Best Online MSN Programs in Rhode Island

The Ocean State of Rhode Island, with its stunning coastline and tight-knit communities, offers a unique and welcoming environment for nurses looking to elevate their careers through graduate education. As the demand for advanced practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners, continues to grow across both urban centers like Providence and smaller coastal towns, pursuing a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program is a forward-thinking decision. An MSN is often the minimum requirement for many advanced nursing roles, and Rhode Island’s programs are designed to be both accessible and efficient. Whether you’re working in a Providence or a quieter community, Rhode Island provides a range of MSN programs to fit your goals. Below, find valuable insights into navigating your path to success, including tips for finding affordable and fast MSN programs, as well as opportunities to accelerate your education through bridge programs.

2026 Best Online MSN Programs in Rhode Island

Finding the best online MSN programs in Rhode Island can help you advance your nursing career with flexibility. At RegisteredNursing.org, we rank these programs to guide your choice. Online learning is important because it lets working nurses study from anywhere, fitting education into busy schedules. This distance learning approach makes earning a degree more accessible. You can explore our detailed rankings and see how we evaluate each program. For more on how we create these lists, check out our rankings methodology page.

#1

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI - Public 4-Year - ric.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Population/Public Health Nursing)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rhode Island College's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing with a Population/Public Health Nursing concentration prepares RNs for advanced roles in community health. This CCNE-accredited program focuses on population-level wellness, preventive strategies, and public health initiatives. No entrance exam is required for admission. The hybrid format combines online and in-person learning, offering affordable tuition with Hope Scholarship eligibility for Rhode Island residents. Graduates develop expertise in addressing complex health challenges and promoting community well-being.

• Hybrid learning format
• Three specialty concentrations
• CCNE accredited program
• High NCLEX pass rates
• Two-year program length
• Hope Scholarship available

BSN to MSN - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist (Adult/Gerontology Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This hybrid MSN program at Rhode Island College specializes in Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist preparation. The CCNE-accredited curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices, ethical decision-making, and diversity responsiveness in acute care settings. No entrance exam is required. The program combines online and in-person learning, with Hope Scholarship opportunities providing free tuition for eligible Rhode Island students. Graduates are equipped to implement system changes and mentor others while focusing on gerontology acute care nursing.

• Hybrid learning options.
• Focus on Adult/Gerontology Acute Care.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Free tuition for eligible RI students.
• Evidence-based nursing practices.
• Ethical decision-making focus.
• Diversity responsiveness training.
• Mentoring and system changes.
• Prepares for clinical nurse specialist roles.
• High NCLEX pass rates.

BSN to MSN - Population/Public Health Nursing MSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rhode Island College's Population/Public Health Nursing MSN is a 42-credit hybrid program offering up to 100% online courses through a Hyflex model. This CCNE-accredited program requires a BSN for admission but no entrance exam. It integrates nursing, social, and public health sciences to prepare nurses for roles in disease prevention, health equity, and community advocacy. The flexible format accommodates full-time or part-time study while addressing clinical requirements through health and immunization documentation.

• 42-credit MSN degree.
• Hybrid program with online options.
• Up to 100% online courses.
• Flexible full-time or part-time study.
• Requires a BSN for admission.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Focus on population health nursing.
• Includes clinical nursing courses.
• Health and immunization requirements.
• Hyflex model for accessibility.

Show 2 More Programs ˅

#2

Salve Regina University

Newport, RI - Private 4-year - salve.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Salve Regina University's online Master of Science in Nursing program focuses on the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, preparing RNs to address mental health needs across patient lifespans. This rigorous 51-credit online program requires 750 supervised clinical hours and emphasizes flexible scheduling with multiple start dates for working professionals. The program does not require an entrance exam but mandates an RN license and minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. Graduates are prepared for national certification through this CCNE-accredited curriculum that combines comprehensive coursework with practical clinical experience.

• Online flexible format
• 51 total credit hours
• 750 clinical hours
• RN license required
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Multiple start dates
• National certification prep
• CCNE accredited program

*Postsecondary data from: IPEDS 2024, NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

RN to MSN Programs in Rhode Island

While a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is commonly required for entry into an MSN program, Rhode Island offers an RN to MSN program tailored for working nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). This innovative option allows you to skip the BSN and progress directly to earning your MSN, saving valuable time and money. If you hold a current nursing license and an ADN, this streamlined route to career advancement may be an excellent fit. Typical additional requirements include:

• Rhode Island 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

As of now, these programs aren't available in the state, but you can find them in neighboring states at schools such as Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS).

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Rhode Island

Whether you're a practicing nurse or planning your next steps, choosing the right MSN program often comes down to two critical factors: how quickly you can complete it and the overall cost. If you're looking for the fastest and most affordable MSN programs in Rhode Island, it's essential to evaluate key aspects such as program length, tuition rates, and available financial aid. Below are some examples and tips to help guide your decision:

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

Typically, completing an MSN program requires at least four years of full-time study, but several options in Rhode Island allow you to finish in a shorter timeframe. To find the quickest MSN programs in the state, consider exploring online or hybrid options, as well as programs offering summer courses. One great option to consider for a fast timeline to graduation is The University of Rhode Island (URI) which offers a graduation timeline as quick as 1.5 years.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

For students, the cost of the program often outweighs concerns about duration. While Rhode Island might not be the most affordable state for education, several MSN programs can accommodate a range of budgets. You can reduce expenses by establishing residency in Rhode Island prior to applying, which may qualify you for in-state tuition rates and significant savings. Additionally, exploring financial aid options and scholarships can further ease the financial burden of pursuing an MSN program in the Ocean State. One great example of a cheap nurse practitioner program located in Rhode Island is Rhode Island College (RIC), which offers a tuition rate of $500 to $1,000 per credit.

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

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Rhode Island provide a fast-track option for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree who are eager to transition into the nursing profession. These programs combine foundational nursing education with advanced coursework, preparing graduates for RN licensure and specialized or leadership roles in healthcare. Students engage in intensive studies, clinical rotations, and courses covering topics like health policy, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Common admission requirements for these programs include:

• 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

There is currently only one MENP program located in Rhode Island and it is currently offered at the University of Providence (UP).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One of the major advantages of pursuing an MSN in Rhode Island is the ability to specialize in a field that aligns with your professional aspirations. Specialization enhances your expertise, increases job security, and can significantly boost earning potential. Rhode Island's MSN programs provide pathways in areas like family practice, mental health, pediatrics, and nursing leadership, enabling nurses to focus their education on specific healthcare roles. Specialization equips nurses with advanced skills, preparing them for leadership, clinical, and administrative positions. A notable option in Rhode Island is The University of Rhode Island (URI), which offers a variety of specializations, including Family Nurse Practice.

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation is a critical factor when selecting a program in Rhode Island, as it guarantees that the program meets rigorous standards established by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures that the curriculum, faculty, and outcomes adequately prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Employers prioritize graduates from accredited programs, and students enrolled in these programs are eligible for financial aid, making accreditation essential for both career growth and affordability.

2026 List of MSN Programs in Rhode Island

Haven’t found what you’re looking for? Check out our list of Rhode Island MSN schools below:

MSN Programs By City:

• Providence MSN Programs