Currently, there’s robust demand for nurses who have earned an MSN. Roles that require an MSN typically pay more than those requiring only a bachelor’s degree. Whether you already have your BSN or are interested in entering the nursing profession from another field, online MSN programs could be a great option.
Flexibility
Online MSN programs use various technologies and platforms to facilitate student-student, faculty-faculty, and peer-to-peer interactions. These can include video chats, virtual office hours, class forums, discussion boards, and other methods of promoting engagement with course instructors and classmates. Some online MSN programs will have a mix of synchronous and asynchronous instruction, where students and instructors meet at prearranged times for video lectures and seminars. Others will have a primarily asynchronous teaching style, with course materials available for students to work through independently.
Many RNs want to advance their careers in nursing and healthcare leadership, but they also need to balance their professional obligations with the demands of daily life. By pursuing an MSN education online, they can accomplish their career goals without losing income or sacrificing time with family and friends. RNs can find a program that fits their needs by researching the best MSN programs. Many schools also offer various financial aid options, including scholarships and loan forgiveness, to help pay for an MSN degree.
Time
When selecting an online MSN program, it is worth looking into how each school organizes course schedules. Some programs may feature a synchronous format where students and instructors meet for video lectures or seminars at predetermined times. In contrast, others may utilize an asynchronous format in which materials are posted online and available to access whenever works best for the student’s schedule.
Many top online MSN programs also offer accelerated options for students who wish to complete their degree more quickly than the traditional route. These programs often require a bachelor’s degree in nursing but may allow students to transfer to college-level coursework and earn their MSN in a shorter period. Some MSN programs offer in-person clinical experiences, as well. These opportunities can be especially beneficial for aspiring Family Nurse Practitioners, who often work closely with patients and their families and provide individualized healthcare insights. This is an area where you’ll want to make sure that the online MSN program you select offers clinical placements in your area.
Location
Online MSN programs can be accessed almost anywhere with a reliable Internet connection. This eliminates the need to attend classes in person, saving you time and money on transportation costs like buses, trains, subways, and gas for your car. Many accelerated online MSN programs, like those offered by William Paterson University, are accredited and meet specific academic standards and rigor. This is especially important since almost all nursing certifications require that graduates from a program hold an accredited degree. Look for accreditation from a regional agency such as the Higher Learning Commission or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Some online MSN programs offer limited campus visits, allowing students to connect with faculty and peers face-to-face and participate in hands-on activities. This is ideal for students who want the benefits of online MSN programs but also require some in-person experiences to help them feel connected to their classmates and faculty.
Money
The cost of an online MSN program can vary, depending on the school and program. Tuition rates will also depend on the state and whether students pay in-state or out-of-state tuition. Applicants should research the school’s faculty members to see their education, credentials, publications, and professional experience. Additionally, students should look at the pass rates for certification exams. This information should be prominently displayed on the school’s website and may indicate a program’s quality. Nursing scholarships and grants can help defray the cost of an online MSN program. Those interested in applying should fill out the FAFSA to determine eligibility for government-issued grants, scholarships, loans, and school-issued scholarships. Students should also investigate if their current employer offers tuition remission or reimbursement programs, which reimburse employees for the costs of their nursing education. These programs are especially beneficial for working nurses who want to advance their careers and earn more lucrative salaries.
