Best Online MSN Programs in Connecticut

Quinnipiac University's Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles in primary care settings. This hybrid program combines online coursework with three on-campus immersions and can be completed full-time or part-time. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, at least one year of RN experience, and an unencumbered RN license. The curriculum includes clinical practicum hours and prepares graduates to sit for the national family nurse practitioner certification exam. The program accepts applications on a rolling basis from residents of several northeastern states.

• Hybrid online and on-campus format
• Full-time or part-time completion options
• BSN with 3.0 GPA required
• One year RN experience required
• Unencumbered RN license required
• Rolling admissions
• Prepares for national certification exam
• Three on-campus immersions
• Clinical practicum hours included
• Applications accepted from multiple states

Quinnipiac's MSN in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares you to deliver compassionate, holistic primary care to adolescents, adults, and older adults. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, health promotion, and management of acute and chronic conditions across outpatient clinics, medical offices, and skilled nursing facilities. You'll develop skills in critical thinking, leadership, and health equity, with coursework covering advanced assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. The program is delivered mostly online with three one-week on-campus immersions, offering flexibility for working nurses. You can study full-time or part-time and benefit from dedicated faculty advisers. Graduates are prepared for national certification and can seamlessly transition into Quinnipiac's DNP program. The program boasts a 100% first-time pass rate on the certification exam and is accredited by CCNE. U.S. News & World Report ranks it among the best graduate online nursing programs, reflecting its quality and reputation.

• CCNE accredited
• Complete in 2+ Years
• Full-time and part-time options
• 100% licensure pass rate
• Prepares for Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam
• Three on-campus immersions required
• Dedicated faculty advisers
• Seamless transition to DNP program
• U.S. News top online nursing program
• Clinical settings: clinics, offices, skilled nursing

Quinnipiac University's MSN in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) prepares registered nurses to excel in acute care settings. This hybrid program combines online coursework with four on-campus immersions, allowing you to build advanced skills in assessment, diagnosis, and management of acute health issues. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and three sequential acute care diagnosis and management courses. You'll complete four clinical practica totaling 780 hours in Connecticut acute care facilities. Graduates are eligible for national certification and pursue careers in hospitals, intensive care units, and emergency departments. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, at least one year of RN experience (acute care preferred), undergraduate statistics, a CV, and one reference. Rolling admissions and part-time or full-time options provide flexibility.

• 51 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Online with on-campus immersions
• Prepares for national certification exam
• Clinical placements only in Connecticut

Quinnipiac University offers a flexible MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. This hybrid program combines online coursework with three on-campus immersions. Students gain comprehensive skills in assessment, pharmacology, and therapeutic interventions for mental health care. The program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in psychiatric settings. Graduates can seamlessly transition to a Doctor of Nursing Practice program. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice and leadership development. Quinnipiac's nursing school is CCNE-accredited and ranked among the top 5% nationally.

• Hybrid program format.
• Three on-campus immersions.
• Online coursework available.
• Two-year completion timeframe.
• Seamless DNP transition option.
• CCNE-accredited nursing program.
• Top 5% national ranking.
• Faculty adviser support.
• Pharmacological skills training.
• Therapeutic interventions focus.

Quinnipiac University's online MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner is built for working nurses ready to advance their practice. The program blends nearly all coursework online with three one-week on-campus immersions, giving you hands-on clinical experience while you keep your current job. You'll learn to assess, diagnose, and manage common illnesses across the lifespan, prescribe medications, and care for patients of all ages. Graduates are prepared to sit for national FNP certification exams and pursue roles in primary care, urgent care, and community health settings. You can study full-time or part-time, work with a dedicated faculty adviser, and even transition seamlessly into the DNP program after finishing. CCNE-accredited and ranked among U.S. News & World Report's best online nursing programs, it's a flexible path to leadership in advanced practice nursing.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2+ Years Flexible Time to Complete
• Full-time and part-time options
• 87% licensure pass rate
• Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam
• Financial aid available
• Three one-week campus immersions
• Dedicated faculty advisers assigned
• Seamless transition to DNP program
• Prepares for national FNP certification

• CCNE accredited
• Complete in 15-24 Months
• 35 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 11.9% higher average salary
• Financial aid available
• 100% online coursework
• U.S. News top online nursing program
• Prepares for Chief Nursing Officer
• Independent fieldwork experience

Post University's online Direct Entry MSN program offers a fast-track path to advanced nursing practice. This flexible program requires 36-54 credit hours with monthly start dates. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and patient safety. Students can complete coursework in 8-week terms or choose a self-paced SIMPath option for non-NP specializations. The program features practice experiences integrated into courses and is taught by experienced nursing professionals. Admissions require RN licensure, with multiple funding options available including scholarships and tuition reductions.

• Online program delivery
• 36-54 credit hours
• Monthly start dates
• 8-week terms available
• Self-paced SIMPath option
• Practice experiences included
• RN licensure required
• Multiple specializations offered
• CCNE accredited program
• Flexible learning modalities

Post University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner specialization prepares registered nurses for advanced primary care roles. This 28-month program requires 42-45 credit hours and offers flexible monthly start dates. Students need a BSN degree and at least one year of nursing experience for admission. The curriculum focuses on assessment, diagnosis, and management of acute and chronic conditions across all age groups. Coursework includes maternal and childcare topics with individualized precepted clinical experiences. The program holds CCNE accreditation and provides comprehensive support through student success advisors. Tuition information and financial aid options are available through the university's resources.

• 28-month program length.
• 42-45 credit hours.
• Fully online format.
• Monthly start dates.
• Individualized precepted clinicals.
• Requires BSN degree.
• One year nursing experience needed.
• CCNE accredited program.
• Focus on family primary care.
• Covers lifespan healthcare.

Post University's online MSN Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses to care for adults across the lifespan. This 28-month program offers flexible online classes with monthly starts. It requires a BSN and one year of nursing experience. The curriculum covers advanced assessment, pharmacology, and aging concepts. Students complete individualized clinical preceptorships. The program holds CCNE accreditation. Costs and admission details are available on the university website. Graduates gain skills for primary care settings, focusing on chronic and acute condition management.

• Online program format.
• 28-month program length.
• 42-45 credit hours.
• Monthly start dates available.
• BSN degree required.
• One year work experience needed.
• Individualized clinical preceptorships.
• CCNE accreditation.
• Focuses on adult gerontology care.
• Covers advanced pathophysiology.

Post University's online MSN-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares BSN-holders for advanced practice. The 34-month, 51-54 credit program offers flexible online classes with monthly starts. It includes individualized clinical preceptorships. Admissions require a BSN and one year of RN experience. The program is CCNE-accredited and focuses on assessment, diagnosis, psychopharmacology, and lifespan care. Tuition details and scholarships are available. It equips graduates to work in diverse mental health settings.

• Online program delivery.
• 34-month program length.
• 51-54 credit hours.
• Monthly start dates.
• Individualized clinical preceptorships.
• BSN degree required.
• One year RN experience needed.
• CCNE accreditation.
• Focus on psychiatric mental health.
• Covers assessment and diagnosis.

Post University's online MSN in Management and Organizational Leadership builds advanced leadership skills for nurses. The program offers flexible online classes with monthly start dates. It covers healthcare economics, team building, and strategic planning. Students can complete the 36-credit program in 16-24 months. The curriculum includes individualized practice experiences. Admissions require a nursing license. Tuition details and financial aid options are available. The program is accredited by CCNE.

• Online program format.
• 36 credit hours required.
• 16-24 month duration.
• Monthly start dates.
• Flexible online classes.
• Individualized practice experiences.
• CCNE accredited program.
• Two learning modalities available.
• Term-based 8-week terms.
• SIMPath self-paced option.

• 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.

• Online program format.
• 36 credit hours.
• 16-24 month duration.
• Monthly start dates.
• CCNE accreditation.
• U.S. RN license required.
• Flexible scheduling available.
• Individualized practice experiences.
• Two track options.
• Term-based or SIMPath.

Sacred Heart University's online MSN: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares registered nurses to deliver primary care across the lifespan. The curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, followed by four clinical courses focusing on adult, pediatric, and women's health. Students complete 42 credit hours with online coursework and on-campus residencies, plus clinical placements near their location. Graduates are eligible for national certification through ANCC or AANPCB. The program is CCNE-accredited and designed for working nurses, with asynchronous classes and a flexible completion window. Career outcomes are strong, with nurse practitioner roles projected to grow 40% and median salaries exceeding $129,000. Faculty are doctorally prepared and bring real-world expertise. The program also accepts 6–12 transfer credits, reducing time and cost for eligible students.

• CCNE accredited
• No entrance exam required
• $40,110 total program tuition
• $955 per credit
• Complete in 2.5-Year Duration
• 42 total credit hours
• 1 start dates per year
• Asynchronous online classes
• Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB
• Online with on-campus residencies

Sacred Heart University offers an online MSN with a Clinical Nurse Leader specialization. This program prepares nurses for leadership roles. It includes 39 credit hours at $695 per credit. You can complete it in two to six years. No GRE or BSN is required for admission. The curriculum covers pharmacology, pathophysiology, and care management. It includes 420 hours of role immersion for CNL certification eligibility. Accredited by CCNE, it features six start dates per year. Faculty are experienced and accessible. This program suits working nurses seeking advancement.

• Online with clinicals.
• Two-year duration.
• 39 credit hours.
• $695 per credit.
• No GRE requirements.
• No BSN requirement.
• Six start dates yearly.
• CCNE accredited.
• 420 role immersion hours.
• Eligible for CNL exam.

Sacred Heart University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nursing Management and Executive Leadership specialization. This program prepares nurses for advanced leadership roles like chief nursing officer or patient care director. It features a flexible online format with 36 credit hours and 120 clinical practicum hours. The cost is $695 per credit, and the program can be completed in two years. Admission does not require a BSN or GRE/GMAT. Six start dates per year provide flexibility. The curriculum covers strategic planning, financial management, and quality improvement. Faculty are experienced and accessible. An optional study abroad experience in Ireland is available. This CCNE-accredited program focuses on developing transformative leaders to improve health care outcomes.

• 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.

Sacred Heart University's online RN to MSN program offers an accelerated pathway for registered nurses to earn both a BSN and MSN in as few as 3.5 years. The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization prepares you to diagnose and treat common illnesses, emphasizing preventive care and patient education. The curriculum blends nursing science, health policy, evidence-based practice, and includes a 540-hour clinical component with placements near your home. You'll also attend an on-campus residency to refine advanced skills. Graduates are ready for roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings, with a strong foundation for ANCC certification. CCNE-accredited and ranked among U.S. News' best online programs, this flexible, faculty-led program allows you to advance your career while balancing work and life.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 5 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Complete in complete in 3.5 years
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 540 clinical hours
• Prerequisite courses required
• $75 application fee
• Military benefits accepted

Sacred Heart University's online RN to MSN program offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialization that prepares registered nurses for advanced practice. This CCNE-accredited pathway combines BSN and MSN coursework, allowing completion in as few as 3.5 years. The PMHNP track includes 540 clinical hours and an on-campus residency, focusing on mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across the lifespan. Curriculum covers health care policy, evidence-based practice, and advanced psychiatric nursing. Graduates are prepared for roles such as psychiatric nurse practitioner in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. With no GRE/GMAT required, transfer of up to 90 credits, and competitive tuition, this program offers a flexible, accelerated route to leadership in psychiatric nursing.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 5 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Complete in 3.5 years
• 3.2 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 540 clinical hours
• Prerequisite courses required
• $75 application fee
• Military benefits accepted

• CCNE accredited
• 5 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Exams: GRE, GMAT
• $28,380 total program tuition
• $390 per credit
• 3.5 years program
• 153 total credit hours
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• $109,000 median earnings

The University of Connecticut offers an online Nurse Educator Master of Science in Nursing program through its Elisabeth DeLuca School of Nursing. This 40-credit program prepares nurses for advanced practice with specialized knowledge and skills in nursing education. It includes core graduate courses and track-specific courses with paired didactic and practicum components, providing 560 practicum hours. The program features largely asynchronous courses designed for working adults, with supportive faculty and a focus on developing nurse educators who can meet healthcare professionals as adult learners. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the program.

• 40-credit program.
• Online delivery format.
• Master of Science degree.
• Nurse Educator concentration.
• Asynchronous courses available.
• 560 practicum hours.
• CCNE accredited program.
• Elisabeth DeLuca School of Nursing.
• Core graduate courses included.
• Track-specific courses offered.

The University of Connecticut offers an online Family Nurse Practitioner concentration within its Master of Science in Nursing program. This 48-credit program prepares licensed registered nurses with bachelor's degrees to become advanced practice nurses. Students learn to assess, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. The program accepts applications between September 9 and January 15 for summer semester starts. Graduates are prepared for FNP certification exams. The program is taught by experienced nursing faculty and is designed for working professionals.

• 48-credit MSN degree
• Completely online format
• Summer semester start
• January 15 application deadline
• For licensed registered nurses
• Prepares for FNP certification
• Taught by experienced faculty
• Applications reviewed in order

University of Connecticut’s online Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program prepares registered nurses with a BSN for advanced practice in acute care settings. The curriculum focuses on managing the care of acutely ill, complex adult and gerontology populations, building exceptional clinical skills. Designed for experienced nurses with at least two years of acute care experience, the program is offered 100% online as part of both the MS and DNP tracks. Graduates are equipped to take on roles in hospitals, ICUs, and other acute care environments, meeting the growing demand for AGACNPs. The online format provides flexibility for working nurses to advance their education without interrupting their careers, while the rigorous clinical training ensures readiness for advanced practice.

• Work experience required
• 100% online program
• For licensed RNs with a BSN

The University of Connecticut offers an online Master of Science in Nursing Administration and Leadership through its Elisabeth DeLuca School of Nursing. This program prepares nurses for advanced leadership roles, focusing on theories of leadership, organizational design, and problem-solving. It is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high-quality education. Graduates can pursue careers as nurse executives or administrators, with opportunities for national certification through organizations like AONL or ANA. The program includes a pathway to a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, allowing for further advancement. It is ranked #12 among online nursing master's programs in the country, providing a flexible and reputable option for working professionals seeking to enhance their skills in healthcare management.

• Online program format
• Master of Science in Nursing
• Nursing Administration and Leadership focus
• CCNE accredited
• Prepares for certification
• Pathway to DNP degree
• Fall entry only
• Rolling admissions process
• Faculty-taught courses
• Focus on leadership theories

The University of Connecticut's Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) program provides advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to specialize in critical neonatal care. Designed for experienced RNs with at least two years of level three NICU experience, the program offers flexible online learning with two on-campus simulation visits. Students can choose between a 44-credit Master's degree, 76-82 credit BS to DNP, or a 29-credit Post-Graduate Certificate, preparing graduates for national certification and specialized neonatal healthcare roles.

• Online with two campus visits
• Fully accredited nursing program
• Multiple degree options available
• Requires 2+ years NICU experience
• Part-time and full-time tracks
• National certification preparation
• Experienced faculty practitioners

Yale University's School of Nursing offers a hybrid MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. This three-year program blends online coursework with three campus immersions. It prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in psychiatric mental health care. The program trains students to diagnose mental health disorders, prescribe medications, and deliver psychotherapy. It targets working professionals seeking flexible education. Admissions require NursingCAS application for Fall 2026. Program fees are detailed on the tuition page. The curriculum includes clinical training and simulated skill demonstrations.

• Hybrid MSN program format
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Three-year program duration
• Online asynchronous coursework
• Three mandatory campus immersions
• For working registered nurses
• Fall 2026 admission cycle
• NursingCAS application required
• Clinical training included
• Simulated skill demonstrations

Goodwin University's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles. The hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences and two immersion weekends. It requires a BSN and RN license for admission. Students complete 600 clinical hours. The curriculum covers pathophysiology, pharmacology, and healthcare policy. Financial aid, grants, and scholarships are available for qualified students. The program is accredited by CCNE. It focuses on holistic patient care across the lifespan. Flexible scheduling allows students to balance personal and professional commitments.

• 600 clinical hours required
• Hybrid online and in-person format
• Two immersion weekends included
• BSN and RN license required
• CCNE accreditation
• Financial aid available
• Flexible scheduling options
• Fall 2026 application deadline July 17, 2026

Goodwin University's MSN program offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration fully online. Complete your degree in as few as 20 months part-time while working full-time. The program provides flexible scheduling with coursework available entirely online. Admissions require meeting graduate nursing program standards. Tuition information is available through the university's financial aid office. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice in psychiatric mental health care.

• Fully online coursework
• Complete in 20 months
• Part-time study option
• Work full-time while studying
• Flexible scheduling available
• APRN-PMHNP concentration
• Master's in Nursing degree
• Graduate level classes
• Designed for working professionals
• Convenient program format

Goodwin University offers a Master's in Nursing (MSN) program that prepares students for a career as a Nurse Administrator. This online program is designed for working registered nurses, allowing flexibility with part-time study. It can be completed in as little as 20 months, enabling students to balance education with professional commitments. The curriculum covers advanced nursing and leadership concepts, including a course on healthcare quality, communication, and informatics. This program equips graduates with skills to manage nursing staff, ensure regulatory compliance, and improve patient care outcomes. It is ideal for RNs seeking to advance into executive roles in healthcare settings like hospitals or nursing facilities.

• Online program format.
• Part-time study available.
• 20-month completion time.
• Designed for working RNs.
• Flexible course options.
• Focus on leadership skills.
• Covers healthcare quality topics.
• Prepares for executive roles.
• Accredited by NECHE.
• No campus visits required.

Goodwin University's RN to MSN bridge program with a concentration in Public and Community Health is designed for registered nurses holding a bachelor's degree in any field. The online program can be completed in as few as 20 months, with a cohort model that fosters peer support. The curriculum includes five bridge courses covering health assessment, nursing research, public and community health, nursing leadership, and biostatistics. The public health course requires 45 clinical hours, and the program culminates in a 90-hour capstone project. Students gain expertise in policy, politics, and social justice in healthcare, preparing them for leadership roles in community health settings. Graduates can pursue careers as public health nurses, community health educators, or health program managers. The program is fully online, making it flexible for working nurses. Goodwin University is accredited by NECHE.

• 20-Month program
• Cohort-based structure
• 45 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Fully online coursework
• Transfer from any bachelor's degree
• Policy and social justice training
• Public and community health focus

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at the University of Hartford offers a concentration in Nursing Education, preparing graduates for advanced roles in teaching and clinical education. This program requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited nursing program with a minimum 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, and includes courses like NUR 627 and NUR 631. It focuses on evidence-based practice, with a 34-credit requirement and opportunities for automatic admission for RN-BSN graduates. The program is accredited by CCNE and emphasizes scholarly inquiry and professional development.

• Master of Science in Nursing.
• Nursing Education concentration.
• Core advanced-practice curriculum.
• 34 credit requirement.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA.
• Current RN licensure needed.
• Two letters of recommendation.
• Automatic admission for RN-BSN graduates.
• Accredited by CCNE.

University of Hartford's online MSN with a Nurse Administrator concentration prepares registered nurses for leadership in nursing management. The curriculum blends core nursing science with specialized courses in economics, finance, and management theory, building skills in budgeting, staffing, and evidence-based decision-making. Designed for practicing nurses, the program allows you to continue working full-time while completing coursework on a part-time basis. The online format uses 7-week courses taken one at a time, and the full degree can be finished in 24 months. Graduates are prepared for roles such as nurse manager, nursing director, and clinical administrator. With 34 required credits and the ability to transfer up to six graduate credits, the program offers both flexibility and depth for advancing your nursing career.

• 3 concentration options
• 24-Month program
• 34 total credit hours
• Part-time available
• Online track uses 7-week courses
• Transfer up to six graduate credits
• Supports practicing nurses working full-time
• In-person, hybrid, and online formats
• Prepares for advanced nursing roles

The Master of Science in Nursing program at the University of Hartford offers a concentration in Nursing Management for working nurses who want to move into leadership. This online, part-time format lets you keep your current job while earning your degree in as little as 24 months. The curriculum blends core nursing theory with management-specific courses like economics and finance for nurse administrators, preparing you for roles as a nurse manager, department head, or healthcare administrator. You will develop skills in evidence-based practice, scholarly inquiry, and organizational leadership. The program is designed around 7-week courses, one at a time, making it easier to balance work and study. You can also transfer up to six graduate credits, speeding up your path to graduation. Graduates are prepared to take on advanced nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, and health systems, with the confidence to lead teams and improve patient care.

• 3 concentration options
• 24-Month program
• 34 total credit hours
• Part-time available
• Online track with 7-week courses
• Transfer up to six credits
• Work full-time while studying

The University of Hartford's online MSN program with a Public Health Nursing concentration prepares nurses for advanced roles while working full-time. This 31-credit program covers healthcare informatics, advanced pathophysiology, and epidemiology. Students complete a practicum in public health nursing. The curriculum focuses on population health, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Designed for working professionals, it offers flexible online learning. Graduates gain skills to address community health needs and advance in public health careers. The program emphasizes practical application and scholarly inquiry.

• 31 total credits required
• Online program format
• Part-time study available
• Three focus areas offered
• Public Health Nursing concentration
• 22 core course credits
• 9 focus area credits
• Healthcare informatics course
• Advanced pathophysiology covered
• Epidemiology course included

Western Connecticut State University’s Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in acute care settings. The hybrid curriculum combines online coursework with on-ground experiences, covering advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Students complete 540 clinical practicum hours managing acutely and chronically ill adult-gerontology populations, culminating in an evidence-based research project. The program is designed for part-time study, typically completed in three years, and is accredited by CCNE. Graduates are eligible for national certification as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. A distinctive bridge option allows registered nurses with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to enter the program. Career opportunities include roles in hospitals, intensive care units, and specialty clinics, with a focus on complex patient management and interdisciplinary collaboration.

• CCNE accredited
• 4 concentration options
• 3-Year program
• Complete in approximately three years
• Part-time available
• 1 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 540 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Capstone required

Western Connecticut State University's Master of Science in Nursing offers a concentration in Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS). This program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles focusing on the care of acutely and chronically ill adult and older adult populations. The curriculum combines foundational coursework in theoretical basis for practice, evidence-based research, health policy, and advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Specialized clinical courses develop expertise in managing complex health conditions across the adult-gerontology spectrum. Graduates are equipped to serve as clinical leaders, educators, and consultants in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The program also offers other tracks including nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health, allowing interdisciplinary learning. With a focus on evidence-based practice and professional role development, this CNS track is designed for nurses seeking to advance their clinical expertise and leadership skills.

• 4 concentration options
• Management of acutely ill adults
• Management of chronically ill adults
• Evidence-based research for practice
• Health care policy and systems
• Advanced health assessment
• Professional role development
• Foundational core for all tracks
• Theoretical basis for practice

The University of Bridgeport offers an online MSN in Leadership and Education program. This dual-focused master's degree prepares nurses for roles in clinical leadership and academic nursing environments. The program requires 30 graduate credits with a 3.0 GPA minimum. Students complete 120 practicum hours while maintaining an active nursing license. The degree must be finished within five years of starting. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is delivered entirely online through the university's distance learning platform.

• Online master's degree program
• Dual focus on leadership and education
• 30 graduate credit requirement
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• 120 practicum hours required
• Active nursing license required
• Five-year completion timeframe
• CCNE accredited program
• One-track program structure
• Clinical leadership career preparation

The University of Bridgeport's online MSN program focuses on nursing leadership and education. It prepares nurses for advanced roles in healthcare systems. The curriculum covers evidence-based practice, curriculum design, and organizational leadership. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, an unencumbered RN license, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. No GRE is needed. Program length varies by track, from 30 to 48 credits. Costs are detailed in the university's tuition schedule. This program helps nurses advance their careers with flexible online learning.

• Online program format
• Focus on leadership and education
• No GRE required
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement
• Unencumbered RN license needed
• Letters of recommendation required
• Personal essay submission
• 30 to 48 credit hours
• Multiple entry tracks available
• Curriculum includes practicum courses

Southern Connecticut State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration. This program prepares graduates for primary care roles. It requires 46 credits, including 660 clinical hours. Courses are fully online with synchronous and asynchronous components. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, two letters of reference, and an admission essay. Tuition details are available on the university website. The program prepares students for ANCC and AANP board certification exams.

• 46 credits total
• 660 clinical hours required
• Fully online coursework
• Synchronous and asynchronous courses
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Active RN license required
• Two letters of reference
• Admission essay required
• Prepares for ANCC and AANP exams
• Fall and spring start terms