Cheap online MSN programs offer a flexible, cost-effective way to move into advanced nursing roles, including nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and healthcare leadership. Designed for working professionals, these programs blend online coursework with in-person clinical placements.
Key Takeaways:
- Fitchburg State University offers the #1 lowest yearly tuition at $3,289, making it the #1 most affordable Master of Science in Nursing online.
- Missouri State University leads in post-graduation salary potential, with a projected median graduate income of $194,363 among MSN grads.
- Aspen University provides the most personalized academic experience with a 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Our rankings reflect only accredited institutions with fully online RN to MSN programs and verified tuition under $30,000. You can explore our full methodology to learn how we collect and evaluate program data.
Most Affordable Online MSN Programs
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg (MA) | $3,289 | |
| Northeastern State University | Tahlequah (OK) | $4,704 | |
| Nicholls State University | Thibodaux (LA) | $4,974 | |
| Georgia Southern University | Statesboro (GA) | $5,112 | |
| Aspen University | Denver (CO) | $6,127 | |
| Arkansas Tech University | Russellville (AR) | $6,132 | |
| Wichita State University | Wichita (KS) | $6,269 | |
| McNeese State University | Lake Charles (LA) | $6,516 | |
| Central Methodist University | Fayette (MO) | $6,630 | |
| Albany State University | Albany (GA) | $6,776 | |
| Missouri State University | Springfield (MO) | $6,822 | |
| Marian University - Wisconsin | Fond du Lac (WI) | $6,895 | |
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro (AR) | $6,930 | |
| University of Central Missouri | Warrensburg (MO) | $7,012 | |
| Union University | Jackson (TN) | $20,826 |
Getting an Online MSN Degree
An online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares registered nurses to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) or enter into administration or education roles within the field. Students can earn an MSN degree in 12-24 months, depending on their academic credentials before entering the program.
Below are two common types of online MSN programs:
BSN to MSN: These programs require registered nurses to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to apply. Nurses can choose accelerated BSN to MSN bridge programs to earn their master鈥檚 degrees in 12 months.
RN to MSN: Students must have a registered nursing license, an associate degree or diploma in the field, and one to two years of full-time nursing experience. Students can typically complete an RN to MSN program in two years.
Regardless of the MSN program, students will take advanced clinical courses and select a nursing specialty, like nurse education, administrative leadership, nurse practitioner, or nursing informatics. While most of the coursework is facilitated online, students must also complete supervised clinical hours (ranging from 200-600 hours) at an approved healthcare facility in their area.
Why Accreditation is Important
Before enrolling in an online MSN program, students should determine that the school is recognized by the (CHEA). Nursing programs that have passed more rigorous reviews of standards and quality are accredited by the (CCNE) or the (ACEN). Accreditation is important to ensure that students can find employment after graduation and be eligible sit for advanced certification exams, such as the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certification (A-GNP), or Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certification (ENP).
Common Online MSN Courses
An online MSN program will typically include a core curriculum and nursing specialization courses. Below is a list of standard MSN core courses and a description of what students will learn in each class:
Advanced Health Assessment
Students learn how to conduct comprehensive health assessments on patients across their lifespan. Other topics covered include health promotion strategies, risk assessment, and diagnostic reasoning. Students may also be required to complete a clinical practicum in this course.
Advanced Pathophysiology
This course examines advanced concepts in how the body responds to disease. Students explore various conditions and how organ systems function. Students also learn how to diagnose and develop treatment plans for patients.
Advanced Pharmacology
Students learn the principles of drug therapy in response to various diseases. This course also covers how to prescribe pharmaceutical treatments to patients in a clinical setting. Other topics covered include adverse drug reactions, ethical implications, and patient education.
Organizational/Nursing Leadership
This course emphasizes leadership and communication strategies within the healthcare environment. Students will learn how to build collaborative teams to facilitate better patient outcomes. They will also develop skills in listening, training, and motivating, other employees.
Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
Students learn how to apply best practices in patient care and make informed decisions based on evidence. In this course, students will analyze and evaluate current nursing knowledge for scientific merit. Students will also explore the ethical and cultural issues or barriers in evidence-based research.
Can I Get My MSN Without a BSN?
Registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing or a diploma can apply to an RN to MSN bridge program without having a BSN. They are usually required to have one to two years of full-time experience. As mentioned above, we have an entire page dedicated to the best online RN to MSN degrees, if interested.
Cost of an Online MSN Degree
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that the average cost of graduate tuition was per year in 2021-2022. In comparison, the schools on our list of most affordable online MSN programs have significantly lower annual tuition rates between $4,511 on the lower end and $7,738 on the higher end. Importantly, these rates do not include other college-related costs, such as textbooks and technology fees. However, we also want to mention that students rarely pay the full sticker price for a degree by applying for financial aid, scholarships, or other funding sources outlined below.
Funding an Online MSN Degree
Once accepted into an MSN program, students should submit a FAFSA application for federal financial aid. Most students who apply receive some form of financial award, ranging from federal loans to grants. Beyond the FAFSA, some healthcare employers may offer to RNs pursuing graduate degrees in the field.
Students may also be eligible for loans, programs, or scholarships to help offset the cost of an online MSN program:
Scholarships
Students should contact their university to determine whether any graduate scholarship opportunities are available. Professional nursing organizations also offer scholarships to MSN students in various specialties. For example, the (AANP) has a scholarship for students in a nurse practitioner program. The also offers master鈥檚 degree scholarships for students at an accredited nursing school interested in oncology. Finally, the is offered by the HRSA to students in graduate-level nurse practitioner programs or bridge programs. In exchange for receiving funding, graduates must complete a two-year service commitment in a critical shortage facility.
Is Getting an MSN Degree Worth The Cost?
Students may wonder whether pursuing higher education will be worth the investment in terms of time and money. While this decision is personal to every individual and will vary based on a student's circumstances, below are a few metrics students might use to determine whether their investment will be beneficial in the long term. Considerations include future salary potential, job opportunities, access to roles with greater responsibility, and the opportunity to specialize in an area of interest within the field.
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Salary: MSN graduates earn higher salaries and have more career advancement opportunities than RNs with only a BSN. The BLS reports that APRNs earned an average median salary of in 2023, while RNs earned .
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Job Growth & Career Advancement: The demand for APRNs is expected to grow by an unprecedented rate of in the next decade, compared to for RNs. Although, 6% is still faster than the U.S. average job growth rate. In addition to providing patient care, APRNs have additional responsibilities that include working with providers to develop a patient care plan and, in some states, administer medication.
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Specialization: Nurses with an MSN degree have the opportunity to specialize within the field. For example, APRNs can hold titles such as nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialists (pediatrics, geriatrics, oncology, etc.). Graduates can also work as nurse educators or nurse administrators.
Student Reviews of Online Nursing Programs
This school is fantastic, they are willing to see the students succeed and are willing to do what they can to make sure that happens. The effort from my BSN to my masters FNP program has been amazing thus far. When it comes to the online program and needing to reference other students I would recommend 100x!
Review Date: 3/18/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Chamberlain University: The Best Choice for Aspiring Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners!
Choosing Chamberlain University for my MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) has been one of the best decisions of my career. This university stands out for its exceptional faculty, flexible online programs, and unwavering commitment to student success. The professors are not only experts in their fields but also incredibly supportive and dedicated to student success. They truly care about our... Read More
As a busy professional, I needed a program that fits into my schedule, and Chamberlain delivers! Their 100% online coursework and asynchronous learning format make it easy to balance work, family, and studies without compromising quality education. Chamberlain ensures that students receive top-tier clinical experiences, which is crucial for PMHNP students. Their clinical coordination team helps secure preceptors, making the journey smoother and stress-free.
This program is designed to prepare students to excel as mental health practitioners, equipping us with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to make a real impact in psychiatric care. The curriculum is evidence-based, rigorous, and up-to-date, ensuring we graduate as highly competent and sought-after professionals. The sense of community and support at Chamberlain is unmatched. From classmates to professors, everyone is encouraging and genuinely invested in each other's success.
If you鈥檙e looking for the best university to pursue your MSN-PMHNP, look no further than Chamberlain University! This school is shaping the future of exceptional nurse practitioners, and I highly recommend it to anyone serious about their career in mental health. Chamberlain University is not just a school鈥攊t鈥檚 a life-changing experience!
Review Date: 3/12/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Amazing educators and guidance every step of the way! I can鈥檛 say enough about how good these instructors are! They share their knowledge and answer any questions I have had. The support staff is the same, I have never felt the support for I鈥檓 a university as I do U of P!
Review Date: 10/15/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
They provide lot of resources and support for your success. It is 100% online , except for the immersion and practicum. The teachers are very knowledgeable and provide support for the assignment. I will definitely recommend Chamberlain for full-time parents.
Review Date: 2/21/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience throughout the admission process was smooth and prompt. The admission team were very cooperative and explanatory of every question I had. I felt a strong sense of support from the faculty and other interdisciplinary team members during the online orientation.
I like the flexibility of submitting assignments. Also the faculty has great time management skills as they respond promptly to questions. This for me is very supportive. My husband attends a different school for his masters program... Read More
Review Date: 3/22/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Every instructor I have had has been helpful and receptive to questions if I was unclear about an assignment. The enrollment process went very smoothly. I was able to reach my academic counselor without any delays. My only drawback is that as a working student who also has a family there should be at least a 1 week break between classes so that as a student I could breathe and reset. I did have a Christmas break but no other breaks between classes. Hopefully the powers to be will take this into consideration.... Read More
Review Date: 9/29/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Based on my experience with Chamberlain University, it is committed to fostering student success and academic excellence. The faculty are highly supportive and approachable, always willing to guide students through challenges and help them achieve their goals. The well-structured programs focus on practical and clinical experiences that prepare students for real-world applications.
The flexibility of their online and hybrid learning options made it easier to balance my studies with personal and professional... Read More
Review Date: 3/18/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have been attending USA, seeking my master's degree in the FNP program. Although I realize this is an online program, the lack of support from the College of Nursing has been embarrassing. If you are looking for a great college, especially one that supports its students and fosters great relationships, this is not the place for you. You are merely a number to them and even after reaching out for help, they will turn a cold shoulder to you. If you need any sort of assistance with clinical placements... Read More
Review Date: 11/5/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
In my first semester I have great supportive and smart teachers. Love Dr. Wilburn and Dr. Gabua. I hope to meet more teachers like them. I also have a supportive admissions, financial aid, student services and clinical placement advisors that are sensitive to my needs.
Review Date: 3/4/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As I prepare to complete my MSN in Executive Nurse Leadership in February 2026, I can confidently say that my experience at Chamberlain University has been both transformative and empowering.
The program challenged me to think strategically, lead with intention, and apply evidence-based practice to real-world healthcare operations. The coursework strengthened my understanding of executive leadership, financial stewardship, quality improvement, and systems thinking skills that I actively apply in my... Read More
Review Date: 2/21/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I enjoyed completing my Master of Science in Nursing degree with UoPX and would definitely recommend the program especially to those who want to continue working full time while completing their degree full time! I found the vast majority of my professors to be very responsive and helpful when I had questions about the content and assignments. The only constructive piece I have is that some of the assignment instructions were vague and seemed to have low validity.
The administrative staff were fantastic... Read More
Review Date: 6/12/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UOP and its instructors make the curriculum easy to follow, relevant, and to the point. As a working husband and father, this allowed me to be present at home and at work, while completing my Masters. My biggest complain is not having any break time in between classes. I could have pushed classes back and given myself a break, but did not want several weeks off between classes. I feel that a 1 week break between classes would be sufficient to allow working adults a moment to breath.
Review Date: 7/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Embarking on the MSN program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences has been an enlightening journey. Throughout my first semester, the opportunity to engage within a collaborative community, involving both faculty and peers, has significantly enriched my experience and broadened my horizons. I eagerly anticipate my upcoming semesters at USAHS!
Brooke H. BSN RN
MSN Student
Review Date: 8/22/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
University of Phoenix was an excellent institution to obtain my masters while working full time. The professors were professional, available, and very encouraging. Excellent, challenging program. I would recommend it to anyone that wants to advance their careers.
Review Date: 7/31/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I began UOPX for my RN to BSN as it was required for my position and I didn't have time to attend a brick and mortar school. I honestly wasn't expecting much. I feel that the education content and attention I received from my instructors was better than at a traditional school. I had more time to spend on content, I attended class with students from all areas of the country. I learned more about nursing from my instructors and my fellow students then I could have only learned in Northern Illinois.... Read More
Review Date: 5/14/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am a current student in the Georgia State University Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program, and I can honestly say this has been the worst academic experience I鈥檝e had in higher education. The number one issue is disorganization. The program feels completely uncoordinated, and the administration and faculty do not seem to communicate effectively. Emails often go unanswered, or take far too long for a response. I have even been outright ignored by the clinical liaison. Registration for class is... Read More
Review Date: 10/2/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Chamberlain has provided me with an amazing Bachelors degree program and a Masters degree program to expand my nursing knowledge, skills, cultural awareness, and self awareness. I complete my MSN degree a better person who will advocate for health disparities and be a more engaging and empowering leader.
Review Date: 3/10/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Chamberlain University is an excellent institution, featuring dedicated faculty who genuinely prioritize student success. The software utilized is intuitive and easy to navigate, while the tuition rates are reasonable with numerous financing options available. The admissions process was seamless, offering comprehensive support from start to finish. I am presently enrolled and aiming to graduate in August. Thus far, my experience has been positive, even while managing my responsibilities as a full-time... Read More
Review Date: 3/11/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The Masters program was very well organized and support from staff was overall exceptional. The advisors went above and beyond to make sure students had everything we needed to succeed and were always available to address our concerns. I thoroughly enjoyed this education journey and I feel better equipped to excel in my future career as a Nurse Educator!
Review Date: 5/28/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Currently in the program. Love the program because it is easy to access, considerate, up front tuition cost, informative, practical curriculum, and fast paced. Instructors are awesome at giving g feedback and answering questions. Assignments are applicable to the real world.
Review Date: 6/25/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No