Best Master’s of Science (MSN) in Public Health Nursing – 2025

Last Updated On Mar 18, 2025

RegisteredNursing.org Staff

8 Min Read

2025 Best MSN in Public Health Nursing

Looking for the best MSN in Public Health Nursing? RegisteredNursing.org has you covered. We rank programs to help you find the right fit. Our list considers quality, affordability, and outcomes. Start your journey toward making a difference in public health today. Check out our detailed rankings to make an informed choice. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

Worcester State University

Worcester, MA - Public 4-Year - worcester.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Public and Population Health

Concentration: Global and Cross-Cultural Health, Health Systems Transformation - Online Learning - Visit Website

Worcester State University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing in Public and Population Health, focusing on Global and Cross-Cultural Health and Health Systems Transformation. This program is designed for nurses aiming to lead in community health initiatives, providing them with the skills to tackle societal health challenges through evidence-based practices. With a curriculum that emphasizes leadership, health equity, and sustainable solutions, graduates are well-prepared for advanced roles and further studies. Highlights include a 100% online format, specialized concentrations, and eligibility for advanced nursing certification.

100% Online Program
Two Specialized Concentrations
Advanced Nursing Certification Eligible
Nationally Recognized Curriculum
Experienced Faculty Experts
Practicum Internship Included
Evidence-Based Curriculum

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Public and Population Health

Concentration: Health Systems Transformation - Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Master of Science in Nursing - Public and Population Health at Worcester State University, with a concentration in Health Systems Transformation, prepares nurses to revolutionize healthcare through community-focused strategies. This program arms professionals with the necessary skills to address population health issues, create evidence-based interventions, and drive sustainable change. Specializing in Health Systems Transformation, it covers interdisciplinary research, leadership, and care for vulnerable populations, offering a pathway to national certifications and advanced nursing leadership roles.

100% Online Master's Program
Health Systems Transformation Focus
Advanced Nursing Leadership Preparation
Nationally Recognized Curriculum
Eligible for Public Health Certifications
Practicum Internship Experience
Evidence-Based Decision Making
Multidisciplinary Networking Opportunities
Grant Writing and Program Planning
Global Health Perspectives

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Public and Population Health

Concentration: Global and Cross-Cultural Health - Online Learning - Visit Website

Worcester State University's online Master of Science in Nursing in Public and Population Health, concentrating on Global and Cross-Cultural Health, is tailored for nurses looking to make a significant impact on community health. This program equips students with advanced skills in evidence-based practice, policy analysis, and health interventions, preparing them to address complex health challenges. With a focus on global health perspectives, the curriculum adheres to AACN standards and opens doors to national certifications in public health and executive nursing practice.

Online Master's in Nursing
Global Health Concentration
Advanced Community Leadership
Evidence-Based Practice Focus
National Certification Eligibility
Interdisciplinary Research Approach
Practicum Internship Experience
Comprehensive 36-Credit Program

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University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA - Public 4-Year - umass.edu

Master's - Master of Science Public Health Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Massachusetts-Amherst offers a distinguished Master of Science in Public Health Nursing, designed for nurses aiming to make a significant impact in community health. This online program, ranked #12 by U.S. News, focuses on equipping students with the skills to address health disparities, particularly among underserved populations. The curriculum blends advanced clinical training with population health strategies, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various public health settings. Admission prerequisites include an accredited nursing degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and an active RN license. The program stands out for its emphasis on practical experience through community health practicums.

Online graduate nursing program
Focus on underserved populations
Leadership in public health nursing
Practicum in community health
3.0 GPA admission requirement
Current nursing license needed

Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City, OK - Private 4-year - okcu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Community-Based Public Health - Online Learning - Visit Website

Oklahoma City University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Community-Based Public Health concentration is designed for nurses seeking to lead in public health sectors. This 21-credit program equips students with the necessary skills in leadership, epidemiology, and healthcare policy, focusing on community health needs, health promotion, and disease prevention. It emphasizes evidence-based practices and culturally sensitive interventions to prepare graduates for impactful roles in public health nursing. Admission requires a nursing degree and relevant experience. Accredited by ACEN, the program offers financial aid and is perfect for those aiming to make a difference in community health outcomes.

21-credit specialization.
Online program format.
Focus on community health.
Leadership and management skills.
Epidemiology and data management.
Healthcare policy and ethics.
Financial aid available.
Accredited by ACEN.
Prepares for public health leadership.
Culturally sensitive interventions.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC - Public 4-Year - charlotte.edu

Master's - Community/Public Health Nursing, M.S.N.

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on Community/Public Health Nursing, designed for nurses aiming to lead in advanced healthcare settings. This program emphasizes community health assessment, intervention strategies, and collaborative care, preparing graduates for impactful roles in public health. Spanning 38 credit hours, it includes 360 clinical hours to ensure hands-on experience. Tailored for working professionals, the program features flexible online coursework with tuition rates between $288.82 and $1,098.21 per credit. Applicants must hold an RN license, a baccalaureate degree, and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, alongside submitting professional recommendations.

100% Online Delivery
38 Total Credit Hours
360 Clinical Hours Required
Multiple Admission Semesters
Requires Unrestricted RN License
Minimum 3.0 GPA Preferred
Comprehensive Career Opportunities
Quad Council Competency Alignment

University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

North Dartmouth, MA - Public 4-Year - umassd.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Global Public Health - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Global Public Health, designed for healthcare professionals aiming to make a significant impact on population health. This online program stands out for its focus on epidemiology, healthcare systems, and global health perspectives, preparing nurses to tackle public health challenges with advanced research and leadership skills. The curriculum is structured to provide a deep understanding of global health issues, with a practicum that offers real-world experience. The program's flexibility allows students to pursue their studies without pausing their careers, making it an ideal choice for working professionals. Highlights include a comprehensive 3-year curriculum, asynchronous course delivery, and a strong emphasis on developing healthcare leaders.

Online graduate nursing program
Global Public Health concentration
3-year comprehensive curriculum
Advanced research skills focus
Healthcare leadership development
Practicum in global health nursing
Asynchronous course delivery

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu

Master's - Public Health Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas's hybrid MSN in Public Health Nursing equips students with the expertise to tackle complex public health issues through a blend of online and in-person learning. This 39-credit program delves into epidemiology, health promotion, and disease prevention, preparing nurses to lead in community health settings. With a curriculum that includes research and practicum experiences, graduates are ready to implement evidence-based interventions and analyze health trends to improve population outcomes. The program stands out for its focus on advanced nursing practice and strategic community health interventions, making it a top choice for aspiring public health nursing leaders.

39 credit hour program
Community health intervention focus
Advanced nursing practice skills
Public health nursing specialty
Epidemiology and health promotion
Research and practicum components

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI - Public 4-Year - ric.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Population/Public Health Nursing - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rhode Island College offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Population/Public Health Nursing, designed for RNs aiming to specialize in community and public health. This hybrid program blends online coursework with practical experiences, focusing on population health strategies, disease prevention, and health promotion. Accredited by the CCNE, it stands out for its affordability, especially for Rhode Island residents eligible for the Hope Scholarship. Graduates are equipped to tackle public health challenges, with a curriculum that emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership in healthcare settings. The program's flexibility and focus on public health make it a standout choice for nurses seeking to impact community wellness.

Hybrid learning format
Three specialty concentrations
CCNE accredited program
High NCLEX pass rates
Two-year program length
Hope Scholarship available

University of Arkansas at Monticello

Monticello, AR - Public 4-Year - uamont.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Public Health - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Arkansas at Monticello presents an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Public Health concentration, tailored for RNs aiming to elevate their careers in public health nursing. This 37-credit hour program blends flexibility with rigor, covering essential topics like epidemiology, health policy, and community health strategies. Ideal for nurses with varying educational backgrounds, it offers pathways for diploma, associate's, or bachelor's degree holders. Graduates emerge ready to lead in public health settings, with the program's NLN CNEA accreditation ensuring quality education. Requires GRE.

Fully online MSN program
37 credit hour curriculum
Multiple entry tracks available
RN to MSN pathway option
Multiple career advancement opportunities
Public health nursing focus
Flexible part-time/full-time options
NLN CNEA accredited program
2.75 minimum GPA requirement
Unencumbered RN license needed

*Source: U.S. DOE National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 collection.

Which MSN in Public Health Nursing Program is Right for Me?

Choosing from a number of MSN in Public Health Nursing programs can be overwhelming. How can you know which program is the right fit for you? In order to make your decision simpler, here are a few elements to consider when researching schools:

Program Accreditation: The first thing to check is whether or not a school's program is accredited by a third-party organization such as Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). An accredited program has been reviewed according to a rigorous set of quality standards and scored high enough to be endorsed by the accrediting organization. For students, this means you can rest assured your nursing program will adequately prepare you for the next step in your career. A master's degree is a significant investment in your education, so it's smart to make sure you're investing in a high-quality education.
Time Commitment: Most MSN degrees take between 2 and 3 years to complete. However, some schools offer accelerated programs in which the coursework can be completed in closer to one year. Completion time can vary based on whether a student is studying on a full- or part-time basis, or if the student is taking online classes that are self-paced (meaning they can be completed as quickly or as slowly as the student wishes).
Program Cost: The cost for an MSN in Public Health Nursing program varies from school to school based on a number of factors including geographic location, type of school, program format (online vs. classroom) as well as a student's residency status. When researching schools, be sure to factor in the cost of materials, mandatory university and course fees, campus housing, and/or cost the commuting in addition to the tuition cost for a complete picture of the program cost.
On-Campus vs. Online: Many MSN students plan to complete their degree while continuing to work, and these nurses may be interested in the flexibility of an online degree program. MSN programs can be found in these "distance learning" formats that allow students to complete coursework whenever it is convenient, as well as in traditional classroom formats and a hybrid format that combines online coursework with on-campus classroom time.
Sample Coursework: When researching schools, it's a good idea to review the required courses for the public health MSN program. Typical coursework for a public health nursing MSN program includes advanced nursing research, epidemiology, public health program development, and evaluation and biostatistics. All MSN programs also include clinical practice hours that are completed in the field.

You may also consider a Dual MSN/MPH degree program.

Advantages of Online MSN in Public Health Nursing Programs

If you are like the many MSN students who plan to continue working while you take classes or if you have other family and personal obligations that limit your availability for studying an online program may be the right fit for you. Distance learning programs offer students the unmatched flexibility to complete their coursework when it is convenient and from wherever they live. Many schools also offer self-paced learning that allows students to complete their degrees and begin working in less time than traditional classroom programs.

Another advantage of online learning is accessibility. Thanks to fully online programs, students have access to a wider range of schools and program options than what is close to their homes or jobs. Additionally, in some cases, online programs are more cost-effective than on-campus programs. While tuition rates vary, online students do not have to factor in commuting costs, campus housing, or worry about traffic patterns and parking costs.

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Program Curriculum

The coursework for an MSN in public health nursing program prepares nurses for careers educating the public on health topics, developing effective public health programs, and researching the spread and prevention of diseases. Typical topics covered include epidemiology, advanced research topics, ethical issues, public health program development, and health policy and advocacy.

As one example of an MSN in public health nursing curriculum, the following classes are included in Grand Canyon University's online MSN in Public Health Nursing program:

Introduction to Advanced Nursing
Organizational Leadership and Informatics
Research and Population Health Management
Evidence-Based Practice Project
Foundations of Public Health Nursing
Principles of Epidemiology
Application & Interpretation of Public Health Data
Population-Based Interventions
International Principles in Community Health
Public Health Nursing Practicum

What Are the Tuition & Costs for an MSN in Public Health Nursing Program?

A master's degree is a significant investment in your future career prospects as a nurse. An MSN can open the door to a wider range of jobs and lead to higher salaries. The cost of a program can be a deciding factor in whether or not a nurse can earn an advanced degree. The total cost of a public health nursing MSN program varies depending on the school's geographic location, the school’s reputation, program format, and other factors. To give an example of program cost, the cost of tuition and fees at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte's online MSN in Community/Public Health program is $280.34 per credit hour for North Carolina residents.

Many schools, including those with online programs, offer financial aid for students who require assistance paying for their degrees, so be sure to check with your school of choice for any financial aid options that you might qualify for.

What Are the Career Options for Nurses with an MSN in Public Health Nursing?

Graduates of an MSN in public health nursing program are prepared for leadership positions in public health program development and evaluation, public health education, and health policy and advocacy. They may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including public health departments, community organizations, school districts, home health organizations, and hospitals and wellness centers. These nurses have developed the skills needed to:

Improve patient quality of life for various populations by providing patient care and health education services
Develop, implement, and evaluate public health programs
Hire, train, and oversee public health nurses and staff
Conduct public health research projects and use the results to improve patient outcomes
Advocate for public health policy improvements

Among the career titles these nurses may hold include:

Public Health Nurse: Focused on improving the health of a given population of patients, this patient-facing role conducts health assessments, provides care, and delivers critical health education services on a variety of health topics such as disease prevention and healthy lifestyle choices. Public health nurses may work in a variety of settings, including public health departments, community health organizations, or mobile units providing healthcare services.
Director of Public Health Programs: In a management position, the director of public health programs may work for a public health department or community organization to develop impactful public health programs that will improve the quality of life and overall health of a given population.
Epidemiology Nurse: In a research-based position, an epidemiologist specializes in researching the transmission of communicable diseases in order to prevent or stop the spread of a given disease. Typical duties may include helping to design research studies, collecting data, analyzing the results, and using these findings to influence healthcare guidelines and public health programs.