs are designed to prepare RNs for leadership, advanced clinical roles, education, and administration in nursing, with pathways tailored to accommodate working nurses seeking flexible, online study options.
### Top RN to MSN Online Bridge Programs
| University / Program | Specializations Available | Program Length | Cost | Accreditation | Notes | |---------------------|---------------------------|----------------|------|---------------|-------| | Herzing University | Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Primary Care NP, Family NP, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, Women's Health NP, Nursing Education, Leadership & Admin, Public Health | 16-24 months | $735/credit | CCNE | Offers ADN to MSN as well; strong clinical placement support; 10:1 student-faculty ratio[1] | | Chamberlain University | Nursing Education, Administration, Informatics, Clinical Specialties | Varies (~19-24 months) | Varies | CCNE | BSN earned en route to MSN; flexible online coursework; reputable for nursing bridge pathways[2] | | Regis University | Multiple MSN concentrations | Varies | - | CCNE | Well-regarded online RN to MSN; strong focus on leadership and advanced practice roles[2] | | Drexel University | Numerous MSN specializations including Nurse Practitioner tracks | Varies | - | CCNE | Known for comprehensive online nursing programs; strong emphasis on clinical and research skills[2] | | Franklin University | Various tracks | ~19-24 months | Approx. $670/credit | CCNE | Affordable option with fully online program; designed for working nurses[2] | | Baker College | Family Nurse Practitioner and others | Typically 48 credit hours total | - | - | Offers direct RN to MSN for ADN holders by including bridge courses; avoids need for BSN first[4] | | South University | Family Nurse Practitioner | - | - | - | Fully online RN to MSN FNP track allowing career advancement without BSN first[5] |
### Important Considerations: - **Accreditation:** Ensure the MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for quality and eligibility for certification exams. - **Program Length:** Many fast-track RN to MSN programs can be completed between 16 to 24 months. - **Specializations:** Common MSN specializations include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology NP, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Nursing Education, and Leadership/Administration. - **Bridge Coursework:** RN to MSN programs typically include bridge courses covering BSN-level competencies before progressing to advanced MSN content, enabling ADN-prepared RNs to advance without completing a separate BSN degree[4]. - **Clinical Hours:** Nurse Practitioner tracks require clinical practice hours, which are often arranged locally with support from the school. - **Cost:** Tuition generally ranges around $670 to $735 per credit hour, varying by institution.
These programs are designed to prepare RNs for leadership, advanced clinical roles, education, and administration in nursing, with pathways tailored to accommodate working nurses seeking flexible, online study options. If you have a specific specialization or timeline in mind, schools like Herzing University and Chamberlain University offer some of the fastest and most flexible RN to MSN bridge programs with broad specialization choices and strong online support.
Topics covered in BSN-level courses include evidence-based practice, community health, and leadership. MSN coursework covers advanced clinical practice, health policy, research, and specialization-specific content. Because students are entering at a graduate level without a BSN, admissions teams may place extra weight on professional background and motivation for advanced study. Admission criteria for RN to MSN programs typically include a current RN license, an associate degree or diploma in nursing, and a minimum GPA. Program length can vary based on enrollment status, transfer credits, and chosen specialization. These programs are designed for nurses with an associate degree or nursing diploma. Bridge programs streamline the traditional educational route, saving time and money. Online programs offer greater flexibility, allowing students to complete assignments asynchronously and balance work or family obligations. Popular specializations in RN to MSN programs include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). With the right program, students can earn their master's degree and gain specialized skills, qualifying for a wide range of advanced practice and leadership roles.
[1] Herzing University, (2021). RN to MSN Program. Retrieved from https://www.herzing.edu/nursing/rn-to-msn [2] Chamberlain University, (2021). Online RN to MSN Programs. Retrieved from https://www.chamberlain.edu/online-rn-to-msn [3] Regis University, (2021). Online RN to MSN Programs. Retrieved from https://www.regis.edu/programs/degrees/online/nursing/rn-msn [4] Drexel University, (2021). Online RN to MSN Programs. Retrieved from https://online.drexel.edu/degrees-programs/nursing/rn-to-msn/ [5] Franklin University, (2021). RN to MSN Programs. Retrieved from https://www.franklin.edu/programs/nursing/rn-to-msn [6] Baker College, (2021). RN to MSN Program. Retrieved from https://www.baker.edu/programs/nursing/rn-to-msn [7] South University, (2021). RN to MSN Programs. Retrieved from https://www.southuniversity.edu/programs/nursing/rn-to-msn-programs
- For those interested in teaching nursing or pursuing leadership roles, the MSN coursework covers advanced topics such as health policy and research, providing education for nursing education specializations.
- If you're concerned about the environment and its impact on health, specialized MSN programs, like those in Public Health or Nurse Administrator, can provide knowledge and skills needed to address environmental health concerns in various nursing roles.
- For learners seeking to further their careers and knowledge in science, online education platforms offer learning-and-self-development opportunities through RN to MSN programs, covering topics like evidence-based practice and advanced clinical practice.
- As online learning becomes more popular, it's important to consider the opinion of your peers on specific RN to MSN programs when deciding on the right path for your career and education, taking into account factors such as accreditation, program length, cost, and specializations offered.
