Best Online MSN Programs in North Carolina

Duke University's Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program offers a hybrid online format with distance-based learning, preparing nurses to provide family-centered healthcare for children from newborn to 25 years old. The curriculum emphasizes health equity, evidence-based practice, and holistic care across diverse clinical settings through interactive online coursework, simulation experiences, and extensive clinical placements. This master's-level program does not require an entrance exam. Graduates can expect high-demand roles with projected 38% job growth and median salaries exceeding $129,000.

• Distance-based hybrid learning
• Dual certification opportunity
• Global clinical placement network
• Extensive clinical simulation
• Comprehensive pediatric curriculum
• Holistic admissions approach
• Faculty with real-world experience

Ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report, Duke University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program features a flexible 42-credit hybrid curriculum with online learning and clinical experience. Students complete at least 560 clinical hours, focusing on health equity and serving diverse populations, particularly in underserved communities. This master's program does not require an entrance exam. With projected 38% job growth and competitive salaries over $129,480, graduates are prepared for rewarding advanced practice nursing careers.

• 42-credit hour flexible curriculum
• 560+ clinical training hours
• Online and hybrid learning options
• Expansive clinical partnership network
• Focus on health equity
• Comprehensive patient care approach

Duke University's nationally ranked #1 Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) MSN program offers hybrid distance-based learning for registered nurses seeking to treat acutely and critically ill patients. With only 7% of nurse practitioners certified in this specialty, graduates enter a high-demand field with significant career potential. This master's-level program does not require an entrance exam. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 38% job growth for advanced practice registered nurses, with median annual salaries around $129,480.

• Hybrid distance-based learning
• Global clinical placement network
• Focus on health equity
• Extensive clinical simulation experiences

Duke University's top-ranked Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program utilizes a hybrid learning model to prepare advanced nursing professionals for addressing critical mental health needs. Students develop comprehensive psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic skills through distance learning and extensive clinical partnerships. This master's program does not require an entrance exam. Graduates can practice in various settings from emergency psychiatry to community mental health, with strong job prospects and potential earnings exceeding $129,480 annually.

• #1 Mental Health Nursing Program
• Hybrid Learning Model
• Nationwide Clinical Partnerships
• Distance-Based Education Options
• Comprehensive Mental Health Training
• Expert Faculty with Clinical Experience
• Diverse Career Opportunities
• 38% Job Growth Projection

Duke University's MSN in Health Informatics program prepares nurses to transform patient care through technology and data analytics in a hybrid format with flexible online learning and two campus intensives. Students gain advanced skills in electronic health data management and clinical systems development. This master's program does not require an entrance exam. Designed for working nurses, it offers competitive salaries ranging from $100,000 to $150,000, with potential earnings up to $200,000 in specialized roles like clinical informatics specialists.

• Hybrid online/campus learning
• 224 clinical practicum hours
• Top 3 Nursing Schools ranking
• Distance-based interactive courses
• Meets national informatics standards
• Personalized learning approach
• Advanced technology training
• Competitive career opportunities

• Hybrid learning format
• Distance-based curriculum
• Clinical placement support
• Personalized mentorship
• Lowest credit requirements
• Advanced clinical training
• Nationwide career opportunities
• Holistic admissions approach
• Expert faculty mentorship

• Pediatric Acute Care MSN
• Hybrid program
• Distance-based learning
• Worldwide clinical network
• Clinical practice experience
• Diverse clinical settings
• Focus on family-centered care
• Culturally sensitive care
• Develops leaders in practice
• Leaders in education

• Distance-based hybrid learning
• Extensive global clinical network
• #5 Master's Nursing Program
• 100% board exam pass rate
• Requires 2 years NICU experience
• Advanced neonatal care curriculum
• Expert faculty mentorship
• High employment potential

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers an online MSN with a Nurse Educator concentration, preparing RNs to teach in academic and clinical settings. This 39-credit program includes 180 clinical hours and eligibility for NLN certification, with no entrance exam required. Designed for working professionals, it features flexible admission in spring, summer, and fall semesters, with resident tuition at $288.82 per credit and a preferred 3.0 GPA.

• 100% online program
• 39 total credit hours
• Admits spring/summer/fall
• Resident tuition $288.82/credit
• Requires 1 year nursing practice
• NLN certification eligible
• Clinical practicum included
• 3.0 GPA preferred
• Teaches nursing education skills
• 180 hours clinical experience

UNC Charlotte's online MSN in Nurse Administration develops leadership skills for roles like Nurse Executive, requiring 36 credits over 27 months part-time. The program includes 360 clinical hours and prepares graduates for ANCC certification, with no entrance exam needed. It offers flexible admission semesters, a 3.0 minimum GPA, and reports an average graduate wage of $111,900.

• 100% Online Delivery
• 27 Months Part-Time
• 36 Total Credit Hours
• ANCC Certification Prep
• $111,900 Average Wage
• Flexible Admission Semesters
• 360 Clinical Hours Required
• 3.0 Minimum GPA
• Professional Nursing Recommended

This online MSN in Community/Public Health Nursing at UNC Charlotte focuses on community assessment and intervention design, aligning with Quad Council competencies. The 38-credit program requires 360 clinical hours and an unrestricted RN license, with no entrance exam. Admission prefers a 3.0 GPA and professional recommendations, offering competitive tuition rates from $288.82 to $1,098.21 per credit.

• 100% Online Delivery
• 38 Total Credit Hours
• 360 Clinical Hours Required
• Multiple Admission Semesters
• Requires Unrestricted RN License
• Minimum 3.0 GPA Preferred
• Comprehensive Career Opportunities
• Quad Council Competency Alignment

UNC Charlotte's RN/MSN Early Entry Program provides an accelerated online path to an MSN with a Nurse Administrator concentration, allowing ASN-prepared nurses to bypass a BSN. It requires 36-46 graduate credits, a 3.0 GPA, and an admission essay, with no entrance exam. The program includes a synthesis project or thesis and offers full-time or part-time options with late afternoon or evening courses.

• Accelerated ASN to MSN path
• Concentration in Nurse Administration
• Online distance education program
• 36 to 46 graduate credit hours
• Requires Synthesis project or Thesis
• Substitutes graduate for undergraduate credits
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• No more than two 'C' grades allowed
• Courses in health policy, research
• Leadership and community health included

UNC Charlotte's online MSN with a Community/Public Health Nursing concentration prepares nurses for leadership in developing culturally sensitive services, featuring hands-on clinical experiences. This distance education program admits applicants every semester with flexible deadlines and no entrance exam. It includes state-of-the-art simulation, evidence-based care emphasis, and partnerships with local hospitals, requiring clinical practicum courses.

• Online distance education program.
• Community/Public Health Nursing concentration.
• Prepares for leadership roles.
• Hands-on clinical experiences included.
• Flexible application deadlines each semester.
• Part of UNC Charlotte School of Nursing.
• Focus on assessing communities and populations.
• Develops culturally sensitive nursing services.
• Advanced nursing knowledge and skills.
• State-of-the-art simulation environment.

East Carolina University's hybrid Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program addresses North Carolina's psychiatric provider shortage by training advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health services across patient lifespans. This online-friendly program includes 550 clinical supervision hours and prepares graduates for American Nurses Credentialing Center certification. The program features two-day campus intensives and competitive admission, with no entrance exam required as it's a master's level program focused on direct patient care and mental health expertise.

• Hybrid online/on-campus format
• 550 total clinical hours
• CCNE accredited program
• Across lifespan clinical practicums
• Post-Masters Certificate available
• Limited, competitive admission
• Two-day campus intensives
• Professional references required

East Carolina University's 100% online MSN/MBA dual degree with a Health Systems Leadership concentration prepares experienced registered nurses for high-level healthcare leadership roles. This 64-semester hour program uniquely blends nursing systems expertise with business management skills, covering population health, strategic management, and healthcare policy. No GRE or MAT is required for admission, though applicants need a minimum 2.7 undergraduate GPA and 5+ years of RN experience is preferred. The program offers part-time study options and integrates coursework from both nursing and business schools.

• 100% Online Dual Degree Program
• 64 Semester Hour Concentration
• No GRE/MAT Required
• Minimum 2.7 Undergraduate GPA
• 5+ Years RN Experience Preferred
• Nursing and Business Integration
• Health Systems Leadership Focus
• Professional References Required
• Part-Time Study Option
• Advanced Healthcare Management

East Carolina University's hybrid Nurse-Midwifery program prepares registered nurses to become Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) eligible for American Midwifery Certification Board certification. This online-accessible program offers both Master of Science in Nursing and Post-Master's Certificate options, focusing on advanced nursing practice and specialized women's healthcare. As a master's level program, no entrance exam is required. Graduates are trained to provide safe, competent midwifery care across diverse clinical settings, transforming RNs into skilled practitioners.

• Masters or Post Masters Certificate
• Hybrid program format
• AMCB certification preparation
• Advanced nursing practice focus
• Women's healthcare specialization

East Carolina University's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing with a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide specialized care for high-risk infants. This nationally ranked #1 program (2025) offers online content courses with clinical experiences in local areas, requiring 42 semester hours. Graduates become eligible for NCC certification and can choose full-time or part-time study options. As a master's level program focused on neonatal healthcare, no entrance exam is required. The program develops culturally sensitive practitioners skilled in complex medical and pharmacological practices.

• Online content courses
• 42 semester hours required
• Full-time and part-time options
• Clinical experiences in local area
• Prepares for NCC certification exam
• Post-Master's Certificate available

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an online Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program that prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare to adult and elderly populations. This master's-level program focuses on preventive care, chronic disease management, and patient assessment through a rigorous online curriculum. The program requires no entrance exam and provides specialized training for diverse healthcare settings, including primary care clinics and community health centers. It's military-friendly and emphasizes patient-centered care with advanced clinical expertise.

• Online Master's in Nursing
• Advanced Practice Specialization
• Adult-Gerontology Focus
• Comprehensive Clinical Preparation
• Expert Patient Care Training

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide comprehensive mental healthcare across diverse populations. This master's-level program equips nurses with advanced clinical skills in assessment, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions, focusing on evidence-based treatment strategies and pharmacological interventions. No entrance exam is required. The program is military-friendly and emphasizes holistic mental wellness approaches and patient-centered care through its online delivery format.

• Advanced nursing practice specialization
• Mental health clinical expertise
• Graduate-level comprehensive training
• Patient-centered care focus
• Evidence-based treatment strategies

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an online Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program with a specialized Oncology concentration. This master's-level program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver specialized healthcare for adult and elderly patients with complex cancer-related needs. No entrance exam is required. The program focuses on comprehensive oncology knowledge, advanced clinical skills, and primary care management, enabling graduates to provide holistic patient care through cancer diagnosis and treatment. It's military-friendly and delivered entirely online.

• Master's level advanced nursing program
• Specialized oncology concentration
• Adult-Gerontology primary care focus
• Advanced clinical skills training
• Comprehensive patient care preparation

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers a hybrid MSN Clinical Nurse Leader program that blends online coursework with practical experiences. This 39-semester-hour curriculum prepares nurses for CNL certification by focusing on quality improvement, safety outcomes, and leadership in clinical microsystems. Students develop expertise in evidence-based practice, health assessment, and healthcare policy. The program emphasizes rural health care and requires no entrance exam. Ideal for working professionals seeking to advance in nursing leadership roles.

• Hybrid program format.
• Prepares for CNL certification.
• 39 semester hours total.
• Focus on quality and safety.
• Advanced nursing concepts.
• Leadership in clinical microsystems.
• Evidence-based practice focus.
• Policy and financing of healthcare.
• Advanced health assessment.
• Capstone practicum included.

UNC Pembroke's online Clinical Nurse Leader program provides flexible 100% digital learning for nurses pursuing leadership roles. This 39-semester-hour curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced health assessment, and clinical decision-making to improve healthcare quality and safety. Graduates are eligible for CNL certification. The program requires no entrance exam and offers part-time study options, making it accessible for working registered nurses aiming to enhance patient care outcomes through unit-level improvements.

• Online program flexibility.
• 39 semester hours total.
• Focus on quality and safety.
• Eligible for CNL certification.
• Advanced health assessment included.
• Evidence-based practice emphasis.
• Leadership in clinical microsystems.
• Advanced pharmacology concepts.
• Epidemiology and global health.
• Capstone practicum required.

UNC Pembroke's hybrid MSN Nursing Education concentration prepares BSN-holders to become skilled nurse educators through a blend of online and face-to-face classes. This 39-credit-hour program focuses on curriculum design, clinical teaching strategies, and educational technology integration. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, valid nursing license, and one year of nursing experience, with a $55 application fee. No entrance exam is needed. Graduates gain expertise for academic or clinical education settings with CCNE-accredited training.

• Hybrid program format.
• 39 credit hours required.
• BSN admission requirement.
• 3.0 minimum GPA.
• Valid nursing license needed.
• One year nursing experience.
• $55 application fee.
• Focus on nursing education.
• Curriculum design courses.
• Clinical teaching strategies.

UNC Pembroke's hybrid MSN Rural Case Manager concentration prepares nurses for leadership in underserved rural communities through online coursework and face-to-face sessions. This 39-credit-hour program focuses on rural health theory, policy, and management, covering advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, current RN license, and nursing experience, with a $55 application fee. No entrance exam is needed. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice to improve health outcomes in rural areas.

• Hybrid program format.
• 39 credit hours required.
• Rural Case Manager concentration.
• BSN required for admission.
• 3.0 minimum GPA.
• Current RN license needed.
• Nursing experience recommended.
• $55 application fee.
• Focus on rural health.
• Advanced pathophysiology course.

UNC Pembroke offers a 100% online MSN Clinical Prevention & Population Health concentration designed for working registered nurses. This flexible program can be completed in 24 months with part-time options up to 5 years, focusing on improving health outcomes for rural populations. The curriculum prepares graduates for case management certification and leadership roles. Admission requires a BSN, current North Carolina nursing license, 3.0 GPA, and nursing experience, with no entrance exam. In-person practicums are included despite the online format.

• 100% online coursework.
• Clinical Prevention & Population Health concentration.
• Flexible 24-month completion.
• Part-time options up to 5 years.
• Designed for working registered nurses.
• Requires BSN degree.
• Current NC nursing license needed.
• 3.0 GPA preferred.
• One year nursing experience required.
• Nursing Research course prerequisite.

Gardner-Webb University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nursing Education prepares experienced nurses to become educators in academic and healthcare settings. This 30-credit program can be completed in one year through flexible 8-week terms starting in August or January. The curriculum focuses on teaching skills, curriculum design, and instructional strategies, culminating in a hands-on practicum. No entrance exam is required for admission. The program emphasizes Christ-inspired care and offers seamless admission for Gardner-Webb BSN graduates.

• Fully online MSN program
• Complete in 1 year
• 8-week course terms
• 30 total credit hours
• Multiple start dates annually
• Practicum in local settings
• Seamless admission for GWU BSN grads
• Christ-inspired patient care focus
• Courses begin August/January
• Qualified for FELS program

Gardner-Webb University's dual MSN/MBA program combines advanced nursing practice with essential business management skills in a fully online format. This 54-credit hour program requires no entrance exam and prepares nursing professionals for healthcare leadership roles through 24 nursing credits and 30 business credits. Starting in August or January, it focuses on applying business concepts to healthcare settings, enhancing decision-making and problem-solving abilities for diverse management positions in the healthcare industry.

• 54-credit hour program.
• Combines nursing and business.
• 24 nursing credit hours.
• 30 business credit hours.
• Start in August or January.
• Online program format.
• Focus on healthcare leadership.
• Enhances decision-making skills.
• Prepares for diverse healthcare roles.
• Integrates business concepts in healthcare.

Winston-Salem State University's online MSN program with an Advanced Nurse Educator concentration prepares students for certification as nurse educators without requiring GRE or MAT exams. This 39-credit program can be completed in 2-3 years through flexible online coursework and includes 240 clinical practicum hours. Graduates become eligible for the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator certification, preparing them for teaching roles in academic and clinical settings. The program emphasizes personalized faculty attention and admits students for fall semesters through a competitive application process.

• Fully online MSN program
• No GRE/MAT required
• 39 credit hours total
• 240 clinical practicum hours
• 2-3 year completion time
• Advanced Nurse Educator concentration
• Certification exam eligibility
• Personalized faculty attention
• Competitive application process
• Fall semester admission

Winston-Salem State University's hybrid MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares graduates for national certification through AANP or ANCC exams without GRE or MAT requirements. This 51-credit curriculum includes 672 practicum hours and can be completed in 2-3 years with full-time or part-time options. The program focuses on serving underserved populations and provides comprehensive primary care education through online coursework with clinical components. CCNE-accredited and military-friendly, this program admits students for fall semesters only.

• Fully online MSN program
• 51 credit hours total
• 672 practicum hours
• Two-year full-time option
• Three-year part-time option
• No GRE/MAT required
• National certification eligibility
• Focus on underserved populations
• Fall semester admissions only
• CCNE accredited program

The University of North Carolina Wilmington offers an online Master of Science in Nursing program focused on preparing experienced nurses for nurse educator roles. This fully online program requires 36 credit hours and can be completed in as few as 12 months, providing flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum emphasizes developing innovative curricula, leading educational initiatives, and mentoring students across healthcare settings. No entrance exam is required for admission. Key requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA, statistics course prerequisite, active nursing license, faculty-guided practicum, and completion of an evidence-based education project.

• Fully online program
• 36 credit hours total
• Can complete in 12 months
• Prepare for nurse educator roles
• Multiple start dates in 2025
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Statistics course prerequisite
• Active nursing license needed
• Faculty-guided practicum
• Evidence-based education project

Western Carolina University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing program focused on Family Nurse Practitioner preparation. This flexible program requires 51-52 semester hours and includes 640 clinical hours, designed specifically for working nurses seeking career advancement in primary care. The curriculum emphasizes scientific inquiry and information literacy to prepare graduates for diverse healthcare settings where nurse practitioners earn competitive salaries. No entrance exam is required for admission. Applicants need a bachelor's degree in nursing and an active RN license. This fully online format allows professionals to balance studies with personal commitments while developing family care expertise.

• Online program flexibility
• 51-52 semester hours
• 640 clinical hours required
• Focus on family care
• Average salary $97,990
• Bachelor's degree required
• Active RN license needed
• Advanced practice preparation
• Primary care focus
• Scientific inquiry emphasis

University of North Carolina at Greensboro's online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses for holistic primary care across patient lifespans. This 44-credit hybrid program blends online coursework with on-campus components, offering full-time completion in five semesters or part-time options. Students complete 540 clinical hours with UNCG securing preceptors, and gain access to state-of-the-art simulation labs. The program requires a BSN degree and emphasizes national certification preparation, with no entrance exam required. Designed for working healthcare professionals, it features flexible study options and supportive learning environments, with applications due May 1st.

• 5 semester full-time program
• Hybrid learning format
• 44 total credit hours
• 540 total clinical hours
• National certification preparation
• Full and part-time options
• UNCG secures preceptors
• Application deadline May 1st
• Must have BSN degree
• State-of-the-art simulation labs