The Mountain State of West Virginia, with its breathtaking landscapes and close-knit communities, provides an ideal setting for nurses aiming to advance their careers through graduate education. As the need for advanced practice nurses, such as nurse practitioners, continues to rise across both urban areas like Charleston and rural towns throughout the state, pursuing a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) is a strategic step forward. An MSN is often the minimum requirement for many advanced nursing roles, and West Virginia’s programs are designed to be both accessible and efficient. Whether you’re working in Charleston or a more remote community, West Virginia offers a variety of MSN programs to suit your aspirations. Below, explore key insights into finding affordable and accelerated MSN programs, as well as opportunities to fast-track your education through bridge programs.

2026 Best Online MSN Programs in West Virginia

Looking for the best online MSN programs in West Virginia? RegisteredNursing.org has carefully ranked top options to help you find a quality program that fits your needs. Online programs make advanced nursing education more accessible, allowing busy professionals to study from anywhere while balancing work and life. Distance learning and remote options provide flexibility without sacrificing quality. Our rankings highlight schools with strong curricula, experienced faculty, and good support for online students. We believe these programs can help you advance your nursing career on your own schedule. Learn more about how we create our rankings at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

Wheeling University

Wheeling, WV - Private 4-year - wheeling.edu

BSN to MSN - Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Family Nurse Practitioner (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))

Online Learning - Visit Website

Wheeling University's online MSN with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares RNs for advanced primary care roles through flexible distance learning. This CCNE-accredited program emphasizes clinical training with 168 hours per course completed locally, covering advanced pharmacology and health promotion. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, RN license, and background check, but notably does not require the GRE for most applicants. The affordable pathway focuses on leadership development and inter-professional collaboration, making it accessible for working nurses seeking career advancement in family practice settings.

  • Online program delivery.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
  • Affordable tuition pathway.
  • Clinicals in home community.
  • BSN required for admission.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • RN licensure needed.
  • Background check required.
  • Two recommendation letters.
  • Statistics and research prerequisites.

BSN to MSN - MSN Nursing Education Specialist

Online Learning - Visit Website

Wheeling University's 100% online MSN Nursing Education Specialist program prepares nurses to become academic and clinical instructors in just 24 months. This 39-credit program requires 168 clinical hours with local practicum placements and costs $20,500 total. Admission requires a BSN, current RN license, 3.0 GPA, statistics and research coursework, personal essay, and two recommendation letters. The CCNE and HLC-accredited program offers spring, summer, and fall starts with 16-week sessions, providing flexible scheduling for working professionals seeking to transition into nursing education roles without an entrance exam requirement.

  • 100% online format.
  • 24-month program length.
  • 39 total credits.
  • $20,500 total cost.
  • 168 clinical hours required.
  • BSN degree required.
  • Current RN license needed.
  • 3.0 minimum GPA.
  • Statistics coursework prerequisite.
  • Research coursework prerequisite.

BSN to MSN - Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Nursing Administration)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Wheeling University's online MSN in Nursing Administration blends nursing, business, and management concepts to prepare nurses for healthcare leadership roles. This CCNE-accredited program offers flexibility with all courses online and clinical requirements completed in students' home communities. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and background check. The curriculum covers financial management, organizational behavior, and communications, culminating in a capstone seminar and 168-hour practicum. The program prepares graduates for executive team positions and organizational management without requiring an entrance exam, making it accessible for working professionals.

  • Online program format.
  • Nursing Administration concentration.
  • CCNE-accredited program.
  • Affordable pathway option.
  • Flexible for working nurses.
  • Clinicals in home community.
  • BSN degree required.
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
  • RN licensure needed.
  • Background check required.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Marshall University

Huntington, WV - Public 4-Year - marshall.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Marshall University's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program combines online coursework with clinical and lab instruction, requiring 41 credits. This program focuses on preparing nurses for advanced practice with eligibility for AANP/ANCC certification exams. It emphasizes serving rural and underserved populations through a curriculum that includes core nursing knowledge and specialized FNP training. No entrance exam is required for this online-hybrid program, which offers flexible deadlines for competitive admission.

  • 41 total credit hours required
  • Clinical, online, lab instruction
  • Rural healthcare focus
  • AANP/ANCC exam eligibility
  • September 15 spring deadline
  • February 15 fall deadline
  • Competitive admission process
  • Three curriculum components
  • 12 credits core nursing knowledge
  • 29 credits FNP emphasis

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Midwifery)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Marshall University offers a hybrid Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Midwifery concentration, blending online learning with in-person clinical experiences. This ACEN-accredited program prepares registered nurses for advanced midwifery practice, requiring a BSN and RN license for admission. It focuses on developing practical skills through interactive preceptorships, equipping graduates for diverse healthcare settings. No entrance exam is required for this online-hybrid program, which is designed with flexibility for working professionals.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Concentration in Nurse Midwifery.
  • Accredited by ACEN.
  • Requires BSN and RN license.
  • Interactive preceptorships available.
  • Focus on advanced practice roles.
  • Combines online and in-person learning.
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare settings.
  • Emphasizes practical midwifery skills.
  • Flexible for working professionals.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

American Public University System

Charles Town, WV - Private 4-year - apus.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

American Public University System's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration prepares registered nurses for advanced educational roles. This CCNE-accredited program focuses on curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and assessment strategies. The 36-credit program costs $455 per credit with military discounts available. Admission requires a BSN, active RN license, 3.0 GPA, and undergraduate statistics. No GRE or GMAT is required. Courses start every other month with flexible 8-16 week sessions, and the program includes a 160-hour practicum for hands-on experience. The online format is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in academic or clinical education settings.

  • Online program format.
  • 36 total credits required.
  • Cost per credit $455.
  • Military rate $250 per credit.
  • CCNE-accredited curriculum.
  • Nurse Educator concentration available.
  • Courses start every other month.
  • 8 to 16 week course sessions.
  • Transfer up to 15 credits.
  • Requires BSN for admission.

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing- Community and Public Health Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

American Public University System offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Community and Public Health Nursing focus. This CCNE-accredited program prepares nurses for population-based healthcare roles with emphasis on health policy, social determinants of health, and community assessment. The 36-credit curriculum costs $455 per credit with military and veteran discounts available. Admission requires a BSN, active RN license, 3.0 GPA, and statistics course. No entrance exam is required. Courses begin every other month with flexible scheduling for working professionals. The program includes a practicum component for real-world application in community settings, preparing graduates for advanced public health nursing positions.

  • 36 total credits required.
  • Online program format.
  • Cost per credit $455.
  • No GRE required.
  • CCNE accredited program.
  • BSN and RN license needed.
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required.
  • Transfer up to 15 credits.
  • Nursing courses every other month.
  • 8 to 16 week course lengths.

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Leader)

Online Learning - Visit Website

American Public University System's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Leader concentration develops advanced leadership skills for registered nurses. This CCNE-accredited program focuses on healthcare finance, human resource management, operational quality, and legal/ethical aspects of nursing leadership. The 36-credit program costs $455 per credit with military discounts available. Admission requires a BSN, active RN license, 3.0 GPA, and statistics course. No GRE or GMAT is required. Courses start every other month with flexible online sessions, and the program includes a 160-hour practicum for practical leadership experience. This online format is designed for working nurses seeking advancement into healthcare management and administrative roles.

  • Online program format.
  • 36 total credits required.
  • Cost per credit $455.
  • Military rate $250 per credit.
  • Transfer up to 15 credits.
  • Nurse Leader concentration available.
  • CCNE-accredited curriculum.
  • Courses start every other month.
  • 8 to 16 week sessions.
  • Requires BSN degree.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

West Virginia University

Morgantown, WV - Public 4-Year - wvu.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a comprehensive 47-credit program designed for baccalaureate-prepared nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This fully online program emphasizes primary care across the lifespan, requiring 570 direct clinical practice hours and preparing graduates for national certification. The curriculum combines asynchronous and synchronous formats with evidence-based practice, focusing on delivering high-quality care to diverse populations. As a CCNE-accredited program, it does not require an entrance exam, providing flexible part-time or full-time enrollment options for working professionals.

  • Fully online 47-credit MSN program
  • Part-time and full-time enrollment
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Advanced practice FNP track
  • 570 direct clinical practice hours
  • Asynchronous and synchronous formats
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Primary care clinical focus
  • Lifespan healthcare approach
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
#5

Salem University

Salem, WV - Private 4-year - salemu.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Salem University's online MSN with a Nursing Education concentration prepares nurses to become educators through a fully online, accelerated format. This 30-credit program can be completed in as few as 10 months with flexible asynchronous courses and no mandatory login times. Admission requires a BSN degree with a 2.5 GPA and an active RN license, and no entrance exam is needed. The curriculum focuses specifically on nursing education topics like curriculum development and instructional technology, culminating in a capstone project. Accredited by NLN CNEA, this program offers experienced faculty support and mobile-friendly access for working professionals.

  • 100% online format.
  • Nursing Education concentration available.
  • Complete in 10 months.
  • 30 credit hours total.
  • BSN degree required.
  • 2.5 minimum GPA.
  • Active RN license needed.
  • No mandatory login times.
  • Accredited by NLN CNEA.
  • Flexible asynchronous courses.

BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing (MSN) (Nursing Administration)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Salem University's online MSN program offers a Nursing Administration concentration designed for nurses seeking leadership roles. This 100% online program features 30 credits that can be completed in 10 months through asynchronous courses with no set login times. Admission requires a BSN degree with a 2.5 GPA and a current RN license, with no entrance exam required. The curriculum combines core nursing courses with specialized administration topics like organizational behavior and finance management. Accredited by NLN CNEA, this accelerated program provides mobile-friendly access and faculty support tailored for working nurses pursuing career advancement in healthcare administration.

  • 100% online format.
  • Nursing Administration concentration.
  • Complete in 10 months.
  • 30 credits total.
  • Asynchronous course schedule.
  • No mandatory login times.
  • BSN degree required.
  • 2.5 GPA minimum.
  • Current RN license needed.
  • Accelerated program structure.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

West Virginia Wesleyan College

Buckhannon, WV - Private 4-year - wvwc.edu

RN to MSN - Accelerated RN to MSN Program (Nursing Leadership)

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia Wesleyan College's online Accelerated RN to MSN Program with a Nursing Leadership concentration prepares registered nurses for advanced healthcare management roles. This flexible program is designed for working professionals, blending leadership theory with practical applications in nursing practice. It requires an RN license and bachelor's degree for admission, with no entrance exam specified. The curriculum emphasizes real-world leadership skills, preparing graduates to impact healthcare organizations immediately. As a United Methodist-affiliated institution with military-friendly policies, it offers accessible advancement opportunities for nurses seeking to enhance their careers through online education.

  • Online program flexibility.
  • Concentration in Nursing Leadership.
  • Designed for working professionals.
  • Prepares for leadership roles.
  • Requires RN license.
  • Bachelor's degree needed.
#7

University of Charleston

Charleston, WV - Private 4-year - ucwv.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Charleston offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This fully online program requires no entrance exams and can be completed in five full-time semesters, totaling 42 credits and 750 clinical hours. With spring and fall start dates and no campus residency requirements, it provides flexible scheduling for working professionals. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification exams, focusing on comprehensive patient care across all age groups. Applicants need a BSN with a 2.50 GPA and an active RN license. The program is ACEN accredited.

  • Online, fully flexible program
  • 5 semesters full-time option
  • 42 total credit hours
  • 750 clinical hours required
  • Spring and Fall starts
  • BSN with 2.50 GPA required
  • Active RN license needed
  • No campus residency
  • Prepares for national certification
  • ACEN accredited program
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2024 Final Release Data.

RN to MSN Programs in West Virginia

While a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often required for entry into an MSN program, West Virginia offers RN to MSN programs specifically designed for working nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). These innovative pathways allow you to bypass the BSN and advance directly to earning your MSN, saving both time and money. If you hold a current nursing license and an ADN, this efficient route to career advancement could be an excellent option. Typical additional requirements include:

  • West Virginia 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

There is currently only one RN to MSN program located in West Virginia — West Virginia Wesleyan College.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in West Virginia

Whether you’re a practicing nurse or planning your next career move, selecting the right MSN program in West Virginia often hinges on two essential factors: how quickly you can complete it and the overall cost. If you’re seeking the fastest and most affordable MSN programs in the Mountain State, it’s important to consider aspects such as program duration, tuition costs, and available financial aid options. Below are some examples and tips to help guide your choice:

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 West Virginia allow you to finish in a shorter timeframe. To identify the quickest MSN programs in the state, consider exploring online or hybrid formats, as well as programs that offer accelerated tracks or summer courses. For example, some programs in West Virginia provide a graduation timeline as short as 1.5 to 2 years, making them ideal for nurses eager to advance their careers efficiently. West Virginia University (WVU)’s 46 credit-hour MSN-FNP is one such program.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

For many students, the cost of the program is a critical factor when choosing an MSN program. While West Virginia offers several affordable education opportunities, reducing expenses further can make pursuing an advanced nursing degree more manageable. Establishing residency in West Virginia before applying may qualify you for in-state tuition rates, offering significant savings. Additionally, exploring financial aid options, employer tuition reimbursement programs, and scholarships can help ease the financial burden. A notable example of an affordable MSN program in the state is offered by West Virginia University (WVU), which provides $500 – $700 per credit hour tuition rates and financial aid opportunities for nurse practitioners and other advanced practice roles.

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

Accelerated MSN and Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in West Virginia offer a streamlined pathway for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who wish to transition into the nursing field. These programs integrate foundational nursing education with advanced coursework, equipping graduates with the skills needed for RN licensure and advanced roles in healthcare, such as leadership or specialization. Students undertake rigorous studies, clinical rotations, and coursework in areas like health policy, evidence-based practice, and healthcare management. Common admission requirements for MENP 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

While these programs are not available in West Virginia, you can find them available online or in nearby states. Sentara College of Health Sciences (SCHS) for example, which is located in Virginia, offers MENP programs.

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One of the key benefits of pursuing an MSN in West Virginia is the opportunity to specialize in a field that aligns with your career goals. Specializing in a specific area of nursing enhances your expertise, strengthens job security, and can significantly increase your earning potential. West Virginia's MSN programs offer specializations in areas such as family practice, mental health, pediatrics, and nursing leadership. These programs allow nurses to focus their education on targeted healthcare roles, equipping them with advanced skills for leadership, clinical, and administrative positions within the healthcare sector. Marshall University, for example, offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) MSN program.

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation is an essential consideration when selecting a program in West Virginia, as it ensures that the program meets rigorous standards set by organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation guarantees that the curriculum, faculty, and outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Employers highly value graduates from accredited programs, and students in these programs are eligible for financial aid, making accreditation crucial for both career advancement and affordability.

2026 List of MSN Programs in West Virginia

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

MSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Charleston, WV

University of Charleston

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online, fully flexible program
    • 5 semesters full-time option
    • 42 total credit hours
    • 750 clinical hours required
    • Spring and Fall starts
    • BSN with 2.50 GPA required
    • Active RN license needed
    • No campus residency

Huntington, WV

Marshall University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 41 total credit hours required
    • Clinical, online, lab instruction
    • Rural healthcare focus
    • AANP/ANCC exam eligibility
    • September 15 spring deadline
    • February 15 fall deadline
    • Competitive admission process
    • Three curriculum components
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Midwifery - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Nurse Midwifery concentration.
    • Hybrid program type.
    • Online and campus components.
    • Cooperative program with Shenandoah University.
    • Requires interviews with Shenandoah.
    • Visits to Shenandoah University required.
    • Accredited by ACEN.
    • Prepares for APRN roles.

Morgantown, WV

West Virginia University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online 47-credit MSN program
    • Part-time and full-time enrollment
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Advanced practice FNP track
    • 570 direct clinical practice hours
    • Asynchronous and synchronous formats
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Primary care clinical focus

Wheeling, WV

Wheeling University

  • BSN to MSN - Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery.
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
    • Affordable tuition pathway.
    • Clinicals in home community.
    • BSN required for admission.
    • 3.0 GPA requirement.
    • RN licensure needed.
    • Background check required.
*Information sourced from the NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2024).