Fastest 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 fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

You should expect an intensive, streamlined curriculum that requires you to make a fundamental career choice very early on. Think of this as the most important fork in the road for your professional future. These programs are not a single track; they immediately split into two distinct paths.

The first path is Clinical, designed for nurses who want to provide advanced, direct patient care as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), like a Nurse Practitioner. The second path is Non-Clinical, built for nurses who want to lead teams, manage systems, or teach. This track prepares you for roles like Nurse Executive, Nurse Informaticist, or Nurse Educator.

Where can I work with a degree from a fast online BSN to MSN bridge program?

Your work setting will depend entirely on the specialization path you choose. An MSN opens doors far beyond the traditional hospital floor, and your career environment will look very different depending on whether you pursue a clinical or non-clinical track.

If you follow the Clinical Path to become a nurse practitioner, you could work in outpatient specialty clinics, private practices, community health centers, or for rapidly growing telehealth companies. If you choose the Non-Clinical Path, your office could be in a hospital’s executive suite, a corporate headquarters for an insurance or health-tech company, a government agency shaping public health policy, or a university where you are teaching the next generation of nurses.

How much can I make with a degree from fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

You can expect a significant salary increase, but the amount depends on the specific role your MSN prepares you for. It’s best to think of it as a ladder of earning potential. As a BSN-prepared registered nurse, your average annual salary is around $98,430. With a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), that average rises to about $108,000.

However, by leveraging your MSN to become a high-demand specialist like a Nurse Practitioner, your average salary can jump to approximately $132,000 a year, clearly demonstrating the powerful return on this educational investment.

List of the Fastest Online BSN to MSN Bridge Programs for 2025 

1. Western Governors University - Master of Science in Nursing Education (BSN to MSN)

Western Governors University offers a program designed around a competency-based model that allows busy nurses to accelerate their studies. Its unique proposition is letting students complete courses as soon as they master the material, rather than following a fixed schedule. You will learn to develop curricula, facilitate student learning, and use various assessment strategies, all grounded in National League for Nursing standards, preparing you to become an impactful educator.

• Program Length: 18-24 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 15 Courses
• Total Tuition: $20,940
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Arizona State University - Master of Science in Nursing

Arizona State University provides a track for nurses with an associate's degree. The program distinguishes itself by focusing on innovation, leadership, and enacting system-level change through customizable practicum experiences. It is built for the ADN-prepared nurse who aspires to move into leadership, research, or informatics roles without first completing a BSN. 

• Program Length: 24 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $1,249.08 (Resident); $1,919.81 (Non-Resident)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Chamberlain University - Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN)

Chamberlain University features an accelerated RN-to-MSN option that stands out for its speed and flexibility. This pathway is designed for the registered nurse who wants the fastest possible route to a master's degree, allowing completion in as few as 10 months. The program's goal is to quickly elevate your career by teaching you to apply advanced nursing theories in real-world settings. 

• Program Length: As few as 10 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $1,429.17
• Accreditation: American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation (ANCC)

4. Walden University - Master of Science in Nursing

Walden University offers five nurse practitioner tracks and four specialty practice areas. This program is ideal for the driven nurse who has a clear, specific career ambition and wants to align their education precisely with that goal. Upon completion, you will be prepared to positively influence patient care quality and develop innovations within your chosen field. 

• Program Length: As few as 14 months
• Required Quarter Credits to Graduate: 84-89
• Cost per Credit: $775
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. Liberty University - Bachelor of Science in Nursing for RNs: Post-Licensure Master of Science in Nursing

Liberty University provides an accelerated pathway with a generous transfer credit policy, allowing RNs to apply up to 75 previous credits and potentially more through experience evaluation. This program is for the experienced RN seeking the most efficient and cost-effective route to earning both a BSN and MSN. You will gain advanced skills in your chosen specialty—such as administration or informatics—preparing you for leadership roles and enhanced job security.

• Program Length: 24 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 121-153
• Cost per Credit: $330
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

6. Drexel University - Master's in Nursing Program (RN-BSN-MSN)

Drexel University has a unique program specifically created for registered nurses who hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing. After completing 15 undergraduate bridge credits, you matriculate directly into the MSN program, earning both degrees simultaneously upon completion. This path is for the second-degree RN who wants to leverage their prior education to fast-track their entry into an advanced nursing role. 

• Program Length: 24-36 months
• Required Quarter Credits to Graduate: 15 Undergraduate Credits + MSN Credits
• Cost per Credit: $915
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

7. University of Mary - BSN to MSN: Nursing and Health Care Informatics

The University of Mary offers a BSN to MSN with a focus on Nursing and Health Care Informatics, positioning graduates for success in one of nursing's fastest-growing fields. The program is uniquely structured to equip nurses to drive innovation and optimize care delivery across entire health systems. It is designed for the BSN-prepared nurse with an interest in data, technology, and systems improvement. 

• Program Length: 24 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 64
• Cost per Credit: $495
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

8. Charleston Southern University - Master of Science in Nursing

Charleston Southern University's program stands apart with its five-week intensive class structure and integration of Christian beliefs into the curriculum. This format is ideal for the working nurse who prefers to focus on one subject at a time. The program aims to develop well-rounded, caring graduates prepared for advanced roles in either education or leadership. 

• Program Length: 16 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 39
• Cost per Credit: $625
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

How long does it take to complete a fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

Most accelerated programs take between 12 and 24 months of full-time study to complete. This fast pace is possible because the curriculum is intensive and often runs year-round, without the long breaks typical of traditional academic calendars. Many of the fastest online BSN to MSN bridge programs are structured this way, and some students even find accelerated 1 year NP programs that fit their timeline. 

Beyond the Classroom: Factoring in Certification

After you graduate, your timeline isn't quite finished. To work in an advanced practice role like a nurse practitioner, you must pass a national board certification exam in your chosen specialty. This is a critical step that officially qualifies you to practice and is required for state licensure.

Most graduates spend a few months preparing for this rigorous exam before they can begin their new careers. Successfully passing your boards allows you to join the growing community of over 307,390 nurse practitioners in the U.S., a group that is essential to the future of healthcare.

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

When it comes to academic rigor and the value of your degree, there is no difference between an accredited online program and its on-campus counterpart. Employers respect them equally, and the diploma you earn is the same. The real differences are in the learning experience and logistics.

Online programs offer maximum flexibility, allowing you to study around your work schedule. However, this requires a high degree of self-discipline and time management. On-campus programs provide more structure and face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers, which some students prefer.

If you’re looking to advance quickly, exploring the fastest LVN to RN bridge programs online can be a smart choice, as they combine speed with the flexibility needed to balance work and study.

The Preceptor Challenge: A Critical Factor in Online Programs

For any clinical specialization, you will be required to complete hundreds of hours of hands-on training under the supervision of an experienced provider, known as a preceptor. Right now, there is a nationwide shortage of available preceptors, creating a significant bottleneck in nursing education.

In many online programs, the responsibility for finding and securing your own preceptors and clinical sites falls directly on you. This can be a major logistical challenge that, if not planned for carefully, can delay your graduation. When evaluating programs, it is essential to ask the admissions team directly about the level of support they provide for clinical placements.

What is the average cost of a fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

The total cost for these programs typically ranges from about $20,000 to $60,000. Our research into various programs shows the average total tuition is around $40,000.

Of course, costs can vary widely between public and private universities. It's critical to look at the total estimated cost of attendance—which includes tuition, fees, and books—rather than just the advertised per-credit price. This gives you a much more realistic picture of the financial commitment. If you’re aiming to advance quickly in women’s health nursing, exploring fast track WHNP DNP programs online can offer a focused path that balances cost with accelerated completion.

Calculating Your Return on Investment

Viewing your tuition as a strategic investment is the best way to approach this decision. With an average annual salary of around $108,000 for MSN-prepared nurses, the degree can pay for itself relatively quickly, especially for those who continue to work while studying.

When you compare that to the average RN salary, the immediate financial benefit becomes clear. For graduates who move into even higher-paying roles like nurse practitioner, the return is even more significant. This powerful financial leap is what transforms the cost from a simple expense into a smart career move that accelerates your long-term goals.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in a fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

As a working professional, you have several key financial aid options to make your degree more affordable. The most common avenues include:

• Federal Student Aid: By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you can access federal loan programs designed for graduate students.
• Nursing Scholarships: Many professional organizations, foundations, and universities offer scholarships for nurses pursuing advanced degrees.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: This is often the most powerful and underutilized option for nurses who are already employed.

While all of these are worth exploring, your current employment is your greatest financial asset.

Leveraging Your Employment: The Power of Tuition Reimbursement

Many healthcare systems are eager to retain experienced nurses and help them grow into leadership roles. Because of this, they often offer generous tuition reimbursement programs as a key employee benefit. This is a direct investment in their own workforce.

Start by checking your organization's HR portal or speaking with your manager about available educational benefits. Be sure to read the policy details carefully, as these programs often come with a service commitment. This typically means you agree to continue working for the organization for a set number of years after you graduate in exchange for the financial support.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

To be eligible for these programs, you'll need to meet a few standard requirements. While they can vary slightly between schools, most programs will ask for the following:

• An active and unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a program accredited by the CCNE or ACEN.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA, which is typically 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• At least one to two years of direct patient care experience as an RN.

Navigating Admission Standards

While some programs have more flexible requirements, highly competitive specializations often look for specific types of clinical experience. For instance, an acute care NP program will likely prefer applicants with a strong background in an ICU or emergency department. It's crucial to align your past experience with your future goals.

Use your personal statement to connect your specific clinical history directly to the specialization you're pursuing. This is why it's so important to research program-specific requirements. For example, those interested in women's health might look for the easiest WHNP online programs to find options that best align with their current experience level and career aspirations.

What courses are typically in fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

All online BSN to MSN bridge programs begin with a set of core, graduate-level courses that provide the foundation for advanced practice. For those still completing their bachelor’s, accelerated LVN to BSN programs online offer a fast and flexible way to earn your BSN and prepare for these graduate-level studies. Regardless of your future specialization, you can expect to take classes in subjects such as:

• Advanced Nursing Theory
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice
• Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
• Advanced Ethics in Nursing

These courses build your critical thinking and leadership skills. After you complete this core, your coursework will diverge completely based on your chosen track.

From Core Knowledge to Specialized Practice

This is where your education becomes highly tailored to your career goals. The curriculum splits into two very different directions:

• The Clinical Path: If you're pursuing an APRN role, your courses will focus on advanced clinical skills. You'll dive deep into the "3 P's"—Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, and Advanced Physical/Health Assessment.
• The Non-Clinical Path: If you're on a leadership or administrative track, your courses will focus on managing systems and people. You can expect classes in Organizational Leadership, Financial Management in Healthcare, and Nursing Informatics.

For a detailed look at how these courses apply to a specific specialty, you can explore curriculum guides for AGNP online programs. This specialized training is what prepares you to earn one of the thousands of advanced nursing degrees awarded each year, positioning you for a top-tier role in the field.

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

The specialization you choose in online BSN to MSN bridge programs is the most important decision you'll make. These options are divided into two main families: advanced practice clinical roles and non-clinical roles.

Clinical Specializations (APRNs): These roles focus on direct patient care. Common options include:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Provides primary care to patients of all ages.
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP): Cares for adult patients with complex, acute conditions.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Provides mental healthcare and therapy.

Non-Clinical Specializations: These roles focus on leadership, education, and technology. Popular tracks include:

• Nurse Executive/Leader: Prepares you for management and administrative roles.
• Nurse Educator: Trains you to teach in academic or clinical settings.
• Nursing Informatics: Focuses on managing health data and technology systems.

How Specialization Impacts Your Salary

As the chart below illustrates, different specializations command different salaries. High-demand roles like a psychiatric nurse practitioner can earn an average salary of over $125,000, reflecting the growing need for mental health services. In comparison, a family nurse practitioner earns a strong average of around $106,000.

The high demand for certain specialties is a key factor to consider. For example, many nurses are looking for the shortest PMHNP program to enter this lucrative field efficiently. Choosing your specialization is about finding the perfect intersection of your passion, your skills, and the demands of the job market.

How to Choose the Best Fastest Online BSN to MSN Bridge Program

Choosing the best online BSN to MSN bridge program means finding one that aligns closely with your professional goals. If you’re looking to move quickly from emergency medical services into nursing, checking out the shortest EMT to RN online programs can help you find accelerated options that fit your timeline.

The right program for you will offer three essential features:

1. Proper Accreditation: This is non-negotiable. The program must be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
2. The Right Specialization: The program must offer the exact clinical or non-clinical track you want to pursue.
3. Strong Student Support: Look for programs with high board certification pass rates and, most importantly, robust support for securing clinical placements.

Once you have a list of accredited programs with your specialization, the final step is the most personal one.

Is This Path Right for You? A Self-Assessment

Now, you need to look inward. Ask yourself what kind of work truly energizes you. Are you passionate about diagnosing complex patient cases, managing treatments, and seeing the direct impact of your care? If so, the clinical path is likely your calling.

Or, are you drawn to solving system-level problems, mentoring other nurses, and shaping the future of healthcare through strategy and leadership? If that sounds like you, then the non-clinical path is probably the better fit. Answering this question honestly is the key to choosing a program that leads to a fulfilling, long-term career.

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

Graduates of online BSN to MSN bridge programs step into two distinct career paths, each with a unique focus and long-term trajectory. Understanding the day-to-day reality is key to knowing which path is right for you.

• Advanced Clinical Practice Path: This career is defined by direct patient management. Your work will involve diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication, performing procedures, and being the primary provider responsible for a panel of patients.
• Non-Clinical Leadership Path: This career is focused on systems, strategy, and people. Your work will involve managing budgets, overseeing staffing, leading quality improvement projects, and shaping institutional policy from an executive or administrative position.

Beyond the daily work, it's important to consider the long-term potential of these roles.

Your 10-Year Career Trajectory

A nurse practitioner on the clinical path might spend a decade building a patient panel before opening their own private practice. A nurse leader on the non-clinical path could progress from a unit manager to a Director of Nursing and eventually a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) for an entire health system.

This potential for growth and high earning power is a key differentiator in healthcare. When you compare the career arc to that of other vital helping professions, such as the typical social worker salary and career path, the unique financial and leadership trajectory of advanced practice nursing becomes even clearer.

What is the job market for graduates with a degree from fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs?

The job market for graduates is exceptionally strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that roles for nurse practitioners will grow by an astounding 46% between 2023 and 2033. This explosive growth is one of the most compelling reasons to pursue this advanced degree.

This high demand is driven by several factors, including an aging population's increasing healthcare needs and a greater emphasis on preventative care. Furthermore, as a large generation of experienced nurse leaders begins to retire, a significant leadership vacuum is opening up, creating even more opportunities for MSN-prepared nurses to advance quickly.

This positive outlook gives you a strong foundation for your career, but one final step can ensure your success.

A Note on Local Market Conditions

While the national job outlook is excellent, healthcare markets can vary by location and specialization. A city might have a high demand for psychiatric nurse practitioners but a surplus of family nurse practitioners. Therefore, your final step should be to research the job market in the specific area where you plan to work. Check local job boards and network with healthcare professionals in your region.

This final piece of local research, combined with a solid plan for funding your education—from understanding the FAFSA to exploring scholarships—is what turns your ambition into a concrete reality.

How Can I Evaluate Program Quality and Financial Value Effectively?

When assessing online BSN to MSN bridge programs, verify that the program is accredited by recognized agencies and review key performance indicators such as licensure exam pass rates, graduate employment outcomes, and student satisfaction surveys. Additionally, consider the overall cost—including hidden fees and the availability of financial aid options like scholarships and tuition reimbursement—to ensure long-term value. Comparing program costs with benchmarks from resources like the cheapest online bsn program can further guide your decision-making process.

What Post-Graduation Career Support Services Are Offered?

A robust career support framework can be a decisive factor when transitioning from academic studies to a competitive healthcare career. Many fast online BSN to MSN bridge programs supplement their rigorous curricula with dedicated career counseling, structured alumni networks, mentorship opportunities, and dedicated job placement services. These resources not only enhance your ability to navigate the job market but also provide ongoing professional development that can differentiate you in an increasingly competitive environment. Programs that maintain strong institutional partnerships with healthcare organizations also offer conduits to real-world clinical experiences and interdisciplinary collaboration. Prospective students are encouraged to directly inquire about these support services during the admissions process and compare them with offerings in a nurse practitioner direct entry program to ensure long-term career growth and success.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Their Fast Online BSN to MSN Bridge Programs

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

What is the difference between an MSN and a DNP?

An MSN, or Master of Science in Nursing, is the fastest path to becoming an advanced practice nurse like a Nurse Practitioner. A DNP, or Doctor of Nursing Practice, is a terminal degree focused on the highest level of clinical practice and leadership. While an MSN prepares you for practice, a DNP is designed for those who want to become experts in clinical leadership, policy, or complex systems management.

What is board certification for nurse practitioners?

Board certification is a formal process that validates your expertise in a specific nursing specialty after you graduate. After completing your MSN, you must pass a national certification exam offered by a governing body like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). This certification is required to get your state license and practice as a nurse practitioner.

Do I need to be licensed in a specific state to practice?

Yes, you must hold an active and unencumbered RN license and an APRN license in the state where you intend to practice. Each state's Board of Nursing has its own specific requirements and scope of practice laws that define what a nurse practitioner can do. It is critical to research the regulations in the state where you plan to work.

How do I maintain my nurse practitioner certification?

To maintain your national board certification, you must complete a specific number of continuing education (CE) hours and clinical practice hours within a set period, which is typically every five years. You will then need to apply for renewal through your certifying body. This process ensures that you remain current with the latest evidence-based practices and maintain your clinical competency throughout your career.