Best Online MSN Programs in Kansas

Kansas is known as "The Sunflower State" not just because of its vast roaming fields of sunflower farms, but also because the sunflower is a symbol of resilience. Like the many citizens of Kansas, nurses are also familiar with resilience and are constantly searching for new ways to improve their service. One great way that many nurses have found is to go back to school are pursue a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) degree. Receiving an MSN can allow you to seek more independent and advanced nursing roles, whether serving as a nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or in an administrative capacity. MSN programs are widely available in the state in areas such as Kansas City, Topeka, and other cities. Review the sections below to learn about the process for applying to these programs and finding the most affordable and fastest ones available in Kansas.
2026 Best Online MSN Programs in Kansas
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu
BSN to MSN - Public Health Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Kansas offers a hybrid Master of Science in Nursing with a Public Health Nursing specialty, preparing nurses for advanced community health roles. This 39-credit program focuses on population health challenges through coursework in epidemiology, environmental health, and evidence-based interventions. Students develop skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and designing targeted community strategies. The program includes research and practicum components but does not require an entrance exam. While primarily online, it features some in-person elements, making it suitable for working professionals seeking to address public health needs.
- 39 credit hour program
- Community health intervention focus
- Advanced nursing practice skills
- Public health nursing specialty
- Epidemiology and health promotion
- Research and practicum components
University of Saint Mary
Leavenworth, KS - Private 4-year - stmary.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Saint Mary's Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is a hybrid MSN that prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive mental health care across patient lifespans. This rigorous 53-credit program combines online asynchronous classes with two on-campus intensives, requiring over 700 clinical hours. At $775 per credit hour, it offers competitive tuition and CCNE accreditation. Admission requires a BSN, current RN license, minimum 3.0 GPA, and one year of clinical experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.
- 53 total credit hours
- Online asynchronous classes
- Two on-campus intensives
- 700+ clinical hours
- Competitive $775/credit tuition
- Requires BSN, RN license
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- One year nursing experience
- Remote admissions interview
- CCNE accredited program
BSN to MSN - MSN + MBA
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Saint Mary offers a 100% online MSN program with flexible delivery, allowing completion in approximately two years. This 35-credit program includes specialized tracks in Nurse Educator and Nurse Administrator, with an option to combine an MSN with an MBA. At $475 per credit hour, it features 120 clinical practice hours and CCNE accreditation. Designed for working professionals, admission requires a BSN, current RN licensure, and minimum 2.75 GPA. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.
- 100% Online Delivery
- 35 Credit Hours Total
- Two Specialized Tracks
- Competitive $475/Credit Hour
- Finish in Approximately 2 Years
- CCNE Accredited Program
- MSN + MBA Option Available
- 120 Clinical Practice Hours
- Nurse Educator/Administrator Focus
- Tuition Discount for Alumni
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Administrator)
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Saint Mary's online MSN with a Nurse Administrator concentration prepares nurses for healthcare leadership roles through a 100% online format. This 35-credit program focuses on developing skills in organizational management, strategic planning, and decision-making, with completion in approximately two years. At $475 per credit hour, it offers CCNE accreditation and practicum opportunities. Admission requires a BSN and is competitive, with no entrance exam mentioned as required.
- 100% Online Delivery
- 35 Total Credit Hours
- Two-Year Completion Timeline
- $475 Per Credit Hour
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Leadership Skills Focus
- Competitive Admissions
- BSN Required for Entry
- Practicum Opportunities
- Career Advancement Potential
MidAmerica Nazarene University
Olathe, KS - Private 4-year - mnu.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN Nursing Education
Online Learning - Visit Website
MidAmerica Nazarene University's online MSN in Nursing Education prepares licensed RNs to become skilled healthcare educators and nursing faculty. This 40-credit program can be completed in 12-24 months with flexible full-time or part-time options, delivered entirely online. The curriculum focuses on advanced skills in curriculum development, learning theories, and clinical simulation techniques. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA and an unencumbered nursing license. No entrance exam is required. Financial aid options include the RISE Opportunity Scholarship, and each student is assigned a personalized faculty advisor.
- Online nursing education program
- 40 total credit hours
- 12-24 months completion time
- Full-time or part-time options
- Requires 3.0 graduate GPA
- Unencumbered nursing license needed
- RISE Opportunity Scholarship available
- Prepares nurse educators and faculty
- Personalized faculty advisor assigned
BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
MidAmerica Nazarene University's MSN/MBA Dual Degree offers a strategic pathway for BSN-prepared nurses seeking healthcare leadership roles. This hybrid program combines 57 credits of nursing and business coursework, allowing completion of two master's degrees in 24 months through flexible online and in-person learning. Designed for RNs with a minimum 3.0 GPA and active license, it provides business acumen alongside nursing expertise. No entrance exam is required. The program features accredited coursework, competitive tuition, and potential financial aid through the RISE Opportunity Scholarship.
- Hybrid online/in-person format
- 57 total credit hours
- Complete in 24 months
- BSN degree required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Active RN license needed
- RISE Scholarship available
- Accredited nursing program
- Full-time or part-time options
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Educator)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration prepares RNs to become expert educators through a flexible, rigorous curriculum. This CCNE-accredited program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and healthcare innovation, requiring a BSN, active RN license, and minimum 3.0 GPA. The 100% online format includes 135 clinical practicum hours across two clinical semesters, with no entrance exam required. Not available in Alabama, Tennessee, or Utah, it's designed for working professionals seeking advanced development in nursing education.
- Online MSN in Nursing Education
- Fully online program format
- Requires BSN, RN license
- Minimum 3.0 BSN GPA
- 135 clinical practicum hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Two clinical semesters
- Two letters of reference required
- Personal statement needed
- Not available in Alabama, Tennessee, Utah
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nursing Administration concentration for RNs pursuing healthcare leadership roles. This CCNE-accredited program develops strategic management skills through evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and informatics coursework. The 100% online format includes a 90-hour clinical practicum and requires a BSN, current RN license, minimum 3.0 GPA, and professional references, with no entrance exam needed. Designed for working professionals, it prepares graduates to drive organizational excellence and improve patient outcomes in diverse healthcare settings.
- 100% Online MSN Program
- Nursing Administration Concentration
- 90-hour Clinical Practicum
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Minimum 3.0 BSN GPA Required
- Current RN License Needed
- Two Professional References
- Personal Statement Required
- Leadership Skill Development
- Evidence-Based Practice Focus
Baker University
Baldwin City, KS - Private 4-year - bakeru.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN + MBA Dual Degree (Transformational Studies)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Baker University's online MSN + MBA dual degree program focuses on Transformational Studies, preparing healthcare professionals for leadership roles by combining nursing expertise with business acumen. This CCNE and ACBSP accredited program requires approximately 50 credit hours and does not require entrance exams, offering flexible scheduling for working professionals. Students benefit from small class sizes, alumni tuition discounts, and career paths in healthcare management, with the ability to maintain employment while completing the primarily online curriculum.
- Online dual degree program
- 50 total credit hours
- Transformational Studies track
- CCNE and ACBSP accredited
- Flexible semester schedules
- Small class sizes
- 10% alumni tuition discount
- Career paths in healthcare management
Ottawa University-Kansas City
Overland Park, KS - Private 4-year - ottawa.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Educator)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ottawa University-Kansas City's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration prepares BSN-holding registered nurses for teaching roles through a curriculum focused on instructional strategies, curriculum design, and simulation in education. This program requires a current RN license, a minimum 3.0 GPA, a criminal background check, and three recommendation letters, with no entrance exam specified. It includes a practicum and capstone project, is pursuing CCNE accreditation, and offers flexibility for working nurses seeking career advancement in educational settings.
- Online program format.
- Nurse Educator specialization.
- Requires BSN degree.
- Current RN license needed.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
- Criminal background check.
- Three recommendation letters.
- Career statement required.
- Courses include practicum.
- Capstone project included.
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Leadership)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ottawa University-Kansas City offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Leadership specialization, designed for registered nurses with a BSN aiming for management and administrative roles. The program focuses on health systems, legal issues, and business concepts, requiring a current RN license, a 3.0 GPA, and materials such as a resume and recommendations, with no entrance exam mentioned. It is pursuing CCNE accreditation and provides a flexible, online format to help nurses advance into leadership positions in healthcare.
- Online program format.
- Nurse Leadership specialization.
- Requires BSN degree.
- Current RN license needed.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Criminal background check.
- Three recommendation letters.
- Career statement required.
- Courses include health systems.
- Legal and ethical issues covered.
Ottawa University-Ottawa
Ottawa, KS - Private 4-year - ottawa.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Educator)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ottawa University-Ottawa's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration prepares registered nurses for academic and clinical teaching roles. This CCNE-accredited program emphasizes advanced health assessment, cultural diversity, and leadership development through flexible on-campus/online learning. Students gain expertise in curriculum design and instructional strategies, with preparation for national certification exams. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in nursing education.
- Nurse Educator specialization available
- CCNE accredited program
- Two career track options
- Flexible on-campus/online learning
- National certification exam preparation
- Advanced health assessment focus
- Cultural diversity exploration
- Leadership skill development
RN to MSN Programs in Kansas
An RN to MSN program is a bridge program that is designed for registered nurses who have an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma. RN to MSN programs allow nurses to earn an MSN more efficiently by building on their existing nursing education and experience, resulting in a faster and more affordable MSN education. RN to MSN programs often include both undergraduate and graduate coursework, enabling nurses to seamlessly transition into advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or healthcare administrators, sometimes in just two years or less.
Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:
- Kansas RN license
- ADN or nursing diploma
- GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
- Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
- Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume
In Kansas, there is currently only one RN to MSN program available. For more information, see below:
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.Olathe, KS
MidAmerica Nazarene University
Olathe, KS 66062-1899
(913) 971-3840
Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Kansas
Most students interested in graduate school usually have two concerns — is the program expensive, and can it be completed quickly or while working full-time? While enrolling in an MSN program is certainly a commitment, getting an MSN degree does not necessarily mean that you’ll be parting with your valuable time or money to do so. See below for more information.
What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?
A faster pathway to graduation means that you’ll be spending less time in the classroom and more time helping your community. It also means less money in tuition costs. To find the fastest MSN programs in Kansas, you’ll want to look for schools that offer their curriculum in an online format or summer classes. If you have some nursing education already, you may want to consider schools that allow you to transfer credits. One faster option in Kansas is Baker University, which offers an MSN program that allows you to graduate in as little as two years.
What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?
If you're looking to save money on your MSN, you’re off to a good start since you will be required to be enrolled for less time than other graduate degree programs. If you have established residency in Kansas, you will also likely save on your education, as many schools in Kansas have lower tuition rates for in-state students. One of the cheapest options in Kansas is Fort Hays State University (FHSU), which offers an MSN for between $8,000 and $12,000.
Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)
Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs offer a fast-track path for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees to enter the nursing profession. These intensive programs combine foundational nursing coursework with advanced practice training, preparing students to become MSN-educated and explore advanced careers in nursing with little to no nursing experience. Here are a few of the requirements for admissions:
- Bachelor's degree
- Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
- GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
- Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
- Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
- Admissions interview
While you won’t find MENP programs currently offered in Kansas, there are plenty available in nearby states. Missouri currently offers an accelerated MSN program located at Saint Louis University, which is a fairly popular option for students in Kansas. Keep in mind that this will require licensure transfer if your plan is to work in a clinical setting.
Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties
One great thing about MSN programs is the ability to specialize in a practice area that interests you. This will give you momentum in your new career, as well as more independence, especially when working as an educator, executive, or practitioner. Specializing can often lead to higher salaries, as well. One great option in Kansas is the Public Health Nursing specialization offered by the University of Kansas (KU).
What is MSN Accreditation?
MSN accreditation ensures that MSN programs in Kansas meet rigorous standards set by accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation verifies that the program's curriculum, faculty, and outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Additionally, accredited programs are recognized by employers and are often eligible for financial aid, providing students with confidence in the quality and value of their education.
2026 List of MSN Programs in Kansas
Find additional MSN programs offered in Kansas by reviewing the list below:
MSN Programs By City:
Baldwin City, KS
Baker University
- BSN to MSN - MSN + MBA Dual Degree
Concentration: Transformational Studies - Online Learning - Website
- Online dual degree program
- 50 total credit hours
- Transformational Studies track
- CCNE and ACBSP accredited
- Flexible semester schedules
- Small class sizes
- 10% alumni tuition discount
- Career paths in healthcare management
Hays, KS
Fort Hays State University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN in Nursing Education
- Fully online program format
- Requires BSN, RN license
- Minimum 3.0 BSN GPA
- 135 clinical practicum hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Two clinical semesters
- Two letters of reference required
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nursing Administration - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online MSN Program
- Nursing Administration Concentration
- 90-hour Clinical Practicum
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Minimum 3.0 BSN GPA Required
- Current RN License Needed
- Two Professional References
- Personal Statement Required
Lawrence, KS
University of Kansas
- BSN to MSN - Nursing Education
Campus Based - Website
- Nursing Education specialty
- 39 total credit hours
- Prepares academic and clinical educators
- Application deadlines: April 1, September 1
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- BSN from accredited program
- Current RN licensure required
- One year clinical experience recommended
- BSN to MSN - Public Health Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 39 credit hour program
- Community health intervention focus
- Advanced nursing practice skills
- Public health nursing specialty
- Epidemiology and health promotion
- Research and practicum components
Leavenworth, KS
University of Saint Mary
- BSN to MSN - MSN + MBA
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Delivery
- 35 Credit Hours Total
- Two Specialized Tracks
- Competitive $475/Credit Hour
- Finish in Approximately 2 Years
- CCNE Accredited Program
- MSN + MBA Option Available
- 120 Clinical Practice Hours
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Administrator - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Delivery
- 35 Total Credit Hours
- Two-Year Completion Timeline
- $475 Per Credit Hour
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Leadership Skills Focus
- Competitive Admissions
- BSN Required for Entry
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 53 total credit hours
- Online asynchronous classes
- Two on-campus intensives
- 700+ clinical hours
- Competitive $775/credit tuition
- Requires BSN, RN license
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- One year nursing experience
Olathe, KS
MidAmerica Nazarene University
- BSN to MSN - MSN Nursing Education
Online Learning - Website
- Online nursing education program
- 40 total credit hours
- 12-24 months completion time
- Full-time or part-time options
- Requires 3.0 graduate GPA
- Unencumbered nursing license needed
- RISE Opportunity Scholarship available
- Prepares nurse educators and faculty
- BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/in-person format
- 57 total credit hours
- Complete in 24 months
- BSN degree required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Active RN license needed
- RISE Scholarship available
- Accredited nursing program
Ottawa, KS
Ottawa University-Ottawa
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website
- Nurse Educator specialization available
- CCNE accredited program
- Two career track options
- Flexible on-campus/online learning
- National certification exam preparation
- Advanced health assessment focus
- Cultural diversity exploration
- Leadership skill development
Overland Park, KS
Ottawa University-Kansas City
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Nurse Educator specialization.
- Requires BSN degree.
- Current RN license needed.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
- Criminal background check.
- Three recommendation letters.
- Career statement required.
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nurse Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Nurse Leadership specialization.
- Requires BSN degree.
- Current RN license needed.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Criminal background check.
- Three recommendation letters.
- Career statement required.
