Are you a non-nursing major looking to explore the world of nursing? Consider the availability of direct entry MSN programs online – a potentially perfect fit for you. This option opens doors to pursuing a career you truly love and could be the ideal way to jumpstart your journey in the nursing field. Embrace this opportunity as one of the pathways to enter the fulfilling realm of nursing.
What Is a Direct Entry MSN Program?
A direct entry master’s in nursing (MSN) program is for students with a non nursing degree who would like to pursue a career as a registered nurse (RN) or advanced practice nurse (APRN). A direct entry MSN program may be available for non-nursing majors online. These people may wish to work as a registered nurse (RN). Some may want to work as an advanced practice nurse (APRN). APRNs are those who earned their master’s degree. There may be a lot of options in this program. See which ones may work for you.
Does an MSN Need a Nursing Degree?
Some schools may require a nursing degree. Many may need an active nursing license. That may not be the case for all programs. Non nursing students may apply. But, all typically need a bachelor’s degree. This may not need to be in nursing.
What You May Learn in an Online Direct Entry MSN Program
Students may learn a great deal in these direct entry MSN programs for non nursing majors online. That could includes gaining clinical experience. A direct entry master may often provide significant concentration. Students may wish to choose mental health. Others may wish to choose gerontology. Many may also learn skills such as these:
- Health assessments
- Clinical leadership
- Psychiatric eval
- Forensic nursing
Nursing students typically learn a great deal. They may learn how to provide a safe environment. They may have critical thinking skills. And, they may help to hold leadership roles. Many may have good skills to communicate. They lead decision making. They may provide respectful patient care.
Some courses you may take include these:
- Pathophysiology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Leadership
- Clinical experience
- Disease prevention
Courses are many. Students may choose which interest them. Some may be set by the program. Others may be electives. There is typically a lot of room for options. Some students may choose courses that interest them. This may be based on the job they hope to have.
How Long Could It Take to Earn My MSN Degree in a Direct Entry Program?
Direct entry MSN programs for non nursing majors online typically vary. Some may take 15 months to complete. Others could take two years. Part time and full time options usually exist. Accelerated MSN programs may be available. Some programs may need 30 credits. Many typically need 70 to 80. Previous education may play a role in what you take.
How Much Does a Direct Entry MSN Online Program for Non Nursing Majors Typically Cost?
Cost may depend on many factors. School tuition costs typically vary from one area to the next. Concentration areas may help individuals to earn more. These may cost more as well. Based on the type you choose. The cost includes many things. That may include tuition. There are typically lab costs and fees. Students may pay more if they live on campus. Others could complete an online program. These may be more affordable.
Many may qualify for discounts. This may include scholarships and grants. There may be financing options available. More affordable nursing programs may be available. Some students may receive funds from an employer to cover the costs. Financing may help to cover costs. This ranges. Students may wish to talk to financial counselors for some help.
Could I Earn Both a BSN and MSN Degree as Part of This Program?
Some programs may offer a BSN degree program. This may be available after pre-licensure is met. That happens after the curriculum is complete. Other programs typically do not do this. They likely only provide an MSN. That may be available after completing the whole program. Compare schools. Some may allow for BSN and MSN at the same time. It may be possible to find what you need.
How to Check Accreditation for Direct Entry MSN Programs Online
You may gather info about any school. You must know the facts. Look for a program from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. This may be CCNE. Another option is the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Or, ACEN.
What Could I Pursue with a Direct Entry MSN Online Degree?
Students may typically enter a wide range of career paths. Many choose fields that interest them. This may include careers such as these.
You may aim to become a registered nurse. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes the annual median wage for a registered nurse was $86,070 as of May of 2023.
You may work as a nurse practitioner. The 2023 annual median pay for this field is $129,480 per year as noted by the BLS.
Some students may work as a nurse midwife. This is a growing field. The BLS reports it is growing at 40% through 2023-33. That is much faster than average. The 2023 annual median pay for this field was $129,650 per year. Another career path may typically include a medical and health services manager. Those in this field had a median annual pay of $110,680 in 2023. That’s noted by the BLS.
Online Direct Entry MSN Programs
Take a look at some direct entry MSN programs. These may be available through numerous schools in the U. S. Other options may exist. Choose a program perfect for your needs. Online programs offer flexibility. This is something today’s students may need. Our data comes from the NCES.
1 Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University typically offers an online program. You may work to become a clinical nurse specialist. This program may teach theory, policy, and bioethics.
Admission Requirements
A grad app is necessary. Students must typically have a bachelor’s degree. It must come from a regionally accredited school. GPA may also be a factor.
Accreditation
WASC Senior College and University Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $43,600
Grad: $17,330
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 100%
Average amount that is awarded: $28,652
Admission Rate
67%
2 Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville State University typically offers a program that includes emergency management. They may also offer a population health nursing program. There is a nursing education track as well.
Admission Requirements
Students typically must complete a bachelor’s degree. An online app is available for this master’s degree.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on College
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $22,716
Grad: In-State $17,640
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 100%
Average amount that is awarded: $8,826
Admission Rate
55%
3 Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers a program for grad students. Programs typically include advanced nursing practice. There may be several focuses available. Innovation leadership is one of them.
Admission Requirements
Students must complete an app online. They need to meet the requirements. Letters of recommendation may be necessary. A 3.0 GPA may be needed.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $32,193
Grad: $26,735
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 89%
Average amount that is awarded: $12,381
Admission Rate
86%
4 American Sentinel University
American Sentinel University offers flexible online programs. This typically includes a DNP degree. There are five concentrations for MSN degrees as well. Several learning paths are available.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet specific RN education levels. Then, complete the online app. Students with an RN license need to submit info to the school about it.
Accreditation
Distance Education Accrediting Commission, Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $10,800
Grad: $6,845
Financial Aid
Students that get financial aid: 133 students
Average amount that is awarded: $2,287
Admission Rate
N/A
5 University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida offers several MSN programs. This typically includes a nursing and health care simulation program. Another is nurse educator. They may also offer a leadership and management program.
Admission Requirements
Students apply online. Program requirements exist. Students must meet academic minimums.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $22,467
Grad: 28,657
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 85%
Average amount that is awarded: $9,585
Admission Rate
44%
6 University of Florida
MSN students may choose from several programs at the University of Florida. An MSN to DNP program is one option. Online programs may be available for several nursing field degrees.
Admission Requirements
Grad students need to fill out an application online.. Limited spots are available. Students may need letters of recommendation to qualify.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: Out-State $28,659; In-State $6,381
Grad: In-State $12,737; Out-State $30,130
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 88%
Average amount that is awarded: $10,724
Admission Rate
23%
7 Clayton State University
Clayton State University offers a direct access MSN program. This typically includes a family nurse practitioner program. Other focuses may include geriatric and pediatric fields.
Admission Requirements
Prerequisites apply to most course options. There is an online app. Test scores and transcripts are necessary.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $15,790
Grad: $12,625
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 89%
Average amount that is awarded: $8,505
Admission Rate
51%
8 Brenau University
Brenau University offers a flexible MSN program. That typically includes a family nurse practitioner program. Leadership and management is another option. You may obtain a Master of Science in Nursing online.
Admission Requirements
Students must meet prerequisites. They apply online. Transcripts are necessary. RNs with a license must provide info on that.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $33,275
Grad: $14,552
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 95%
Average amount that is awarded: $25,170
Admission Rate
87%
9 Illinois State University
Illinois State University typically offers an MSN path. This is through the Mennonite College of Nursing. It offers a BSN to DNP program as well.
Admission Requirements
GPA is one component of the app process. Students need letters of recommendation. They need to complete a full grad application.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: 28,086
Grad: 12,646
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 96%
Average amount that is awarded: $11,590
Admission Rate
82%
10 Ball State University
Ball State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing. This includes a nurse educator path. Family nurse practitioner (FNP) is another route. Nurse administrator is a third option.
Admission Requirements
Getting started requires an online app. Students need to meet prerequisite courses. Essays and letters of rec may be required.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: 28,766
Grad: 29,196
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 75%
Average amount that is awarded: $13,046
Admission Rate
69%
11 Briar Cliff University
Students may study a nurse practitioner program at Briar Cliff University. This program typically offers a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHN).. Adult and gerontology is another option.
Admission Requirements
Applicants apply online. The college of nursing offers limited applicants. Course history and transcripts play a role in this.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $35,534
Grad: $9,366
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 98%
Average amount that is awarded: $26,325
Admission Rate
Open
12 Northern Kentucky University
The master’s program at Northern Kentucky University is a fully online program. Part time and full time options may exist. Students in the nursing profession may apply. Concentration in microbiology is an option.
Admission Requirements
Students with a license may apply. Online applications are available. NCLEX-RN recognition is available.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: 21,480
Grad: 16,044
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 98%
Average amount that is awarded: $11,492
Admission Rate
86%
13 Andrews University
The Andrews University School of Nursing offers an online program. This typically includes BSN pre-licensure. A DNP option may be available. There may also an available RN-BSN online program.
Admission Requirements
Students apply online. The nursing school requires prerequisites based on program selection. GPA plays a role.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad:$33,710
Grad: $28,440
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 96%
Average amount that is awarded: $19,186
Admission Rate
91%
14 Northern Michigan University
In the MSN at Northern Michigan University, students may learn primary care management. Policy and advocacy are also options. An advanced practice nurse program may be available.
Admission Requirements
Students need to apply online. There are several requirements. A current RN license is one requirement. A written description of goals is another.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: 18,800
Grad: 15,056
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 92%
Average amount that is awarded: $9,008
Admission Rate
71%
15 Minnesota State University Mankato
Consider Minnesota State University Mankato. It typically has a post nursing masters primary care FNP GC. It also offers a Nursing Practice DNP. A baccalaureate path is available.
Admission Requirements
Students may complete a grad app online. Course requirements are necessary. Students may need to obtain letters of recommendation.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: 18,860
Grad: 19,212
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 65%
Average amount that is awarded: $5,798
Admission Rate
71%
16 Alcorn State University
Alcorn State University has an MSN degree path. There are typically two options for baccalaureate prepared nurses. The Nurse Educator path is the most common. The second is an FNP program.
Admission Requirements
A formal online app is required. Applicants may need to meet testing levels. Licensing may be required.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $8,549
Grad: $9,263
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 100%
Average amount that is awarded: $10,386
Admission Rate
30%
17 Clarkson College
Clarkson College typically offers two MSN programs. There is the RN to MSN and an option to get a Master of Science in Nursing.
Admission Requirements
An online app is available. A minimum 3.0 GPA as well as an Associates Degree as well as other testing is required.
Accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $15,168
Grad: $12,546
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 77%
Average amount that is awarded: $9,554
Admission Rate
56%
18 Seton Hall University
Seton Hall University offers several program options. This typically includes a primary care NP. It may also include an acute care NP. This school usually offers a health systems administration route. The pediatric primary care NP is also online.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the program requires an app. It also requires meeting prerequisites. These programs are somewhat limited in availability.
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $51,370
Grad: $36,110
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 100%
Average amount that is awarded: $29,443
Admission Rate
75%
19 Thomas Edison State College
The Thomas Edison State College MSN degree options are numerous. They typically include a nursing informatics plan. There is also a nursing educator and admin path. Students may need to complete 36 credits. This includes core courses.
Admission Requirements
To apply, students need to have a bachelor’s degree. It must come from an accreditted school. A GPA of 3.0 is also necessary. Other qualifications exist.
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: 8,598
Grad: $12,150
Financial Aid
Students that get financial aid: 30%
Average amount that is awarded: $2,520
Admission Rate
N/A
20 Mercy College
The nursing education path at Mercy College is typically extensive. Nurse midwife is one field. Another is nurse anesthetist. Students may have access to advanced tech. It also has a large simulation lab.
Admission Requirements
A grad school application is necessary. This may include GPA scores and grades from previous classes. Students may need to prove they qualify for the specific grad program.
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $18,950
Grad: $17,238
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 97%
Average amount that is awarded: $14,789
Admission Rate
86%
21 East Carolina University
The Master of Science in Nursing path at East Carolina University is typically an extensive program. Students may have the opportunity to learn patient care approaches. Adult gerontology NPs are one path. Neonatal NPs, nurse midwives, and administers are other options.
Admission Requirements
Students fill out an app online. Students need to apply with credentials. This includes a license for some programs.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: 23,638
Grad: 20,807
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 59%
Average amount that is awarded: $9,020
Admission Rate
92%
22 Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
The Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania typically offers a variety of course options. This includes nurse anesthesia, NP paths, and public health concentration. Programs may be available for those who are CRNA, CRNP, and CNM license holders.
Admission Requirements
Students complete an online app to apply. They may need transcripts. They may also need GRE or GMAT scores for some programs.
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $22,782
Grad: $16,726
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 90%
Average amount that is awarded: $5,685
Admission Rate
84%
23 Carlow University
Carlow University typically offers a Education and Leadership MSN program. It does not require a GRE or GMAT. Students may complete it in 15 months. This is full time. Coursework covers many topics in community health. Students who wish to be practicing nursing may study part time.
Admission Requirements
An online app is available. Students typically need to verify identity. They may also have to provide transcripts and previous education info.
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $34,502
Grad: $22,110
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 100%
Average amount that is awarded: $21,732
Admission Rate
92%
24 Duquesne University
Duquesne University typically has several path options. This includes forensic nursing. Executive nursing leadership may be another. Family NP paths are available.
Admission Requirements
Students do not need a GRE to get in. This program is flexible for previous experience. Students need to provide transcripts and test scores.
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $47,146
Grad: $26,568
Financial Aid
% that get financial aid: 100%
Average amount that is awarded: $23,183
Admission Rate
74%
