Best Online MSN Programs in South Carolina

University of South Carolina-Columbia's online MSN in Nursing Education prepares nurses for academic and clinical teaching roles. This fully online program requires no GRE for admission and offers a flexible 5-semester format with 39 credit hours and 500 clinical hours. It focuses on educational theory, curriculum development, and teaching strategies, preparing graduates for national nurse educator certification. The program is ranked #3 for online graduate nursing and accommodates working professionals with part-time options.

• 39 credit hours, 5 semesters
• Fully online course delivery
• 500 total clinical hours
• No GRE required for admission
• 3.0 minimum GPA
• Fall and spring entry options
• National certification preparation
• Flexible practicum locations
• Varied 7 or 15-week courses

The online Family Nurse Practitioner MSN at University of South Carolina-Columbia trains experienced nurses to provide primary care across all life stages. This online program requires a 3.0 GPA, one year of nursing experience, BLS certification, and professional recommendations. It emphasizes comprehensive healthcare delivery with summer and fall entry options, preparing graduates for state-specific authorization and advanced clinical practice.

• Online program format
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• One year nursing experience required
• Summer and Fall entry
• BLS certification needed
• Professional recommendation required
• Primary care across lifespan focus
• State-specific authorization

University of South Carolina-Columbia's online Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN prepares nurses for critical care roles with adult and geriatric patients. This online program requires a 3.0 GPA and at least one year of nursing experience. It focuses on managing acute and complex healthcare needs, making graduates eligible for national certification and positions in intensive care, emergency departments, and specialized units.

• Online MSN program
• Acute care nurse practitioner focus
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• 1+ year nursing experience required
• National certification exam eligible

The online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN at University of South Carolina-Columbia provides advanced mental health training for B.S.N. graduates. This online program requires a 3.0 GPA and includes 48-51 credit hours with extensive clinical practicums. It focuses on psychopharmacology, psychiatric evaluation, and evidence-based interventions, preparing graduates for national certification and practice in clinics, psychiatric facilities, and schools.

• B.S.N. entry pathway
• 48-51 total credit hours
• National certification preparation
• Diverse practice settings
• Advanced clinical practicums
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Evidence-based curriculum
• Psychopharmacology focus
• Comprehensive psychiatric training

University of South Carolina-Columbia's online MSN in Nursing Informatics integrates technology and nursing to improve healthcare outcomes. This online program requires no GRE and offers 36 credit hours with full-time or part-time options. It focuses on system design, data analysis, and health technology, including 225 clinical hours and a flexible workplace practicum, preparing graduates for roles like clinical informatics specialists.

• 36 credit hours total
• Online distance format
• Full or part-time options
• No GRE required
• National certification preparation
• Flexible workplace practicum
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• 225 total clinical hours

• Online program flexibility.
• Specialization in Nursing Education.
• Full-time or part-time options.
• Prepares for CNE exam.
• Requires RN license and experience.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
• Includes practicum experiences.
• Focus on curriculum development.
• Emphasizes teaching strategies.
• Evaluation methods training.

• Online RN to MSN program.
• Concentration in Nursing Informatics.
• 36 credit hours required.
• Full-time or part-time options.
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
• RN license required.
• Two years RN experience needed.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Online coursework available.
• Includes clinical hours.

• Hybrid program format.
• Master of Science in Nursing.
• For non-nursing graduates.
• Prepares for RN licensure.
• Spring semester admissions.
• Transcripts required.
• Three professional references.
• Personal goal statement.
• Curriculum vitae or resume.
• Prerequisite courses needed.

Anderson University's MSN in Nursing: Nurse Educator prepares advanced practice nurses for teaching roles through a hybrid format combining online coursework with in-person sessions each semester. This 47-credit program integrates Christian principles with comprehensive clinical training, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA, active RN license, and CPR certification for admission. No entrance exam is specified as required. The program focuses on preparing graduates for national certification and includes multiple entry paths for RNs with ADN or BSN degrees.

• Online flexible learning format
• Christian worldview integration
• Multiple nursing concentrations
• RN with ADN or BSN entry paths
• Practicing nurses as instructors
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Active unencumbered RN license
• CPR certification needed
• Four semester program
• In-person sessions each semester

Anderson University's MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program uses a hybrid format to prepare nurses for diagnosing and treating mental health conditions across all age groups. This 51-credit curriculum includes 750 clinical hours and offers both full-time (5 semesters) and part-time (8 semesters) options. No entrance exam is specified as required. Admission requires a Bachelor's in Nursing and recommends 1-2 years of nursing experience. The program prepares graduates for certification exams and potential salaries ranging from $95,000 to $115,000.

• 51 total credit hours
• Hybrid program format
• 750 clinical training hours
• Covers all population age groups
• Bachelor's in Nursing required
• 1-2 years nursing experience recommended
• 5 semesters full-time option
• 8 semesters part-time option
• Certification exam preparation

Anderson University's MSN in Executive Leadership develops experienced nurses for healthcare leadership roles through a hybrid online program with mid-semester campus sessions. This 41-credit curriculum combines nursing and business courses, includes 400 clinical hours, and prepares graduates for the NEA-BC national certification exam. No entrance exam is specified as required. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA in a BSN program and an active RN license. The program focuses on strategic leadership, healthcare policy, finance, and quality improvement.

• Online flexible program
• 41 credit hour curriculum
• 400 clinical hours
• Combines nursing, business courses
• Prepares for NEA-BC certification
• Mid-semester campus sessions
• 3.2 GPA admission requirement
• RN license prerequisite
• Hybrid learning format
• Leadership skills focus

Anderson University's online MSN in Executive Leadership prepares nurses for executive roles through a fully online format with occasional on-campus meetings (2-3 days per semester). This 41-credit program includes MBA-level business courses and 400 clinical hours, preparing graduates for the NEA-BC certification exam. No entrance exam is specified as required. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA in a BSN program, active RN license, and CPR certification. The program is designed for working nurses and can be completed in four consecutive semesters.

• Online program
• 41 credit hours
• 400 clinical hours
• Executive Leadership focus
• Includes MBA-level courses
• National certification prep
• 3.2 GPA required
• Active RN license required
• CPR certification required
• On-campus meetings

Anderson University's MSN in Nursing Education prepares RNs for educator roles through a hybrid format with online coursework and short campus sessions. This 40-credit program includes 500 clinical hours and emphasizes faith integration, leadership, and interprofessional collaboration. No entrance exam is specified as required. Admission requires a BSN with 3.2 GPA, active RN license, CPR certification, current immunizations, and application materials including letters of recommendation and personal statement. The program prepares students for certification exams and covers curriculum design, pharmacology, and healthcare quality improvement.

• 40 credit hours
• Hybrid program format
• 500 clinical hours
• Four semesters full-time
• BSN with 3.2 GPA required
• Active RN license needed
• CPR certification required
• Current immunizations
• Online application process
• Two letters of recommendation

South University-Columbia's hybrid MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced practice across all age groups through a combination of online coursework and campus experiences. This CCNE-accredited program focuses on comprehensive patient care and health promotion, requiring graduates to pass national certification and state licensure exams. The flexible format accommodates working professionals, and while no specific entrance exam is mentioned, the program emphasizes clinical experiences for well-rounded education. Military-friendly options and financial aid may be available for eligible students.

• Hybrid program format.
• MSN degree with FNP specialization.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Requires state licensure.
• Focuses on patient care.
• Covers all age groups.
• Promotes healthy behaviors.
• Flexible learning options.
• Online and campus components.

South University-Columbia offers an online MSN program specializing in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, preparing nurses for advanced roles with aging adults. This 56-credit program costs $660 per credit hour and requires a BSN with 2.5 GPA and active RN license for admission. The curriculum focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and leadership development through interactive coursework and practicum experiences. No entrance exam is specified, and the CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates for certification exams while offering flexible online learning through Brightspace platform with mobile access.

• Online program format.
• 56 total credits required.
• $660 per credit hour.
• BSN degree needed.
• 2.5 GPA requirement.
• Active RN license required.
• Focus on adult gerontology.
• Includes practicum experiences.
• Meets NONPF competencies.
• Prepares for certification exams.

South University-Columbia's hybrid MSN in Nurse Administrator program develops leadership skills for healthcare management through online and campus learning. This CCNE-accredited program focuses on designing healthcare systems, policy decisions, patient safety improvements, and technology integration. Admissions require a nursing background, with costs varying by location. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's level program, which emphasizes ethical practice and prepares nurses for administrative roles with flexible formats. The program includes clinical experiences and is available at multiple locations including Columbia, SC.

• Master of Science in Nursing.
• Nurse Administrator specialization.
• Hybrid program format.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Develops leadership skills.
• Focus on healthcare systems.
• Policy and financial decisions.
• Patient safety improvements.
• Ethics in healthcare delivery.
• Technology integration.

South University-Columbia's online MSN in Nursing Informatics prepares nurses for modern healthcare roles by focusing on developing, implementing, and evaluating data systems to improve clinical care. This 44-credit program requires a BSN with 2.5 GPA and active RN license for admission. The CCNE-accredited curriculum includes core nursing courses and specialized informatics topics, with practicum courses and a graduate project. No entrance exam is specified for this master's level program, which offers flexibility for working nurses through the Brightspace platform with mobile access, preparing graduates for informatics specialist roles.

• Online program format.
• 44 total credit hours.
• BSN with 2.5 GPA required.
• Active RN license needed.
• CCNE accredited program.
• 12 credit MSN core.
• 32 credit specialization.
• Includes practicum courses.
• Focus on data analysis.
• Trains on information systems.

Clemson University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration, delivered in a hybrid format that combines online coursework with in-person components. This program prepares nurses to provide specialized care for aging populations through advanced clinical training and practicum experiences in primary care settings. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in nursing, a 3.25 GPA, active RN licensure, and at least 600 clinical practice hours. While the program does not explicitly state entrance exam requirements, prospective students should verify current admission criteria. Financial aid opportunities are available for eligible candidates.

• Hybrid program delivery format
• Specialized adult/gerontology focus
• Practicum in primary care settings
• Minimum 3.25 GPA requirement
• Located in Greenville, SC campus

Francis Marion University's online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares BSN-prepared RNs for primary care roles across all age groups. This 55-credit hour program requires 780 clinical practicum hours and can be completed in 2.5 years full-time with part-time options available. The hybrid format combines online coursework with minimal campus visits, offering flexibility for working professionals. No entrance exam is required for admission. Graduates are prepared for AANP and ANCC certification exams and can add an optional nursing education certificate to their credentials.

• 55 credit hour program
• 780 clinical practicum hours
• Fully online courses
• Fall semester admission
• Certification exam preparation
• 2.5 year full-time completion
• Part-time study option
• Lifespan primary care focus
• Optional nursing education certificate

Francis Marion University's hybrid Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program addresses the growing need for mental health specialists. This 55-semester hour program requires 780 practicum hours and prepares nurses for national certification without requiring an entrance exam. The hybrid format minimizes campus visits while providing comprehensive online coursework focused on psychiatric care. Designed for working professionals, the program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills development to prepare graduates for advanced practice roles in diverse mental health settings.

• Hybrid program format.
• 55 semester hours required.
• 780 practicum hours.
• Eligible for national certification.
• Minimal campus visits.
• Focus on psychiatric mental health.
• Flexible for working professionals.
• Comprehensive knowledge and skills.
• Prepares for advanced practice roles.
• Addresses growing mental health demand.

Limestone University's online Master of Science in Nursing + Master of Business Administration Dual Degree focuses on Nursing Administration and Healthcare Administration. This 36-credit program develops advanced leadership skills in financial management, strategic planning, and healthcare policy for roles like hospital administrator. Offered fully online with flexible scheduling, it prepares graduates for the growing healthcare sector without requiring an entrance exam.

• 100% Online Degree Program
• 36 Total Credit Hours
• Healthcare Industry Focus
• Tuition $1,950 per Course
• Prepares for Leadership Roles
• Flexible Learning Format
• Strategic Management Emphasis

Limestone University's online Master of Science in Nursing with an Administration concentration prepares nurses for executive leadership positions such as chief nursing officer. This 10-course program can be completed in approximately 18 months, emphasizing evidence-based practice and critical thinking for healthcare management. Delivered online, it provides advanced administrative training without requiring an entrance exam.

• Online 10-course MSN program
• Completion in 18 months
• Leadership-focused curriculum
• Advanced healthcare administration
• Prepares for executive nursing roles

Lander University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing: Clinical Nurse Leader program that prepares advanced nurses to lead healthcare teams and improve patient outcomes. This CCNE-accredited program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and current RN licensure but does not require an entrance exam. Students complete 500 clinical hours and can choose between Nurse Educator and Nursing Leadership concentrations. The flexible online format includes courses in clinical assessment, evidence-based practice, healthcare information systems, and leadership strategies, making it ideal for working nurses seeking Clinical Nurse Leader certification.

• Online flexible graduate nursing program
• 500 clinical practice hours
• Two concentration options
• CCNE accredited program
• Advanced clinical leadership focus
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• Current RN licensure required
• Comprehensive clinical assessment courses

Coker University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program offers a flexible, fully online pathway for working nurses to advance their careers, with a specific concentration in Nursing Education. This program prepares graduates to become effective nurse educators through evidence-based practice and innovative teaching approaches. The curriculum features eight-week courses and requires 50 structured internship hours for practical experience. Designed for busy healthcare professionals, it emphasizes theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills without requiring an entrance exam. Program highlights include specialized tracks, a 3.0 GPA requirement, and financial aid availability, making it ideal for nurses seeking leadership roles in educational settings.

• Online 8-week course format
• Two specialized tracks available
• 50 internship hours required
• Nursing education track option
• Leadership track alternative
• Requires 3.0 GPA
• Active nursing license needed
• Designed for working nurses
• Completely online program
• Graduate financial aid available