Top 9 Fast & Affordable Online RN to MSN Programs 2026

If you’re a registered nurse looking to advance your career without spending years in school, RN to MSN programs can help you bridge the gap quickly. These online pathways let you move from your RN license to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) while skipping a separate bachelor’s degree. Because they’re offered online, you can work while you study, making it easier to balance your education with your schedule.

Choosing the right program often comes down to two big factors: affordability and speed. Lower tuition means you can invest in your future without taking on overwhelming debt, and accelerated timelines help you reach your goals faster. Below, we’ll explore accredited RN to MSN online programs that offer a budget-friendly, streamlined route to your master’s degree in nursing.

Can I Do an RN to MSN Program Online?

Yes, you can complete an RN to MSN program online, but you’ll still need to fulfill in-person clinical requirements. Most schools deliver coursework through virtual classrooms, allowing you to watch lectures, join discussions, and submit assignments on your own schedule. 

The virtual setting makes it easier to balance your studies with your nursing shifts and personal commitments. Clinical rotations are typically arranged at approved health care facilities near where you live, so you won’t need to relocate. The combination of online learning and local clinicals gives working nurses a practical, accessible way to advance their education.

What Is an Online RN to MSN Bridge Program?

An RN to MSN bridge program is designed for registered nurses who want to earn a master’s degree without completing a separate Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Online RN to MSN programs combine undergraduate and graduate coursework, letting you move directly into advanced nursing studies. 

This approach is a faster route to credentials in areas like nurse education, leadership, or specialized clinical practice. By completing one program instead of two, you can position yourself for higher-paying roles, greater responsibility, and expanded opportunities in health care.

How Much Does an Online RN to MSN Program Cost?

Tuition for an RN to MSN online degree typically ranges from about $20,000 to $50,000 in total, though costs vary widely by school, program length, and whether you pay in-state or out-of-state rates. Some universities charge per credit, while others offer flat-rate tuition for each term. 

Additional expenses can include textbooks, technology fees, and costs related to clinical placements. You can offset your costs through financial aid, such as federal grants, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance. Comparing program rates and understanding all fees upfront can make it easier to choose an affordable option that fits your budget and career goals.

How Long Does it Take To Go From RN to MSN Online?

Most online RN to MSN programs take about two to four years to finish, depending on factors like transfer credits, program format, and whether you study full-time or part-time. Bridge programs that let you skip a separate BSN step may require more courses, while accelerated tracks are designed to help you graduate sooner.

Clinical training is built into the curriculum and usually completed at approved sites near where you live. This convenient setup means you can keep working while gaining essential hands-on experience, which makes it easier to balance your education with your job and personal responsibilities.

What Are the Shortest RN to MSN Online Programs?

Short RN to MSN programs are typically accelerated formats that can be completed in about 18 months to two years. These condensed timelines often require a heavier course load, so they’re typically best for students who can commit significant time to studying each week. 

Factors like prior college credits, professional nursing experience, and generous transfer policies can shorten the path even further. While speed is appealing, it’s important to ensure the program is accredited and aligns with your state’s nursing licensure requirements. This ensures your degree will be recognized and prepares you for advanced roles without delays after graduation.

Cheapest and Fastest RN to MSN Online Programs

Finding an RN to MSN program that balances affordability with speed can make a big difference in how quickly you reach your career goals. The schools below offer accredited, flexible options designed for working nurses who want to advance without breaking the bank.

1. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) offers an RN to MSN nursing education program that’s affordable and flexible, so working nurses can advance quickly. The program is delivered entirely online and uses a competency-based model, allowing you to move through material as soon as you demonstrate mastery of the subject. 

Most students complete the program in 36 to 48 months, depending on transfer credits and course pace. Coursework covers instructional design, curriculum development, and leadership in nursing education, preparing you for roles in academia or healthcare training.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,325 per six-month term
• Financial aid: WGU accepts financial aid options including federal grants, loans, and scholarships, with dedicated support to help students maximize funding opportunities.
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Capella University

Capella University’s RN to MSN in nursing education program is fully online and features asynchronous coursework that lets you complete assignments on your own schedule. Capella offers both a FlexPath option for self-paced learning and a GuidedPath option with structured deadlines, giving you control over how you progress through the curriculum.

Depending on your pace, the program can be completed in as little as 13 months or up to 34 months. The curriculum covers topics such as curriculum design, instructional strategies, and assessment in nursing education, preparing you for teaching roles in academic or clinical settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,925 (13 months); $23,880 (22 months); $38,805 (34 months)
• Financial aid: Capella University provides financial aid options for eligible students, including federal aid, scholarships, and tuition discounts for employer or military partnerships.
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. The University of Texas at Arlington

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) offers a fully online, accelerated RN to MSN bridge program for registered nurses who hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing. The program allows you to earn both a Bachelor of Science (BS) in nursing and a Master of Science (MS) in nursing in one continuous pathway.

Many students can complete their degree in as few as 36 months, though the exact time frame depends on transfer credits and course load. This streamlined format is ideal for nurses seeking a faster route to advanced practice, leadership, or education roles.

• Estimated tuition cost: $19,500 to $38,308
• Financial aid: UTA offers financial aid options, including federal aid and scholarships, for qualifying students to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. American College of Education

American College of Education’s (ACE) fully online RN to MSN program is designed for working nurses seeking a path to advanced nursing practice and leadership roles. The curriculum integrates both bachelor’s- and master’s-level coursework, allowing you to earn both degrees without duplicating requirements. Courses are delivered in an asynchronous format, so you can balance professional and personal commitments while progressing through the program.

The RN to MSN program requires 55 credit hours and can often be completed in less than three years, depending on your course load and transfer credits. Core areas of study include advanced nursing practice, leadership, and evidence-based care.

• Estimated tuition cost: $19,775
• Financial aid: American College of Education offers financial aid to qualifying students, including federal aid programs and scholarships, to make education more affordable.
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. Aspen University

Aspen University’s RN to MSN bridge program is designed for registered nurses who want to advance their education without pausing their careers. Delivered entirely online, the program allows you to transition from an associate degree in nursing to a Master of Science in Nursing in one continuous pathway. Courses are asynchronous, giving you the flexibility to complete assignments on your schedule.

The program consists of eight-week courses and can be completed in four years, depending on transfer credits and pace. Coursework covers topics such as nursing leadership, advanced pathophysiology, and evidence-based practice.

• Estimated tuition cost: $23,775
• Financial aid: Aspen University offers payment plans and financing options to make tuition more manageable, as well as federal financial aid for eligible students.
• Accreditation: CCNE

6. Baker College

Baker College delivers an online RN to MSN bridge program that prepares nurses for leadership, education, and advanced practice roles. The curriculum blends bachelor’s- and master’s-level courses, so you can earn both degrees in a single program. Fully online delivery allows you to continue working while pursuing your education.

The program requires 51 credit hours and is typically completed in about three years, though your timeline may vary based on transfer credits and course load. Core courses focus on advanced nursing concepts, leadership strategies, and healthcare policy.

• Estimated tuition cost: $320 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Baker College provides financial aid options including federal grants, loans, and scholarships to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for qualifying students.
• Accreditation: CCNE

7. Liberty University

Liberty University’s online RN to BSN to MSN bridge program allows registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma to advance directly to a master’s degree without earning a separate bachelor’s degree first. The curriculum is delivered entirely online, so it’s easier to fit studies into your busy work schedule. You can choose from multiple MSN specializations, including nursing administration, nurse educator, and community health, to align your studies with your career goals.

Students can often transfer in a significant number of credits, reducing both cost and completion time. The accelerated track allows you to complete the program in two years, depending on your pace and transfer credits. This pathway is ideal if you want to streamline your education and move quickly into advanced nursing roles.

• Estimated tuition cost: $330 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Liberty University participates in federal and state aid programs, offering options such as grants, loans, and work-study. Scholarships are also available for eligible students, including awards based on academic performance and military service.
• Accreditation: CCNE

8. American Public University

American Public University’s (APU) RN to MSN program offers a flexible and affordable route for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma to advance their education. Delivered entirely online, the program allows you to choose from multiple MSN specializations, including nursing education and nursing leadership, tailoring your degree to your career goals.

The program typically takes two to three years to complete, depending on your pace and transfer credits. Courses emphasize evidence-based practice, advanced clinical concepts, and leadership skills for diverse healthcare settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $350 to $455 per credit hour
• Financial aid: APU provides financial aid options for qualifying students, including federal grants, loans, and a variety of scholarships to help reduce educational costs.
• Accreditation: CCNE

9. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) offers an RN to MSN bridge program for registered nurses who want to advance their careers while continuing to work. This online program provides a direct pathway from an associate degree or diploma in nursing to an MS in nursing, with coursework designed to build both clinical expertise and leadership skills.

Most students can finish the program in about three years, though completion time depends on transfer credits and course load. The curriculum covers advanced nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and healthcare leadership.

• Estimated tuition cost: $403 per credit hour
• Financial aid: ASU offers multiple financial aid options, including federal aid, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs for qualifying students.
• Accreditation: American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)

9. Sacred Heart University

Sacred Heart University’s (SHU) online RN to MSN bridge program enables you to earn both your BS and MS in nursing in a single, streamlined pathway. The fully online format is designed to accommodate working nurses, allowing you to complete coursework on a flexible schedule without disrupting your professional responsibilities.

The program requires between 51 and 153 total credit hours, and can be completed in 3.5 years. Concentration options include Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator, and Nursing Management and Executive Leadership. 

• Estimated tuition cost: $390 to $955 per credit hour
• Financial aid: SHU offers a variety of financial aid options, including need-based grants, merit scholarships, and federal and state aid, to help make tuition more affordable for qualifying students.
• Accreditation: CCNE

 How We Rank Schools

To create this list of RN to MSN bridge programs, we considered multiple factors to help you identify quality, affordable options that meet your career goals.
 

• Accreditation: Only programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) were included to ensure quality standards.
• Affordability: We prioritized schools with competitive tuition rates, flexible payment plans, and available financial aid to make advancing your education more accessible.
• Program reputation: Programs were selected based on faculty expertise, graduate outcomes, and overall standing in the nursing education community.

What To Expect From an RN to MSN Program Online

An online RN to MSN bridge program is designed to help you earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in one smooth, continuous path. Most programs require 50 to 70 credit hours and can be completed in about two to three years, depending on your transfer credits and pace.

You’ll gain advanced skills in nursing theory, leadership, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice, with the chance to focus on areas like nurse education, administration, or informatics. The flexible online format makes it easier to fit coursework around your job and personal life, so you can advance your career without putting your life on hold.

FAQs About Accelerated Low-Cost Online RN to MSN Programs

Choosing an RN to MSN bridge program can feel like a big step, and it’s natural to have some questions. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions to help you decide if an accelerated, affordable online RN to MSN program is the right fit for your goals.

Is an Online RN to MSN Degree Worth It?

For many nurses, an online RN to MSN degree is a valuable investment. It allows you to move into advanced practice, leadership, or education roles while continuing to work. The flexible format helps you balance career and personal obligations, and the higher degree can lead to increased salary potential and job security.

Can I Get My MSN in 6 Months?

Completing an MSN in six months is not realistic, even in highly accelerated programs. RN to MSN bridge pathways typically take two to three years because they combine bachelor’s- and master’s-level coursework. This ensures you gain the advanced clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and specialization training needed for graduate-level nursing roles.

How Much Can You Earn With an RN to MSN Degree?

Salary potential depends on your role, location, and experience. Nurses with an MSN often move into positions such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical leader. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, advanced practice nurses earn a median salary of $132,050 annually.

Can You Skip Your BSN and Get Your MSN?

Yes, RN to MSN programs are specifically designed for this. They allow registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma to complete BSN and MSN coursework in a single, continuous program. This approach saves time and can reduce total tuition costs while preparing you for advanced nursing practice.

How Do I Go From RN to BSN to MSN?

You can either complete each degree separately or choose an RN to MSN bridge program. The bridge option combines both degrees in one pathway, so you don’t have to apply twice. This streamlined approach can shorten your timeline and may also lower your overall tuition expense.

Can You Go Straight From RN to NP?

Yes, some RN to MSN programs offer nurse practitioner (NP) concentrations that allow you to go directly from RN to NP without earning a BSN first. These programs integrate the necessary bachelor’s-level content with specialized graduate coursework to meet licensure requirements for advanced practice.

Is MSN Harder Than BSN?

In general, yes. An MSN requires more advanced coursework, greater clinical responsibility, and a stronger focus on leadership, research, and evidence-based practice. The workload can be more intense, but the flexible online format in many programs makes it possible for working nurses to succeed while balancing other commitments.

Discover Online Nursing Degrees

If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, now is the time to explore your options. Start your search today by connecting with one of the schools featured on Learn.org to find the online nursing program that fits your goals.