If you're a nurse in Mississippi aiming to enhance your resume, step into leadership positions, or become a nurse practitioner, enrolling in a graduate-level nursing program is a key step forward. Many nurses in Mississippi opt for Master of Nursing Science (MSN) programs due to their shorter duration and comparatively affordable tuition, making them an excellent choice for balancing career advancement with a busy work schedule.

In the sections below, we’ll discuss how to choose the right MSN program and highlight some of the most affordable and accelerated options available in the Southern State of Mississippi, whether you're based in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, or one of the state’s charming rural communities.

RN to MSN Programs in Mississippi

A traditional MSN program usually takes three to four years to complete, but many nurses in Mississippi find it challenging to balance full-time education with their demanding schedules. For those who have already earned an associate degree in nursing and hold an RN license, an RN to MSN program offers a more convenient and cost-effective alternative. These bridge programs enable nurses to gain the qualifications needed for advanced nursing roles in significantly less time, often cutting the duration in half.

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

  • Alabama 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

If you’re interested in applying to RN to MSN programs in Mississippi, check out University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) which offers the only one in the state.

Jackson, MS

School of Nursing
2500 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39216
(601) 984-6220

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

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Mississippi

You don't have to give up your hard-earned income or precious time to pursue a graduate-level education. Mississippi offers a variety of affordable, fast-paced, and flexible MSN programs designed for working professionals. Here are some tips for finding the best MSN programs in Mississippi, along with examples to get you started.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

MSN programs are inherently a quick choice for advancing your nursing career, but in Mississippi, some options are even faster than others. One way to streamline your education is by establishing residency in the state before applying, which can help you qualify for in-state tuition rates. Additionally, many programs offer online options, allowing you to complete coursework at your own pace. Here are a few examples of the fastest MSN programs in Mississippi.

SchoolEstimated LengthOnline Option?
University of Southern Mississippi (USM)5 SemestersYes
Mississippi College (MC)18 – 24 MonthsYes
Mississippi University for Women (MUW)12 MonthsNo

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

While Mississippi is known for its relatively low cost of living, that doesn't always guarantee that local schools are budget-friendly. To locate the most affordable MSN programs in Mississippi, it's essential to do your research. Below are a few examples of schools in Mississippi that offer MSN programs with reasonable tuition rates.

SchoolEstimated CostCredits
Mississippi University for Women (MUW)$9,000 – $14,00039
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)$15,000 – $20,00042
Delta State University (DSU)$21,000 – $23,00045 – 48

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

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Mississippi provide a fast-track option for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field who wish to transition into the nursing profession. These direct-entry programs blend foundational nursing coursework with advanced practice studies, allowing students to earn both a BSN and MSN through a streamlined, intensive curriculum. Graduates of MENP programs are eligible for RN licensure and advanced practice positions, making these programs an excellent choice for career changers seeking a quicker route into nursing. Here are the full list of requirements:

  • 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

Once you’re ready to start applying, consider looking at Mississippi State University (MSU), which offers the only MENP program in the state.

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

One of the great advantages of MSN programs in Mississippi is the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of nursing. These specializations can focus on clinical practice, such as family or psychiatric-mental health nursing, or non-clinical areas such as nursing education or administration. Below are a few examples of specialized MSN programs available in Mississippi.

SchoolSpecialtyCredits
University of Southern University (USM)Family Nurse Practitioner34 – 43
Delta State University (DSU)Family Nurse Practitioner65
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner39

What is MSN Accreditation?

As you explore MSN programs in Mississippi, it's crucial to verify that each one is accredited. MSN accreditation ensures that a Master of Science in Nursing program meets the rigorous standards set by organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accredited programs are designed to prepare students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification, making them essential for career advancement. Additionally, accredited programs are widely recognized by employers and qualify for financial aid opportunities.

2024 List of MSN Programs in Mississippi

Are you looking for other options than the ones listed above? Take a look at the full list of MSN programs in Mississippi listed below:

MSN Programs By City:

Cleveland, MS

Robert E. Smith School of Nursing
Highway 8 West
Cleveland, MS 38733
(180) 046-8637 x8

Columbus, MS

MSN Programs
1100 College Street
Columbus, MS 39701
(187) 746-2843 x9

Hattiesburg, MS

Jackson, MS

Lorman, MS

MSN Programs
1000 ASU Drive
Lorman, MS 39096
(601) 877-6100

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