With its growing population and a mix of urban and rural communities, the Southwestern State of Nevada offers exciting opportunities for nurses ready to take the next step in their careers. Enrolling in a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) program is an excellent way to secure advanced roles, from becoming a nurse practitioner to leading healthcare teams in administrative positions. Whether you're in the bustling lights of Las Vegas or the quieter charm of Reno, Nevada's MSN programs are designed to be accessible, affordable, and tailored to meet diverse healthcare needs. Explore below for an overview of the MSN options throughout the Silver State.

2026 Best Online MSN Programs in Nevada

Looking for the best online MSN programs in Nevada? At registerednursing.org, we rank these programs to help you find the right fit for your career goals. Online programs offer flexibility, allowing you to balance studies with work and life. This is especially important for busy nurses seeking advanced degrees. You can learn from anywhere through remote options. Our rankings consider key factors to guide your decision. For details on how we create these rankings, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

University of Nevada-Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV - Public 4-Year - unlv.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science - Nursing (Nursing Education)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers an online MSN with a Nursing Education concentration, preparing nurses to become educators through evidence-based practice and leadership. This hybrid program includes mandatory campus intensives and flexible part-time or full-time options, meeting AACN standards. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Online MSN with Nursing Education track
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • Mandatory campus orientation sessions
  • Multiple specialization tracks available
  • Meets AACN Master's Education Essentials

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Family Nurse Practitioner MSN at UNLV trains nurses to provide comprehensive primary care across diverse settings through advanced clinical skills. This online hybrid program includes 7 mandatory campus visits and offers flexible enrollment, with clinical placements guaranteed in Nevada. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Online MSN program available
  • Flexible part-time/full-time options
  • 7 mandatory campus visits
  • Advanced practice nurse preparation
  • Comprehensive clinical skills training
  • Meets AACN Master's Education Essentials
  • Clinical placements in Nevada guaranteed
  • Multiple track options available

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UNLV's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN prepares advanced practice nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions, including medication prescription. This online hybrid program emphasizes cultural sensitivity and ethical decision-making with mandatory campus skills sessions. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Hybrid online/on-campus format
  • Psychiatric Mental Health focus
  • Advanced practice nursing preparation
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Mandatory campus skills sessions

Master's - Master of Science - Direct Entry Generalist

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Direct Entry Generalist MSN at UNLV provides a fast track to RN licensure for career changers with a bachelor's degree in another field. This online hybrid program prepares students for the NCLEX exam and entry-level nursing practice at the master's level. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Fast track to RN licensure.
  • For non-traditional students.
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Hybrid program format.
  • Prepares for NCLEX exam.
  • Master's level education.
  • Entry-level nursing practice.
  • Advanced skills focus.
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

Roseman University of Health Sciences

Henderson, NV - Private 4-year - roseman.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Roseman University of Health Sciences offers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner program designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This 23-month asynchronous program allows students to maintain full-time employment while completing clinical hours locally. The curriculum focuses on comprehensive family healthcare across all ages, emphasizing evidence-based research and using a unique Six-Point Mastery Learning Model. The program prepares graduates for APRN certification with skills in diagnosis, treatment, prescribing, and preventive care. No entrance exam is required for admission to this online program.

  • 23-month full-time program
  • Asynchronous online format
  • Designed for BSN nurses
  • Prepares for APRN certification
  • Clinical hours in local area
  • Six-Point Mastery Learning Model
  • Comprehensive family healthcare focus
  • Potential full-time work
  • Start date January 2020
#3

Touro University Nevada

Henderson, NV - Private 4-year - tun.touro.edu

BSN to MSN - MSN-FNP Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Touro University Nevada's online MSN-FNP program provides a flexible pathway for RNs to advance their careers in family healthcare. This hybrid program combines comprehensive online coursework with three on-campus clinical intensives over 20 months, maintaining a 95% graduation rate. Students benefit from three annual start dates, CCNE accreditation, and practicum placement assistance while preparing for AANP/ANCC certification. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA and active RN license, with no entrance exam mentioned. The program's Jewish affiliation and military-friendly status offer additional support for diverse student populations.

  • 20-month MSN-FNP program
  • Mostly online coursework
  • 3 on-campus clinical intensives
  • 95% graduation rate
  • 3 start dates per year
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Practicum placement assistance
  • Prepare for AANP/ANCC certification
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Active RN license needed
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

RN to MSN Programs in Nevada

For working nurses in Nevada aiming to elevate their careers, an RN to MSN program is a perfect choice. These innovative bridge programs enable nurses with an active RN license and an ADN to pursue an MSN without first completing a traditional 4-year BSN. By leveraging their existing knowledge and skills, nurses can fast-track their education, earning their MSN in a shorter, more cost-effective timeframe—sometimes in as little as two years.

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

  • Nevada 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

Unfortunately, as of now, there are no RN to MSN programs located in Nevada. However, you can find them located in states nearby. California has many schools offering RN to MSN programs worth checking out, such as the University of San Francisco (USF) and West Coast University (WCU). Before applying, consider any licensure or certification you may need in your future career and the process for transferring these back to Nevada.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Nevada

If you’re unsure about enrolling in graduate school, concerns about tuition costs or time commitment are likely at the forefront. Fortunately, MSN programs in Nevada are among the most accessible options for advancing your nursing career. Many programs offer a balance of affordability and efficiency, making it easier for working nurses to achieve their goals. However, some options stand out as faster and more cost-effective than others. Below, explore key factors that influence the length and cost of MSN programs, along with examples of Nevada’s most affordable and quickest options.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

Most MSN programs in Nevada can be completed in under four years of full-time study, but it's possible to finish in as little as two years—or even sooner. Nurses looking to fast-track their education can take advantage of online options, summer courses, or programs designed for accelerated study. Below are a few examples of MSN programs in Nevada that offer a streamlined path to graduation.

SchoolEstimated LengthOnline Option?
Touro University (TUN)20 MonthsYes
Nevada State University (NSU)5 SemestersYes
University of Nevada2 YearsYes

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

In Nevada, finding affordable education can sometimes feel like a roll of the dice, but many MSN programs offer surprisingly reasonable tuition rates compared to other graduate programs. Nevada residents can further reduce costs by taking advantage of in-state tuition rates. Below are a few examples of cost-effective MSN programs available across the Silver State.

SchoolEstimated CostCredits
University of Nevada$15,000 – $20,00046
Touro University (TUN)$15,000 – $20,00046
Nevada State University (NSU)$8,000 – $20,00036

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

If you're looking to transition into nursing after earning a bachelor's degree in another field, Nevada offers an exciting pathway through Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs. These innovative programs allow you to skip the traditional BSN and enroll directly in an MSN program, combining foundational nursing education with advanced practice training. Typically completed in about four years, this route is faster and more cost-effective than the traditional BSN-to-MSN pathway, which can take six years or longer. Below are the common requirements for enrolling in a MENP program in Nevada.

  • 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, there is currently one MENP program offered in the state. You can find this program located at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLS).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

In addition to being efficient and cost-effective, Nevada provides various specialized MSN programs tailored to meet diverse career aspirations. These programs allow students to concentrate on specific areas of interest, whether it’s becoming a nurse practitioner, an educator, or pursuing roles in leadership or informatics. Specializing not only enhances career prospects but can also lead to higher salaries and increased autonomy in the nursing field. Below are a few examples of schools in Nevada that offer specialized MSN programs.

SchoolSpecialtyCredits
Touro University (TUN)Family Nurse Practitioner46
University of Nevada, Las VegasNurse Educator46
University of Nevada, RenoClinical Nurse Leader48

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation is essential to guarantee that a program meets rigorous quality standards. Accrediting organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) evaluate programs to ensure their curriculum, faculty, and outcomes equip students for advanced nursing roles, licensure, and certification. Accreditation bolsters a program’s credibility with employers and qualifies students for financial aid, giving them confidence in the value of their education in Nevada.

2026 List of MSN Programs in Nevada

Looking for more options? Take a look at the full list of Nevada MSN programs below:

MSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Henderson, NV

Roseman University of Health Sciences

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 23-month full-time program
    • Asynchronous online format
    • Designed for BSN nurses
    • Prepares for APRN certification
    • Clinical hours in local area
    • Six-Point Mastery Learning Model
    • Comprehensive family healthcare focus
    • Potential full-time work

Touro University Nevada

  • BSN to MSN - MSN-FNP Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 20-month MSN-FNP program
    • Mostly online coursework
    • 3 on-campus clinical intensives
    • 95% graduation rate
    • 3 start dates per year
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Practicum placement assistance
    • Prepare for AANP/ANCC certification

Las Vegas, NV

University of Nevada-Las Vegas

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science - Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online MSN with Nursing Education track
    • Part-time and full-time options
    • Mandatory campus orientation sessions
    • Multiple specialization tracks available
    • Meets AACN Master's Education Essentials
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online MSN program available
    • Flexible part-time/full-time options
    • 7 mandatory campus visits
    • Advanced practice nurse preparation
    • Comprehensive clinical skills training
    • Meets AACN Master's Education Essentials
    • Clinical placements in Nevada guaranteed
    • Multiple track options available
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/on-campus format
    • Psychiatric Mental Health focus
    • Advanced practice nursing preparation
    • Evidence-based curriculum
    • Mandatory campus skills sessions

Reno, NV

University of Nevada-Reno

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced primary care nursing
    • Adult and geriatric focus
    • Scientific inquiry emphasis
    • Autonomous practice preparation
    • Health promotion strategies
  • BSN to MSN - Clinical Nurse Leader

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares healthcare systems specialists.
    • Focuses on leadership in healthcare delivery.
    • Emphasizes evidence-based nursing services.
    • Integrates scientific findings from multiple fields.
    • Collaborates with professionals and communities.
    • Advocates for health and healthcare improvements.
    • Lays foundation for doctoral study.
    • Enhances nursing as a science.
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Primary care across lifespan
    • Autonomous clinical practice
    • Multiple healthcare settings
    • Scientific inquiry focus
    • Advanced practice opportunities
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website

    • Comprehensive pediatric acute care training
    • 44-46 total program units
    • Clinical practicum included
    • Certification exam preparation
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Two study plan options
    • Advanced health assessment courses
    • Interprofessional collaboration focus
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced mental health practice
    • Multi-setting care preparation
    • Psychotherapy and pharmacology skills
    • Rural healthcare focus
    • Diverse patient population care
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • Advanced nursing leadership skills
*U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024.