MSN Degree Programs in Louisiana

Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage and strong community ties foster a unique environment for healthcare education. Schools and universities in the state are dedicated to providing high-quality nursing programs that meet the diverse needs of their students. For nurses looking to advance their careers, enrolling in a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program is a great option. An MSN is the minimum requirement to become a nurse practitioner or step into leadership roles in healthcare, and these programs remain accessible in terms of cost and completion time. Below is an overview of MSN programs offered across the Southern State of Louisiana, from bustling cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge to more rural communities throughout the state.

RN to MSN Programs in Louisiana

For working nurses in Louisiana looking to advance their education, an RN to MSN program is an ideal option. These bridge programs allow nurses with an active RN license and an ADN to pursue their MSN without the need for a traditional 4-year BSN. By building on their existing skills and experience, nurses can complete their degree in a shorter, more affordable timeframe—often earning their MSN in as little as two years.

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

• Louisiana 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

One great example of an RN to MSN program located in the state is the RN to MSN program offered by Louisiana State University (LSU).

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Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Louisiana

If you’re hesitant about enrolling in graduate school, it’s probably due to concerns about tuition costs, time commitment, or both. The good news is that MSN programs are among the fastest and most affordable nursing programs available. However, some programs are more cost-effective and quicker to complete than others. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of factors that influence the length and cost of MSN programs, along with examples of the fastest and most affordable options available in Louisiana.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

Typically, an MSN program can be completed in under four years of full-time study, though it’s possible to finish in as little as two years or even sooner. This is particularly true for those who choose online programs or utilize summer courses to accelerate their studies. Below are a few examples of MSN programs in Louisiana that offer a manageable timeline to graduation:

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

Students in Louisiana understand that finding affordable education can be a challenge, but many MSN programs in the state offer surprisingly manageable tuition rates, especially when compared to other higher education options. If you’re a Louisiana resident, you can take advantage of in-state tuition rates to further reduce costs. Below are a few examples of affordable MSN programs available throughout the state:

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) 

If you’re considering a career in nursing after completing a bachelor's degree in another field, Louisiana offers a unique bridge program that lets you enroll directly in an MSN program without needing to earn another bachelor's degree. An Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) program typically takes about four years to complete, which is a much shorter and more affordable option compared to the traditional BSN plus MSN pathway, which can take around six years or more. Below are the typical requirements for enrolling in a MENP program:

• 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

Currently, there are no MENP programs located in Louisiana, however, you can seek these types of programs in other states. If you’re planning on gaining licensure, you’ll need to apply for this in the state where you complete your MSN program. One of the closest MENP programs available in Texas at the University of Texas at Austin (UTAustin).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

In addition to being timely and affordable, Louisiana also offers a wide range of specialized MSN programs. These programs allow students to focus on a specific area of practice they're passionate about, which can lead to higher salaries and greater independence in the nursing field. Below are a few examples of schools in Louisiana that offer specialized MSN programs:

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation is a crucial step for ensuring that a program meets high-quality standards. These standards, established by accrediting organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), verify that the program’s curriculum, faculty, and outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Accreditation also enhances the program’s recognition by employers and makes students eligible for financial aid.

2024 List of MSN Programs in Louisiana

Want to see the full list of MSN programs available in the state? Take a look below:

MSN Programs By City:

• New Orleans MSN Programs
• Baton Rouge MSN Programs
• Shreveport MSN Programs

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.