BSN to MSN: BS in Nursing to MS in Nursing
The BSN to MSN bridge program is a graduate-level nursing degree for those who have already completed a four-year bachelor’s in nursing. It is typically suited for registered nurses (RNs) who currently hold a BSN and are looking to become advanced practice nurses. Holders of an MSN may also become nurse educators, managers, or administrators. The MSN degree may also be used as a stepping stone towards a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). For RNs who have not yet completed their bachelor’s degree in nursing, many schools also offer separate RN to MSN bridge programs.
How to Apply to a BSN to MSN Program
In order to apply to a BSN to MSN program, students must typically submit the following materials:
- Application form with application fee
- Transcripts from BSN program and all other post-secondary institutions attended.
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- Official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), depending on the program requirements
- Current RN license
- Statement of Purpose that addresses your reason for choosing nursing as a profession and an interest in a particular specialty
BSN to MSN Program Requirements
Program requirements vary according to the degree program, but students must typically complete the following:
- Complete all graduate coursework in a specialty area which may include:
- Clinical Specialties: Acute Care, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Mid-Wifery, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Administrative Specialties: Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, Nurse Informaticist, Nurse Manager
- Earn certification in area of practice and fulfill other assessment criteria determined by degree program
BSN to MSN Bridge Programs
- BSN to MSN: Education from Walden University
- BSN to MSN: General Track from Walden University
- BSN to MSN: Informatics from Walden University
- BSN to MSN: Leadership/Management from Walden 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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Walden University – One of America’s leading online universities, Walden’s online Masters in Nursing (RN to MSN) program is a masters in nursing program designed for registered nurses. In addition to this general track, concentrated RN to MSN degrees are also offered in education, informatics, and leadership/management. While each program can be completed in just two years it does require a bachelor’s program for enrollment. |
