Best Online MSN Programs in Maine
The New England state of Maine offers breathtaking coastal and mountainous rural communities. It’s also a great state for nurses looking to advance their careers through graduate education. Because of Maine's intense isolation, the need for higher-level nurses such as nurse practitioners has never been higher. For those interested in becoming nurse practitioners or pursuing other advanced nursing roles, a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program is a popular choice and is the minimum requirement typically requested of graduates. These programs are often shorter and more affordable, allowing students to meet the requirements for these careers in a cost-effective way. MSN programs are available throughout Maine, from larger cities like Portland to more remote areas. Below, you'll find helpful information on how to navigate your path to success, including tips on finding the most affordable and fastest MSN programs in Maine, as well as opportunities to speed up your journey through bridge programs.
2026 Best Online MSN Programs in Maine
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME - Private 4-year - sjcme.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Joseph's College of Maine's online MSN/MBA dual degree program offers a unique pathway for RNs seeking leadership roles in healthcare and business. This 60-credit program combines nursing and business administration, preparing graduates for positions like nursing directors and healthcare administrators. With a total cost of $42,240, it provides flexible full-time or part-time options over 3-5 years. The program is designed for experienced RNs with a bachelor's degree and requires no entrance exam.
- Online dual degree program
- 60 total credit hours
- Total cost $42,240
- Flexible full-time/part-time
- For experienced RNs
- Leadership career preparation
- Two graduate degrees concurrently
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Joseph's College of Maine's online MSN program with a Nursing Administration concentration prepares RNs for leadership roles through a fully online format. This 45-credit program focuses on strategic leadership and organizational management, with costs ranging from $28,686 to $33,792. Completion is possible in as few as two years, and no GRE is required. The program is CCNE-accredited and requires a BSN, active RN license, and minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Fully online MSN program
- Nursing Administration track
- No GRE required
- Total cost $28,686-$33,792
- Flexible 2-5 year completion
- CCNE-accredited program
- Active RN license required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
- No on-campus residency
- 45 total credit program
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME - Public 4-Year - usm.maine.edu
BSN to MSN - Nursing Education, M.S.N.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Southern Maine offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a focus on Nursing Education, designed for working RNs seeking to advance into teaching roles. This accelerated 12-month program features flexible 7-week courses with six annual start dates and no GRE requirement for admission. The curriculum aligns with national nursing competencies and includes a practicum component in educational or clinical settings. Graduates meet the National League for Nursing's Nurse Educator Certificate standards, preparing them for advanced positions in nursing education through CCNE-accredited coursework and personalized faculty mentorship.
- Online MSN in Nursing Education
- Complete in 12 months
- 6 annual start dates
- No GRE required
- 36 total credit hours
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- RN licensure required
- Practicum in education/clinical settings
- Affordable e-tuition rates
Husson University
Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - husson.edu
BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive advanced care across all patient lifespans. This 48-credit program requires 540 clinical hours and can be completed in 30 months through a flexible online format. The program boasts a 95% national certification exam passage rate and is CCNE accredited. No entrance exam is required for admission. Multiple start dates, free 24/7 tutoring, and one-on-one career advising support working professionals balancing career advancement with personal commitments.
- Online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
- 48 total credit hours
- 540 total clinical hours
- 30 months completion time
- $682 per credit hour
- 95% national exam passage rate
- Multiple start dates annually
- Free 24/7 tutoring available
- One-on-one career advising
- CCNE accredited program
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's online Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program focuses on developing advanced clinical expertise for caring for acutely ill young adults, older adults, and elderly patients. This 48-credit, CCNE-accredited program is delivered entirely online, offering flexibility for working nurses. Graduates are prepared for national certification exams and enter a high-demand healthcare specialty. No entrance exam is required for admission to this online program designed for career advancement in complex healthcare settings.
- 48-credit Master's degree
- 100% online program
- CCNE accredited
- Prepares for certification exams
- Advanced nursing care focus
Beal University
Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - beal.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University's online MSN-FNP program prepares RNs for advanced primary care roles across the lifespan. This 100% online, 20-month program requires RN licensure and offers flexible scheduling for working professionals. The ACEN-accredited curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning. No entrance exam is required for admission. Graduates are equipped for high-demand family nurse practitioner careers with strong job growth projections in healthcare.
- 20-month program length.
- 100% online format.
- Flexible schedules for professionals.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- One week on-campus training.
- Advanced health assessment courses.
- Focus on primary care.
- RN licensure required.
- Experienced faculty.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Nursing Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University's online MSN with a Nursing Education concentration prepares nurses for teaching and leadership roles in academic and clinical settings. This 100% online program can be completed in 20-40 months with flexible scheduling. Admission requires a BSN and unencumbered nursing license. The NLN CNEA-accredited curriculum covers curriculum development, educational leadership, and advanced health assessment. No entrance exam is required. Graduates gain skills for nursing faculty positions and clinical education roles.
- 20- to 40-month program length.
- 100% online delivery.
- Nursing Education concentration available.
- Requires BSN and nursing license.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Flexible schedules for students.
- Core courses in advanced practice.
- Focus on curriculum development.
- Includes educational leadership track.
- Student-centered learning environment.
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Executive Leadership)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University's online MSN with an Executive Leadership concentration prepares nurses for healthcare management and administrative roles. This 100% online program offers flexible scheduling with completion in 20-40 months. Admission requires a BSN, unencumbered nursing license, and statistics course completion. The NLN CNEA-accredited curriculum covers leadership theory, healthcare finance, quality assurance, and policy analysis. No entrance exam is required. Graduates are prepared for leadership positions in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations.
- 20 to 40 months program length.
- 100% online delivery.
- Executive Leadership concentration available.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Requires BSN for admission.
- Unencumbered nursing license needed.
- Statistics course prerequisite.
- Core courses in advanced nursing.
- Leadership and finance curriculum.
University of Maine
Orono, ME - Public 4-Year - umaine.edu
BSN to MSN - MS-Nursing Leadership – Nursing Education Concentration (Nursing Education)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Maine's online MSN in Nursing Leadership with a Nursing Education concentration prepares nurses to become effective educators in academic and healthcare environments. This hybrid program combines online coursework with practical experiences, focusing on advanced teaching methods, curriculum development, and educational technology. Students complete two practicum experiences and a graduate capstone project, preparing them for NLN certification. The program requires a BSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, active RN licensure, and two years of nursing experience. No entrance exam is required for admission to this master's-level program.
- Full-time/Part-time study options
- Online didactic courses
- Two practicum experiences
- Advanced teaching methodologies
- Prepares for NLN Certification
- Graduate capstone required
- BSN prerequisite required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Active RN licensure needed
- Two years RN experience
RN to MSN Programs in Maine
While a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) is typically required for entry into an MSN program, Maine offers an RN to MSN pathway specifically for working nurses who already hold an ADN. This option allows you to bypass the BSN requirement and complete your MSN in a shorter timeframe. If you have a current nursing license and an ADN, you’re likely eligible for this streamlined route. Additional requirements include:
- Maine RN license
- ADN or nursing diploma
- GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
- Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
- Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume
Check out the following RN to MSN degree programs available in Maine:
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.Orono, ME
University of Maine
Orono, ME 04469-5724
(207) 581-2607Portland, ME
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME 04103
(207) 780-4993Standish, ME
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME 04084
(207) 893-7957
Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Maine
Whether you’re already working as a nurse or planning for the future, choosing the best MSN program often comes down to two main factors: how quickly you can graduate and how much it will cost. If you’re searching for the fastest and most affordable MSN programs in Maine, there are several important factors to consider. Below are some examples to help guide your decision:
What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?
Typically, a full-time student will need to dedicate at least four years to complete an MSN program, but there are several options in Maine that allow you to finish in less time. To find the fastest MSN programs in Maine, consider exploring online programs or those that offer summer courses. One example of an MSNsin Maine that can be completed in a shorter timeframe is offered by St. Joseph's College of Maine (SJCME).
What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?
For students, the cost of the program is often a bigger consideration than the duration. While Maine may not be the cheapest state for education, there are still several MSN programs that can fit within your budget. You can further reduce costs by establishing state residency before applying to MSN programs, among other strategies. One of the most affordable MSN programs located in Maine is offered by the University of Southern Maine (USM) which offers tuition costs between $18,000 and $55,000.
Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)
Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Maine provide a fast-track route for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who are eager to enter the nursing profession. These programs combine foundational nursing education with advanced coursework, preparing graduates for licensure as registered nurses and for leadership or specialized roles. Students complete rigorous studies, clinical rotations, and courses in areas such as health policy, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Typical admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree, relevant prerequisite courses, and a strong GPA.
- Bachelor's degree
- Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
- GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
- Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
- Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
- Admissions interview
As of now, MENP programs are not available in Maine, but you can find them at the University of New Hampshire (UNH). Keep in mind you will likely need to transfer any license obtained in New Hampshire if your plan is to practice in Maine.
Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties
One of the key benefits of pursuing an MSN in Maine is the opportunity to specialize in a field that aligns with your career goals. Specializing not only enhances your skills but also strengthens job security and boosts earning potential. Maine's MSN programs offer pathways in areas such as family practice, mental health, pediatrics, and nursing leadership, enabling nurses to customize their education for specific healthcare roles. Specializing provides advanced expertise, paving the way for leadership, clinical, and administrative positions. One example of a specialized MSN program offered in Maine is the Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program offered by the University of Maine (UMaine).
What is MSN Accreditation?
MSN accreditation in Maine ensures that programs meet high standards set by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This accreditation confirms that the curriculum, faculty, and outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Accredited programs are recognized by employers and qualify for financial aid, making them crucial for both career advancement and affordability.
2026 List of MSN Programs in Maine
The list of MSN programs mentioned above is not complete. Check out the remainder of these programs below:
MSN Programs By City:
Bangor, ME
Beal University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- 20 to 40 months program length.
- 100% online delivery.
- Executive Leadership concentration available.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Requires BSN for admission.
- Unencumbered nursing license needed.
- Statistics course prerequisite.
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Website
- 20- to 40-month program length.
- 100% online delivery.
- Nursing Education concentration available.
- Requires BSN and nursing license.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Flexible schedules for students.
- Core courses in advanced practice.
- Focus on curriculum development.
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
Online Learning - Website
- 20-month program length.
- 100% online format.
- Flexible schedules for professionals.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- One week on-campus training.
- Advanced health assessment courses.
- Focus on primary care.
- RN licensure required.
Husson University
- BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 48-credit Master's degree
- 100% online program
- CCNE accredited
- Prepares for certification exams
- Advanced nursing care focus
- BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
- 48 total credit hours
- 540 total clinical hours
- 30 months completion time
- $682 per credit hour
- 95% national exam passage rate
- Multiple start dates annually
- Free 24/7 tutoring available
Biddeford, ME
University of New England
- BSN to MSN - Master's program for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- 15 students enrolled annually
- Virtual reality simulation training
- Interprofessional education approach
- Focus on social determinants
- Statewide healthcare partnerships
Orono, ME
University of Maine
- BSN to MSN - MS-Nursing Leadership – Nursing Education Concentration
Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Full-time/Part-time study options
- Online didactic courses
- Two practicum experiences
- Advanced teaching methodologies
- Prepares for NLN Certification
- Graduate capstone required
- BSN prerequisite required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
Portland, ME
University of Southern Maine
- BSN to MSN - Nursing Education, M.S.N.
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN in Nursing Education
- Complete in 12 months
- 6 annual start dates
- No GRE required
- 36 total credit hours
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- RN licensure required
Standish, ME
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
- BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Online Learning - Website
- Online dual degree program
- 60 total credit hours
- Total cost $42,240
- Flexible full-time/part-time
- For experienced RNs
- Leadership career preparation
- Two graduate degrees concurrently
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nursing Administration - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online MSN program
- Nursing Administration track
- No GRE required
- Total cost $28,686-$33,792
- Flexible 2-5 year completion
- CCNE-accredited program
- Active RN license required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA needed