Best Online MSN Programs in Montana

Montana, often known as "Big Sky Country," is not just admired for its breathtaking landscapes, but also for its resilient and hardworking people. Nurses in Montana share this spirit of resilience, always seeking ways to enhance their skills and advance in their careers. One effective way many nurses are achieving this is by pursuing a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program. An MSN opens doors to advanced and independent nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or in leadership positions. These programs are available throughout Montana, including cities like Billings and Missoula, and even in more rural areas. In the sections below, you'll learn about the application process and how to find the most affordable and efficient MSN programs in Montana.

2026 Best Online MSN Programs in Montana

If you're looking to advance your nursing career in Montana, online MSN programs offer a flexible path to higher education. At RegisteredNursing.org, we've ranked the best online MSN programs in Montana to help you find a quality option that fits your schedule. These programs let you study from anywhere, which is especially important for busy nurses who need to balance work and family commitments. You can access coursework through distance learning and complete assignments remotely. Our rankings at RegisteredNursing.org are based on thorough research to guide your decision. Learn more about how we create our rankings at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

University of Providence

Great Falls, MT - Private 4-year - uprovidence.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing, Nurse Educator Concentration (Nurse Educator)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Providence offers a 12-month online MSN with a Nurse Educator concentration, combining asynchronous coursework with in-person practicum hours. This CCNE-accredited hybrid program prepares licensed RNs with BSN prerequisites for CNE certification, focusing on curriculum development and teaching methodologies without requiring entrance exams. Graduates are equipped for academic and healthcare education roles, with reported median salaries around $104,662.

• 12-month program length
• Online asynchronous courses
• In-person practicum hours
• CCNE and NWCCU accredited
• Post-Master certificate available
• Prepare for CNE certification
• Career growth potential
• BSN prerequisite required
• Active RN license needed
• Median salary $104,662

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This 24-month hybrid MSN program at the University of Providence specializes in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner training. Designed for licensed RNs, it delivers online asynchronous learning alongside clinical practicum rotations, emphasizing advanced primary care for adult and geriatric populations. No entrance exam is required for this concentration, which prepares graduates for evidence-based practice in diverse healthcare settings.

• 24-month master's program
• Hybrid learning format
• For licensed RNs
• Online asynchronous coursework
• In-person practicum rotations
• Advanced primary care focus
• Adult-Gerontology specialization

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#2

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT - Public 4-Year - montana.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing (Clinical Nurse Leader)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Montana State University's online Master of Nursing program prepares nurses for Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certification through a hybrid format that blends digital coursework with practical experiences. This 42-credit curriculum emphasizes advanced leadership skills, including client advocacy, team management, and healthcare system analysis, with courses in health assessment, pharmacology, and nursing leadership. The program features rolling admissions for flexibility and requires a professional project addressing real-world challenges. No entrance exam is specified for admission. Graduates are equipped for leadership roles across diverse healthcare settings.

• 42 credits required.
• Hybrid program format.
• Eligible for CNL certification.
• Rolling admissions basis.
• Focus on leadership skills.
• Includes professional project.
• Advanced health assessment course.
• Advanced pharmacology included.
• Nursing leadership training.
• Client advocacy focus.

*Data reference: IPEDS 2024, U.S. Department of Education, NCES.

RN to MSN Programs in Montana

An RN to MSN program is a bridge program tailored for registered nurses with an ADN or a nursing diploma. These programs allow nurses to efficiently earn their MSN by building upon their existing education and clinical experience, resulting in a quicker and more affordable pathway to advanced practice. RN to MSN programs typically combine both undergraduate and graduate coursework, providing a smooth transition into higher-level nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or healthcare administrator. Many of these programs can be completed in as few as two years or less.

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

• Montana 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 RN to MSN option in Montana below:

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Montana

Most students considering graduate school typically have two main concerns: the program’s cost and whether it can be completed quickly or while working full-time. While pursuing an MSN degree is a commitment, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll need to sacrifice your time or finances. Below is more information on how you can balance both.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

A faster path to graduation means less time in the classroom and more time contributing to your community, as well as lower tuition costs. To find the quickest MSN programs in Montana, look for schools that offer online courses or summer classes. If you already have some nursing education, consider schools that allow credit transfers to shorten your time to completion even further. For example, the MSN program offered by Montana State University (MSUP) (which is currently the only MSN program offered in the state) takes about 2 years to complete.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

If you’re looking to save money on your MSN, you’re already at an advantage since you’ll be enrolled for a shorter time than in other graduate programs. If you’re a resident of Montana, you can also benefit from lower tuition rates at many in-state schools. One of the more affordable options in Montana is Montana State University (MSU), which offers an MSN program with tuition costs ranging between $3,000 and $15,000 per semester.

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs provide a fast-track pathway for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees to enter the nursing field. These rigorous programs blend foundational nursing education with advanced practice training, equipping students to earn an MSN and pursue advanced nursing careers, even with little to no prior nursing experience. Here are some typical admissions requirements for these programs:

• 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

Montana doesn't have any accelerated MSN programs in the state; however, Washington offers one at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One of the key benefits of MSN programs is the ability to specialize in a practice area that aligns with your interests. Specializing enhances your career prospects and opens opportunities for higher earning potential (depending on the practice area) and greater independence, particularly in roles such as educator, executive, or practitioner. One great option for a specialized NP program is the Clinical Nurse Leader specialization offered by Montana State University (MSU).

What is MSN Accreditation?

2026 List of MSN Programs in Montana

Find additional MSN programs offered in Montana by reviewing the list below:

MSN Programs By City:

• Billings MSN Programs