2026 – Dual MSN/MBA Degree Programs Online & Campus
- Which MSN/MBA Program Is Right for Me?
- 2027 Best Dual Degree MSN/MBA Programs
- Online MSN/MBA Program Advantages
- MSN/MBA Program Curriculum
- MSN/MBA Specialty Tracks
- Dual MSN/MBA FAQs
- What Are the Tuition and Costs of an MSN/MBA Program?
- What Are the Career Options for Nurses With an MSN/MBA Degree?
- Organizations and Helpful Resources
- List of Dual MSN/MBA Programs
Nurses who have mastered bedside nursing and who strive to facilitate change from a higher leadership role would benefit from looking into earning a dual MSN/MBA degree. This degree combines the traditional Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to demonstrate that the nurse has leadership as well as business skills. It prepares the nurse to assume roles in leadership, management, and at the executive level. The role of the MSN/MBA nurse is to utilize nursing leadership skills and principles of finance and economics to facilitate change within a healthcare organization and improve efficiency and patient care outcomes.
Which MSN/MBA Program Is Right for Me?
So how do nurses choose the right program? There are many considerations that prospective students should look into based on their individual career goals and needs. Some of the frequently-researched considerations include the following:
- Do MSN/MBA Programs Offer Campus or Online Options? – MSN/MBA programs are offered in both online and in-person/campus formats. Online learning is beneficial for working nurses as it provides flexibility as well as self-paced learning.
- Is the MSN/MBA Program Accredited? – Accreditation is critical when choosing an MSN/MBA program. Nursing programs in the United States must be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). A school might be locally accredited, but national certification is usually required for licensure, and it ensures that the school has met educational standards based on the degree type.
- MSN/MBA Program Course Topics – Students can expect to take courses in advanced practice nursing and nursing leadership, as well as courses in the field of business. Business courses may include accounting, marketing, and finance.
- Associated Tuition Costs – The cost to complete an MSN/MBA program greatly varies by state and by the school. Base tuition can cost several hundred dollars to around a thousand per credit hour. It's important to remember that the cost of books and supplies, as well as university fees, are added.
2027 Best Dual Degree MSN/MBA Programs
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX - Public 4-Year - lamar.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN-MBA Dual Degree
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lamar University’s online MSN-MBA dual degree blends nursing and business education in a 61-credit curriculum that takes about three years to complete. Students complete 37 MSN credits, with 9 credits also applying toward the MBA, plus 21 business credits. This program prepares nurses for leadership roles in healthcare administration and hospital management. Admission begins by applying to the MSN program, followed by a meeting with the MBA program for dual enrollment. Both the College of Nursing and the College of Business provide advising to ensure student success. The fully online format accommodates working professionals. No graduate entrance exam, such as the GRE or GMAT, is mentioned in the program description.
- Online program format.
- 61 credit hours total.
- Approximately three years duration.
- 37 MSN credit hours.
- 9 credits count toward MBA.
- 21 business credit hours.
- Prepares for nursing administration.
- Focus on hospital management.
- MSN and MBA dual enrollment.
- Apply online as MSN student.
BSN to MSN - Dual Degree Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lamar University offers an online Dual MSN-MBA program accredited by ACEN, designed for nurses pursuing executive positions like Chief Nursing Officer or Health Services Manager. The 61-credit curriculum includes 37 MSN credits and 24 MBA credits, covering healthcare policy, financial management, strategic planning, quality improvement, and healthcare information systems. Courses are delivered in 8-week formats, and the program can be completed in as few as 36 months. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, a current RN license, and a statistics prerequisite, but no GRE or GMAT is required. Total tuition is $26,909, and multiple start dates are available. No clinical experience is needed, making this program ideal for working nurses.
- Online program delivery.
- 61 total credit hours.
- As few as 36 months duration.
- $26,909 total tuition.
- BSN degree required.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- Current RN license needed.
- No clinical experience required.
- Multiple start dates available.
- Prepares for executive healthcare roles.
Pennsylvania Western University
California, PA - Public 4-Year - pennwest.edu
BSN to MSN - MBA-MSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pennsylvania Western University offers an online MBA-MSN dual degree that blends 24 MBA credits with 12 MSN credits for working nurses seeking leadership roles. This fully online program pairs clinical nursing expertise with business acumen, covering healthcare policy, financial management, strategic planning, and organizational behavior. Graduates qualify for positions in healthcare administration, nursing management, consulting, and executive roles in hospitals, clinics, or government agencies. The dual degree enhances promotion potential and opens new career opportunities. Both components are accredited: the MBA by ACBSP and the MSN by CCNE. Support services include success coaching and personalized guidance. Entrance exam requirements are not specified for this program.
- Online delivery format
- 24 MBA credits required
- 12 MSN credits required
- Dual degree program
- For working nurse professionals
- Combines nursing and business
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Healthcare administration focus
- Clinical manager career path
- Healthcare consultant opportunities
Miami University
Oxford, OH - Public 4-Year - miamioh.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN-MBA Dual Degree (Family Nurse Practitioner Track)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Designed for working nurses, Miami University's online MSN-MBA dual degree with a Family Nurse Practitioner track fuses advanced clinical training with core MBA competencies. Students complete nurse practitioner coursework covering primary care across the lifespan, along with business classes in finance, marketing, and healthcare delivery systems. The curriculum integrates clinical practicum hours with leadership instruction to prepare graduates for roles such as primary care providers, practice managers, or healthcare executives. Admission requires a BSN and current RN licensure; no GRE or GMAT is listed as an entrance requirement. The flexible online format includes some on-campus workshops. Graduates are prepared for national FNP certification and executive leadership positions.
- Online program delivery.
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- Combines MSN and MBA degrees.
- Includes clinical practicum hours.
- Focuses on primary care skills.
- Covers billing and coding.
- Teaches healthcare delivery systems.
- Includes leadership courses.
- Offers finance and marketing classes.
- Requires BSN for admission.
BSN to MSN - MSN-MBA Dual Degree (Nurse Executive Leadership Track)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Miami University's online MSN-MBA dual degree offers a Nurse Executive Leadership track for nurses aspiring to upper-management roles. This 36-credit program blends evidence-based nursing practice with business strategy, covering healthcare budgeting, human resources, data analytics, quality improvement, and organizational leadership. Delivered primarily online with a few on-campus sessions, it includes a practicum and capstone project. Applicants must hold a BSN and an active nursing license; no entrance examination such as the GRE is specified. The curriculum emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and healthcare systems, equipping graduates to lead innovation and improve patient outcomes in complex healthcare settings. Ideal for those seeking C-suite or executive positions, this track provides the business acumen and clinical credibility to drive change.
- Online program delivery.
- Nurse Executive Leadership track.
- Combines MSN and MBA degrees.
- 36 total credit hours.
- Includes on-campus workshops.
- Focus on healthcare management.
- Covers healthcare budgeting.
- Teaches human resource management.
- Includes strategic planning.
- Data analytics in healthcare.
Post University
Waterbury, CT - Private 4-year - post.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA-HC DUAL DEGREE
Online Learning - Visit Website
Post University offers an online MSN/MBA in Healthcare dual degree designed for working nurses seeking management positions. The 60-credit, 42-month program is CCNE accredited and features two flexible formats: standard 8-week terms for structured learning or SIMPath's self-paced option for independent study. Monthly start dates and 100% online coursework accommodate busy schedules. Curriculum integrates healthcare policy, financial management, risk mitigation, and evidence-based leadership to bridge clinical care and business strategy. Unique benefits include individualized practice experiences, military benefits, nursing tuition reductions, and ongoing support from student success advisors. RN licensure is required for admission; no entrance exam is mandated per program details. Graduates are equipped for roles like nurse manager, clinical director, or healthcare administrator.
- 60 credit hours.
- 42-month program length.
- Online program format.
- Flexible monthly start dates.
- Term Based and SIMPath options.
- 8-week terms for Term Based.
- Self-paced SIMPath modality.
- Designed for working professionals.
- RN licensure required.
- CCNE accredited program.
The University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, TX - Public 4-Year - uttyler.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN-MBA
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Texas at Tyler's online MSN-MBA dual degree is designed for registered nurses with a BSN seeking executive healthcare leadership. The 63-credit curriculum blends nursing administration, legal/financial management, and core business coursework. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA, an undergraduate statistics course, current RN licensure, CPR certification, three letters of recommendation, a resume/CV, an admissions essay, and a background check and drug screen. GMAT scores are required, though a high GPA may waive this. Tuition varies by delivery method, and scholarships are available. This flexible program caters to working professionals aiming for career advancement.
- Online delivery format.
- 63 credit hours required.
- Requires BSN degree.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA.
- GMAT test score required.
- GMAT waiver possible.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Resume or CV needed.
- Proof of licensure required.
- CPR certification mandatory.
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - Public 4-Year - uab.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Alabama at Birmingham delivers a dual MSN/MBA program in a hybrid format that combines online coursework with on-campus experiences. Designed for working professionals, the 66-credit-hour curriculum spans three years and integrates nursing leadership with business acumen, covering finance, analytics, and healthcare systems. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and either GRE or GMAT scores. Tuition costs $723 per credit hour for MSN courses, with additional fees. Students engage in practicums and evidence-based quality improvement training, preparing for executive healthcare roles. The program also requires an unencumbered nursing license and letters of reference. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency.
- 66 credit hours total.
- Three-year program length.
- Hybrid online and campus format.
- Requires BSN degree for admission.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
- GRE or GMAT may be needed.
- Tuition $723 per credit hour.
- Additional technology fees apply.
- Focus on healthcare leadership.
- Includes practicum experiences.
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC - Public 4-Year - ecu.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing / Master of Business Administration (Health Systems Leadership)
Online Learning - Visit Website
East Carolina University delivers a 64-credit dual MSN/MBA with a Health Systems Leadership concentration fully online. This asynchronous program blends College of Nursing and Graduate School of Business coursework, covering nursing theory, population health, financial management, and strategic planning. Applicants need a BSN, an active RN license (North Carolina or compact state), a 2.7 minimum GPA, and five years of nursing experience. No GRE or MAT is required. The curriculum includes a leadership practicum and advanced nursing synthesis, preparing nurses for executive roles in healthcare systems. Part-time options and spring start are available. The university is military-friendly.
- 64-semester hour program
- 100% online delivery
- Health Systems Leadership concentration
- MSN/MBA dual degree
- Requires BSN degree
- Minimum 2.7 GPA required
- No GRE or MAT required
- 5 years nursing experience needed
- RN license required
- North Carolina or compact state license
Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ - Private 4-year - shu.edu
BSN to MSN - M.S.N./M.B.A. in Nursing Administration and Nurse Executive Leadership
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Seton Hall University's dual MSN/MBA program focuses on Nursing Administration and Nurse Executive Leadership, blending 29 nursing credits with 30 business credits. This hybrid offering prepares nurses for executive healthcare roles, with coursework in health systems management, financial decision-making, strategic planning, and policy development. Faculty bring practical experience to the classroom, and students benefit from both full-time and part-time paths, plus rolling admissions. Graduates earn two respected degrees, equipping them to navigate the dynamic healthcare marketplace and lead teams. The program emphasizes quality care, population health, and understanding the political landscape. No entrance exam requirement is specified for this master's-level program.
- Dual MSN and MBA degrees.
- Nursing Administration concentration.
- Hybrid program format.
- 29 nursing credits required.
- 30 business credits required.
- Full-time study option.
- Part-time study option.
- Prepares for executive roles.
- Focus on healthcare systems.
- Includes financial management.
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Bloomsburg, PA - Public 4-Year - commonwealthu.edu
BSN to MSN - Master's in Nursing Administration MSN/MBA
Online Learning - Visit Website
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania offers a 100% online dual-degree MSN/MBA in Nursing Administration, designed for working nurses seeking leadership roles in healthcare management. The curriculum comprises 54 credits across 16 courses, including a 15-credit MBA component, with flexible six-week sessions. Students can begin in spring, summer, or fall, and benefit from rolling admissions. No GRE is required for entry, making application accessible. The program holds dual accreditation from CCNE and AACSB, ensuring rigorous academic standards. Ideal for BSN-prepared nurses, it emphasizes healthcare administration, strategic decision-making, and organizational leadership. With both part-time and full-time options, this affordable program supports career advancement without sacrificing professional commitments. Applicants must hold a nursing license and submit transcripts, a resume, goals, and recommendation forms.
- 100% online delivery.
- Dual MSN/MBA degree.
- 54 credits total.
- 16 courses required.
- Flexible six-week sessions.
- No GRE required.
- Spring, summer, fall start.
- CCNE and AACSB accredited.
- Affordable tuition options.
- BSN to MSN pathway.
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, UT - Public 4-Year - suu.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing in Leadership and Administration and Master of Business Administration Dual Degree
Online Learning - Visit Website
Southern Utah University offers an online MSN-MBA dual degree for nurses targeting executive roles, with no GMAT or GRE required. The 51-credit curriculum, completed in as few as 18 months, integrates nursing leadership with business acumen through finance, marketing, and healthcare administration courses. Students complete 90 clinical hours at their own workplace, making it convenient for full-time professionals. Tuition is $25,704 with pay-by-course fees included. Seven-week courses and six start dates annually add flexibility. Admission requires a BSN, an active RN license, and a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program holds CCNE nursing and AACSB business accreditation, preparing graduates for positions such as Chief Nursing Officer.
- Online program format.
- 51 credit hours total.
- As few as 18 months duration.
- Total tuition $25,704.
- No GMAT or GRE required.
- BSN from accredited institution required.
- Active RN license needed.
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required.
- 17 courses in program.
- 90 clinical hours at workplace.
Online MSN/MBA Program Advantages
Flexible Schedule
Online nursing programs have many advantages. Many nurses, especially those pursuing advanced-level roles, must continue to work while attending school. As many nurses are aware, nurses often work around-the-clock, and on weekends and holidays. Therefore, the more flexible a program, the better. Online learning allows for nurses to complete coursework when they can. They can also arrange for mentorship or clinical hours to work with their current work schedule.
Nurses can also work at their own pace. Many programs allow for self-paced learning, but some schools place caps on the time frame in which the program must be completed. For example, a school may require all coursework to be completed within six years. Self-paced learning is beneficial for those who learn best by alternative methods (such as reading as opposed to listening to lectures).
Tuition and Costs
As stated earlier, tuition is variable depending on several factors. One factor is location. Tuition varies based on the state and even the city in which it is located. Some states are more expensive than others.
Residency status is another factor that can affect tuition. Out-of-state residents may be required to pay higher tuition. Again, this depends on the school. However, some online programs charge a flat rate for programs regardless of residency status.
The good news is that most schools offer financial aid options as well as incentives when enrolling. Additionally, banks and other financial institutions offer tuition aid/loans, so students needing financial aid are encouraged to shop around for the best offers. Some employers offer nurses tuition reimbursement as well.
Accessibility and Convenience
Online programs are extremely convenient; nurses can study when and wherever they can. They can access learning content anywhere there is a computer and internet, and at any time. A night shift nurse may wish to study at three in the morning, while another nurse may need to cram on a Saturday after working full-time during the week.
Additionally, online programs are beneficial for those living in more remote or rural areas. Commuting long distances to campus, sometimes in terrible weather, finding parking, and racing to get to class on time is a thing of the past with online programs.
Fast Completion
Since online learning allows for self-paced study, nurses can get through the program faster. This helps get the nurse out into the workforce and into their new advanced-level role sooner. The program usually takes around three years to complete if attending full-time, four or five years if part-time. When possible, nurses can attend full time and finish in as early as two years when enrolled in an online program.
See Related Articles
MSN/MBA Program Curriculum
The core concepts for dual MSN/MBA programs are standardized, although the learning format is different in online programs. Rather than in-person lectures, learning content can be in module formats online or broadcast at predetermined times (i.e., a distance lecture). Campus visitation requirements may vary between schools- sometimes programs are 100% online, some require "blocks" of time, for example, a few days in a row per semester. Students are encouraged to review campus visitation requirements before enrollment.
Online learners can also expect to find they have peer, faculty, and tech support when enrolled in online programs. Even though coursework can be completed in the privacy of one's home, the student is never alone.
Additionally, practicum hours may be required based on the specialty track and school. This requirement cannot be fulfilled online, but the faculty is available to provide supervision.
MSN/MBA Classes and Courses
MSN/MBA programs have core courses that nurses must start with before choosing a specialty track. Core courses may include:
- Nursing theory for advanced-practice
- Role development
- Leadership in nursing
- Advanced physiology
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Advanced physical assessment
- Population health
- Policy
- Ethics
- Project management
- Financial accounting
- Business analysis
- Accounting
In addition to the didactic courses, dual MSN/MBA students must complete supervised clinical practicum hours. This requirement is designed to ensure the nurse applies what is learned in the healthcare setting. While required practicum hours may vary, around 500 hours may be needed to graduate.
MSN/MBA Specialty Tracks
Following the core courses of study, students may select available specialty tracks (depending on the school). Concentrations for MSN/MBA students may include:
- Health Systems Management – focuses on proper management and business leadership to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and address strategic, ethical, and HR issues.
- Healthcare Administration – focuses on policy, economics, and other administrative issues to optimize best healthcare practices.
- Human Resources – focuses on personnel development, organizational behaviors, and promoting workplace satisfaction and performance.
- Organizational Development – focuses on analyzing and predicting behaviors to enhance efficiency in medical environments.
- Strategic Leadership – focuses on strategic planning, development, and growth of healthcare environments and organizations.
Dual MSN/MBA FAQs
An MBA and MSN in Health Systems Management are similar in that with both, nurses are considered advanced-level nurses, practicing at the executive level. Both roles involve supervising and developing healthcare-related workflows to improve both patient care and efficiency. However, there are differences between the degree types.
A Master’s in Business Administration is a business degree, not a nursing degree. However, while the initial approach is broad and can encompass many types of businesses, nurses can earn a dual MSN/MBA degree to apply advanced-practice and executive-level nursing to the business aspect of healthcare. Nurses with this degree type can become chief nursing officers, responsible for the oversight of large organizations.
Those with an MSN in Health Systems Management are also in the nursing leadership chain. However, their focus is not only on budgets and cost. MSN-HSM nurses look at ways to develop and improve electronic medical records as well as utilize the latest research to develop and implement workflows and improve clinical decision-making. They also focus on project improvement, identifying risk concerns, and developing ways to improve quality.
What Are the Tuition and Costs of an MSN/MBA Program?
The specific costs and tuition rates for a dual MBA/MSN degree are variable. Base tuition can range from the hundreds to the low thousands per credit hour. Students should be aware of the following costs associated with the program:
- Base tuition
- University fees
- Supplies
- Graduation fees
- Residency fees
- Room and board
- Transportation
- Parking
For online programs, some costs do not apply, such as parking and transportation fees. However, students may need to invest in equipment to be able to utilize online learning. An example would be a laptop or webcam.
What Are the Career Options for Nurses With an MSN/MBA Degree?
Nurses who hold an MSN/MBA degree can take on different roles, mainly in healthcare leadership and management as well as nursing administration. Examples include:
- Chief Nurse Executive– A chief nurse executive is a high-level, senior management position. Responsibilities include supervising patient care throughout a healthcare facility, developing ways to improve efficiency, and creating workflows and policies to improve patient care outcomes.
- Nurse/Healthcare Manager– A nurse manager or healthcare manager is responsible for a specific department or department within a healthcare facility. They work directly with staff and patients to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently in a specified work area. They supervise staff and implement established workflows.
- Chief Executive Officer– A chief executive officer is similar to a nurse executive and with similar job responsibilities. The difference is in title only- a CEO of an organization may or may not be a nurse while a nurse executive is.
- Director of Nursing Practice– A director of nursing is also a higher-level management position. Nurse managers often report to directors. Nurse directors provide patient care oversight. Directors of nursing practice may also develop and implement evidence-based organizational policies and procedures.
- Consulting– A nurse consultant or entrepreneur assists outside agencies, such as government entities and insurance companies. They can assist in:
- Insurance claims
- Healthcare reform
- Legal issues, such as developing healthcare-related laws/regulations
- Improving patient care and financial efficiency
Organizations and Helpful Resources
Other Nursing Degree Programs:
List of Dual MSN/MBA Programs
Dual MSN/MBA programs are available across the country. To find the options nearest to you, we’ve compiled a state-by-state list of schools that offer this growing pathway. You can be on your way to a high-level nursing leadership career before you know it!
Jump to Your State Listings
Arizona
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ 85017
(855) 428-5673
Delaware
Wilmington University
New Castle, DE 19720
(877) 967-5464
Florida
Jacksonville University
- Dual MSN/MBA Online
Jacksonville, FL 32211
(904) 256-8000
Georgia
Thomas University
- MSN-MBA Dual Degree Online Campus
Thomasville, GA 31792
(229) 226-1621
Illinois
Benedictine University
Lisle, IL 60532
(866) 295-3104
Lewis University
- Dual MSN/MBA Program Campus
Romeoville, IL 60446
(815) 838-0500
McKendree University
- Dual Online MSN/MBA Online
Lebanon, IL 62254
(800) 232-7228
Indiana
Indiana Wesleyan University
- MS Nursing - MBA Campus
Marion, IN 46953
(866) 468-6498
Kansas
MidAmerica Nazarene University
- MSN/MBA Dual Degree Hybrid
Olathe, KS 66062
(913) 782-3750
Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD 21205
(410) 955-4766
Michigan
Spring Arbor University
- BSN-MSN/MBA Dual Degree Online
Spring Arbor, MI 49283
(844) 657-2525
New Hampshire
Franklin Pierce University
- MSN and MBA Dual Degree Online
Manchester, NH 03101
(603) 647-3500
North Dakota
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND 58504
(701) 355-8030
Ohio
Kent State University
- Online MSN-MBA Dual Degree Campus
Kent, OH 44242
(330) 672-7930
Xavier University
- Dual MSN/MBA Campus
Cincinnati, OH 45207
(151) 374-5300 x0
Pennsylvania
California University of Pennsylvania
- MSN MBA Dual Degree Online Online
California, PA 15419
(724) 938-4000
Carlow University
- MSN-MBA Dual Degree Online
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
(800) 333-2275
DeSales University
- MSN/MBA Dual Degree Online Campus
Center Valley, PA 18034
(610) 282-1100 x2838
Moravian College
- MSN/MBA Dual Degree Campus
Bethlehem, PA 18018
(610) 861-1660
Robert Morris University
- M.S.N./M.B.A. Dual Degree Online
Moon Township, PA 15108
(800) 762-0097
Texas
Lamar University
- MSN/MBA Dual Degree Hybrid
Beaumont, TX 77710
(409) 880-8817
University of Texas at Tyler
- MSN / MBA Degree - Online Online
Tyler, TX 75799
(903) 566-7128
Virginia
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA 24515
(800) 424-9595
West Virginia
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV 26506
(304) 293-6607
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.