Best Online MSN Programs in Maine

The New England state of Maine offers breathtaking coastal and mountainous rural communities. It’s also a great state for nurses looking to advance their careers through graduate education. Because of Maine's intense isolation, the need for higher-level nurses such as nurse practitioners has never been higher. For those interested in becoming nurse practitioners or pursuing other advanced nursing roles, a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program is a popular choice and is the minimum requirement typically requested of graduates. These programs are often shorter and more affordable, allowing students to meet the requirements for these careers in a cost-effective way. MSN programs are available throughout Maine, from larger cities like Portland to more remote areas. Below, you'll find helpful information on how to navigate your path to success, including tips on finding the most affordable and fastest MSN programs in Maine, as well as opportunities to speed up your journey through bridge programs.
2027 Best Online MSN Programs in Maine
Beal University
Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - beal.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University's online Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program prepares registered nurses for advanced clinical roles. The 20-month, 100% online program offers flexible scheduling, ideal for working professionals. It includes core courses like advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning. The curriculum focuses on primary care across the lifespan, with accreditation from ACEN. Admissions require RN licensure, and the program emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership skills. Graduates are equipped for high-demand careers as family nurse practitioners, with strong job growth projected in healthcare.
- 20-month program length.
- 100% online format.
- Flexible schedules for professionals.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- One week on-campus training.
- Advanced health assessment courses.
- Focus on primary care.
- RN licensure required.
- Experienced faculty.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Nursing Education)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nursing Education concentration prepares nurses for advanced teaching and leadership roles. This 20- to 40-month program offers flexible, 100% online learning with a student-centered approach. It requires a bachelor's degree in nursing and an unencumbered license. The curriculum covers topics like curriculum development, educational leadership, and advanced health assessment. Graduates gain skills for careers in nursing faculty, clinical education, and healthcare leadership. The program holds NLN CNEA accreditation, ensuring quality education for aspiring nurse educators.
- 20- to 40-month program length.
- 100% online delivery.
- Nursing Education concentration available.
- Requires BSN and nursing license.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Flexible schedules for students.
- Core courses in advanced practice.
- Focus on curriculum development.
- Includes educational leadership track.
- Student-centered learning environment.
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Executive Leadership)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an Executive Leadership concentration prepares nurses for advanced roles in healthcare management. This 100% online program offers flexible scheduling, allowing completion in 20 to 40 months. The curriculum covers leadership theory, healthcare finance, quality assurance, and policy analysis. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in nursing, an unencumbered nursing license, and completion of a statistics course. The program holds accreditation from the NLN CNEA and provides dedicated student support services. Graduates gain skills for leadership positions in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations.
- 20 to 40 months program length.
- 100% online delivery.
- Executive Leadership concentration available.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Requires BSN for admission.
- Unencumbered nursing license needed.
- Statistics course prerequisite.
- Core courses in advanced nursing.
- Leadership and finance curriculum.
RN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Executive Leadership)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University’s online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an Executive Leadership track is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance into leadership roles. The program builds on your nursing foundation with core courses in advanced health assessment, pathopharmacology, health information management, and a capstone project. The Executive Leadership track focuses on theoretical and evidence-based leadership, healthcare finance and economics, quality assurance, patient safety, and health policy. Graduates are prepared for careers such as nursing director, healthcare administrator, or policy analyst. The 100% online format offers interactive projects and dedicated faculty support, allowing you to learn without commuting. The program is accredited by the NLN CNEA and can be completed in as few as 20 months. With a projected 40% job growth for advanced practice nurses, this MSN equips you for in-demand leadership opportunities.
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Complete in 20 to 40 Months
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- 100% online with campus resources
- Executive Leadership track covers finance, policy, quality
- Careers in nursing leadership and administration
- BLS projects 40% growth for NPs
- Start date: September 8th
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME - Private 4-year - sjcme.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Joseph's College of Maine offers an online MSN/MBA Dual Degree for RNs with bachelor's degrees and at least two years of work experience. This 60-credit program combines nursing leadership with business management skills. It prepares nurses for roles like manager, director of nursing, or chief nursing officer. The total cost is $42,240, excluding textbooks and fees. Full-time students can complete the program in less than three years, while part-time takes about four and a half years. Admissions require a bachelor's degree and work experience, with online application options available.
- Online program delivery.
- 60 total credits required.
- Total cost $42,240.
- Full-time less than 3 years.
- Part-time 4 years 6 months.
- For RNs with bachelor's degree.
- Requires 2 years work experience.
- MSN administrative track included.
- Combines nursing and business.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Joseph's College of Maine offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nursing Administration concentration. This CCNE-accredited program prepares RNs for leadership roles in healthcare settings. It features flexible online study, no campus visits required, and can be completed in as few as two years full-time. The program includes courses in informatics, leadership, and organizational management. Cost ranges from $28,686 to $33,792, excluding fees. Admissions require a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and an active RN license. No GRE is needed. Courses start in fall, spring, and summer terms.
- Online program format.
- Nursing Administration concentration.
- CCNE-accredited.
- No on-campus residency.
- Complete in two years full-time.
- Part-time options available.
- Cost $28,686 to $33,792.
- BSN required for admission.
- 3.0 minimum GPA.
- Active RN license needed.
Husson University
Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - husson.edu
BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses to deliver advanced primary care across all ages. The 48-credit program requires 540 clinical hours and can be completed in 30 months, with an accelerated 24-month option available. Tuition is $732 per credit hour. The program prepares graduates for national certification exams and offers multiple start dates with flexible pacing. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in nursing, and the program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
- 48 total credit hours
- 540 clinical hours required
- 30 months time to completion
- $732 per credit hour tuition
- Online program delivery
- Multiple start dates available
- 95% certification exam pass rate
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification
- Accredited by CCNE
- 24-month accelerated track option
BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's MSN in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses for advanced roles in acute care settings. This 48-credit online program focuses on caring for acutely ill young adults, older adults, and the elderly. Accredited by CCNE, graduates can sit for ANCC or AACN certification exams. The program develops skills in comprehensive advanced nursing care through clinical experiences. It's designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in acute care nursing.
- 48 credit program.
- Online delivery format.
- CCNE accredited program.
- ANCC/AACN certification eligible.
- Adult gerontology acute care focus.
- Master of Science in Nursing degree.
- Acute care clinical experiences.
- School of Nursing program.
- Graduate level coursework.
- Advanced nursing care skills.
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME - Public 4-Year - usm.maine.edu
BSN to MSN - Nursing Education, M.S.N.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Southern Maine offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Education, designed for working nurses. This accelerated program can be completed in as few as 12 months with 7-week courses and six start dates per year. It requires 36 credits and prepares graduates for the NLN Nurse Educator Certificate. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and a statistics prerequisite, with no GRE needed. Financial aid includes over 150 graduate assistantships and scholarships. The program is accredited by CCNE and features flexible online learning with faculty support.
- CCNE accredited
- No entrance exam required
- Test optional
- 12-Month program
- Locked tuition rate
- 36 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-01-02
- Full-time and part-time options
- 6 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
University of Maine
Orono, ME - Public 4-Year - umaine.edu
BSN to MSN - MS-Nursing Leadership – Nursing Education Concentration (Nursing Education)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Maine offers an MSN in Nursing Leadership with a Nursing Education concentration, preparing nurses for teaching roles in academic and healthcare settings. This 2-year full-time or 3-4 year part-time program requires 500 clinical hours and offers both thesis and capstone options. Graduates meet educational criteria for the NLN Academic Novice Nurse Educator Certification Exam. The curriculum includes core graduate nursing courses, specialty education courses, and practicum experiences coordinated in the student's preferred location. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, 2 letters of recommendation, and rolling admissions. Didactic courses are online except for 2 onsite days for health assessment lab. The program is accredited by CCNE and emphasizes evidence-based practice, population health, and healthcare quality.
- 2-Year program
- Rolling admissions
- Full-time and part-time options
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- 500 clinical hours
- Thesis or capstone option
- Prepares for NLN Academic Novice Nurse Educator Certification
- Practicums coordinated in student's preferred location
- Online didactic courses except for 2 onsite days
RN to MSN Programs in Maine
While a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) is typically required for entry into an MSN program, Maine offers an RN to MSN pathway specifically for working nurses who already hold an ADN. This option allows you to bypass the BSN requirement and complete your MSN in a shorter timeframe. If you have a current nursing license and an ADN, you’re likely eligible for this streamlined route. Additional requirements include:
- Maine 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
Check out the following RN to MSN degree programs available in Maine:
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.Orono, ME
University of Maine
Orono, ME 04469-5724
(207) 581-2607Portland, ME
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME 04103
(207) 780-4993Standish, ME
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME 04084
(207) 893-7957
Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Maine
Whether you’re already working as a nurse or planning for the future, choosing the best MSN program often comes down to two main factors: how quickly you can graduate and how much it will cost. If you’re searching for the fastest and most affordable MSN programs in Maine, there are several important factors to consider. Below are some examples to help guide your decision:
What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?
Typically, a full-time student will need to dedicate at least four years to complete an MSN program, but there are several options in Maine that allow you to finish in less time. To find the fastest MSN programs in Maine, consider exploring online programs or those that offer summer courses. One example of an MSNsin Maine that can be completed in a shorter timeframe is offered by St. Joseph's College of Maine (SJCME).
What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?
For students, the cost of the program is often a bigger consideration than the duration. While Maine may not be the cheapest state for education, there are still several MSN programs that can fit within your budget. You can further reduce costs by establishing state residency before applying to MSN programs, among other strategies. One of the most affordable MSN programs located in Maine is offered by the University of Southern Maine (USM) which offers tuition costs between $18,000 and $55,000.
See Related Articles
Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)
Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Maine provide a fast-track route for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who are eager to enter the nursing profession. These programs combine foundational nursing education with advanced coursework, preparing graduates for licensure as registered nurses and for leadership or specialized roles. Students complete rigorous studies, clinical rotations, and courses in areas such as health policy, evidence-based practice, and leadership. Typical admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree, relevant prerequisite courses, and a strong GPA.
- 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
As of now, MENP programs are not available in Maine, but you can find them at the University of New Hampshire (UNH). Keep in mind you will likely need to transfer any license obtained in New Hampshire if your plan is to practice in Maine.
Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties
One of the key benefits of pursuing an MSN in Maine is the opportunity to specialize in a field that aligns with your career goals. Specializing not only enhances your skills but also strengthens job security and boosts earning potential. Maine's MSN programs offer pathways in areas such as family practice, mental health, pediatrics, and nursing leadership, enabling nurses to customize their education for specific healthcare roles. Specializing provides advanced expertise, paving the way for leadership, clinical, and administrative positions. One example of a specialized MSN program offered in Maine is the Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program offered by the University of Maine (UMaine).
What is MSN Accreditation?
MSN accreditation in Maine ensures that programs meet high standards set by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This accreditation confirms that the curriculum, faculty, and outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Accredited programs are recognized by employers and qualify for financial aid, making them crucial for both career advancement and affordability.
2026 List of MSN Programs in Maine
The list of MSN programs mentioned above is not complete. Check out the remainder of these programs below:
MSN Programs By City:
Browse Our List of Programs
Bangor, ME
Beal University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- 20 to 40 months program length.
- 100% online delivery.
- Executive Leadership concentration available.
- Flexible scheduling options.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Requires BSN for admission.
- Unencumbered nursing license needed.
- Statistics course prerequisite.
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Website
- 20- to 40-month program length.
- 100% online delivery.
- Nursing Education concentration available.
- Requires BSN and nursing license.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Flexible schedules for students.
- Core courses in advanced practice.
- Focus on curriculum development.
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
Online Learning - Website
- 20-month program length.
- 100% online format.
- Flexible schedules for professionals.
- Accredited by ACEN.
- One week on-campus training.
- Advanced health assessment courses.
- Focus on primary care.
- RN licensure required.
Husson University
- BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 48 credit program.
- Online delivery format.
- CCNE accredited program.
- ANCC/AACN certification eligible.
- Adult gerontology acute care focus.
- Master of Science in Nursing degree.
- Acute care clinical experiences.
- School of Nursing program.
- BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 48 total credit hours
- 540 clinical hours required
- 30 months time to completion
- $732 per credit hour tuition
- Online program delivery
- Multiple start dates available
- 95% certification exam pass rate
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification
Biddeford, ME
University of New England
- BSN to MSN - Master's program for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- Master's program for PMHNP.
- Addresses mental health workforce shortages.
- Uses interprofessional education approach.
- Includes virtual reality simulations.
- Focuses on social determinants of health.
- Partners with statewide health care.
- Integrates psychiatric concepts.
- Prepares for substance abuse challenges.
Orono, ME
University of Maine
- BSN to MSN - MS-Nursing Leadership – Nursing Education Concentration
Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 2-Year program
- Rolling admissions
- Full-time and part-time options
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- 500 clinical hours
- Thesis or capstone option
- Prepares for NLN Academic Novice Nurse Educator Certification
Portland, ME
University of Southern Maine
- BSN to MSN - Nursing Education, M.S.N.
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- No entrance exam required
- Test optional
- 12-Month program
- Locked tuition rate
- 36 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-01-02
- Full-time and part-time options
Standish, ME
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
- BSN to MSN - MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Online Learning - Website
- Online program delivery.
- 60 total credits required.
- Total cost $42,240.
- Full-time less than 3 years.
- Part-time 4 years 6 months.
- For RNs with bachelor's degree.
- Requires 2 years work experience.
- MSN administrative track included.
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Nursing Administration - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Nursing Administration concentration.
- CCNE-accredited.
- No on-campus residency.
- Complete in two years full-time.
- Part-time options available.
- Cost $28,686 to $33,792.
- BSN required for admission.
