Most Affordable Online MSN in Care Coordination Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Nurses are considered the backbone of healthcare anywhere in the world. This is why they are in demand and have high income potential. Between 2023 and 2033, an average of around 194,500 job openings for registered nurses (RNs) are expected annually in the United States (US). Moreover, RNs had a median annual wage of $93,600 in May 2024 [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2025]. Notably, nursing professionals looking to advance their education, training, and employability may want to explore online MSN in care coordination degree programs.

To help you get started, I created this in-depth guide to affordable online MSN in care coordination programs. Explore common courses, areas of specialization, tuition rates, financial aid options, and potential careers.

What are the benefits of getting an online MSN in care coordination?

• An online MSN in care coordination degree can help you land a job as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), registered nurse (RN), or a nurse care coordinator, among other potential roles in healthcare.
• In May 2024, LPNs and LVNs employed in the US had a median annual wage of $62,340, while RNs had $93,600 (US BLS, 2025). As of May 2025, clinical nurse coordinators in the country have an average annual salary of $99,666, while roles that entail an MSN in care coordination had an average annual salary of $172,199 in the same year (ZipRecruiter, 2025).
• One of the most beneficial elements of online MSN in care coordination programs is their flexibility. These programs enable working nurses to advance their education without putting their careers on hold. They often include virtual simulations, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world case management training that directly apply to care coordination roles.

What can I expect from online MSN in care coordination programs?

Students enrolled in online MSN in care coordination programs can expect a comprehensive curriculum that blends advanced nursing knowledge with leadership, communication, and care management skills. Courses cover essential topics, such as healthcare systems, chronic disease management, patient advocacy, and population health.

Most programs are designed with flexibility in mind to allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule while continuing to work. Interactive components, such as virtual simulations, discussion forums, and group projects encourage collaboration and practical application. Many programs also include clinical practicums or capstone projects to provide students with hands-on experience in coordinating care across diverse healthcare settings.

Graduates are prepared to lead care teams, improve patient outcomes, and navigate complex healthcare environments with confidence.

Where can I work with an online MSN in care coordination degree?

Going through an online MSN in care coordination degree program can help you further advance your education and career. You can pursue the degree if you hold a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree, if you are a registered nurse (RN) with an associate degree in nursing (ADN), and even if you are already an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). Considering the types of students that these online MSN programs accept, graduates may find available jobs in the places of employment where these nursing professionals work.

In 2023, the estimated 3.3 million RNs in the US were largely employed by the following organizations or industries (US BLS, 2025):

• Hospitals (State, Local, and Private): 58%
• Ambulatory Healthcare Services: 19%
• Government: 6%
• Nursing and Residential Care Facilities: 5%
• Educational Services (State, Local, and Private): 3%

How much can I make with an online MSN in care coordination degree?

In May 2024, registered nurses (RNs) across the US had a median annual wage of $93,600 (US BLS, 2025). Meanwhile, as of May 2025, clinical nurse coordinators in the country have an average annual salary of $99,666, and roles that entail an MSN in care coordination had an average annual salary of $172,199 in the same year (ZipRecruiter, 2025).

In terms of industries, the following are the highest-paying for RNs in the country based on median annual wages (US BLS, 2025):

• Government: $106,480
• Hospitals (State, Local, and Private): $97,260
• Ambulatory Healthcare Services: $83,780
• Nursing and Residential Care Facilities: $81,820
• Educational Services (State, Local, and Private): $74,360

Table of Contents

1. List of Online MSN Care Coordination Programs for 2025
2. How long does it take to complete an online MSN in care coordination program?
3. How does an online MSN in care coordination program compare to an on-campus program?
4. What is the average cost of an online MSN in care coordination program?
5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online MSN in care coordination program?
6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online MSN in care coordination program?
7. What courses are typically in an online MSN in care coordination program?
8. Are these online MSN programs accredited and how do they meet professional standards?
9. What are the student outcomes and success metrics for online MSN in care coordination programs?
10. What types of specializations are available in online MSN in care coordination programs?
11. How do you choose the best online MSN in care coordination program?
12. What career paths are available to graduates of online MSN in care coordination programs?
13. What is the job market like for graduates of online MSN in care coordination programs?
14. Could an Online MSN in Care Coordination Program Facilitate a Transition to a Direct Entry NP Role?
15. Other Things You Need to Know about Online MSN in Care Coordination Programs

List of Online MSN Care Coordination Programs for 2025

To help you advance your nursing career, I created a list of reputable online MSN in care coordination degree programs offered by accredited academic institutions across the US. The list is based on the research methodology that my team and I established. We collected and analyzed recent data from the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.

1. Capella University

Capella University offers an accredited online MSN in care coordination program, with FlexPath and GuidedPath learning formats that students can choose between. The program curriculum includes seven core courses, four specialization courses, and two practicum courses. Specialization courses include care coordination healthcare models, care coordination structure and process, as well as care coordination leadership.

• Program Length: 12 months to 28 months
• Area of Specialization: Care Coordination
• Cost per Credit: $450 (GuidedPath learning format)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 54 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

2. Nebraska Methodist College

Nebraska Methodist College offers an accredited online MSN in care coordination degree program. Its program curriculum includes courses in leadership in an advanced nursing specialty role, population health in a global society, and healthcare systems management in care coordination. Applicants must have a BSN from a state-approved nursing program or a program accredited by professional accrediting agencies, such as the CCNE.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Area of Specialization: Care Coordination
• Cost per Credit: $588
• Required Credits to Graduate: 39 credits
• Accreditation: HLC; CCNE

3. Caldwell University

Caldwell University offers an online MSN in population health through the School of Nursing and Public Health. The program curriculum includes courses in advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, and statistics for population health. The university enables students to take courses in an asynchronous format in 7-week sessions over the academic year. Applicants can choose to start their programs in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.

• Program Length: 2 years (6 semesters of part-time study)
• Areas of Specialization: Healthcare Administration; Instructional Design & Curriculum; Palliative Care; Population Health
• Cost per Credit: $564
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36 credits
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE); CCNE

4. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) offers an online RN-to-MSN degree program in nursing leadership and management. The program curriculum consists of 32 courses, including core courses in interprofessional communication and leadership in healthcare, comprehensive health assessment, as well as global and population health. Students are also required to complete field experiences at facilities near them.

• Program Length: At least 1 year
• Area of Specialization: Leadership and Management
• Cost per 6-month Term: $5,325 (Undergraduate Portion); $5,035 (Graduate Portion)
• Required Credits to Graduate: Not applicable
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); CCNE

5. Purdue Global

Purdue Global offers an online master’s degree in nursing that offers six specialty tracks. Students learn about organizational theory, healthcare finance, information technology, health policy, and healthcare systems, among other essential areas in the industry. Core coursework includes advanced nursing roles, scientific and analytic approaches to advanced evidence-based practice, as well as clinical epidemiology and population health promotion.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Areas of Specialization: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner; Executive Leader; Family Nurse Practitioner Primary Care; Nurse Educator; Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $420
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 to 90 quarter credits
• Accreditation: HLC; CCNE

How long does it take to complete an online MSN in care coordination program?

The program length of an online MSN in care coordination program usually ranges from 1 to 3 years, depending on a student’s previous academic background and enrollment status as well as the program structure.

Students with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) can often finish in 1 to 2 years through accelerated or full-time tracks. Some students may also explore an accelerated NP program option if they are interested in quickly advancing into nurse-practitioner roles alongside care coordination. Those entering with an associate degree or non-nursing bachelor’s degree may take longer to complete the program to finish additional prerequisite coursework.

Many programs offer flexible pacing, enabling students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. Clinical practicum requirements may also affect program length, as students must complete hands-on hours in approved healthcare settings.

How does an online MSN in care coordination program compare to an on-campus program?

While both on-campus and online MSN in care coordination programs lead to the same degree, they differ in several key ways that may influence a student's learning experience and lifestyle. Below are three main differences you might encounter:

• Flexibility and Scheduling: Online programs offer greater flexibility and enable students to complete coursework on their own time. This is ideal for working nurses or those with family responsibilities. Meanwhile, on-campus programs usually follow a fixed class schedule. Some students may seek the shortest RN to MSN online program to accelerate their path to advanced practice roles without sacrificing their current job.
• Learning Environment: Online programs use virtual platforms with video lectures, discussion boards, and interactive modules. In contrast, on-campus students benefit from face-to-face interactions with professors and peers, which can enhance networking and mentorship.
• Clinical Placement Logistics: Both formats require clinical hours, but online students may need to arrange placements locally with program guidance. On-campus programs often have established partnerships with nearby healthcare facilities.

What is the average cost of an online MSN in care coordination program?

The cost of online MSN in care coordination programs varies, depending on the academic institution. Purdue Global offers one of the more affordable options at $420 per quarter credit hour. Capella University’s GuidedPath learning format costs $450 per credit. Caldwell University charges $564 per credit hour, and Nebraska Methodist College lists its rate at $588 per credit.

These tuition rates generally cover only instruction. Thus, students should also budget for additional fees, books, and any required clinical supplies. Many programs offer financial aid options, such as scholarships and tuition reimbursement, to help offset the overall cost.  For those also considering leadership roles in nursing, researching the cheapest online clinical nurse MSN programs can provide valuable insights into managing educational expenses.

The chart below provides a visualization of the cost per credit of online MSN in care coordination programs, according to current tuition data from the featured academic institutions.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online MSN in care coordination program?

Students pursuing an online MSN in care coordination may qualify for various financial aid options, including scholarships and employer tuition assistance, to help offset education costs.

• NurseThink® - AACN Scholarship: The NurseThink® - AACN Scholarship is provided by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). It awards scholarships to students of master’s and doctoral nursing degree programs at academic institutions that are members of the AACN. Notably, the program supports individuals aiming to become nurse educators. Scholarship recipients will be given $5,000 twice a year until 2026.
• Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurse Leader Scholarship: The Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurse Leader Scholarship is a program that aims to financially support graduate nursing students seeking to become leaders in academic nursing. Qualified students are awarded a total of $3,500 each. The program was established as a tribute to AACN president and CEO Dr. Deborah Trautman and is funded by Liaison International, the AACN’s partner in NursingCAS.
• Advancing Nurse Leadership in Post-Acute Care Scholarship: The Advancing Nurse Leadership in Post-Acute Care Scholarship is a program that awards $5,000 and a complimentary registration to the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) Conference. Applicants must be a US resident and registered nurse (RN) who is currently employed in post-acute care. Notably, applicants must not be previous winners of the scholarship program and the Cheryl M. Thomas Scholarship.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online MSN in care coordination program?

Admission requirements for online MSN in care coordination programs can vary by academic institution, but most programs share a set of common prerequisites to ensure that students are prepared for advanced nursing coursework. The following are three key requirements:

• Nursing License (RN): Applicants must hold an active, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license. This ensures that they have foundational clinical experience and meet state licensure standards. This is a consistent requirement across most advanced nursing degrees, including those focused on management, much like the admission criteria for the cheapest online MSN programs in health systems management.
• Bachelor’s Degree: Most programs require a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), but some offer bridge options for RNs with associate degrees.
• Minimum GPA and Transcripts: Schools usually require official transcripts and a minimum cumulative GPA. This demonstrates academic readiness for graduate-level study.

Additional requirements may include letters of recommendation, a resume, a personal statement, and proof of clinical experience. Meeting these prerequisites is essential for successful program admission.

What courses are typically in an online MSN in care coordination program?

Online MSN in care coordination degree programs offer a curriculum designed to equip nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to manage and coordinate patient care effectively across various settings. The following are five common courses students can expect:

• Care Coordination and Case Management: This course covers strategies for managing patient care plans, coordinating services, and improving health outcomes, particularly for patients with complex or chronic conditions.
• Health Policy and Advocacy: Students learn how healthcare policies impact patient care and gain skills to advocate for policy changes that promote equitable and efficient care delivery.
• Population Health and Epidemiology: This course explores the principles of public health, disease prevention, and data analysis to help nurses understand health trends and plan community-level interventions.
• Healthcare Systems and Quality Improvement: Students examine the structure of healthcare systems and learn methods to assess and improve quality, safety, and efficiency in care delivery. This focus on systemic improvement and patient outcomes is also central to many other advanced nursing specializations, including affordable online nurse midwifery MSN degree programs, which similarly aim to enhance healthcare delivery within their specific scope of practice.
• Leadership and Interprofessional Collaboration: This course emphasizes leadership development and communication skills necessary for working effectively within interdisciplinary healthcare teams.

Are these online MSN programs accredited and how do they meet professional standards?

Accredited programs ensure that online MSN in care coordination curricula meet rigorous quality benchmarks in educational content, clinical practice, and faculty credentials. Recognition from bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) confirms that the program adheres to nationally recognized standards, which can be crucial for licensure and industry acceptance. Students are advised to verify accreditation status and review related certifications, as these factors can influence career advancement and credit transfer processes. Additionally, candidates evaluating academic pathways may consider alternative streamlined options like online RN to BSN programs no prerequisites to ensure a cohesive progression in nursing education.

What are the student outcomes and success metrics for online MSN in care coordination programs?

Online MSN in care coordination programs often report key performance indicators such as graduation rates, board certification pass rates, and early career placement statistics. Prospective students can assess these metrics through verified data and alumni reviews, which offer insights into the program’s effective curriculum design and clinical partnerships. Programs that provide robust career support and mentorship may lead to smoother transitions into leadership roles and better long‐term employment outcomes. For additional guidance on budget-conscious education options, consider exploring affordable RN programs.

What types of specializations are available in online MSN in care coordination programs?

Online MSN in care coordination programs may offer various specializations that allow nurses to align their education with specific career goals and patient populations. These specializations enhance a nurse’s ability to deliver targeted care and assume leadership roles in their chosen area. Below are three common specializations:

• Chronic Care Management: This specialization focuses on coordinating long-term care for patients with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease. Nurses learn to develop and manage comprehensive care plans to improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital readmissions.
• Geriatric Care Coordination: Designed for nurses interested in elder care, this track emphasizes the unique health, social, and emotional needs of aging populations. Students gain skills in coordinating services across settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home care.
• Behavioral Health Integration: This specialization prepares nurses to support patients with mental health and substance use disorders by integrating behavioral health into primary care. It includes training in screening, crisis management, and collaboration with mental health professionals.

Nurses pursuing a critical care nursing career path may also benefit from care coordination skills. They will learn to manage complex cases that require working with multiple specialists and healthcare services.

How do you choose the best online MSN in care coordination program?

Choosing the best online MSN in care coordination program involves evaluating several key factors to ensure that the program aligns with your academic goals, lifestyle, and career aspirations. The following are three important criteria to consider:

• Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by recognized agencies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation guarantees that the program meets high educational standards and is recognized by employers and licensing boards. This is crucial for career progression in all areas of healthcare, including those focused on improving patient care, similar to the importance of accreditation for affordable master's in healthcare quality and patient safety online programs.
• Flexibility and Format: Consider whether the program offers full-time, part-time, or self-paced options. Flexible scheduling is crucial for working nurses balancing professional and personal commitments.
• Clinical Placement Support: Look for programs that offer assistance with arranging clinical practicum experiences. Strong support can ensure that you gain relevant hands-on experience in care coordination within your local healthcare setting.

What career paths are available to graduates of online MSN in care coordination programs?

Graduates of online MSN in care coordination programs can pursue various impactful careers in nursing and healthcare education. Common career paths include the following:

• Registered Nurse (RN): With an MSN, RNs can take on advanced responsibilities, including leadership roles, care planning, and quality improvement initiatives in clinical settings. In 2024, RNs across the US had a mean annual wage of $98,430 (US BLS, 2025). Some graduates may also explore related advanced practice specialties, such as how to become a certified nurse midwife, for broader career advancement.
• Clinical Nurse Coordinator: These professionals manage and coordinate comprehensive care plans, particularly for patients with chronic or complex conditions. They ensure smooth transitions and improved health outcomes. In 2025, clinical nurse coordinators working in the US had an average annual salary of $99,666 (US BLS, 2025).
• Nursing Instructor: Graduates can teach nursing students in academic or clinical environments. They can share their expertise in care coordination while shaping future healthcare professionals through instruction and mentorship. In 2024, nursing instructors in the US had a mean annual wage of $87,090 (US BLS, 2025).

Some MSN graduates may also explore a PACU nursing career path. They may apply their advanced knowledge in post-anesthesia care units, wherein strong coordination and communication are critical to ensuring patient safety and smooth recoveries.

The chart below provides a visualization of the average annual wages of nursing professionals in the US, according to 2025 data from the US BLS and Zip Recruiter.

What is the job market like for graduates of online MSN in care coordination programs?

The job market for graduates of online MSN in care coordination programs is promising, reflecting the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals. Employment for registered nurses (RNs) in the US is projected to grow by 6% between 2023 and 2033, with approximately 194,500 job openings expected annually during this period (US BLS, 2025).

This growth is driven by different key factors, such as an aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions, which heighten the need for coordinated and comprehensive healthcare services. Nurses with advanced degrees, including an online MSN in care coordination, are well-positioned to meet this demand. They can take on roles that involve managing patient care plans, improving health outcomes, and reducing hospital readmissions. Moreover, many MSN-prepared nurses may qualify for advanced practice roles with higher earning potential, contributing to the overall increase in APRN salary figures. Their expertise is especially valuable in settings that require seamless transitions of care and effective communication among multidisciplinary teams.

Could an Online MSN in Care Coordination Program Facilitate a Transition to a Direct Entry NP Role?

An online MSN in care coordination program develops advanced competencies in leadership, clinical management, and interprofessional collaboration that can serve as a foundation for more specialized advanced practice roles. Many programs incorporate elements that are also central to a direct entry NP program, allowing graduates to pursue licensure and advanced certification in nurse practitioner tracks. This pathway may include targeted clinical practicums and mentorship that not only enhance care management expertise but also prepare candidates for the rigorous certification processes required for NP roles.

Other Things You Need to Know about Online MSN in Care Coordination Programs

What is the best online MSN program?

The best online MSN programs are accredited, offer flexible schedules, strong faculty support, and provide quality clinical placements to prepare students for advanced nursing roles. The best program for you also depends on your chosen specialization. Therefore, careful research into nursing schools is a must to ensure that you receive quality education that is aligned with your professional goals and available resources.

Can you skip BSN and go to MSN?

You can skip a BSN and go directly to an MSN through accelerated or direct-entry MSN programs. These programs are designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and prepare students for advanced nursing roles. It may also lead to RN licensure and specialized practice.

Which MSN degree pays the most?

The highest-paying MSN degree is the degree for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). In May 2024, nurse anesthetists in the US had a median annual wage of $223,210 (US BLS, 2025). CRNAs administer anesthesia and manage patient care during procedures.

What is the difference between case management and care coordination?

Case management focuses on individualized care planning and is often for complex or high-risk patients. Those in case management ensure that patients receive needed services. Meanwhile, care coordination involves organizing patient care activities across multiple providers. Care coordinators ensure seamless, efficient care, particularly during transitions between settings or levels of care.

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• ZipRecruiter. (2025). MSN Care Coordination Salary. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Msn-Care-Coordination-Salary