10 Best Self-Paced Master of Science in Nursing Programs (MSN)

Many registered nurses (RN) seek to advance their careers by pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), which normally takes a couple of years to complete through a full-time traditional nursing education program. If you'd rather study part-time while still working, there are other options to go slower through convenient self-paced MSN programs.

There are multiple accredited self-paced colleges online that allow you to complete most course requirements, except for in-person clinical work. Continue reading to discover an alternative approach to nursing education.

What Is a Self-Paced Online Master of Science in Nursing?

This is an increasingly popular way to complete an MSN degree with part-time work, if you already hold a BSN degree and RN license. Instead of taking a full course load each semester, nurses can earn a master's degree and climb the career ladder to become a family nurse practitioner (FNP), nurse supervisor, nurse preceptor, and other lucrative areas of nursing leadership. These flexible nursing degree programs even offer a majority of the coursework online.

Are MSN Programs Truly Self-Paced?

There are self-paced programs at multiple universities, but it's important to understand a few limitations. This does not include any hands-on clinical/practicum requirements for nurses, which you must still complete at a patient-care facility over a certain period.

Some programs also have deadlines for capstone projects and certain core courses. Also, self-paced nursing degrees follow a competency-based format, which may allow you to fulfill some clinical requirements while in your current nursing role.

Top 10 Flexible MSN Degree Programs

Consider these 10 flexible, self-paced online MSN programs. These are respected and accredited institutions that offer MSN degrees, BSN programs, and even Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees if you choose to go beyond the master's level.

1. Post University

Post University makes its MSN curriculum flexible through its ''SIMPath'' competency-based delivery system for nurse practitioners and other nursing specializations like nursing informatics, case management, or nurse education. Classes are 100% online, each between eight and 16 weeks, and students can enroll in as many as they can handle.

Estimated tuition cost: $590 per credit hour

Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University's accelerated MSN program offers several flexible delivery components, including no examinations for coursework. Nursing students receive grades and evaluations based on assignments alone. This university focuses on flexible learning options for working nurses while offering chances to advance in the sub-fields of public health, nurse leadership, healthcare consulting, and more.

Estimated tuition cost: $735 per credit hour

Accreditation: CCNE

3. Liberty University

Liberty University offers a flexible MSN degree, which students can begin on one of eight start dates throughout the year. Prospective applicants should have at least a 3.0 GPA from undergraduate courses along with at least one year of RN experience. Liberty also has continuing education opportunities, including postgraduate certification for advanced practice nurses.

Estimated tuition cost: $580 per credit hour

Accreditation: CCNE

4. Wilmington University

Wilmington University grants several ways to earn an MSN, including dual-degree options, which include a Master of Business Administration for nursing leaders. The coursework takes place over seven-week sessions, and everything is 100% online except clinical nurse training. Wilmington's master's degree program trains skilled nurses who serve as both practitioners and supervisors in various healthcare systems.

Estimated tuition cost: $551 per credit hour (online courses)

Accreditation: CCNE

5. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) has some of the most affordable tuition rates among online MSN programs. Its program requires between 31 and 36 credit hours with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice. UCF's College of Nursing also strives to train strong, real-world nursing leaders and nursing educators.

Estimated tuition cost: $327.32 per credit hour

Accreditation: CCNE

6. Northeastern State University

Northeastern State University offers its MSN degree through 100% online delivery with plenty of flexibility regarding nursing concentrations. Program applicants must have at least one year of clinical nursing experience and complete the nursing school's prerequisite requirements, including coursework on health assessments, community nursing, and statistics.

Estimated tuition cost: $250 per credit hour (online courses)

Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

7. University of Texas - Tyler

The University of Texas - Tyler has an MSN program geared toward training nurse educators who currently work in full-time nursing positions. This master's degree program is a combination of online coursework and 112.5 practicum hours. Prospective nursing students must have three letters of recommendation, at least a 3.0 GPA, and proof of licensure for admission.

Estimated tuition cost: $313 per credit hour

Accreditation: CCNE

8. Walden University

Walden University specializes in flexible online degrees in every field, including opportunities to earn an MSN or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Students can take most coursework online and learn to deliver healthcare services the same way through ''tele-nursing.'' Walden also has plenty of specialization variety with its programs that train psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners and adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioners.

Estimated tuition cost: $775 per credit hour

Accreditation: CCNE

9. Jacksonville University

Jacksonville University (JU) offers a unique opportunity for RNs to earn both a BSN and MSN simultaneously. Its RN-to-MSN program involves 100% online coursework, seven-week courses, small class sizes, and great accessibility to professors. JU also boasts of having great connections to important healthcare industry leaders for job opportunities after graduation.

Estimated tuition cost: $750 per credit hour

Accreditation: CCNE

10. Capella University

Capella University advertises its flexible MSN program for RNs who wish to move into advanced nursing practice. It has 10 lucrative MSN specializations in areas like adult gerontology, nursing informatics, FNP, nursing leadership, and nursing education. Walden facilitates flexible learning through its FlexPath platform for convenient, self-paced education.

Estimated tuition cost: $450 to $830 per credit hour

Accreditation: CCNE

What To Look For in a Flexible MSN Program

You should consider the qualifications mentioned in the 10 schools above. This includes CCNE accreditation, affordable tuition and financial aid, preparation for state licensure, and plenty of clinical placement options that are in line with your career goals. Finally, a truly self-paced program offers an asynchronous course structure, meaning you can log into your online courses any time rather than contend with specific class meetings.

FAQs About Self-Paced MSN Programs

These are some other frequently asked questions (FAQs) about earning an MSN degree through self-paced programs. This section addresses degree completion times, program accreditation, clinical practice requirements, and other concerns.

Are Self-Paced MSN Programs Accredited?

Yes, we included only accredited programs in our list of reputable self-paced MSN programs. These colleges of nursing receive thorough auditing from accrediting organizations such as the CCNE and ACEN. Most programs also have the same tough admission requirements as other traditional master's in nursing programs.

Can I Finish a Self-Paced MSN Faster Than Traditional Programs?

It may be possible with some self-paced programs, but normally you would finish this degree slower unless you enroll in an accelerated MSN program, which are increasingly common as well. The advantage of self-paced degrees is that they permit online learners to proceed slower (or faster) with their studies because they have other work or parenting obligations.

If you wish to try an even faster degree path, consider an accelerated RN-to-MSN program, which moves quicker than most traditional programs.

Do These Programs Still Require Clinical Hours?

Yes, almost all BSN, MSN, and other nursing specializations require clinical hours for graduation. Nursing students can expect to undergo specific in-person clinical work in acute care, psychiatric mental health, pediatric care, or some other patient-care specialization.

Many MSN programs also require nurses to have completed specific prerequisite courses before enrolling. Fortunately, you can find convenient ways to finish these by taking individual self-paced online nursing prerequisites anytime of the year.

What Is the Shortest MSN Program?

Several universities offer MSN degrees, which you can complete within 12 months rather than the traditional two years. Texas A&M permits students to complete the degree in 10 months. Keep in mind that these are fast-paced nursing degrees and typically require students to take a maximum course load (including a summer or winter session) to account for all course requirements.

Can You Earn Your MSN Without Being a Nurse?

Yes, you can do this by entering an MSN program as a ''direct entry'' candidate even if you have no other nursing experience or credentials. While it's more common for master's students to possess a BSN, this is not 100% mandatory. Direct-entry programs often include undergraduate and graduate courses to account for any lack of foundational nursing knowledge.

Discover Online MSN Programs

We invite you to explore the rest of Learn.org and discover several other nursing degrees and certificate programs. This includes online learning options, such as RN-to-BSN degrees, accelerated bachelor's degrees, accelerated MSN degrees, doctoral programs, and more.