Best Online BSN to MSN Bridge Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

Students enrolling in an online BSN to MSN bridge program can expect a flexible, rigorous educational pathway that builds upon their existing Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) foundation to prepare them for advanced roles in nursing.

These programs typically offer accelerated coursework in advanced nursing theory, leadership, healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, informatics, and specialized nursing tracks such as nurse practitioner, nursing education, or healthcare administration.

The online format is designed to accommodate working nurses with asynchronous classes, virtual collaboration tools, and accessible resources available around the clock, allowing students to balance study with professional and personal responsibilities.

Although delivered primarily online, BSN to MSN bridge programs incorporate practical clinical or practicum experiences that students complete locally to meet certification and licensure requirements.

Students receive personalized academic advising, technology support, and faculty interaction to help them navigate their coursework and progress efficiently. Many programs also offer customizable pacing, with options for part-time, full-time, or accelerated study, as well as multiple start dates throughout the year.

Where can I work with an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

Graduates of an online BSN to MSN bridge program can work in a wide variety of healthcare settings, depending on their specialization and career goals. With advanced clinical and leadership training, they are qualified for higher-level positions that focus on patient care, administration, education, and informatics.

Here are their common work environments:

• Hospitals and Health Systems: Many MSN-prepared nurses take on roles as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse leaders, nurse educators, or administrators within hospital departments or specialty units.
• Primary Care Clinics: Graduates with a nurse practitioner specialization often work in family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, or women’s health clinics, providing direct patient care.
• Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Facilities: MSN graduates may serve as nursing directors, clinical supervisors, or consultants, ensuring quality care and regulatory compliance in these settings.
• Community Health Centers: Those with a focus in public health or primary care often work in underserved areas, delivering preventive care and health education to diverse populations.
• Mental Health and Behavioral Health Facilities: Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with mental health and substance use disorders.
• Academic Institutions: Nurse educators teach nursing students in classroom and clinical settings, develop curricula, and contribute to faculty-led research at colleges and universities.
• Home Health and Hospice Organizations: MSN-prepared nurses may manage care plans, provide advanced nursing services, or supervise staff delivering care in patients’ homes.
• Government and Public Health Agencies: Public health nurses or policy specialists may work for local, state, or federal health departments, focusing on population health initiatives and health policy.
• Healthcare Administration and Leadership Roles: Those with a focus in nursing administration or executive leadership often work in roles such as nurse manager, director of nursing, or chief nursing officer.
• Telehealth and Virtual Care Platforms: Many nurse practitioners and nurse educators now work in telehealth, delivering virtual care, conducting remote assessments, and providing patient education online.

How much can I make with an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average yearly salary of nurse practitioners is $132,000, while their median yearly salary is $129,210. These figures are considerably larger than the collective median annual salary of all jobs in the country, which is $49,500. 

The typical salary range of a nurse practitioner is from $97,960 to $169,950. Entry-level roles and lower job grades earn salaries at the lower end of the spectrum but will gradually increase with experience and promotions. Seasoned NPs who work in large facilities in high-demand states, on the other hand, usually earn sums north of the average yearly salary. 

Best Online BSN to MSN Bridge Programs for 2025

Nurses aiming to advance into leadership, education, or advanced practice roles often turn to BSN to MSN bridge programs for career growth. These programs provide a flexible path for working RNs to gain specialized expertise—similar in efficiency to the fast track RN to BSN to MSN online model—without stepping away from the workforce.

1. University of South Carolina Master of Science in Nursing

The University of South Carolina offers a highly ranked online Master of Science in Nursing program designed for both aspiring and current nursing professionals seeking advanced roles. Specializations include Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Nursing Informatics, Healthcare Leadership, Nursing Education, and Nurse-Midwifery. 

• Program Length: 4.5 years
• Concentrations:
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
  • Nursing Informatics
  • Healthcare Leadership
  • Nursing Education
  • Nurse-Midwifery
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 to 47
• Cost per Credit: $770 to $1,438
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

2. Duke University Master of Science in Nursing

Duke University’s Master of Science in Nursing program offers a range of clinical and non-clinical tracks designed to prepare nurses for leadership, advanced practice, or education roles. Students can choose from eight advanced practice nurse practitioner majors and three healthcare systems majors, with optional specialty certificates in areas like cardiology, palliative care, and oncology. 

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Health Informatics
  • Nursing and Healthcare Leadership
  • Nursing Education
• Required Credits to Graduate: 42 to 49
• Cost per Credit: $2,166
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

3. Ohio State University Online Master of Science in Nursing

The Master of Science in Nursing program at Ohio State University is designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking advanced practice roles through clinical training, coursework, and evidence-based practice. Students can choose from multiple specialties, many of which are available fully online or in hybrid formats, with some requiring occasional campus visits.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse-Midwifery
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Required Credits to Graduate: 53 to 73
• Cost per Credit: $829.75 to $1,859.50
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

4. The University of Alabama Nursing, MSN

The University of Alabama offers an affordable, CCNE-accredited online MSN program with concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Dual NP, Nurse Administrator, and Nurse Educator. While coursework is primarily online, students are required to attend orientation and a clinical intensive. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited institution, an active RN license, and passing a background and drug screen.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Nurse Executive
  • Nurse Educator
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Dual Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner
• Required Credits to Graduate: 53 to 79
• Cost per Credit: $480
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

5. Emory University Master of Science in Nursing

Emory University offers a renowned MSN program with a variety of advanced practice specialties and dual-degree options such as MSN-MA in Bioethics and MSN-MPH. The program is available in hybrid formats that combine online learning with periodic on-campus intensives. Students can complete their degree in 18 months to 3 years and choose from specialties like Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, and Women’s Health/Gender-related Nurse Practitioner.

• Program Length: 18 months to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Master in Cardiovascular Perfusion Science
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Women’s Health/Gender-related Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Required Credits to Graduate: around 48
• Cost per Credit: $2,082
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

6. University of Michigan Master of Science in Nursing

The University of Michigan offers a Master of Science in Nursing program with both clinical and leadership-focused pathways. Students can choose from nurse practitioner specialties or pursue an online MSN in Leadership, Analytics, and Innovation, which can be completed in two years. Most programs are hybrid, blending online coursework with occasional on-campus intensives, and are designed to accommodate working professionals. 

• Program Length: 2 years
• Concentrations:
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse-Midwifery
  • Nurse-Midwifery/Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Leadership, Analytics, and Innovation
• Required Credits to Graduate: 54 to 56
• Cost per Credit: $1,698 to $3,488
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

7. Loyola University New Orleans Master of Science in Nursing

Loyola University New Orleans offers online and hybrid Master of Science in Nursing programs that prepare students for advanced roles in healthcare, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based, culturally responsive care. The fully online Family Nurse Practitioner program includes 800 clinical hours and allows students to sit for national certification upon graduation. The Nurse-Midwifery and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs are delivered in a hybrid format. 

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • MSN General
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Midwifery
• Required Credits to Graduate: around 48 to 49
• Cost per Credit: $850
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

8. Villanova University Master's in Nursing

Villanova University offers flexible online MSN programs with required in-person clinical coursework, giving students access to top hospitals near its Philadelphia campus. While the programs are fully online, many students choose to relocate to complete clinical rotations or attend select classes in person. The Fitzpatrick College of Nursing provides several MSN tracks, including Adult-Gerontology, Family, Pediatric, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as Nursing Education. 

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing Education
• Required Credits to Graduate: 33 to 47
• Cost per Credit: $1,050
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

9. New York University Master of Science in Nursing

New York University offers interdisciplinary MSN programs that prepare nurses for leadership roles in clinical practice, education, administration, informatics, and research. Students can specialize in areas such as adult-gerontology, pediatrics, and nurse-midwifery, with additional options for holistic nursing, palliative care, and substance use disorders. The program emphasizes leadership, evidence-based decision-making, and ethical practice, and includes a dual-degree MS/MPH option for those interested in public health. 

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Clinical Research Nursing
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse-Midwifery
  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Informatics
  • Pediatrics Nurse Practitioner Primary Care
  • Pediatrics Nurse Practitioner Primary Care/Acute Care
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Required Credits to Graduate: 45 to 54
• Cost per Credit: $2,400
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

10. Johns Hopkins University Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Johns Hopkins University offers an MSN program that prepares BSN-holders for leadership roles in healthcare innovation, quality improvement, and organizational leadership. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, decision-making, and healthcare system redesign, with options to specialize in Healthcare Organizational Leadership or pursue a dual MSN/MBA. Additionally, students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees can enter the profession through the full-time MSN Entry into Nursing track.

• Program Length: 4 to 7 semesters; 3 to 6 years (MSN/MBA Dual Degree)
• Concentrations:
  • Entry into Nursing
  • Healthcare Organizational Leadership Track
  • MSN/MBA Dual Degree
• Required Credits to Graduate: 68 to 72
• Cost per Credit: $1,995
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

How long does it take to complete an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

An online BSN to MSN bridge program typically takes 2 to 3 years to complete, depending on the student's specialization, enrollment status, and program structure, similar to the duration of some of the fastest online master's programs in clinical mental health counseling.

While exact durations vary, online formats are designed to provide the flexibility working nurses need. Below is the average duration based on program type:

• Full-Time Enrollment: Students studying full-time can usually complete the program in 18 to 24 months, especially if the curriculum is streamlined and courses are offered year-round.
• Part-Time Enrollment: For students balancing work or family responsibilities, part-time options are common and often take 28 to 36 months or more to finish.
• Accelerated Programs: Some schools offer accelerated tracks that condense coursework into a shorter timeframe, allowing completion in as little as 12 to 18 months, though these require a heavier course load and strong time management skills.
• Clinical Requirements: Regardless of the pace, all BSN to MSN bridge programs include supervised clinical hours, which may influence the timeline depending on scheduling and site availability.

The quick completion time of an online BSN to MSN program goes in line with the current demand for registered nurses (RNs), including advanced practice professionals. After all, a projected 1.2 million new nurses are needed to fulfill the demand in the country by 2030. 

How does an online BSN to MSN bridge program compare to an on-campus program?

Both online and on-campus BSN to MSN bridge programs aim to help registered nurses advance into advanced practice, leadership, or education roles by building on their nursing foundation. However, they differ in terms of flexibility, learning environment, access to support, and clinical training logistics. Here is how they compare across several key aspects:

Flexibility and Scheduling

• Online: Online BSN to MSN programs are designed with flexibility in mind, often using asynchronous classes so nurses can study at their convenience. This format suits working professionals balancing shifts, family life, and school.
• On-Campus: On-campus programs follow fixed schedules with mandatory in-person lectures and labs. They are best for students who prefer face-to-face instruction and thrive on routine and structure.

Learning Environment

• Online: Students learn through digital platforms using recorded lectures, virtual simulations, and interactive discussion forums. Self-motivation and time management are crucial for success in this format.
• On-Campus: In-person courses offer immediate access to faculty, peer discussions, and hands-on demonstrations. Students benefit from a collaborative classroom atmosphere and in-the-moment clarification of complex concepts.

Access to Resources

• Online: Virtual students access digital libraries, online tutoring, and remote academic advising. Some programs offer live virtual office hours or optional on-site residencies to enhance engagement.
• On-Campus: Campus-based learners can utilize in-person labs, clinical practice centers, writing centers, and direct interaction with faculty, advisors, and career counselors.

Clinical Placements and Hands-On Training

• Online: Clinical hours are still required and usually arranged locally by the student or school. Some online programs provide placement assistance to ensure students meet state licensure requirements.
• On-Campus: Clinical placements are typically coordinated by the program with partner healthcare facilities nearby. Being on-site may make coordination and supervision more seamless.

Cost and Accessibility

• Online: Online programs often save students money on commuting, housing, and relocation. They’re more accessible for nurses in rural areas or those unable to attend a physical campus.
• On-Campus: While potentially more expensive due to associated living and travel costs, on-campus programs may provide more immediate access to hands-on tools, labs, and face-to-face networking.

Learners who prefer to specialize in radiology within the context of nursing can look into the radiology nurse requirements. Radiology nurses are sought after thanks to their specialized competencies, much like graduates from fast track MSN pediatric nurse practitioner online programs in other advanced nursing specialties.

What is the average cost of an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

The average cost of an online BSN to MSN bridge program typically ranges from $20,000 to $60,000, depending on factors such as the institution, program length, specialization, and residency requirements. While costs vary widely, many online programs are structured to accommodate working nurses; their salaries can help offset expenses over time. Here is a breakdown of common cost ranges:

• Public Universities: Programs offered by public institutions generally cost between $20,000 and $40,000, with lower tuition often available to in-state residents or students attending fully online programs with flat-rate pricing.
• Private Universities: Private institutions tend to charge more, with total tuition ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 or higher, though they may offer additional student support, specialized faculty, or networking opportunities.
• Additional Costs: Students should also budget for fees, textbooks, technology requirements, and potentially travel or lodging if on-campus intensives or clinical site visits are required.

Many students reduce their out-of-pocket costs through federal financial aid, nursing scholarships, employer tuition assistance, or loan repayment programs.

A direct way to recoup education costs is to land a high-paying job. The US states that offer the highest average yearly salaries to nurse practitioners, as seen in the chart below, are California ($161,540), Nevada ($148,670), and Washington ($145,400)—competitive with earnings in other specialized nursing paths such as the fast track adult-gerontology pcnp graduate certificate programs online route.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

Students enrolling in an online BSN to MSN bridge program have access to a variety of financial aid options that can help reduce the cost of their graduate nursing education. Some types of aid also apply to online medical assistant programs with financial aid.

These options may come from federal sources, institutions, employers, or private organizations. The common financial aid opportunities include the following:

• Federal Student Aid: By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), students may qualify for federal loans such as Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans, which offer fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options.
• Scholarships and Grants: Many nursing schools offer need-based and merit-based scholarships specifically for graduate nursing students. External organizations like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. (NEF) also award competitive scholarships.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Registered nurses employed in healthcare settings may receive tuition reimbursement or sponsorship from their employers, especially when the MSN degree aligns with leadership or advanced practice roles.
• State and Federal Loan Forgiveness Programs: Programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) help graduates reduce or eliminate student loan debt in exchange for working in underserved or public healthcare settings.
• Military and Veterans’ Benefits: Active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible dependents can apply military education benefits such as the GI Bill® or Yellow Ribbon Program toward online MSN program costs.
• Institutional Payment Plans: Many schools offer interest-free payment plans, allowing students to pay tuition in manageable monthly installments during the academic term.
• Private Loans: For students who need additional funding, private education loans from banks or credit unions may be available. These often require a credit check and may carry higher interest rates than federal loans.
• Graduate Assistantships (where available): Some programs may offer remote teaching or research assistant roles, though these are less common in online formats.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

Schools have several prerequisites for enrolling in an online BSN to MSN bridge program to ensure that applicants are prepared for advanced nursing coursework and clinical training. These requirements tend to vary by school and specialization. The most common prerequisites include the following:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Applicants must hold a BSN degree from an accredited institution, typically accredited by CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) or ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing).
• Active RN License: A current, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license is required. Some programs may require the license to be valid in the state where clinical placements will occur.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA, commonly 3.0 or higher, although some schools may consider applicants with lower GPAs on a case-by-case basis.
• Prerequisite Coursework: Some programs may require prior completion of courses such as statistics, health assessment, nursing research, or pathophysiology, especially if they were not part of the BSN curriculum.
• Work Experience: Certain specializations (e.g., Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Executive tracks) may require 1–2 years of clinical nursing experience before admission.
• Letters of Recommendation: Programs typically ask for two to three letters from academic or professional references who can attest to the applicant’s clinical competence and readiness for graduate study.
• Statement of Purpose or Personal Essay: Applicants must often submit a written statement outlining their career goals, reasons for pursuing the MSN, and interest in a particular specialization.
• Resume or CV: A current resume detailing nursing experience, education, certifications, and relevant accomplishments is usually required.
• Interview: Some schools may conduct an admissions interview (via phone or video) to assess the applicant’s goals, communication skills, and program fit.
• English Language Proficiency (if applicable): International applicants or non-native English speakers may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate proficiency.

According to College Board, as seen in the visual below, 65.22% of nurse practitioners in the United States have a master's or professional degree, 30.44% have a doctoral degree or more, and 4.35% hold a bachelor's degree—similar to educational attainment patterns found in graduates from the fast track online medical billing and coding associate degree pathway.

What courses are typically in an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

An online BSN to MSN program typically includes a blend of advanced nursing practice, leadership, and specialized clinical coursework. The exact courses vary based on the chosen specialization, but most programs share a common core. Here are typical courses found in the bridge program:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: This course provides an in-depth understanding of disease processes and how they affect the human body across the lifespan, essential for clinical decision-making.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Students learn to perform comprehensive physical, mental, and psychosocial assessments using evidence-based practices across diverse patient populations.
• Advanced Pharmacology: This course covers the principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, preparing students to safely prescribe and manage medications in clinical practice.
• Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice: Students explore nursing theories and models that guide advanced practice, research, and education.
• Health Policy and Advocacy: This course examines healthcare systems, policy-making processes, and the nurse’s role in shaping and influencing healthcare policy.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research: Students learn how to critically appraise research, apply findings to clinical practice, and lead quality improvement initiatives.
• Leadership and Organizational Systems: This course prepares nurses for leadership roles by addressing strategic planning, interprofessional collaboration, and systems management in healthcare settings.
• Population Health and Epidemiology: Students study the distribution and determinants of health in populations and how to apply this knowledge to improve public and community health.
• Ethics and Legal Issues in Nursing: This course addresses ethical frameworks, decision-making, and legal considerations in advanced nursing roles.
• Specialty-Specific Clinical Practicums: Depending on the concentration, students complete supervised clinical hours in a relevant healthcare setting to apply advanced skills.

What types of specializations are available in online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

Online BSN to MSN bridge programs typically offer a range of specializations that allow registered nurses to tailor their graduate education toward a specific advanced practice or leadership role. These specializations prepare nurses for targeted clinical, administrative, or educational responsibilities. The common specializations include the following:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): This track prepares nurses to provide comprehensive primary care across the lifespan, including diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing chronic conditions.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): Students learn to care for adult and elderly populations in acute or primary care settings, focusing on aging-related health needs and long-term wellness.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): This specialization trains nurses to assess, diagnose, and manage health conditions in infants, children, and adolescents in pediatric clinics, hospitals, and community settings.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Nurses in this track gain expertise in mental health assessment, therapy, and psychopharmacology for patients across the lifespan, often working in clinics or behavioral health centers. As such, pursuing an online BSN to MSN program is one of the ways how to become a psychiatric nurse.
• Nurse Educator: This specialization focuses on preparing nurses to teach in academic or clinical settings by developing skills in curriculum design, instructional methods, and nursing education leadership.
• Nurse Administrator or Nurse Executive: This track is designed for nurses seeking leadership roles, offering training in healthcare management, strategic planning, finance, and human resource management.
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): Nurses in this specialty focus on reproductive and gynecological health, prenatal and postpartum care, and wellness education for women.
• Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL): This role prepares nurses to coordinate care for complex patients, lead quality improvement initiatives, and oversee interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
• Public Health Nursing: This specialization trains nurses to address population health, disease prevention, and community-based interventions in public health agencies and nonprofits.
• Informatics Nursing: Nurses in this track learn to manage healthcare data systems, optimize electronic health records, and support clinical decision-making through technology.

After completing an MSN, students have the choice to pursue a doctoral degree. So, what does a DNP do? The degree builds on MSN-level knowledge and prepares nurses for the highest level of clinical and organizational roles.

How to choose the best online BSN to MSN bridge program?

When selecting the best online BSN to MSN program, prospective students should consider several key factors to ensure the program supports their professional development, academic needs, and long-term career goals. A thoughtful evaluation of the following elements can help guide the decision-making process:

• Accreditation: It is essential to choose a program accredited by a recognized agency such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation confirms the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards.
• Specialization Options: Students should look for programs that offer MSN concentrations aligned with their desired career path, such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, nurse administrator, or another advanced nursing role.
• Clinical Placement Support: Because clinical hours are required in most MSN tracks, it is important to confirm whether the program offers assistance with placement or allows students to secure pre-approved clinical sites within their local communities.
• Program Format and Flexibility: The structure of the program—such as part-time, full-time, asynchronous, or accelerated options—should suit the student’s work schedule and personal responsibilities, especially for working nurses.
• Admissions Requirements: Applicants should review GPA thresholds, required nursing experience, and any prerequisite courses to determine eligibility and whether additional preparation may be necessary.
• Tuition and Financial Aid: Evaluating the total cost of tuition, fees, and materials—as well as the availability of scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement—can help students assess affordability and return on investment.
• Program Reputation and Outcomes: Researching a program’s certification exam pass rates, graduation statistics, and employer recognition can offer insight into the quality and credibility of the degree.
• Faculty Qualifications: Prospective students should consider the clinical and academic experience of the faculty to ensure they will be learning from knowledgeable and active professionals in the nursing field.
• Student Support Services: Comprehensive support—such as academic advising, technical assistance, library access, and career counseling—can enhance the online learning experience and student success.
• State Licensure Compatibility: It is critical to verify that the program is authorized in the student’s state and meets the licensing or certification requirements for advanced nursing practice in that region.

The chart below shows which industries NPs mainly work in. 

What career paths are available for graduates of online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

Graduates of online BSN to MSN bridge programs are qualified for a wide range of advanced nursing roles in clinical practice, leadership, education, and informatics. The specific career path depends on the individual’s chosen specialization, but all roles focus on improving patient care and healthcare delivery. Here are the common career paths:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive primary care to individuals and families, including diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications, and managing chronic conditions across the lifespan.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs specialize in caring for adults and older adults, focusing on preventive care, chronic disease management, and health promotion in settings such as internal medicine or long-term care.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs deliver specialized care to infants, children, and adolescents, often working in pediatric clinics, schools, or hospitals.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs assess, diagnose, and treat mental health and substance use disorders in patients of all ages, often through therapy and medication management. Meanwhile, learners who prefer to specialize in clinical psychology outside the sphere of nursing can explore the PsyD in clinical psychology requirements.
• Nurse Educator: Nurse educators teach future nurses in academic and clinical settings, develop curricula, conduct research, and help advance the nursing profession through education and mentorship.
• Nurse Administrator or Nurse Executive: These professionals lead nursing teams, manage healthcare operations, oversee budgets, and develop policies in hospitals, clinics, or healthcare systems.
• Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL): CNLs coordinate care for patients with complex conditions, lead quality improvement initiatives, and serve as a resource for nursing teams to enhance clinical outcomes.
• Public Health Nurse: Public health nurses work in government or nonprofit sectors to promote community wellness, conduct health education, and respond to public health emergencies.
• Nursing Informatics Specialist: These professionals manage healthcare data systems, analyze clinical data, and help integrate technology to improve patient outcomes and streamline operations.
• Case Manager: Case managers work across settings to coordinate comprehensive care plans for patients, ensuring efficient use of resources and improved health outcomes.

What is the job market for graduates with an online BSN to MSN bridge program?

According to the BLS, the employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow by an impressive 46% from 2023 to 2033—far outpacing the national average of 4% across all occupations. As a result, the NP workforce is expected to expand from 292,500 in 2023 to approximately 427,900 by 2033, making it one of the fastest-growing roles in healthcare. 

Graduates of online BSN to MSN bridge programs will likely encounter a wealth of employment options on the market. The job portal Indeed shows that there are currently over 45,000 job openings for nurse practitioner roles in the United States, excluding other possible jobs for graduates like being a nurse educator, nursing informatics specialist, or case manager. 

The industries that employ the most NPs are physicians' offices (137,030), general medical and surgical hospitals (61,740), and outpatient care centers (25,440). Meanwhile, the US states with the highest employment levels are Florida (22,270), California (21,740), and Texas (20,170).

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online BSN to MSN Bridge Programs

Other Things You Should Know About Online BSN to MSN Bridge Programs

Is there a difference in content between an MSN and a DNP?

An MSN program primarily focuses on developing advanced clinical skills in specialized nursing areas such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator, with core courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment.

In contrast, a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) program builds on MSN-level knowledge by emphasizing nursing leadership, healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, systems management, and the translation of research into practice, preparing nurses for the highest level of clinical and organizational roles.

While both involve clinical experiences, the MSN typically culminates in a clinical practicum, whereas the DNP requires a scholarly project focused on practice improvement and leadership in healthcare.

Can a nurse practitioner prescribe medication?

Yes, nurse practitioners can prescribe medication, including controlled substances, in all 50 U.S. states. However, the extent of their prescribing authority varies by state—some allow full practice authority, while others require physician collaboration or supervision. NPs must also meet specific licensure and certification requirements to gain prescribing privileges.

How are clinical placements arranged for online BSN to MSN students?

For online BSN to MSN bridge programs, clinical placements are typically coordinated with support from the school’s placement team, who help students identify and arrange hands-on practicum experiences in healthcare facilities near their location.

Some programs assist fully, securing clinical sites and preceptors on behalf of students, while others expect students to initiate the process themselves but provide guidance and vet preceptors to ensure requirements are met.

This collaborative approach ensures students gain supervised, real-world clinical experience in their local communities while completing theoretical coursework online.

Can you skip a BSN and take an MSN?

Yes, a student can pursue an MSN without a BSN through direct-entry or accelerated MSN programs, which are designed for individuals who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These programs include foundational nursing coursework and clinical training to prepare students for RN licensure and advanced practice roles. They typically take longer to complete than traditional MSN programs due to the additional prerequisites.