Best Online MSN Programs in North Carolina

Duke University's hybrid MSN in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares RNs to care for children from birth to age 25. The program blends online coursework with hands-on campus intensives, and features dual certification in pediatric behavioral and mental health—a rare integrated approach. Core studies cover acute and chronic illness management, health promotion, patient education, and disease prevention, with emphasis on health equity and pediatric advocacy. Clinical placements are available through a global network of over 2,000 facilities, allowing students to train near home. Graduates work in primary care clinics, community health centers, and school-based settings. Rolling admissions, merit scholarships, and the #1 ranked pediatric NP program status enhance accessibility. No GRE required. APRN job growth is projected at 38%.

• Rolling admissions
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Dual behavioral and mental health certification
• Distance-based with campus intensives
• Clinical placements via global network
• Focus on health equity and advocacy
• Simulation lab with emerging tech
• APRN job growth projected 38%
• Faculty are clinical leaders

Duke's MSN in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care offers a flexible hybrid curriculum with online classes and a minimum of 560 clinical hours, completed via 2,000+ global partner sites. Students master health equity, chronic disease management, preventive care, and interprofessional collaboration. Ranked #1 by U.S. News, the program supports working nurses through rolling admissions and holistic review. Graduates practice in community health centers, private practices, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Faculty bring real-world NP experience, and a VA partnership provides care for veterans. APRN employment is projected to grow 38% by 2032. This degree requires no GRE, and merit-based scholarships are available. The program director, Dr. Casey Brown, ensures clinical excellence.

• 42 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• 560 clinical hours
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Flexible distance-based online classes
• 2,000+ clinical partner sites worldwide
• Focus on health equity
• Holistic admissions review
• 38% projected job growth

For experienced acute care RNs, Duke University's hybrid MSN in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) delivers advanced training in assessing and managing physiologically unstable patients. The curriculum covers advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and evidence-based care, with a strong commitment to health equity and underserved populations. Students undertake clinical placements through a global network of 2,000+ partners, often near home, and prepare for roles in ICUs, emergency departments, hospitalist services, and critical care teams. The top-ranked program features simulation labs and faculty mentors with real-world expertise. Rolling admissions and merit scholarships apply. No GRE required. Work experience is a prerequisite, and APRN job growth is strong.

• Rolling admissions
• Work experience required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Global clinical network of 2,000 partners
• Hybrid online and on-campus intensives
• Advance health equity and social justice
• Prepares for ICU, ED, hospitalist careers
• Faculty with real-world NP experience
• Advanced simulation experiences

Duke University's #1 ranked Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program uses a hybrid model with synchronous and asynchronous online classes plus on-campus intensives. The trauma-informed curriculum covers psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, integrative care, tele-mental health, and health equity. Students gain hands-on experience through over 2,000 clinical partnerships across the nation. Graduates are prepared for independent practice in emergency, inpatient, outpatient, community, and federal settings. Expert faculty provide real-world insight. Rolling admissions and merit-based scholarships are available, and no GRE is required. This program supports career flexibility and positions graduates for immediate clinical practice.

• Rolling admissions
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Hybrid model with synchronous and asynchronous learning
• On-campus intensives for hands-on training
• Nationwide clinical network with 2,000+ partnerships
• Trauma-informed academic environment
• Careers in emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and community psychiatry
• Faculty with real-world clinical experience

Duke's hybrid MSN in Health Informatics prepares nurses to harness technology and data to improve patient outcomes. The program combines online coursework with two campus visits and includes a 224-hour practicum. Curriculum covers database design, clinical data analytics, and systems development, meeting national standards. Graduates pursue roles as nursing informatics specialists, data analysts, and leaders in health care technology. Ranked #5 by U.S. News in 2025, the program uses a holistic admissions approach and offers merit-based scholarships. No GRE is required. Led by Program Director Debbie Travers, this distance-based degree suits working professionals. Note: The program is not currently accepting applications, but interested nurses can contact the admissions team.

• Hybrid program with online courses.
• Two campus visits required.
• 224-hour clinical practicum included.
• Curriculum meets national standards.
• Covers database design and analytics.
• Prepares for nursing informatics roles.
• Holistic admissions strategy used.
• Tuition and fees information available.
• Financial aid options offered.
• Experienced faculty lead program.

• Rolling admissions
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Hybrid learning format
• Personalized mentorship
• Centering Group Facilitation Certification
• 2,000+ global clinical partners
• In-patient OB triage rotations
• Led by Dr. Kathryn Trotter

• Rolling admissions
• Work experience required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• #1 Best Acute Care NP Programs
• Distance-based online learning
• Worldwide clinical alumni network
• Clinical experiences in diverse settings
• Simulated and interactive curriculum

• 4 concentration options
• Complete in under three years
• Rolling admissions
• Synchronous online classes
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Clinical network of 2,000+ facilities
• High-fidelity simulation experiences
• Most coursework is online
• Course-focused on-campus intensives

• Distance-based hybrid learning
• Extensive global clinical network
• #5 Master's Nursing Program
• 100% board exam pass rate
• Requires 2 years NICU experience
• Advanced neonatal care curriculum
• Expert faculty mentorship
• High employment potential

East Carolina University's online-friendly Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program is a hybrid format, blending distance coursework with required on-campus intensives. This CCNE-accredited track prepares nurses for advanced mental health practice across the lifespan, incorporating 550 clinical supervision hours arranged locally. Graduates become eligible for ANCC certification, directly addressing North Carolina's critical provider shortages. Admission is competitive, with a summer start, limited class size, and a preference for state residents with mental health experience. Applicants must submit essays, two professional references, and participate in interviews. A post-master's certificate option is available for those seeking advanced specialization.

• MSN degree program
• Psychiatric-Mental Health NP concentration
• Hybrid online/on-campus format
• 550 clinical supervision hours
• ANCC certification eligible
• CCNE accredited program
• Post-Masters certificate option
• On-campus intensives required
• Clinical experiences arranged locally
• Summer admission cycle

East Carolina University offers a 100% online dual MSN/MBA with a Health Systems Leadership concentration, designed for experienced nurses. This 64-semester hour program integrates nursing theory, population health, financial management, and strategic planning from both the College of Nursing and the Graduate School of Business. No GRE or MAT is required for admission; instead, applicants need a BSN with a 2.7 GPA, an RN license, and at least five years of nursing experience. The curriculum includes a leadership practicum and advanced synthesis course, with a part-time option and spring start. Ideal for graduate nurses seeking executive leadership roles.

• 64-semester hour program
• 100% online delivery
• Health Systems Leadership concentration
• MSN/MBA dual degree
• Requires BSN degree
• Minimum 2.7 GPA required
• No GRE or MAT required
• 5 years nursing experience needed
• RN license required
• North Carolina or compact state license

East Carolina University's Nurse-Midwifery MSN program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. Accredited by ACME and currently undergoing reaccreditation, this track prepares nurses for the American Midwifery Certification Board exam and the CNM designation. Graduates earn an MSN or Post-Master's Certificate, with curricula designed for diverse clinical settings. Students benefit from a dedicated midwifery scholarship endowment, preceptor training, and comprehensive student resources. Virtual informational sessions and faculty contacts, including Dr. Rebecca Bagley, are available. The program emphasizes safe, competent midwifery practice while supporting career advancement and diverse student success.

• MSN Nurse-Midwifery concentration
• Hybrid program format
• Prepares for AMCB certification
• Eligible for CNM title
• MSN degree or Post-Masters Certificate
• Clinical experience required
• Accredited by ACME
• Virtual informational sessions available
• Contact Dr. Rebecca Bagley
• Program reaccreditation in progress

East Carolina University's Master of Science in Nursing with a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program offering online content courses with clinical experiences in your local area. Ranked #1 nationally in 2025 for NNP education, this 42-semester-hour track offers full-time and part-time study options. Students develop expertise in caring for high-risk infants, with a focus on culturally sensitive practice and complex medical/pharmacological management. Graduates are eligible for NCC certification, and a post-master's certificate is available. Flexible pacing and strong national recognition make this program a top choice for advancing neonatal nursing careers.

• Online content courses
• 42 semester hours required
• Full-time and part-time options
• Clinical experiences in local area
• Prepares for NCC certification exam
• Post-Master's Certificate available

East Carolina University's Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist MSN concentration combines online coursework with clinical practice in a hybrid format. This CCNE-accredited track prepares nurses to improve patient outcomes, lead evidence-based change, and transform care delivery across systems. Graduates are eligible for AGCNS-BC or ACCNS national certification. No GRE or MAT is required for admission. Students can choose full-time (about 2 years) or part-time (about 3.5 years) study, with a pathway to the Doctor of Nursing Practice. Under the guidance of Concentration Director Chelsea Passwater, the curriculum integrates core, clinical core, and specialty courses meeting national CNS standards.

• No entrance exam required
• 2-Year program
• Full-time and part-time options
• Prepares for AGCNS-BC
• Eligible for CNS national certification
• Expert faculty including concentration director
• Pathway to Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Curriculum: core, clinical core, and specialty courses

UNC Charlotte's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration is a 100% online, CCNE-accredited program requiring 39 credit hours and no entrance exam. Designed for RNs pursuing teaching roles, it includes coursework in curriculum development, instructional technology, and advanced clinical topics, plus 360 combined clinical and teaching practicum hours. The program meets North Carolina Board of Nursing requirements and admits students in spring, summer, and fall. A preferred 3.0 GPA and three recommendation letters are needed. Graduates are eligible for NLN certification and can pursue faculty positions at educational and healthcare institutions.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• No entrance exam required
• $309 per credit
• 39 Credit Hours program
• 39 total credit hours
• 13 total courses
• Apply by 2026-08-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts spring/summer/fall
• Asynchronous online classes

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte delivers a 100% online MSN in Nurse Administration, a 36-credit program for RNs seeking leadership roles. With part-time completion in 27 months, the curriculum covers health informatics, leadership, and finance, and includes 360 clinical hours. Tuition is $309.59 per credit for NC residents and $1,186.59 for non-residents, plus a $66.67 college fee. Applicants need RN licensure, a bachelor's degree, and a preferred 3.0 GPA; one year of nursing practice and a statistics course are recommended. Admission occurs in spring, summer, and fall. Graduates are prepared for roles like Nurse Executive or Nurse Manager.

• 100% online delivery
• 36 credit hours required
• 27-month part-time completion
• Admission in spring, summer, fall
• Requires RN licensure
• 3.0 GPA preferred
• One year nursing practice recommended
• 360 clinical hours required
• Specialty courses alternate years
• Courses follow semester timeframe

UNC Charlotte's online MSN in Community/Public Health Nursing is a CCNE-accredited, 38-credit program with no GRE requirement. It offers 100% online coursework with spring, summer, and fall admission, and costs $309.59 per credit for NC residents. The curriculum includes community assessments, health interventions, and leadership development, along with 360 clinical hours. Applicants must hold RN licensure, a bachelor's degree, and a 3.0 GPA, and complete a statistics course and provide three recommendations. Graduates work in public health departments, community organizations, and school systems, focusing on improving population health.

• 38 credit hours
• 100% online delivery
• Spring, summer, fall admission
• NC resident: $309.59/credit
• Non-resident: $1,186.59/credit
• RN licensure required
• Bachelor's degree required
• 3.0 GPA preferred
• Statistics course prerequisite
• Three recommendation letters

Offered by UNC Charlotte, this online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Community/Public Health Nursing prepares nurses for leadership in assessing communities and developing culturally responsive services. The distance education program includes hands-on clinical experiences and is designed for working professionals. Students learn from nationally recognized faculty in a state-of-the-art simulation environment, with an emphasis on evidence-based care. The program admits applicants every semester and offers financial aid. Partnerships with local hospitals and clinics enhance practical learning. Coursework focuses on high-risk groups, healthcare delivery, and policy, equipping graduates to contribute to nursing research and improve population health outcomes.

• Online distance education program.
• Community/Public Health Nursing concentration.
• Prepares for leadership roles.
• Hands-on clinical experiences included.
• Flexible application deadlines each semester.
• Part of UNC Charlotte School of Nursing.
• Focus on assessing communities and populations.
• Develops culturally sensitive nursing services.
• Advanced nursing knowledge and skills.
• State-of-the-art simulation environment.

UNC Pembroke's MSN with a Clinical Nurse Leader specialization is delivered in a hybrid format, blending online coursework with on-campus sessions. This 39-semester-hour program prepares nurses for leadership roles, emphasizing evidence-based practice and health outcomes management. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a current North Carolina nursing license, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and competitive GRE or MAT scores (waived for GPAs of 3.5 or higher). Additional requirements include a personal statement, resume, three letters of recommendation, health exam, BCLS certification, liability insurance, health insurance, and a criminal history check. Graduates are eligible for CNL certification. The program is CCNE-accredited and offers full- and part-time options, with an application deadline of May 15.

• Master of Science in Nursing degree.
• Clinical Nurse Leader specialization.
• Hybrid delivery format.
• 39 semester hours required.
• BSN from accredited program needed.
• Current NC nursing license required.
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
• GRE or MAT scores required.
• GRE waived for GPA 3.5+.
• Personal statement required.

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke's MSN in Nursing Education is a hybrid program combining online learning with face-to-face classes. This 39-credit-hour curriculum includes core courses and specialized training in curriculum design, clinical teaching, and educational technology. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, a valid nursing license, and one year of nursing experience. A $55 application fee, personal statement, and three recommendation letters are also required. Practicum courses and a capstone provide hands-on teaching experience. Graduates are prepared to become nurse educators in academic or clinical settings. The program is CCNE-accredited and offers full- or part-time study, with no standardized entrance exam required.

• Hybrid program format.
• 39 credit hours required.
• BSN admission requirement.
• 3.0 minimum GPA.
• Valid nursing license needed.
• One year nursing experience.
• $55 application fee.
• Focus on nursing education.
• Curriculum design courses.
• Clinical teaching strategies.

UNC Pembroke's MSN with a Clinical Nurse Leader concentration is structured as a hybrid program, mixing online coursework with face-to-face sessions. Requiring 39 credit hours, the curriculum covers advanced health assessment, evidence-based practice, leadership, and management, with a focus on rural and diverse populations. Applicants must hold a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and a current nursing license; practical experiences are integrated throughout. The program emphasizes clinical decision-making and interprofessional collaboration to improve patient outcomes. Accredited by CCNE, it offers both full- and part-time enrollment, allowing flexibility for working nurses. No entrance exam is specified for admission.

• Hybrid online and campus format.
• 39 credit hours required.
• BSN and nursing license needed.
• 3.0 minimum GPA for admission.
• Focus on Clinical Nurse Leader role.
• Includes practicum experiences.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Full-time and part-time options.
• Advanced health assessment courses.
• Evidence-based practice training.

The MSN in Rural Case Manager at UNC Pembroke is a hybrid program, blending online learning with in-person sessions. This 39-credit-hour degree focuses on rural health theory, policy, and management, preparing nurses for leadership in underserved communities. Coursework includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice. Applicants need a BSN from an accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, a current RN license, and nursing experience; a $55 application fee is required. The program also covers interprofessional collaboration and leadership development. Financial aid is available, and the program is CCNE-accredited. It is designed for working nurses seeking to advance in rural healthcare.

• Hybrid program format.
• 39 credit hours required.
• Rural Case Manager concentration.
• BSN required for admission.
• 3.0 minimum GPA.
• Current RN license needed.
• Nursing experience recommended.
• $55 application fee.
• Focus on rural health.
• Advanced pathophysiology course.

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke offers a 100% online MSN with a Clinical Prevention & Population Health concentration. Designed for working BSN-prepared registered nurses, this flexible program can be completed in as little as 24 months, with part-time options extending to five years. The curriculum focuses on improving health outcomes for rural populations and prepares graduates for case management and leadership positions. Graduates are eligible for case management certification. Admission requires a current North Carolina nursing license, a BSN, a preferred 3.0 GPA, one year of nursing experience, and a nursing research course prerequisite. In-person practicums are included, and the program is offered through the McKenzie-Elliott School of Nursing.

• 100% online coursework.
• Clinical Prevention & Population Health concentration.
• Flexible 24-month completion.
• Part-time options up to 5 years.
• Designed for working registered nurses.
• Requires BSN degree.
• Current NC nursing license needed.
• 3.0 GPA preferred.
• One year nursing experience required.
• Nursing Research course prerequisite.

UNC Chapel Hill offers a top-ranked online MSN in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. This distance-based program prepares RNs to deliver primary care from adolescence through end of life, blending research, professional, and clinical cores with five clinical courses emphasizing advanced diagnostic reasoning. An optional oncology focus allows specialization. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANP certification and can pursue roles in diverse healthcare settings. The program features a dedicated director, flexible online learning, and teaching opportunities to offset costs. Ranked #6 for MSN, it combines robust clinical preparation with academic excellence.

• Prepares for ANCC or AANP
• Distance-based online program
• Oncology focus available
• Eligible for ANCC/AANP certification
• Program Director: Dr. Tracy Vernon-Platt
• Five clinical courses
• Emphasizes diagnostic reasoning
• Care from adolescence through end of life

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill delivers a top-ranked online MSN with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty. This distance-based program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan, covering psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, individual and group therapy, and medication management. The curriculum integrates cultural sensitivity and evidence-based practice, with clinical experiences completed in local communities. Ranked 4th nationally by U.S. News, the program trains students in complex illness management, prescriptive authority, and collaborative care. Graduates are eligible for board certification and ready for advanced practice roles in mental health settings.

• Online distance-based format
• MSN degree option available
• Prepares for board certification
• Lifespan psychiatric care focus
• Cultural sensitivity emphasis
• Clinicals in local communities
• Psychopharmacology curriculum
• Individual and group therapy training
• Evidence-based practice framework
• Psychiatric assessment training

UNC Chapel Hill's online MSN in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner includes an optional Oncology focus. This top-ranked, distance-based program serves patients aged 13 and older, integrating five clinical courses, diagnostic reasoning, and management of common and complex health issues. The oncology option adds specialized coursework and clinical hours, preparing graduates for cancer care settings. The program emphasizes evidence-based, collaborative, and reflective practice, with a dedicated program director. Eligible for ANCC/AANP certification upon completion, it offers financial aid and is designed for working professionals. Admissions require a BSN and relevant experience, with flexible online learning.

• Distance-based online format.
• Oncology focus available.
• Cares for ages 13+.
• Includes five clinical courses.
• Eligible for certification exams.
• Affordable with financial aid.
• BSN required for admission.
• Prepares for advanced practice.
• Focus on evidence-based care.
• Includes diagnostic reasoning course.

Gardner-Webb University offers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nursing Education. This 30-credit program features 8-week courses and can be completed in one year with start dates in fall or spring. The curriculum includes a capstone project, 45 clinical hours, and local practicum experiences. No entrance exam (GRE) is required, and admission is test-optional. The program emphasizes expert faculty with healthcare backgrounds, seamless admission for BSN graduates, and an accelerated option. Financial aid, scholarships, and military benefits are available, along with county-specific tuition support. The $650 per credit tuition and zero application fee make it accessible for working nurses seeking educator roles in academic and healthcare settings.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Test optional
• $650 per credit
• 1-Year program
• Complete in as few as 18 months
• 30 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year

The dual MSN/MBA at Gardner-Webb University combines nursing leadership with business acumen in a fully online format. This 54-credit program integrates 24 nursing credits and 30 business credits, covering finance, operations, marketing, and management. Designed for healthcare management roles, the curriculum enhances critical thinking and managerial skills. Students can begin in August or January through the Godbold College of Business. The program does not specify an entrance exam requirement. Flexible start options and an accredited graduate curriculum prepare nurses for leadership positions. Costs vary by credit hour and residency status. This interdisciplinary degree equips graduates to bridge clinical expertise and administrative decision-making in complex healthcare environments.

• 54 credit hour program.
• 24 nursing course credits.
• 30 business course credits.
• Online program format.
• Start dates in August or January.
• Combines MSN and MBA degrees.
• Focuses on healthcare settings.
• Develops managerial skills.
• Enhances critical thinking abilities.
• Integrates business concepts.

Gardner-Webb's RN to MSN program offers working registered nurses a streamlined online path to advanced practice. Students progress through the RN to BSN curriculum while earning six graduate credits that apply to both degrees, with two MSN courses replacing BSN requirements. After completing the BSN, students finish the MSN in 30 additional credit hours. The 8-week course terms are tailored for adult learners, with one-on-one faculty guidance. Grounded in Christian values, the curriculum emphasizes holistic healthcare, therapeutic relationships, and clinical competence. No entrance exam requirement is stated. Graduates pursue careers in hospitals, schools, and rehab centers, with pathways to DNP, FNP, or PMHNP programs. This flexible, faith-based route supports leadership development.

• 30 total credit hours
• Financial aid available
• Six graduate credits count toward BSN
• MSN courses substitute for BSN courses
• Employment in hospitals, medical centers, schools
• Pathways to DNP, FNP, or PMHNP
• Tailored for adult, working students
• Faith-based holistic healthcare curriculum
• One-on-one professor guidance
• Eight-week online course terms

Winston-Salem State University's fully online Master of Science in Nursing with an Advanced Nurse Educator (ANE) concentration equips registered nurses to shape the next generation of nursing professionals. The 39-credit curriculum, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, combines coursework with 240 clinical hours that can be completed locally. Full-time students graduate in two years; part-time in three. No GRE or MAT is required, and the program prepares graduates for the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator exam. Financial aid and the Nurse Faculty Loan Program help make the degree accessible. As the #1 HBCU Nursing School, WSSU offers personalized faculty support and virtual info sessions.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Exams: GRE, MAT
• Test optional
• 2-Year program
• 39 total credit hours
• Apply by 2025-02-15
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall

Winston-Salem State University's Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is designed for nurses seeking advanced primary care roles. The CCNE-accredited program blends online learning with hands-on practicum experiences, requiring 51 credit hours and 672 clinical hours. Students can complete the degree in two years of full-time study or three years part-time. No GRE or MAT is required, and financial aid is available through FAFSA; the Nurse Faculty Loan Program offers additional support. The curriculum emphasizes care for underserved populations and prepares graduates to sit for the AANP or ANCC Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams. Applications are due February 15 for early admission, with clinicals often arranged locally.

• Fully online program
• 51 credit hours required
• 672 practicum hours
• Two-year full-time completion
• Three-year part-time option
• No GRE or MAT requirement
• Financial aid available
• Nurse Faculty Loan Program
• Eligible for AANP/ANCC certification
• Fall enrollment only

Winston-Salem State University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration that prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care across diverse healthcare environments. The program, accredited by CCNE, stands out for its deep commitment to underserved and multicultural communities—reflecting WSSU's distinction as the #1 HBCU nursing school. Coursework spans 51 credit hours, with 672 practicum hours ensuring robust clinical readiness. Full-time learners finish in two years; part-time learners in three. Graduates are eligible for the AANP or ANCC national certification exams. The program does not require the GRE or MAT, and FAFSA financial aid plus the Nurse Faculty Loan Program help fund your education. Clinical placements can be completed locally, and a standalone FNP certificate is also available.

• CCNE accredited
• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• 2-Year program
• 51 total credit hours
• Apply by 2025-04-30
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall
• 672 clinical hours
• Financial aid available

Lenoir-Rhyne University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nursing Education concentration is a 39-credit program designed for working registered nurses. The curriculum emphasizes teaching strategies, curriculum development, and advanced nursing practice, preparing graduates for educator roles in academic and clinical settings. Offered fully online, the program provides both full-time and part-time tracks to accommodate busy schedules. It includes a capstone experience and offers a second concentration option for added flexibility. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), this MSN ensures a quality education aligned with national standards. The program is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church and is military-friendly.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2 concentration options
• 39 total credit hours
• Full-time and part-time options
• Capstone required
• Designed for working adult students
• Accredited by CCNE
• Offered fully online

Lenoir-Rhyne University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nursing Administration concentration, tailored for RNs seeking leadership roles. This 33-credit program covers nursing theories, research, evidence-based practice, health policy, and ethics, with specialized courses in nursing informatics and leadership. Students can choose electives and complete a practicum and capstone to apply skills in real-world settings. The flexible design supports part-time or full-time study for working professionals. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program requires a bachelor's degree in nursing and current RN licensure. Tuition varies, and financial aid is available for those who qualify.

• Online program delivery.
• Nursing Administration concentration.
• 33 credit hours total.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Flexible part-time or full-time.
• Designed for working adults.
• Includes nursing informatics course.
• Advanced nursing leadership focus.
• Elective options available.
• Practicum and capstone experience.

Western Carolina University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, preparing registered nurses for advanced practice across the lifespan. The curriculum covers pathophysiology, pharmacology, and primary care for women, children, adults, and geriatrics, integrating health promotion and disease prevention. Students complete 51-52 credit hours and 640 clinical hours, with optional thesis or project tracks. A written comprehensive exam is required. Admission requires a BSN, a minimum 2.9 GPA, GRE or MAT scores, three references, and prior clinical experience. Graduates are eligible for FNP certification and careers in primary care settings. The program is delivered fully online and designed for working nurses seeking career advancement.

• 2-Year program
• Complete in two-year program
• 2.9 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• 640 clinical hours
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Thesis or capstone option
• BSN required for admission
• GRE or MAT scores recommended

The University of North Carolina Wilmington delivers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Nurse Educator concentration, crafted for working professionals aiming to teach in academic or clinical settings. This 36-credit program can be completed in as few as 12 months of full-time asynchronous study, eliminating the need for campus visits. Students must uphold a 3.0 GPA and finish with a faculty-guided evidence-based education project as a capstone. The curriculum accepts up to nine transfer credits and permits a five-year completion window. A newly revamped curriculum launches in Fall 2026, emphasizing healthcare curriculum design, leadership, and evidence integration. Graduates are equipped for roles as nurse educators in hospitals, universities, or health education programs, making this a versatile pathway for advancing nursing education careers.

• 12-Month program
• 36 total credit hours
• Full-time enrollment
• Asynchronous online classes
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 45 clinical hours
• Capstone required
• Fully online program
• Perfect for working professionals
• Prepares for higher education or clinical settings