Accelerated RN to MSN: RN to MS in Nursing
An accelerated RN to MSN program allows registered nurses to obtain the baccalaureate and master’s degrees in less time than it would take to complete either degree separately. These programs are geared towards students with professional nursing experience who wish to extend their practice and careers. While many schools now offer accelerated programs, admissions is often competitive. Students are expected to have a prerequisite knowledge of patient care procedures before applying. Programs generally take three to four years to complete with the first year devoted to undergraduate nurse training. Once all bachelor-level courses have been completed, students select an area of specialty and acquire additional skills in a defined field.
How to Apply to an Accelerated RN to MSN Program
Accelerated programs have unique admissions requirements. Some schools start by accepting students into the RN to BSN track. Upon successful completion of all undergraduate coursework, students can then apply for admission to the MSN program. Students must typically submit the following materials to be considered:
- Application form with application fee
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended
- Two to three letters of recommendation (Note: Accelerated programs typically request that candidates submit recommendations from a current or previous nursing supervisor or manager.)
- Statement of Purpose
Accelerated RN to MSN Degree Program Requirements
Program requirements vary by school and the applicant’s educational history. Some students can transfer credits earned at other accredited post-secondary schools and will start the program with college-level skills. Applicants who do not have transferable credits will be required to complete all general nursing and education courses regardless of professional experience. Each college or university has a different credit transfer policy.
Program requirements vary according to the degree program, but students must typically complete the following:
- Complete all undergraduate coursework in addition to any general education requirements determined by the school.
- Complete all graduate coursework in a specialty area. Students elect to pursue either a clinical or administrative concentration.
- Clinical Specialties: acute care, adult nurse practitioner, clinical nurse, family nurse practitioner, infection control nurse, and nurse mid-wife
- Administrative Specialties: nurse administrator, nurse educator, nurse informaticist, and nurse manager
- Earn certification in area of practice and fulfill other assessment criteria determined by degree program.
Accelerated RN to MSN Bridge Programs
- Accelerated RN to Master of Science in Nursing from American Sentinel University
- RN to MSN: Nurse Educator from Gonzaga University
- Accelerated RN to MS in Nursing from Kaplan University
- RN to MSN: Clinical Nurse Leader from Sacred Heart University
- RN to MSN: Nursing Education from Sacred Heart University
- MSN: Patient Care Services Administration from Sacred Heart University
- MSN: Education (RN to MSN Option) from Western Governors University
- MSN: Leadership & Management (RN to MSN Option) from Western Governors University
Top Masters in Nursing Schools
A master’s degree in nursing can be the first step to becoming a nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader (CNL). Several accredited online MSN programs are listed below. Fill out any school’s form to quickly receive additional information and application materials.
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Georgetown University – Georgetown University has been educating nurses and helping improve healthcare since 1903. The programs are designed to help the next generation of nursing leaders with majors available in: Family Nurse Practitioner and Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. |
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Capella University – This masters in nursing program is designed specifically for nurses who wish to enter the teaching profession as nurse educators. With practical applications and engaging assignments, student can accomplish the assets required to be successful in leadership and educational positions with in the nursing industry. The Nurse Educator degree curriculum is centered around the industry’s best practices and standards and is constantly updated to reflect the latest developments. |
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Kaplan University – Kaplan University offers a number of RN to MSN degrees for those seeking career advancement. Each program allows students to focus their curriculum on their particular career interest. In addition to the general program, specializations are also offered in informatics and health education. |
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Sacred Heart University – Sacred Heart University offers accredited BSN to MSN and RN to MSN programs that prepare students for leadership or specialized positions, including clinical nurse leadership (RN to MSN option), nursing education (RN to MSN option), and patient care services administration (RN to MSN option). |
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American Sentinel University – American Sentinel University offers a wide variety of accredited online masters in nursing degrees, each with a specific focus designed to teach MSN students the exact skills they need for their particular career focus. By specializing in Management and Organizational Leadership, Infection Prevention, Case Management, or Nurse Informatics through online courses as opposed to campus programs, students can complete assignments at a time and place that is convenient. |
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University of Phoenix – University of Phoenix offers a number of online master’s in nursing programs. Their general MSN degree program gives students a well-rounded master’s in nursing education, while more specific degrees are available in health administration, health education, and nursing informatics. |
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Drexel University – The Masters in Nursing Leadership program from Drexel is designed for students who want to take leadership positions in the health community, and involves leadership training and learning the skills needed to manage other nurses. Drexel University provides an affordable option through online courses which can cut down on many of the cost associated with on-ground programs. DU offers a Masters of Science in Nurse Leadership. |
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Grand Canyon University – Grand Canyon University’s online masters in nursing programs focus on becoming a leader and an educator respectively. These accredited degrees are offered via a fully online curriculum. The Masters in Nursing Leadership prepares RNs for roles as leaders in a variety healthcare settings; the Masters in Nursing Education prepares RNs for teaching positions within the nursing profession. |
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Gonzaga University – Gonzaga University offers a wide range of Masters in Nursing degrees, allowing students to fulfill high level roles and leadership roles in Nursing. These MSN degrees, whose options include nursing education (MSN), nursing education (RN to MSN) and health systems leadership, can be completed at a relatively fast pace and provide more convenience to students with busy or inconsistent schedules. |
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Benedictine University – Benedictine University offers a fully online masters in nursing degree. This accredited program includes focuses on leadership, education, administration, global healthcare among other topics. With this versatile degree, students can choose from several opportunities as they present themselves. BU has campus and online courses available for their MSN program. The online course can be completed at a pace that is comfortable to you. |
