How Many Credits Do Online MSN Programs Require? RN-to-MSN?

RN-to-MSN vs. BSN-to-MSN

Online master of science in nursing (MSN) programs can vary significantly based on whether they accept students with associate’s degrees in nursing (ADN) or require a four-year bachelor’s degree.

Programs that accept applicants with ADNs, often called RN-to-MSN programs, are designed for registered nurses who wish to advance their education without first earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). These programs typically offer ‘bridge’ courses that cover BSN-level material before delving into graduate-level coursework. For instance, Arizona State University offers a 36-credit MSN bridge program. Western Governors University also has a flexible RN-to-MSN program that allows students to take courses part-time- or full-time.

On the other hand, traditional MSN programs usually require a four-year bachelor’s degree, which does not necessarily have to be in nursing. These programs are often more extensive and may require more credits than RN-to-MSN programs. Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs are typically intensive and fast-paced, allowing students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field to earn a BSN in less time than a traditional program. Examples include Mercer University’s accelerated 56-credit BSN program, which takes one year to complete.

Lastly, admission to a BSN-to-MSN program requires a four-year bachelor of science in nursing. An example of an online BSN-to-MSN program is Hawai’i Pacific University which requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in nursing for admission and 45 to 48 credits to graduate in two years.

The credit differentials between MSN programs can vary widely, depending on factors such as admission requirements, the university’s credit system (semester or quarter), and the individual student’s prior degrees and experience.

Transfer Credits & Prerequisite Courses

Transfer credits and prerequisite courses represent two distinct aspects of the credit system in online MSN programs.

Transfer credits refer to the credits a student has earned in previous educational programs that can be applied toward their current degree program. These credits are usually granted for courses completed at another accredited institution and can be used to satisfy specific requirements in the MSN program. For instance, Galen College of Nursing allows the transfer of certain credit hours as outlined in its transfer credit policy.

Prerequisite courses are credits earned from courses that must be completed before students can take more advanced courses in their MSN program. These prerequisites ensure students have the necessary foundational knowledge to succeed in their chosen field. For example, the master of science in nursing program at Johns Hopkins University requires at least 17 to 21 prerequisite credits from students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees.

Therefore, while transfer credits enable students to leverage their past education towards their current degree, prerequisite credits ensure students are adequately prepared for their advanced studies.

Core vs. Specialization Courses

In an online MSN program, core requirement classes and concentrations represent two different aspects of the curriculum and account for different credit allocations.

Core requirement courses provide a foundation in advanced nursing theory and practice. These are courses that all students in the MSN program must complete, regardless of their chosen specialization or concentration. For example, the online MSN program at the National University includes six core courses totaling 27 quarter units.

On the other hand, specialization courses allow students to focus on a specific area of nursing practice or leadership. These concentration-specific courses build upon the knowledge gained in the core courses and provide in-depth study in the student’s chosen field. For instance, the American Military University (AMU) offers an online MSN with 15 semester hours of core requirements and two concentrations in nursing education and nursing leadership, which require 18 semester hours of concentration courses.

Therefore, while core requirement classes establish a broad knowledge and skills base, concentrations enable students to tailor their education to their career goals and interests.

Clinical Hour Requirements for APRNs

The required clinical hours for a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree can fluctuate depending on the distinct program and the educational institution offering them. As of November 2024, the American Association of Colleges of Nurses (AACN) stipulates a baseline of 500 hours.

For instance, Gonzaga University offers an online MSN family nurse practitioner program that requires students to complete 660 clinical hours. By comparison, the ABSN program at the University of Toledo necessitates 540 clinical clock hours and 150 lab clock hours.

Number of Credits in Popular Online MSN Programs

Here is a list of 25 online MSN programs and the number of credits, semester hours, or units required to complete this degree.

Please note that the program details may change over time, so visiting the respective college or university websites for the most up-to-date information on these MSN programs is advisable.

Number of Credits in Common MSN Specializations

There are several areas of specialization in nursing, each with unique credit and practice hour requirements. 

For instance, a nurse administrator specialization is typically more focused on blending leadership and clinical nursing, focusing on the management aspects of healthcare services. These programs often require 36 to 48 credits, with several hours dedicated to administrative internships or practicums. On the other hand, a nurse educator specialization, another administrative-focused role, usually requires around 33 to 39 credits and includes coursework and teaching practicums.

On the practice-oriented side, a nurse practitioner specialization generally requires between 45 to 50 credits and hundreds of clinical hours to provide students with hands-on patient care experience. Similarly, a nurse midwife specialization is also practice-oriented and typically requires around 40 to 60 credits, along with extensive clinical practice hours to ensure students gain practical experience in providing prenatal, childbirth, and postnatal care.

Remember that these are general estimates, and the number of credits and practice hours can vary significantly from one program or institution to another. Here is a list of MSN specializations and the number of credits or semester hours required for completion.

Dual MSN Degrees

The evolution of nursing education has brought forth a variety of learning options for aspiring advanced practice registered nurses, including the opportunity to earn two graduate degrees on an accelerated timeline. Dual degree programs are designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills across two disciplines, enhancing their career prospects and leadership potential in the healthcare industry. 

Here are some common dual degree combinations with a master of science in nursing (MSN): 

MSN/MHA: A master of healthcare administration (MHA) combined with an MSN gives APRNs an edge with leadership skills and knowledge of healthcare’s clinical leadership and administrative aspects. 

• Sample Program: Liberty University

MSN/MPH: An MSN and master of public health (MPH) program is a dual degree program that allows students to concurrently earn two degrees, equipping them with advanced nursing skills and public health knowledge.

• Sample Program: Purdue Global University

MSN/MBA: An MSN/MBA program is a dual degree program that combines a master of science in nursing (MSN) and a master of business administration (MBA), preparing students for leadership roles in healthcare by merging advanced nursing practice with business management skills.

• Sample Program: Kent State University

Dual degree programs and many others provide a promising avenue for RNs to further their education and career. With the convenience of online learning, RNs can pursue these programs at their own pace, balancing their ongoing professional commitments with their academic pursuits.

Questions? Contact Programs Directly

Aspiring advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) with questions about MSN program requirements are encouraged to contact schools directly with their specific inquiries to get customized responses based on their unique situations. This is particularly crucial given that a school’s website’s information might only be sometimes up-to-date. The advanced nursing field is rapidly evolving, necessitating that MSN curriculums keep pace.