Navigating MSN program requirements can feel overwhelming, especially with the variety of paths available for nurses and aspiring healthcare professionals. As a practicing nurse considering an advanced degree, you’re likely wondering how to align your career goals with the right program. This guide is here to help.

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Hi, I’m Kati Kleber, MSN RN, and I’ve been in your shoes. As an MSN-prepared nurse with firsthand experience navigating this journey, I know how confusing and intimidating it can be to understand the options and requirements for these programs. That’s why I created this post—to break it all down in a way that’s approachable, actionable, and tailored to practicing nurses or anyone exploring a direct-entry master’s program. Whether you’re an ADN or BSN-prepared RN ready to advance your career, or someone new to nursing entirely, I’ve got you covered.
In this post, we’ll explore the essentials of MSN programs: what they are, the different types available, the requirements to apply, and how to decide between online and on-campus options. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to start your MSN journey with confidence.
Let’s get started!
What Is an MSN Program and Why Pursue One?
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate-level degree that prepares nurses to expand their knowledge, skills, and career opportunities. However, it’s important to clarify a common misconception: earning an MSN does not automatically make someone a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).
An MSN is a broad degree that can encompass a specific track or specialty, such as education, leadership, informatics, or advanced clinical practice. For example, I have an MSN with a Nursing Education focus. To become an NP or another type of APRN, a nurse must enroll in a specific MSN program that focuses on that role (e.g., Family Nurse Practitioner, Acute Care Nurse Practitioner) and pass a national board certification exam after completing the program to practice.
This distinction is crucial—an MSN is the foundation for many advanced roles in nursing, but becoming an APRN requires specialized education and certification.
Important note ➡️ For those considering APRN tracks within an MSN program, it’s important to note that while an MSN is still widely accepted for most APRN roles, many employers are beginning to favor Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)-prepared APRNs. This trend is driven by the push to elevate APRN education to the doctoral level, so if you’re planning long-term, you may want to weigh the benefits of pursuing a DNP over an MSN for advanced practice roles.
Why Do Nurses Pursue an MSN?
Earning an MSN offers nurses the opportunity to advance their careers, specialize in areas they’re passionate about, and take on roles with greater autonomy and responsibility. With an MSN, you can pursue positions like Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nurse Educator, Clinical Nurse Leader, or Nurse Executive—allowing you to directly impact patient care, mentor future nurses, or influence healthcare policies.
A note about the executive role ➡️ Nurse executives often hold MSNs, especially in healthcare systems where extensive experience and certifications like the NEA-BC carry significant weight. While some organizations may prefer DNP- or PhD-prepared candidates, an MSN in nursing leadership or administration remains a widely accepted and respected pathway to roles such as Chief Nursing Officer or Director of Nursing.
And let’s be honest, earning potential is a key 🔑 factor. When you have an advanced degree and are therefore qualified for roles with expanded responsibilities, naturally that comes with a higher starting salary. Specialized roles such as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) can also lead to some of the highest earning potential in nursing.
Beyond career growth and financial benefits, an MSN allows you to focus on what inspires you—whether that’s working with specific populations (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics) or mastering fields like education, informatics, or mental health. For many, it’s about more than just a paycheck—it’s about achieving personal goals, advancing expertise, and making a broader impact on healthcare as a whole.
Different Paths to Obtaining an MSN
The path to earning an MSN varies depending on your current level of education and career goals. Let’s go through the primary options.
RN to MSN
The RN to MSN programs are designed for nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma. These programs often combine BSN and MSN coursework, allowing ADN-prepared RNs to streamline their path to an advanced degree. Some will grant a BSN mid-way through the program, while others will not.
BSN to MSN
A BSN to MSN program is tailored for RNs who have already earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Typically focuses on advanced nursing practice, leadership, or education, depending on the chosen specialization. This is the most traditional pathway to earning an MSN.
👇 Click below 👇 to learn more about different BSN to MSN programs accepting students from your area!
Direct-Entry MSN
A direct-entry master’s program is ideal for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field who want to become nurses. These are rigorous programs that begin with foundational nursing education (to prepare students for RN licensure), require the learner to pass the NCLEX during the program, and encompass many clinical hours that progress the student to advanced coursework.
Even though students begin the program with no nursing experience, they graduate with their Master’s Degree in Nursing.
Here is a quick summary table of the the different online MSN programs types, length, and costs.
Important Notes on Program Length and Costs
Costs vary significantly based on program format (online, hybrid, or on-campus), institution type (public vs. private), and geographic location. These are broad ranges to give you an idea and not at all a guarantee of pricing. These are estimates as of early 2025.
Programs with APRN tracks (e.g., NP, CNS, CRNA) typically fall on the higher end of these cost ranges due to the advanced coursework, clinical hour requirements, and certification preparation involved while non-clinical MSN tracks (e.g., leadership, education, or informatics) tend to cost less due to fewer clinical hours and certification requirements.
General MSN Program Requirements
Getting into an MSN program requires preparation, planning, and meeting specific requirements that vary based on the type of program you’re pursuing. Whether you’re an ADN-prepared RN, a BSN holder, or a career changer looking at direct-entry options, here’s what you’ll generally need to apply.
📚 Academic Prerequisites
RN to MSN Programs
- Designed for nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma from an accredited nursing school.
- Many require a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field or bridge courses to cover BSN-level education.
- Active and unencumbered RN license
BSN to MSN Programs
- Requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school.
- A minimum GPA, often 3.0 or higher, is a common requirement.
- Active and unencumbered RN license
Direct-Entry MSN Programs
- For individuals with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher level education in a non-nursing field.
- Applicants often need to complete prerequisite science courses (e.g., anatomy, microbiology, and statistics) before starting.
👔 Professional Experience
Clinical Experience for APRN Tracks
- Nurse Practitioner, CNS, and CRNA programs typically require one to two years of full-time RN experience in a relevant area. For example:
- CRNA programs often require critical care and/or emergency department experience. These programs are often highly selective.
- NP and CNS programs may prefer experience in primary care, acute care, or a specialty related to your intended focus.
Leadership or Education Tracks
- Non-clinical MSN programs often prefer (but may not require) some professional nursing experience to enhance your leadership and system-level understanding.
Direct-Entry
- These programs are designed for people looking for a career change, so they do not expect applicants to have prior experience. However, a reliable work history will help your application.
📝 Application Components
In addition to education and professional experience, the application will require additional items that you will need to submit.
Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities are required.
Personal Statement/Essay: This is your chance to tell your story. Explain why you’re pursuing an MSN, your career goals, and why the program aligns with those goals. Be specific—mention particular aspects of that specific program that appeal to you.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, 2–3 letters are required. Choose individuals who can speak to your clinical skills, leadership potential, and readiness for graduate-level work. Ideal options include:
- Supervisors
- Faculty from nursing school (if recently graduated)
- Mentors or colleagues in leadership roles
- If pursuing the APRN route, consider asking physicians or advanced practice providers
Resume or CV: Include your education, certifications, work experience, and any relevant volunteer or leadership activities. We’ve got a great resume resource below.
Standardized Tests: Some programs require the GRE or equivalent, though many waive this for applicants with strong GPAs or extensive experience. Always check the program’s specific requirements. Direct-entry MSN may require the TEAS test, or other entry-level nursing exams to assess basic academic skills.
🩺 Clinical Requirements
Not all programs will require clinical time, but may require a practicum or practice immersion.
For example, my MSN in nursing education was completely online except for a practicum with a capstone. I had to choose something of interest to me related to nursing education to complete hours at. I chose to shadow a Director of Nursing Education who oversaw a residency program, and wrote my capstone (a large research paper) on something that would contribute to this program. This was the last class of my program and encompassed 100 hours of practice immersion with a 37-page paper.
If you are pursuing an APRN path, you will complete many more clinical hours throughout your entire experience (not necessarily just at the end) related to your specialty. Please keep in mind one major challenge of APRN students: Preceptor availability.
For your undergraduate education, your nursing school facilitated clinical placements for each course. Graduate level nursing school is different. Many APRN programs require you to secure your own clinical sites and placement, which can be a major barrier if you live in a more rural area or do not have any personal connections with a health system near you.
Also, schools often require things like proof of immunizations, a clean criminal record, and possibly other health screenings before entering the clinical environment.
Key 🔑 Tips for Preparing Your Application
Research thoroughly. Let’s not go through all of the work applying to schools you realistically won’t go to. Save your cognitive energy and time for places you are genuinely interested in.
Keep yourself organized. Get a list of schools you are interested in and make a spreadsheet to compare things like tuition/cost, application requirements, length of program, application deadlines, clinical requirements, location, and any other important factors.
Take small steps. The process of applying for an MSN program is daunting, so if “applying for an MSN program” feels like way too big of an item on the to-do list, break it into smaller pieces like “add 3 schools to my spreadsheet”, and “complete the next section of my resume”, to make it feel more doable.
Start early. Begin gathering materials and meeting prerequisites well before application deadlines. You may need to do things that are pretty involved, like take the TEAS test or GRE, which will require some extra planning.
Identify the aspects of the application that will require a lot of bandwidth. Things like creating a resume from scratch, writing a personal statement, or reaching out for recommendations can feel a lot more cumbersome than hopping online to request your transcripts. Figure out what you’ll put off or avoid, and save those for the times you’re feeling particularly motivated.
Tailor your personal statements for the specific programs: Focus on how your experience and goals align with the specific program. Research their mission, vision, and values and see how your goals align with theirs and speak to that.
Choose references wisely: Select people who know your abilities well and can write a strong, personalized recommendation, and give them plenty of time to do so.
Verify program-specific requirements: Every program is different. Check if they require additional items, such as proof of specific certifications (e.g., ACLS, PALS), and put these on your spreadsheet.
Types of MSN Programs
If you’re considering an MSN program, it’s important to know that not all are created equal. MSN programs vary widely depending on your career goals—whether you’re drawn to direct patient care, leadership, or teaching. Let’s break this down in a way that makes sense so you can see where you might fit.
So, let’s get into the details of these types of programs.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) MSN Programs
These programs are all about preparing you for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles, which include diagnosing, treating, and managing patients’ health. If you’re imagining yourself running your own clinic, working in acute care, or providing mental health services, this might be your lane. We’ve got a great post outlining online Nurse Nurse Practitioner Programs here.
Below is a table of all the specialties you’ll find.
Not all MSN programs offer every NP specialty listed here. Availability depends on the school and its resources, as well as demand for certain specialties. These are the commonly recognized NP specialties that could be pursued within an MSN program. If you’re interested in a specific specialty, it’s essential to research schools carefully to confirm they offer your desired track.
Also, while MSN programs do not offer subspecialties (like cardiology, oncology, or dermatology) directly, these specialties can be pursued post-graduation via additional certifications or on-the-job training.
Nurse Practitioner’s Subspeciality Options
Upon graduating with an APRN, depending on your specialty, there are various subspecialty options. Availability greatly depends on the job market as well as preferences of the employer, as some may prefer a DNP-prepared APRN.
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology
- Pulmonology
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Palliative Care
- Pain Management
- Infectious Disease
- Rheumatology
- Urology
- HIV/AIDS Care
- Hematology
- Emergency Medicine
- Sports Medicine
Let’s discuss what you can expect.
What to Expect from APRN Specialty Programs
These programs dive deep into advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical assessment. You’ll complete a lot of clinical hours—hands-on, real-world experience in your chosen specialty, and after graduating, you’ll need to pass a board certification exam (e.g., ANCC or AANP) and obtain your license from a state board of nursing to start practicing.
A Note About CRNA Programs
If you’re interested in becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), it’s important to know that MSN-level programs for this specialty are being phased out.
The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) now requires all CRNA programs to offer a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) as the entry-level degree.
While some MSN programs may still exist, the majority of CRNA programs have transitioned to doctoral-level preparation to meet these requirements.
Because CRNA education now falls under the realm of doctoral programs, it is not included in this post about MSN options. If you’re pursuing a career as a CRNA, we recommend researching accredited DNP or DNAP programs to learn more about this advanced specialty.
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Programs
CNSs are APRNs who specialize in improving nursing practice and patient outcomes at both the bedside and system levels. They often work in specific specialties (e.g., oncology, cardiology, or pediatrics) or as consultants in quality improvement and healthcare policy.
CNS programs blend clinical expertise with leadership training, preparing you to influence care at a systemic level. While some CNS programs are still offered at the MSN level, many are also transitioning to DNP programs.
Certification: CNSs can earn certifications through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or other specialty boards, depending on their focus area.
We have a comprehensive post about becoming a CNS here that includes an interview with a CNS!
Non-Clinical MSN Programs
Not every nurse wants to stay at the bedside, and that’s okay! That was me. I didn’t want to take on an APRN role and really enjoyed teaching nurses, so I pursued an MSN with a nursing education focus.
Non-clinical MSN programs are designed for nurses ready to lead, educate, or innovate within healthcare.
Specialties to Consider
Nurse Educator: Prepares you to teach the next generation of nurses, focusing on curriculum development and teaching strategies.
Nurse Executive/Administrator: Equips you for leadership roles like Manager, Director, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), focusing on healthcare management and policy.
Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL): A hybrid role where you oversee care quality and outcomes for patients.
Informatics Nurse: Perfect for data and technology enthusiasts, specializing in electronic health records (EHRs) and system design.
What to Expect from Non-Clinical MSN Options
The curriculum focuses on leadership, education, or technology rather than direct patient care. You don’t need to worry about passing a certification exam post-graduation. You can take a specialty board certification examination after you’ve gained experience in your niche, much like you can at the bedside. It’s a good fit if you want to step into roles that shape healthcare systems and policies.
How Do You Choose the Right MSN Program?
I am passionate about nurses choosing the right program when pursuing an advanced degree. I personally know nurses who didn’t know what they wanted to do, blindly began an NP program, and found themselves at the end of all of that time and money, not enjoying their life with that job. And the same can be true with any college degree, not just nursing.
Therefore, I encourage you to pause and engage in genuine introspection as you consider the options ahead of you. Here are some things to consider.
When all is said and done, what does your ideal workday look like? Do you want to work with patients directly? Do you want to teach nurses? Do you want to work in a hospital, a clinic, a college or university, in the community, at home? Is shift work on the table, or do you want a normal 9-5 and no holidays? What level of liability are you comfortable with? Naturally, an APRN in a high acuity area will incur greater risk and require more insurance than an informatics nurse working for software development firm.
What is your financial situation and time availability? If you have the ability to go full time, it is the fastest way to achieve your goal, however that is not necessarily feasible for many. APRN programs require more clinical hours while non-clinical programs are often more flexible with more online options.
A Ballpark on Your Return on Investment
We don’t want to pay over a hundred thousand dollars to earn a degree where you’re barely making more than you would if you did nothing. We want to ensure the time and money will translate into higher income, and a better standard of living.
Here’s how you can systematically work through it:
Determine the actual full cost of the degree – I’m talking tuition, fees, books, supplies, lost wages, childcare, commuting, lost wages, and miscellaneous costs (like lab fees and certification prep courses).
Pro-tip: Many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement for MSN programs. Check with your employer to see if this is an option. Some hospitals also partner with colleges and universities to offer discounts to employees. Keep in mind, benefits like these may require you to sign a commitment to work for the organization for a certain amount of time. They don’t want to pay thousands to help people get degrees only for them to quit as soon as they graduate.
Always be on the lookout for scholarships. There are so many out there! Anything you can do to decrease the cost is critical.
Use tools like Glassdoor, Indeed, or the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to find median salaries for positions (e.g., FNP, PMHNP, Nurse Educator) and consider the difference between entry level estimates vs. experienced, as well as your geographical location.
Determine Your Breakeven Point (ROI Timeline). Determine how long it will take you to recoup the total cost of the degree through increased earnings.
Formula: Breakeven Point (Years) = Total Cost of Degree ÷ Annual Salary Increase
Example:
- Total degree cost: $60,000
- Annual salary increase: $40,000
- Breakeven point: $60,000 ÷ $40,000 = 1.5 years
You may also want to consider the increase in lifetime earnings with the new credentials. A very rough way to estimate this is to identify how many years you have left to work and multiply that by your annual income increase. (Keep in mind, over many years, inflation will impact this number.)
And let’s not forget about intangible benefits like job satisfaction, better work-life balance, and opportunities for advancement.
Market demand is another key factor. If you are passionate about becoming an oncology CN, but the closest hospital with an oncology unit is 70 miles away, and you’re unable to relocate, that’s a problem. Further, if you want to pursue a highly specialized NP position that is highly competitive in an oversaturated market, it will be very difficult to land the job.
Research the market you likely will be working in, its conditions, and the long term vision you have for your career.
The key takeaway? MSN programs come in all shapes and sizes, so there’s likely one out there that aligns perfectly with your goals and interests. Take some time to think about what you love most about nursing and where you see yourself making the biggest impact. Next, we’ll tackle the specific requirements for getting into these programs.
Online vs. On-Campus MSN Programs: Which One Is Right for You?
Once you’ve decided to pursue an MSN, the next big question is how to fit it into your busy life. Should you attend a traditional on-campus program, opt for the flexibility of an online format, or consider a competency-based program? Let’s break down the differences to help you decide which path is best for your lifestyle, learning style, and career goals.
Online MSN Programs
Online programs have surged in popularity, especially for working nurses who need flexibility. These programs allow you to complete coursework from anywhere, often at your own pace, while still meeting clinical hour requirements in your local area.
Pros of Online MSN Programs
- Flexibility: Ideal for balancing work, family, and school. Most programs allow you to log in and complete assignments on your schedule.
- Access to More Schools: You’re not limited to local programs and can choose from a broader range of schools.
- Cost Savings: No commuting or relocation expenses, and tuition can sometimes be lower than on-campus options.
Cons of Online MSN Programs
- Less Face-to-Face Interaction: While online programs often include virtual discussions, you miss the in-person networking and peer interactions that come with being on campus.
- Self-Motivation Required: You’ll need strong time management skills to keep up with deadlines and assignments.
My personal experience was that I went back for my MSN when my daughter 18 months old and we were looking to expand our family in the near future. Being on-campus just wasn’t an option during that time of my life, so online was ideal!
On-Campus MSN Programs
Traditional on-campus programs offer a structured environment that some students thrive in, especially if they prefer in-person learning.
Pros of On-Campus MSN Programs
- Hands-On Learning: Classroom discussions, in-person labs, and face-to-face mentorship with faculty and peers.
- Networking Opportunities: Easier to build relationships with professors, classmates, and local healthcare organizations.
- Structured Schedule: A defined schedule can help keep you on track and focused.
Cons of On-Campus MSN Programs
- Less Flexibility: Full-time work or family commitments may be harder to balance with a rigid class schedule.
- Geographic Limitations: You’ll need to live close to the school or be willing to relocate.
- Higher Costs: Commuting, housing, and other expenses can add up.
Competency-Based MSN Programs
Competency-based education is a newer model that allows students to progress based on their ability to demonstrate mastery of a subject, rather than spending a fixed amount of time in each class. These programs are often online and self-paced, making them an appealing option for experienced nurses.
How It Works ➡️ Instead of attending traditional classes or completing assignments on a set timeline, you’ll complete assessments or projects to prove you’ve mastered specific skills and concepts. If you already have experience in certain areas, you can move through those sections more quickly.
Pros of Competency-Based MSN Programs
- Highly Flexible: Work through material at your own pace, advancing faster in areas where you already have expertise.
- Cost Efficiency: Often less expensive because tuition is typically charged as a flat rate per term, regardless of how many competencies you complete.
- Practical for Experienced Nurses: If you’ve been practicing for years, this model can help you complete your MSN more quickly.
Cons of Competency-Based MSN Programs
- Self-Directed: Requires a high level of discipline and time management.
- Not Ideal for Everyone: If you’re new to nursing or prefer a more guided learning approach, you might find this model challenging.
- Program Availability: Competency-based programs are less common, so your choices may be limited.
Because I had been a nurse for seven years when I went back to school, and I had a lot of on-the-job experience with education, I opted for a competency-based online model.
Final Thoughts on MSN Program Requirements
Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is an exciting step toward advancing your career, specializing in your passion, and making a broader impact in healthcare. Whether you’re looking to become a Nurse Practitioner, step into leadership, educate future nurses, or even transition into a highly specialized role like CRNA or CNS, an MSN can open doors to endless possibilities. I hope this post not only helped you have a deeper understanding of MSN program requirements but how to pick an ideal program for yourself.
As you explore your options, remember:
- There’s no “one right path.” The best MSN program is the one that aligns with your career goals, learning preferences, and lifestyle.
- Be intentional. Take the time to research program formats, prerequisites, and certifications required for your desired role.
- Plan ahead. From gathering application materials to balancing work, life, and school, preparation is key to setting yourself up for success.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, that’s okay! Everyone starts somewhere, and the fact that you’re exploring this path already shows your dedication to growing as a nurse and making a greater impact in your field.
Thanks for joining me, Kati Kleber, MSN RN, on this journey to demystify MSN program requirements. I hope this guide has given you the clarity and confidence to take the next step. Remember, this is your career and your future—embrace it, own it, and make it everything you’ve dreamed it could be. You’ve got this!
If you’re ready to dive deeper, explore the other resources here on FreshRN to guide you through your nursing journey. Let’s make it happen!
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