Best Online MSN Programs in Wisconsin

Concordia University-Wisconsin's online MSN with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration prepares registered nurses for advanced primary care roles. The curriculum combines core courses in advanced pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacotherapeutics, and evidence-based practice with three FNP clinical courses totaling 750 hours. Students also explore healthcare policy, informatics, and genetics. Guided by Christian principles, the program emphasizes holistic, compassionate care across the lifespan. Graduates are equipped to manage disease prevention, chronic conditions, and palliative care in diverse community settings. CCNE accreditation ensures quality education. With 8-week terms and no GRE requirement, the program offers flexibility for working nurses. Admission requires a BSN, RN license, 3.0 GPA, and a statistics prerequisite. Choose FNP or AGPCNP specialization. Prepare for FNP certification and a rewarding career delivering comprehensive primary care.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• 41 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 750 clinical hours
• Prerequisite courses required
• 8-week course terms

The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration within Concordia University Wisconsin's online MSN program prepares registered nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care to adolescents through older adults. Built on a Christ-centered, evidence-based foundation, the curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacotherapeutics, and three clinical practicums totaling 750 hours. Students choose from FNP or AGPCNP tracks, with AGPCNP focusing on chronic disease management, health promotion, and palliative care for aging populations. The program features 8-week courses, a hybrid on-campus intensive for advanced assessment skills, and CCNE accreditation. Graduates are equipped to work in clinics, hospitals, and community health settings, addressing complex needs of diverse adult populations with a holistic, collaborative approach.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• 41 total credit hours
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 750 clinical hours
• Prerequisite courses required

The MSN Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration at Concordia University Wisconsin prepares RNs to deliver primary care to adults and older adults. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, plus three clinical practicums totaling 750 hours. You'll learn to manage chronic diseases, prevent illness, and provide palliative care. Core courses include evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and informatics. The online program features one on-campus intensive for health assessment and runs in 8-week sessions. Guided by Christian values, it emphasizes holistic, patient-centered care. Graduates are ready for AGPCNP certification and careers in clinics, community health, and geriatric settings.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• 41 total credit hours
• Starts fall/spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 750 clinical hours
• Prerequisite courses required
• Christ-centered nursing education

Concordia University Wisconsin offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Healthcare Informatics. This program teaches nurses to use data analytics to improve patient care and healthcare outcomes. Students learn to analyze treatment results, policies, and financial data to drive positive changes in healthcare systems. The curriculum emphasizes data privacy advocacy at multiple government levels. This flexible online format allows working professionals to advance their careers while maintaining their schedules. The program prepares graduates to make informed decisions using healthcare informatics principles.

• Online program format.
• Focus on healthcare informatics.
• Analyze treatment outcomes.
• Study policies and finances.
• Advocate for data privacy.
• Improve patient care.
• Use data for decisions.
• Enhance health outcomes.
• Apply informatics principles.
• Flexible for professionals.

Concordia University Wisconsin offers a Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing for career changers with any bachelor's degree. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals at Wisconsin or Michigan campuses. It prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and enter roles like staff nurse or clinical instructor. The cost is $825 per credit, with scholarships available. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA, prerequisite courses, CNA certification, and submission of transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement. Start dates are available, with clinical placements arranged by the university.

• Hybrid online and in-person program.
• $825 per credit cost.
• 22-month program length.
• No prior nursing experience required.
• Bachelor's degree in any field accepted.
• Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
• CNA certification or equivalent needed.
• Prerequisite courses within 7 years.
• Clinicals at CUW or CUAA campuses.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.

The MSN in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner at Marquette University prepares BSN-prepared nurses for advanced practice roles focusing on children and families. The curriculum covers health promotion, diagnosis, and management of common to complex pediatric conditions, typically in outpatient settings. Graduates provide independent, culturally competent care and are equipped for primary care settings. The hybrid format combines online coursework with campus experiences. Financial aid and merit-based scholarships are available, and the GRE is not required. This program emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice, preparing nurses for certification and leadership in pediatric primary care.

• 6 concentration options
• Test optional
• Starts spring/fall
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Independent care for children and families
• Primary care setting focus
• Interview required for pediatrics

Marquette University offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse-Midwifery concentration. This hybrid program combines online and campus learning in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It prepares nurses for advanced practice in women's health, including antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, and gynecologic care. The program requires 49 credit hours and leads to eligibility for the American Midwifery Certification Board exam. Tuition is $1,400 per credit. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and an unencumbered RN license. Application deadlines are February 15 for fall and November 15 for spring. Additional costs include fees for CPR certification, background checks, and clinical tracking.

• Hybrid online and campus program.
• 49 credit hours required.
• Tuition $1,400 per credit.
• BSN and 3.0 GPA needed.
• Unencumbered RN license required.
• Accredited by ACME until 2029.
• Eligible for AMCB certification exam.
• Clinical placements in Wisconsin.
• Fall and spring admission cycles.
• No GRE required.

Marquette University's MSN in Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is built for nurses ready to step into high-stakes pediatric environments. The program trains students to manage complex, chronically ill, acutely ill, and critically ill children across a range of clinical settings. Coursework blends advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical decision-making with a sharp focus on pediatric populations. Students learn to use evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and leadership skills to drive quality care. Admission requires current PALS certification and at least one year of acute care experience, ensuring students enter clinically prepared. An interview is also part of the selection process. Located in Milwaukee, WI, this hybrid program draws on Marquette's strong nursing tradition, with start terms in spring and fall. Merit-based assistantships and federal aid options are available to eligible students.

• 6 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Test optional
• Rolling admissions
• Starts spring/summer/fall
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Manages complex, critically ill children

The MSN Dual Pediatric Primary Care and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at Marquette University prepares registered nurses for advanced pediatric practice. Coursework spans health promotion, chronic illness management, and acute/critical care. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours in primary and acute settings, plus a 250-hour residency. Placements in southeastern Wisconsin, including sites serving disadvantaged families, provide diverse learning. A semester at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin offers training with over 200 advanced practice nurses. High-fidelity simulation labs reinforce skills. Graduates earn dual certification, unlocking roles in pediatric clinics, hospitals, and ICUs. Designed for working nurses, the program is part-time with personalized study plans and rolling admissions to spring and fall.

• No entrance exam required
• $1,450 per credit
• 48 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Part-time available
• Starts spring/fall
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required

Marquette University's Direct Entry MSN program is designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree seeking a career change into nursing. This hybrid program offers flexible completion in five or eight semesters, with options for in-person or online coursework. Students gain hands-on experience through simulation labs and clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities. The program boasts a 93.86% NCLEX pass rate, preparing graduates for diverse nursing careers. Admissions require a bachelor's degree, with tuition and fees detailed on the program site.

• Five or eight semesters completion.
• Hybrid online or traditional coursework.
• 93.86% NCLEX pass rate.
• Hands-on simulation labs.
• Clinical rotations in top facilities.
• Options for in-person or online.
• Designed for non-nursing bachelor's holders.
• Prepares for diverse nursing careers.
• Admissions require bachelor's degree.
• Tuition and fees detailed on site.

Carroll University's Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator focus is a 40-credit hybrid program designed for working nurses. It prepares graduates for roles in academic and clinical settings. The program features eight-week courses that meet one night per week, starting in the fall. Students complete clinical education in their current work settings and benefit from small class sizes. Graduates are eligible for CNE certification exams. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and offers financial aid options like WNEP loan funds. With a 19% job growth projection, this program addresses the high demand for nurse educators.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• No entrance exam required
• $25,000 total program tuition
• $625 per credit
• 40 credit program
• 40 total credit hours
• Apply by 2024-08-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 95% licensure pass rate

Carroll University's RN to MSN program with a Nurse Administrator track prepares registered nurses for leadership roles in healthcare management. The curriculum focuses on managing care teams, planning and coordinating patient care, and developing business acumen through courses coordinated with the School of Business. Students explore healthcare information management, quality assessment, legal and ethical issues, and financial budgeting. The program equips graduates to oversee nursing units, improve care delivery, and collaborate with administrative teams. With a blend of nursing theory and business principles, this track is ideal for nurses seeking to advance into administrative positions such as nurse manager, director of nursing, or healthcare administrator. The hybrid format allows working professionals to balance studies with clinical responsibilities.

• Manage care teams and plan care
• Courses coordinated with School of Business

Carroll University's Master of Science in Nursing - Direct Entry program is designed for career changers with a bachelor's degree in another field. This 72-credit hybrid program combines online learning with in-person labs and clinicals over 20 months. You'll train in state-of-the-art simulation labs and benefit from clinical partnerships with ProHealth Care. The program prepares you to become a Registered Nurse and offers pathways for advanced certifications. It's accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high-quality education for your nursing career.

• 72-credit program length
• 20-month completion time
• Hybrid online and campus
• Five full-time semesters
• Fall semester start
• 8-week course format
• Weekly Tuesday labs
• Clinical days Wednesday/Thursday/Saturday
• Baccalaureate degree required
• Non-nursing bachelor's accepted

Carroll University's RN to MSN program is designed for working nurses who hold an ADN and want to advance into graduate study. In just 20 months, you'll complete 47 credits through 8-week hybrid courses that combine online learning with on-campus labs and clinical experiences. The nurse educator track prepares you to teach and mentor the next generation of nurses in educational, clinical, or business settings, while also building leadership skills for broader career growth. You'll learn in modern simulation labs with state-of-the-art equipment, and the consistent course schedule makes it easier to balance work and study. The program is accredited by the CCNE and supported by federal and state loan options. Graduates emerge ready to pursue leadership roles and make a lasting impact on nursing education.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 20-Month program
• In less than two years
• 47 total credit hours
• Starts fall
• Employer reimbursement supported
• Financial aid available
• 8-week hybrid courses
• In-person meetings once per week
• Modern nursing simulation labs

Bellin College's MSN Nurse Practitioner program with Neonatal concentration offers advanced nursing professionals a specialized pathway to pediatric care. Designed for BSN graduates, this hybrid program requires a 3.0+ GPA and ranges from 42-49 credit hours. Students complete a clinical residency mentored by experienced healthcare professionals, preparing them for critical neonatal healthcare roles.

• Hybrid program delivery
• 42-49 credit hours
• 3.0+ GPA required
• Clinical residency component
• Neonatal specialization focus
• BSN prerequisite
• Mentorship opportunities

Bellin College's Family Nurse Practitioner MSN track prepares nurses for advanced primary care roles. This 47-credit hybrid program offers full-time and part-time options with online and face-to-face classes. Students gain skills in health assessment, diagnostics, and prescriptive practices through 680 practicum hours. Graduates can take ANCC or AANPCB certification exams. The program emphasizes lifelong learning and provides a foundation for doctoral study. Check tuition details and application deadlines on the college website. Admissions require a BSN and meeting specific criteria. The program is fully accredited and based in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

• 47-credit program.
• Hybrid delivery format.
• Full-time and part-time options.
• 680 practicum hours.
• Prepares for FNP certification.
• Online and face-to-face classes.
• 15-week semesters.
• Focus on primary care.
• Lifelong learning emphasis.
• Foundation for doctoral study.

Bellin College's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program prepares nurses to address critical mental health needs. This online MSN concentration offers flexible full-time or part-time options, with small class sizes and personalized practicum placements. No GRE is required for admission. The program builds on the college's century-long nursing education legacy, focusing on patient care. It equips graduates to work in diverse settings like hospitals, community centers, and private practices. Tuition details and application deadlines are available on the college website.

• Online cohort model.
• Flexible full-time options.
• Part-time study available.
• Small class sizes.
• No GRE required.
• Personalized practicum placements.
• Faculty committed to success.
• Patient care-focused doctorate.
• Over 100-year nursing history.
• Concentration in PMHNP.

Bellin College's online Master of Science in Nursing Nurse Educator track prepares nurses for advanced roles in academic and clinical settings. This 39-credit program offers full-time and part-time options with 100% online delivery. Students learn evidence-based teaching principles, curriculum development, instructional technology, and assessment methods. The program includes a 255-hour practicum experience and prepares graduates for the Certified Nurse Educator™ Exam. Admissions requirements include application deadlines and specific documentation. Tuition and fees information is available on the college website.

• 39-credit program.
• 100% online delivery.
• Full-time and part-time options.
• 15-week semesters.
• 255-hour practicum experience.
• Prepares for Certified Nurse Educator™ Exam.
• Focus on instructional design.
• Focus on curriculum development.
• Focus on assessment methods.
• Focus on evidence-based teaching.

Marian University's Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner track is a hybrid program requiring 46 credits. Full-time students can complete in 2.5 years, part-time in 3 years. Admission requires a BSN with 3.0 GPA, unencumbered Wisconsin RN license, recent physical assessment and statistics courses, resume, and goal statement. Courses combine online and on-campus formats with clinical practicum experiences. The program prepares graduates for FNP roles in primary care settings.

• 46-credit track
• Full-time or part-time study
• Hybrid online and on-campus
• Full-time finish in 2.5 years
• Part-time finish in 3 years
• Fall or spring start
• 15-week semester courses
• 7-week summer courses
• BSN with 3.0 GPA required
• Wisconsin RN license required

Marian University's online MSN in Nursing Administration prepares registered nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. This 35-credit program combines nursing and healthcare administration courses. All didactic work is online with a 225-hour practicum near home. Students can finish in as few as eight semesters. The curriculum aligns with AONL competencies. Applicants need a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and an unencumbered Wisconsin RN license. Cohorts start each fall and spring.

• 35-credit curriculum.
• 100% online didactic courses.
• No on-campus time required.
• 225-hour practicum experience.
• Completion in 8 semesters.
• Online courses plus practicum.
• Flexible course scheduling.
• Aligns with AONL competencies.
• BSN required for admission.
• 3.0 minimum GPA.

Marian University's RN to MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track is built specifically for associate degree registered nurses in Wisconsin who want to advance their careers without starting from scratch. The hybrid program moves students through bachelor-level online coursework first, then into graduate-level FNP-focused classes — all within four years full-time or five years part-time. Completing 70 total credits, graduates are eligible to sit for ANCC or AANPCB FNP certification, and the program boasts a 90% first-time certification pass rate. Clinical instructors are all actively practicing FNPs, which keeps instruction grounded in real patient care. The FNP curriculum prepares nurses to assess and diagnose acute and chronic conditions, prescribe medication, conduct physicals, and deliver preventative care across diverse patient populations of all ages. Six start dates per year add scheduling flexibility, and employer partnerships with organizations like SSM Health and ThedaCare provide tuition discounts. The program is CCNE-accredited through 2034, and admissions are rolling, so there's no waiting for a single annual deadline.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• 4-Year program
• 70 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 6 start dates per year
• 90% licensure pass rate
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required

Alverno College's Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program prepares nurses for primary care roles across the lifespan. This 39-credit program includes advanced courses in physiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Students complete three practicum experiences focusing on different patient populations. The program requires a capstone project and prepares graduates for FNP certification. Alverno has educated nurse leaders for over 80 years.

• 39 total credits required
• Three practicum experiences included
• Capstone project required
• Master's-level program
• Focuses on primary care population

Alverno College's Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide critical care for infants from preterm to 2 years old. This comprehensive online master's degree equips nurses with specialized skills in neonatal embryology, pathophysiology, and family-centered care. Designed for experienced NICU nurses, the program emphasizes clinical expertise and prepares graduates for board certification and prescriptive authority in Wisconsin.

• 45 total credit program
• Online with on-campus clinical components
• Requires 2 years NICU experience
• Prepares for board certification
• Advanced practice nursing curriculum
• Focuses on neonatal critical care
• Web-based learning platform
• Case studies and problem-based learning

Milwaukee School of Engineering offers a hybrid Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track within its Master of Science in Nursing program. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice in mental health care. It combines online coursework with practical experiences. Admission requires meeting MSN program criteria. The program is accredited by CCNE. Prospective students can apply through NursingCAS. The curriculum focuses on psychiatric assessment and treatment. It equips graduates for diverse healthcare settings.

• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track
• Hybrid program format
• MSN degree program
• CCNE accredited
• Apply through NursingCAS
• Graduate admissions inquiry available
• U.S. News Best Online Programs 2026
• Contact director for admissions
• Located in Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee School of Engineering offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Executive Leadership and Management. This track is one of four specializations in the MSN program, alongside Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Informatics. The program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance into leadership roles within healthcare organizations. While specific course details are not listed on this page, the concentration focuses on management principles and executive decision-making. MSOE's unique engineering-based approach to nursing education provides a distinctive perspective on healthcare administration. The graduate program is part of MSOE's health-focused degree offerings. Prospective students should consult the official program page for curriculum, admission requirements, and application deadlines.

• 4 concentration options

The MSN Nursing Education concentration at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire prepares nurses for educator roles through a 40-credit, 4-semester full-time program. This hybrid format combines face-to-face immersion with online synchronous and asynchronous coursework. Students complete approximately 525 clinical hours and choose between a thesis or scholarly project. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, Wisconsin RN licensure, statistics coursework, and three references. The program offers specializations in Adult-Gerontologic or Family Nursing alongside education preparation, with CCNE, NLN, or ACEN accreditation. Part-time study options are available, and the curriculum includes core nursing courses plus specialized education coursework.

• CCNE, NLN, ACEN accredited
• 4 concentration options
• 4-Semester program
• 40 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 525 clinical hours
• Prerequisite courses required

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Health-Administration concentration, preparing nurses for leadership roles in nursing administration and management. This 39-40 credit hybrid program combines online and on-campus learning, typically completed in four semesters full-time. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a 3.00 GPA, Wisconsin RN licensure, statistics coursework, and clinical experience. The curriculum includes core nursing courses, family health population focus, and administration role preparation with approximately 525 clinical hours. Program costs include additional course fees beyond standard graduate rates.

• 39-40 credit MSN program.
• Family Health-Administration concentration.
• Hybrid online and on-campus format.
• Four semesters full-time completion.
• Approximately 525 clinical hours.
• Requires BSN from accredited program.
• 3.00 GPA admission requirement.
• Wisconsin RN licensure needed.
• Statistics coursework prerequisite.
• Clinical experience recommended.

Edgewood University's online MSN in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares RNs to deliver primary care to adults and older adults. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology, focusing on chronic and acute condition management. Clinical practicums in primary care and long-term care settings provide hands-on experience. Graduates are eligible for AGPCNP certification and work in clinics, hospitals, and community health. A distinctive option allows seamless continuation into the DNP-Executive Leadership program. The fully online format offers full- and part-time enrollment, ideal for working professionals. CCNE accreditation ensures quality education.

• CCNE accredited
• 3-Year program
• 48 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Military benefits accepted
• Employer reimbursement supported

Edgewood University offers an online MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This 51-credit program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in mental health care. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and psychotherapy. Students gain clinical experience to treat diverse populations. The program is fully online with flexible full-time or part-time options. It leads to eligibility for PMHNP certification. Graduates can pursue careers in various healthcare settings. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration.

• 51 total credits.
• Fully online format.
• 3-year full-time completion.
• Flexible part-time options.
• Prepares for PMHNP certification.
• Includes clinical experiences.
• Covers advanced pathophysiology.
• Focuses on psychotherapy.
• Teaches psychopharmacology.
• Emphasizes diverse populations.

Viterbo University's Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing offers an accelerated path for students with prior bachelor's degrees in any field. This 21-month hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinicals and labs in the La Crosse region. The 63-credit curriculum prepares graduates for RN licensure with competencies in quality improvement, leadership, and interprofessional care. Ideal for career changers, the program accepts students from both science and non-science backgrounds, with prerequisite courses available for non-science degrees. Contact graduate admissions for specific cost and application requirements.

• 21-month accelerated program
• Hybrid online and in-person format
• 63 total credit hours
• Prior bachelor's degree required
• Leads to initial RN licensure
• Online nursing coursework
• In-person clinical experiences
• Weekly labs in La Crosse
• Full-time lock-step sequence
• Cohort model delivery