Master’s in Executive Nurse Leadership

Last Updated On Jun 10, 2026

9 Min Read

2027 Best MSN in Executive Nurse Leadership Programs

Registerednursing.org ranks the best MSN in Executive Nurse Leadership programs to help nurses step into leadership roles. We look at each program based on important factors like curriculum quality, flexibility, faculty expertise, and career results. Our goal is to guide nurses toward programs that offer strong preparation for executive positions in healthcare. Whether choosing online or on-campus learning, these programs build the skills needed to lead teams, manage budgets, and improve patient care. To see exactly how we put together these rankings, check out our methodology page: https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - sandiego.edu

BSN to MSN - Executive Nurse Leader MSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed for working nurses, the hybrid Executive Nurse Leader MSN at the University of San Diego blends online coursework with campus sessions. Grounded in AONL competencies, the curriculum emphasizes strategic leadership, communication, and business acumen, preparing graduates for roles like nurse manager or director. The program boasts over 40 years of nursing education excellence and offers strong networking, mentorship, and financial aid options. Admission requires a nursing background; no standardized entrance exam (e.g., GRE) is mandated. Based in San Diego's Hahn School of Nursing, this flexible program supports career advancement and patient safety initiatives.

Hybrid program format.
Focuses on nurse leadership competencies.
Prepares for roles like nurse manager.
Includes networking opportunities.
Designed for working professionals.
Emphasizes practical experience.
Based on AONL competencies.
Offers financial aid options.
Requires nursing background for admission.
Blends online and campus learning.

Texas A & M International University

Laredo, TX - Public 4-Year - tamiu.edu

RN to MSN - RN to MSN – Nursing Administration (Nurse Executive Leadership)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Texas A&M International University's online RN to MSN in Nursing Administration, with a Nurse Executive Leadership concentration, equips working RNs for management roles. The curriculum blends nursing theory with business courses covering healthcare policy, organizational behavior, finance, and transformational leadership. Students build competencies in evidence-based practice, quality outcomes, and population health, culminating in a 180-hour practicum. Graduates are prepared for positions like head nurse, director of nursing, or clinical director. The ACEN-accredited program features 7-week courses and six annual start dates. With 54 credits at $367 per credit (in-state total $19,818), it can be completed in about 18 months. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, work experience, and prerequisite courses; a capstone is also required.

ACEN accredited
$19,818 total program tuition
$367 per credit
18-Month program
54 total credit hours
17 total courses
Apply by 2026-08-10
6 start dates per year
Starts summer/fall/spring
3.0 GPA minimum

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT - Private 4-year - sacredheart.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Management and Executive Leadership)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Sacred Heart University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nursing Management and Executive Leadership prepares registered nurses for senior administration roles such as chief nursing officer or patient care director. The CCNE-accredited program comprises 36 credits, including 120 clinical practicum hours and a capstone project, and can be completed in two years. Coursework emphasizes strategic planning, financial management, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. No BSN or GRE/GMAT is required for admission, and six annual start dates offer flexibility. Tuition is $695 per credit, and an optional study abroad experience in Ireland is available. Small class sizes and accessible faculty enhance the online learning environment.

Online with practicum hours.
Two-year duration.
36 credit hours.
$695 per credit.
No BSN requirement.
No GRE/GMAT required.
Six start dates yearly.
CCNE accredited.
120 clinical practicum hours.
Optional study abroad in Ireland.

Seton Hall University

South Orange, NJ - Private 4-year - shu.edu

BSN to MSN - M.S.N. in Nursing Administration and Executive Nurse Leadership

Online Learning - Visit Website

Seton Hall University’s online M.S.N. in Nursing Administration and Executive Nurse Leadership prepares registered nurses for high-level healthcare leadership. The 35-credit curriculum emphasizes informatics, marketing, reimbursement, risk management, negotiation, and corporate integrity—alongside healthcare policy and strategic decision-making. Designed for flexibility, the program offers asynchronous coursework and part-time options, allowing completion in three to four years. Students benefit from mentorship by practicing nurse executives and complete administrative practicums in diverse settings after one year of employment. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program. Graduates are eligible for ANCC and CCMC certification exams, as well as the ACHE Fellow exam. Fall and spring start dates expand accessibility.

100% online program.
Flexible part-time options.
35 credits to complete.
3-4 years completion time.
Asynchronous online coursework.
Taught by practicing nurse executives.
Strong faculty mentorship.
Hands-on administrative practicums.
Eligible for ANCC certification.
Eligible for CCMC certification.

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL - Public 4-Year - uwf.edu

BSN to MSN - MSN in Nurse Executive

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of West Florida's online MSN in Nurse Executive prepares working RNs for executive leadership in healthcare administration, informatics, and case management. This 39-credit asynchronous program, completed in about 24 months, integrates financial management, technology integration, and project development. It includes three practicums for 225 total hours. Admission criteria—a BSN with 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure—do not list any entrance exam requirement; a statistics prerequisite applies. Tuition is $425 per credit, with military financial aid available. The CCNE-accredited program accepts transfer credits and requires no campus visits.

39 credit hours total.
Online asynchronous format.
Estimated 24-month completion.
$425 per credit hour.
BSN with 3.0 GPA required.
Current RN license needed.
CCNE accredited program.
Three practicum courses included.
225 total practical hours.
8 and 16 week courses.

Miami University

Oxford, OH - Public 4-Year - miamioh.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Miami University's online MSN in Nurse Executive Leadership develops systems-level leaders for complex healthcare environments. The 33-credit curriculum combines strategic management, financial planning, human resources, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice, with interprofessional collaboration woven throughout. Students gain 210 precepted practicum hours and are prepared for both AONL and ANCC certification exams. A single on-campus workshop supports networking; the rest is online. No entrance exam is listed; however, candidates must possess an unencumbered RN license, meet immunization, CPR, background check, and annual drug testing requirements, and maintain a 3.0 GPA with no grade below B-. The program is designed to be completed in five years.

Online program format.
33 credit hours required.
210 practicum hours minimum.
Nurse Executive Leadership concentration.
Prepares for AONL certification.
Prepares for ANCC certification.
One on-campus workshop required.
MSN core courses included.
Focus on healthcare systems leadership.
Emphasis on strategic management.

South University-Savannah Online

Savannah, GA - Private 4-year - southuniversity.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing in Nurse Administrator

Online Learning - Visit Website

South University–Savannah's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Administrator specialization is designed for working nurses seeking executive leadership roles. The 44-credit curriculum integrates ethical, evidence-based management, covering healthcare policy, finance, quality improvement, and patient safety. Coursework aligns with AACN, AONE, and ANA standards and includes practicum experiences and a graduate project. Admission requires a BSN with a minimum 2.5 GPA and a current, active RN license; no standardized entrance exam is listed among the requirements. Graduates are prepared for positions such as Chief Nursing Officer. The program's flexible online format, delivered via Brightspace, provides mobile access and accommodates professional schedules.

Online MSN program.
44 total credits.
BSN with 2.5 GPA required.
Active RN license needed.
Specialization in Nurse Administrator.
Accredited by CCNE.
Flexible learning formats.
Includes practicum courses.
Focus on healthcare management.
Evidence-based curriculum.

Purdue University Northwest

Hammond, IN - Public 4-Year - pnw.edu

BSN to MSN - MSN Nurse Executive

Online Learning - Visit Website

Purdue University Northwest's online MSN in Nurse Executive prepares RNs for leadership careers in healthcare administration. The 32-credit curriculum focuses on healthcare finance, human resources, policy development, and evidence-based practice, culminating in 135 practicum hours. Tuition is $512.16 per credit, with total costs around $16,389.12; transfer credits and scholarships are available. Full-time students can finish in 12 months, while part-time students typically complete within two years. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, current RN licensure, and a 3.0 GPA. The program is ACEN-accredited and ranked among U.S. News & World Report's top online MSN programs. Admission requirements do not specify a graduate entrance exam.

32 credit hours
$512.16 per credit
100% online format
12-month completion full-time
135 practicum hours
ACEN accredited
3.0 GPA requirement
BSN from accredited program
Current RN licensure required
Flexible part-time option

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL - Public 4-Year - southalabama.edu

BSN to MSN - Executive Nursing Administration

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Alabama offers an online MSN in Executive Nursing Administration, preparing nurses for leadership roles such as Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing, or Chief Nurse Executive. The program requires 37 credit hours and 480 clinical hours, which can be completed in local communities with approved preceptors. Coursework covers nursing administration, finance, resource management, and healthcare policy. Aligned with CGEAN criteria and ANA standards, graduates are prepared for national certification through ANCC or AONE. No campus visits are required; web conference orientation and ongoing faculty support are provided. The program has a five-year completion limit. No entrance exam requirement is specified.

Online program delivery.
37 credit hours required.
480 clinical hours total.
Clinicals in local communities.
Prepares for nurse executive roles.
BSN-MSN pathway available.
RN-MSN option offered.
Complies with CGEAN criteria.
Aligns with ANA standards.
Prepares for ANCC certification.

#10

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI - Public 4-Year - ferris.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Ferris State University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a focused concentration in Nursing Administration, designed for registered nurses aiming to lead in complex healthcare environments. This CCNE-accredited program integrates nursing theory with essential business administration principles, covering organizational leadership, financial management, and strategic decision-making. Students gain practical skills in team management and quality improvement, all within a flexible 24/7 online format that accommodates working professionals. The program's affordability and strong national ranking make it an attractive option. Graduates are prepared for executive roles such as nurse administrators, clinical managers, and healthcare executives, meeting the growing demand for leaders who combine clinical expertise with business acumen.

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
3 concentration options
Top 10 in nation for affordability
24/7 access to courses
Interact with diverse peers nationwide
Focus on business administration theory
Executive positions in health care

*Dataset citation: NCES. (2025). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Which MSN in Executive Nurse Leadership Program is Right for Me?

There are a number of Executive Nurse Leader MSN programs to choose from, so making the right choice for your career goals can be an overwhelming decision. In order to simplify your options, consider the following elements when researching schools:

Program Accreditation – A critical first step is determining if a program is properly accredited. Program accreditation means that a third-party organization has vetted the school, and you can be sure it will provide high-quality nursing education and prepare nurses for the next phase of their careers. It is smart to ensure that every program you consider is accredited by an organization such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
On-Campus vs. Distance Learning – MSN programs are offered in traditional classroom formats and fully online "distance learning" and hybrid formats that combine on-campus study with online coursework. Many nurses considering an advanced degree work full-time or have family obligations to fulfill, so online programs can provide the flexibility that makes attaining an MSN degree more convenient.
Sample Coursework – Most schools provide an overview of the program curriculum on their websites or by email if requested. Before you select a program, ensure that the course subjects cover what you need to learn to reach the desired next step in your career. Typical courses for a Nurse Executive Leader program include financial management and resource allocation, nurse leadership, and quality improvement and safety.
Time Commitment – Most MSN degrees take between 2 and 3 years to complete, and in some cases, one year. However, the time it takes to complete an MSN in Executive Nurse Leadership can vary based on several factors, including whether a program is taken on a full- or part-time basis, if the program is a distance learning format that allows you to complete your coursework on your own schedule, and how many clinical or on-campus hours are required to complete the program.
Program Cost– The tuition cost for an MSN in Executive Nurse Leadership program varies from school to school and can be influenced by the geographic location, type of school, online versus on-campus program format, and a student's residency status. When calculating the total price of a school, be sure to include the cost of materials, books, housing, and/or commuting, if necessary, in addition to the tuition fees.

Advantages of Online MSN in Executive Nurse Leader Programs

Online MSN programs provide students with several benefits, including the flexibility to complete coursework around their schedules. The major advantages of selecting an online MSN program include:

Affordability

Often, online programs are the more cost-effective options for students when compared with traditional on-campus programs. While tuition rates vary widely from school to school, online students do not have to consider commuting costs or campus housing when calculating the full price of their education. Most schools, including those that offer online programs, also provide financial aid options for those who require assistance paying for their degrees.

Flexible Schedule & Program Length

Many nurses who decide to pursue a master's degree are already working full-time, and often at odd hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Online programs provide full-time or part-time nurses the flexibility to complete coursework when it suits their needs without disrupting work or family obligations. Many schools offer self-paced learning, which means students can complete coursework quicker, allowing them to complete their degree and begin a new career in less time than a traditional classroom program.

Accessibility & Convenience

Online learning opens the door to a wider range of schools and program options than those within commuting distance from your home. Especially important for those who live in rural or remote locations, online students don't need to worry about the cost of commuting, traffic patterns, or parking costs. And the convenience of logging into the classroom at any time can't be matched by an on-campus program.

Program Curriculum

The curriculum for an Executive Nurse Leader MSN program prepares students for leadership and managerial roles. Coursework generally begins with advanced nursing practices, such as evidence-based nursing practices, healthcare policy and advocacy, and quality improvement and safety standards. Following foundational advanced nursing classes, students in an Executive Nurse Leader program move on to courses that deal with management principles, including financial management, strategic planning, interpersonal communication, and leadership best practices.

As an example of the program curriculum, the following classes are included in Benedictine University's online Master of Science in Nursing, Executive Nurse Leader program:

Health Promotion and Inter-professional Collaboration
Ethical and Culturally Competent Healthcare Professional
Evidence-Based Nursing Practice: Research and Process Improvement
Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
Quality Improvement and Safety
Building Effective Communication and Relationships
Advanced Knowledge of Healthcare Systems
Financial Management and Resource Allocation
Nurse Leadership and Systems Thinking
Advanced Nursing Practice Clinical Immersion

In addition to coursework completed online or in a classroom, an MSN program also includes clinical practice hours in which students will put their coursework into the application.

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What Are the Tuition & Costs for an MSN in Executive Nurse Leadership Program?

As mentioned above, the cost of an Executive Nurse Leader MSN program can vary widely based on the school's location and several other factors. In addition to tuition fees, other costs associated with an MSN degree generally include mandatory university fees, materials, and supplies, including textbooks and medical supplies, graduation fees, and for students who study on campus, housing and/or commuting costs. As an example of program costs, the University of San Diego's Master of Science in Nursing Executive Nurse Leader program costs $1,690 per credit hour in 2023, along with additional mandatory fees.

What Are the Career Options for Nurses with an MSN in Executive Nurse Leader?

Nurses with an MSN Executive Nurse Leader degree have many career options to pursue, including as a nurse executive or nurse administrator. Typical duties for which an Executive Nurse Leader has been trained include:

Create budgets for the healthcare facility
Design and oversee patient care practices
Participate in the development of policies and procedures
Hire, train, and mentor junior nurses
Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and administrators.

Specific career titles these senior nurses may hold include:

Nurse Executive: A nurse executive is a managerial role in which the nurse shapes healthcare policies and practices for their organization and oversees the work of a team of nurses. They also make budgets, manage finances for their department or organization, and mentor junior nurses.
Nurse Consultant: Often working at the intersection of health and the law, nurse consultants help develop solutions for healthcare facilities to ensure they deliver high-quality patient care and follow all applicable legal standards and protocols.
Nurse Administrator: Combining patient care and managerial duties, nurse administrators such as Charge Nurses or Nurse Managers hire, train, and supervise nursing staff, create work schedules, maintain records, oversee quality assurance activities, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
Director of Nursing: In a top management position, the Director of Nursing oversees multiple departments or even an entire healthcare facility and uses evidence-based practices to develop policies and protocols.

Read more in our Expert Guide to Nursing Leadership