What is an MPH Degree and What Can You Do With It?
Health | 10min Read
Online MSN Programs Master’s in Nursing Degrees
Program Overview Why get an online MSN degree?
Earn your nursing degree faster with an affordable online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). With 5 career-focused program tracks and fewer credit requirements (36 for most MSN tracks; 51 for the family nurse practitioner track), you can earn your MSN in as little as 1.5 years.
No BSN yet? No problem! SNHU offers an accelerated online RN to MSN pathway option that applies to all 5 specialty tracks and allows eligible registered nurses to achieve their MSN faster – for less money.
Skills you'll learn:
- Proposal strategies
- How to drive change & improvement
- Health promotion & prevention tactics
- Solutions for health quality & cost
- Consumer-first policy & system advocacy
Courses & Curriculum Online MSN classes that put you on the right track
The master's in nursing online degree is designed to help you build key competencies you need for nursing practice at the master's level. All online MSN tracks begin with the same 5 core courses, giving you the opportunity to explore before you choose the direction you want to go.
Online MSN track options
No 2 nurses are the same; your professional experience and passion for what you do is unique. That's why we offer 5 unique tracks to help prepare you for the role and setting for the next step in your career.
Choose from 5 MSN tracks built to align with your career goals:
Family Nurse Practitioner
Position yourself for success in 1 of most high-demand nursing roles with your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).
This track satisfies the educational requirements needed for the 2 national FNP certifications. Successfully passing 1 of those certification examinations allows the FNP graduate to apply for their Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license from their State Board of Nursing.
Learn more about earning your family nurse practitioner degree online.
Courses include:
- Advanced Clinical Pathophysiology
- Advanced Health Assessment & Clinical Reasoning
- Advanced Pharmacology for the Prescriber
The family nurse practitioner track includes a multi-day in-person immersion experience in New Hampshire as well as a minimum of 750 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of preceptors.
Immersion Experience: The cost of the Immersion Experience is $2,000 and is separate from course tuition. The fee covers items associated with the immersion, such as training materials and standardized patients. Travel including transportation costs, flights, lodging and meal costs are not included in this fee and are the responsibility of the student to pay for and secure. The Immersion Experience is scheduled in NUR-600 and will be held in New Hampshire.
After the Immersion Experience, you'll embark on your practicum experiences, which includes a minimum of 750 clinical hours across five courses. FNP Students will need to complete their program within five (5) years after completing the NUR-600, Advanced Pharmacology for the Prescriber, Immersion course.
Program Outcomes:
- Apply evidence-based practice, informatics and healthcare technologies to support continuous quality improvement in complex health systems
- Lead and collaborate within interprofessional teams and organizational structures to manage change, improve nursing practice and coordinate care across populations
- Develop advanced communication and advocacy strategies to improve health outcomes across the 4 spheres of care
- Advance equitable health policies and regulations that reduce health risk and promote financial stewardship, in alignment with ethical and legal standards
- Integrate person-centered health promotion and disease prevention strategies to address actual and potential problems through the role of change agent and patient advocate
- Integrate an advanced level of scientific knowledge in the role of an advanced practice registered nurse to independently assess, diagnose and manage the health outcomes of individuals, families and populations across the lifespan in primary care settings
- Collaborate interprofessionally to provide high quality, ethical and safe care to diverse populations
Healthcare Quality & Safety
Become an advocate for change and gain the skills you need to implement a culture of safety with your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Healthcare Quality & Safety.
It's estimated that 1 in 10 patients are harmed while receiving hospital patient care – and of those cases, about 50% are preventable.2 This MSN track can give you the skills you need to change those numbers and improve patient-centered care.
Learn more about earning your healthcare quality & safety MSN online.
Courses include:
- Healthcare Quality & Improvement
- Health Policy & Law
- Healthcare Finance & Reimbursement
The healthcare quality and safety track includes 135 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of a preceptor in the student's final course.
Program Outcomes:
- Apply evidence-based practice, informatics, and healthcare technologies to support continuous quality improvement in complex health systems
- Lead and collaborate within interprofessional teams and organizational structures to manage change, improve nursing practice, and coordinate care across populations
- Develop advanced communication and advocacy strategies to improve health outcomes across the four spheres of care
- Advance equitable health policies and regulations that reduce health risk and promote financial stewardship, in alignment with ethical and legal standards
- Integrate systems-based quality improvements across various healthcare settings
- Analyze integrated healthcare systems and processes to mitigate risks and advocate for a culture of safety
Nursing Education
Take your nursing expertise to an academic or clinical setting with your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Nursing Education.
Nursing education is a high-demand field with a promising future – as healthcare itself is dynamic and ever-evolving. As a graduate of this program, you'll meet the educational requirements you need to sit for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam offered by the National League for Nursing.
Learn more about earning your nursing education MSN online.
Courses include:
- Advanced Pathophysiology and Pharmacology Across the Lifespan
- Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Reasoning
- Population Care Management
During the final course, nursing education students will complete 135 clinical practicum hours divided between clinical and academic settings under the guidance of preceptors.
Program Outcomes:
- Apply evidence-based practice, informatics, and healthcare technologies to support continuous quality improvement in complex health systems
- Lead and collaborate within interprofessional teams and organizational structures to manage change, improve nursing practice, and coordinate care across populations
- Develop advanced communication and advocacy strategies to improve health outcomes across the four spheres of care
- Advance equitable health policies and regulations that reduce health risk and promote financial stewardship, in alignment with ethical and legal standards
- Integrate best-practices in teaching and learning to develop and evaluate high-quality educational experiences and model effective professional and leadership practices for diverse populations
- Design, implement, and evaluate teaching and learning strategies in various educational and healthcare settings
Nurse Executive Leadership
Set the vision for the delivery of safe, timely, efficient, equitable and patient-centered care with your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Nurse Executive Leadership.
As a nurse, you're already an advocate for your patients. This program track can take you a step further – helping you advance your career from a bedside role to the role of a leader.
As a nurse leader in executive practice, you'll build leadership, strategic planning, human resources and finance skills. Working within a collaborative and interprofessional environment, you'll influence and improve both the patient experience of care and the health of populations.
You'll also discover ways to reduce the per capita cost of health care, making healthcare more equitable and affordable to all. You'll then make recommendations to leadership on strategic plans, budgets, human relations and patient care.
Career outlook:
As Dr. Kimberly Gibbons, clinical faculty member of graduate nursing programs at SNHU, points out: "Regardless of their title, nurses in all roles are expected to demonstrate leadership, and must challenge themselves and the profession to develop effective leadership styles."
Because of this, the job market for nurse leaders is growing fast. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for medical and health services managers could grow 28% through 2031 – far faster than the national average for all occupations.3
Graduates of the MSN in Nurse Executive Leadership track will have the option to demonstrate the achievement of program competencies through two national exams: the Certified in Executive Nursing Practice (CENP) and/or Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) offered by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL).
Courses include:
- Healthcare Quality and Improvement
- Strategic Skills for Nurse Executive Leaders
- Advanced Concepts for Nurse Executive Leaders
The nursing executive leadership track includes 135 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of a preceptor in the student's final course.
Program Outcomes:
- Apply evidence-based practice, informatics, and healthcare technologies to support continuous quality improvement in complex health systems
- Lead and collaborate within interprofessional teams and organizational structures to manage change, improve nursing practice, and coordinate care across populations
- Develop advanced communication and advocacy strategies to improve health outcomes across the four spheres of care
- Advance equitable health policies and regulations that reduce health risk and promote financial stewardship, in alignment with ethical and legal standards
- Apply strategic planning and business principles to design, develop, and implement high quality, equitable, cost-effective healthcare
- Lead interprofessional teams through the execution of innovative leadership strategies
Population Healthcare
Promote practices that keep communities safe with your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Population Healthcare.
COVID-19 offered a stark lesson in the value of population healthcare. While population health as a practice is focused on improving the patient health outcomes of groups and communities such as schools, businesses, homes and hospitals, this was amplified in 2020. Suddenly, these same spaces were at risk of spreading one of the most unprecedented viruses of our time.
An MSN in Population Healthcare can help you identify ways to connect practice to policy in pursuit of local change. You'll learn how non-traditional partnerships among different sectors of the community – such as public health, industry, academia, health care, local government entities and beyond – can help achieve positive health outcomes.
With assignments and projects focused on telehealth, diversity, equity and inclusion as well as informatics, this track can also help you learn how to integrate evidence-based guidelines for health promotion and disease prevention.
Career outlook:
Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, population healthcare is likely to be an important field in for years to come.
Those with an MSN in Population Healthcare could, for example, treat infected patient populations and collaborate with healthcare partners to identify factors that led to diagnosis. You may work to reduce the risk of exposure to other healthcare workers and the patient’s family and friends, or even coordinate a recovery plan with multiple healthcare providers.
This is a unique track, an emerging discipline and a major focus of authoritative sources in the nursing education space including American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Courses include:
- Informatics and Communication Technology
- Population Care Management
- Healthcare Quality and Improvement
The population healthcare track includes 135 clinical practicum hours under the guidance of a preceptor in the student's final course.
Program Outcomes:
- Apply evidence-based practice, informatics, and healthcare technologies to support continuous quality improvement in complex health systems
- Lead and collaborate within interprofessional teams and organizational structures to manage change, improve nursing practice, and coordinate care across populations
- Develop advanced communication and advocacy strategies to improve health outcomes across the four spheres of care
- Advance equitable health policies and regulations that reduce health risk and promote financial stewardship, in alignment with ethical and legal standards
- Develop interprofessional partnerships to coordinate the delivery of health services across populations
- Lead population-based care through ethically grounded policies, data-driven decisions, and value-based care management principles
Online MSN degree courses
Each online MSN program track integrates hands-on learning to help you succeed in the role of your choice. The program courses are designed with the future of the nursing profession in mind, while keeping a finger on the pulse of the current healthcare industry.
View Full MSN Tracks Curriculums in the Catalog:
Curriculum Requirements
- Clinical practice experience (CPE): Clinical practice hours are incorporated into all graduate nursing programs..
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) requires that all CCNE-accredited baccalaureate, master’s, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs, as well as post-graduate APRN certificate programs, include clinical practice experiences appropriate for the roles for which students are being prepared. This requirement extends not only to the overall degree or certificate program but to each track within the degree and/or post-graduate APRN certificate program.
SNHU incorporates these authentic learning experiences into your MSN program through indirect and direct clinical experiences. You'll be able to achieve these CPE hours through coursework and assignments and time spent under the guidance of a preceptor, depending on your track choice. Connect with our Student Experience team to learn more about clinical practice experiences by track.
Online MSN FNP:
Students enrolled in the MSN program must comply with the requirements of the organizations where their clinical practice experiences/practicum will be completed. These requirements may include (but are not limited to) criminal background check(s), active and unencumbered license verification, immunization records, health insurance and professional liability insurance. Students may incur additional costs to meet organizational requirements (ex. drug screening, physical examination co-pay, etc.). These requirements must be met prior to registering for the clinical practice experience courses. It is a requirement that nursing students carry their own medical malpractice insurance while enrolled in practicum courses. At least two terms before the start of the clinical components, students will be required to demonstrate proof of having an active individual professional liability insurance.
All MSN Tracks:
Students enrolled in the MSN program must comply with requirements of the organizations where their clinical practice experiences/practicum will be completed. These requirements may include (but are not limited to) criminal background check(s), active and unencumbered license verification, immunization records, health insurance, professional liability insurance. Students may incur additional costs to meet organizational requirements (ex. drug screening, physical examination co-pay, etc.). These requirements must be met prior to registering for the clinical practice experience course.
It is a requirement that nursing students carry their own professional liability insurance while enrolled in practicum courses. At least two terms prior to the start of the clinical components, students will be required to demonstrate proof of having an active individual medical malpractice certificate.
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Additional Requirements for MSN programs:
Students enrolled in the MSN program courses are responsible for ensuring they have the minimum system hardware, software and equipment. In addition to the SNHU technology requirements, MSN students should have the following:
For nurse executive leadership and healthcare quality and safety tracks:
- 10Mbps or higher for ideal streaming (download)
- Ability to record (webcam and microphone are often built into laptop or computer)
- A laptop is recommended
For nursing education and population healthcare tracks:
- 20Mbps (download) and 5Mbps (upload)
- Ability to record (webcam and microphone are often built into laptop or computer)
- Assessment kit (tools specified in course syllabus)
- A laptop is recommended
For family nurse practitioner track:
- 20Mbps (download) and 5Mbps (upload)
- Ability to record (webcam and microphone are often built into laptop or computer)
- Government-issued photo ID is required for proctored exams
- Browser plug-in for online proctored exams
- Assessment kit (tools specified in course syllabus)
- A laptop is required during NUR-600 and all practicum courses
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
HEaRT challenge
Looking to gain professional healthcare experience even before you graduate? Do it with HEaRT.
Specially designed for learners in healthcare and nursing, HEaRT (Higher Education and Real World Training) is a powerful experiential learning opportunity at SNHU. These online, asynchronous, voluntary experiences help connect you with employers to help solve real-world business problems, so you can be ready to make an impact in your field.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: Aug. 25, 2025 | Nov. 10, 2025
Next term starts:
June 9, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Learn from dedicated instructors
With Southern New Hampshire University's online MSN programs, you'll learn from instructors with industry experience. All of our 100% full-time faculty are doctorally prepared and come to the classroom with real-world healthcare experience.
Maude McGill, PhD, MSN, RN-BC, CNE
Dr. Maude McGill has over a decade of experience in higher education. She was chief nurse administrator and assistant professor of nursing at Regent University, director of nursing at ECPI University and associate professor of nursing at William Carey University.
She's the director of operations for McGill Ministries, a nonprofit organization that focuses on human growth and development of marginalized communities in southeastern Mississippi. She serves as an active member and thought leader for the National League for Nursing’s Commission on Constituent Leagues and Leadership. Her work is published in several peer reviewed journals and a personal blog devoted to diversified learning and accessibility in learning.
Position
Clinical Faculty, Graduate Nursing
Joined SNHU
2019
Education
- PhD in Nursing Education and Administration, MSN in Nursing Education and BSN in Nursing from William Carey University
- ACCN certification in Gerontology Nursing
"As healthcare professionals, we have to note a patient’s perception in order to address the pressing issue of their reality. Increased exposure to diversity leads to an understanding of inclusivity which leads to responses that break barriers and biases; it leads to responses that are effective, inclusive, and equitable; responses that are indeed patient-centered, student-centered, person-centered."
Read more about Dr. Maude McGill and other nursing leaders at SNHU.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Additional Requirements:
- Resume including any relevant K-12 instructional or curriculum development experience, for at least six months
- Non-Licensure Acknowledgment form
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 5 graduate terms. You can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials.
MSN admission requirements for MSN. NEL Nurse Executive Leadership, MSN.PHC Population Healthcare, MSN.HQS Healthcare Quality and Safety, and MSN.NSE Nursing Education tracks:
- Must maintain an active unencumbered registered nurse license. Licensure exam must be equivalent to NCLEX-RN examination. (If a student holds licenses in more than one state/jurisdiction, all licenses must be unencumbered.)
- Must have a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited nursing program.
- The required minimum cumulative GPA for MSN admission is a 3.0. For purposes of MSN admission, cumulative GPA is calculated by including the pre-licensure BSN or associates degree/diploma in nursing and the BSN.
- Students who have completed graduate-level courses, with a minimum of 3.0 GPA, will be considered for MSN admission on a case-by-case basis. Graduate credits will be considered as part of an applicant's academic profile but will not be applied as transfer credits unless they meet the transfer credit criteria.
- Cannot reside in Washington state or US Territories while completing MSN coursework.
- Must complete the MSN Program Acknowledgement Form.
- Provisional acceptance may be extended to applicants with an undergraduate GPA between 2.67 and 2.99.
MSN.FNP Family Nurse Practitioner track:
- Must maintain an active unencumbered registered nurse license. Licensure exam must be equivalent to NCLEX-RN examination. (If a student holds licenses in more than one state/jurisdiction, all licenses must be unencumbered.)
- Must have a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited nursing program.
- The required minimum cumulative GPA for MSN admission is a 3.0. For purposes of MSN admission, cumulative GPA is calculated by including the pre-licensure BSN or associates degree/diploma in nursing and the BSN.
- Students must also have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in their nursing applicable science courses related to the above.
- Students who have completed graduate-level courses, with a minimum of 3.0 GPA, will be considered for MSN admission on a case-by-case basis. Graduate credits will be considered as part of an applicant's academic profile but will not be applied as transfer credits unless they meet the transfer credit criteria.
- Must complete the MSN Program Acknowledgement Form.
- Must have a minimum of two years of current, full-time RN clinical practice experience.
- Must identify one potential preceptor for a clinical practicum.
- Must be available for one week-long in-person immersion experience.
- No provisional acceptance policy for this track.
Post Master’s Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Quality and Safety (Open to qualified nursing and health professions candidates only):
- Nurse applicants who wish to pursue this certificate must meet MSN nursing program admissions requirements AND have earned a master's degree from an accredited nursing program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Non-nursing health professionals who wish to pursue this certificate must have earned a health professions master's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Immersion experience: As part of the FNP track, you'll also take Advanced Pharmacology for the Prescriber, Immersion. This course requires you to travel to New Hampshire for 1 immersion experience, where you'll participate in simulation activities and perform assessments with standardized patients. This multi-day experience should help prepare you for your clinical practicums and provide pivotal hands-on learning to supplement your educational journey.
The cost of the Immersion Experience is $2,000 and is separate from course tuition. The fee covers items associated with the immersion, such as training materials and standardized patients. Travel including transportation costs, flights, lodging and meal costs are not included in this fee and are the responsibility of the student to pay for and secure. The Immersion Experience is scheduled in NUR-600 and will be held in New Hampshire.
After the Immersion Experience, you'll embark on your practicum experiences, which includes 750 clinical hours across 5 courses. FNP Students will need to complete their program within 5 years after completing the NUR-600, Advanced Pharmacology for the Prescriber, Immersion course.
SNHU nursing programs are not authorized in the state of Washington or U.S. territories, and we are not accepting students residing in Washington state or U.S. territories into nursing programs at this time. Currently enrolled students who move into the state of Washington or a U.S. territory will not be able to continue in nursing courses until they move out of the state of Washington or the U.S. territory. Prospective students are encouraged to contact admission, and current students should contact their advisor, for more information.
Please note that we are currently only accepting students in the family nurse practitioner track in the following states: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Vermont, Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Virginia and New Jersey. Students must reside in 1 of these states while taking FNP courses at SNHU, and all practicum experiences must be completed in 1 of these states. Please note that the family nurse practitioner track is accepting applications from a limited number of students per term.
Applicants and students are advised that their success in their chosen program may be dependent on an ability to meet the Nursing Program Health and Technical Requirements (PDF).
*Due to frequent changes in licensing board requirements, this information is subject to updates and changes.
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.
ANCC Accredited Provider
At Southern New Hampshire University, we’re committed to your success — even beyond graduation. That’s why we’re committed to delivering accredited continuing education for nurses and healthcare professionals. From 1-hour webinars to multi-day conferences and more, these opportunities are built to help you continue to meet the needs of communities across the globe.
Visit our SNHU continuing education page to learn more.
Southern New Hampshire University Nursing is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Commission on Accreditation.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Students enrolled in the MSN program may be subject to ongoing licensure checks through a third party vendor – additional fees will apply and may vary by state.
Ways to save on online tuition
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of an online graduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Receive an online tuition discount if your organization has partnered with SNHU for educational benefits. See if your organization partners with us.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online MSN degree?
Healthcare and nursing are changing fast – our online MSN can help you keep up. Some top medical centers, including ANCC Magnet designated hospitals, consider advanced degrees a minimum requirement for their nurses. A master's in nursing degree can expand your nursing career employment and leadership opportunities and help prepare you to serve in many roles depending on your chosen track.
Occupations
When you earn your MSN, you'll gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in various healthcare settings, including:
Hospitals
Teach nursing professionals new skills, implement patient care programs and promote a culture of safety.
Provider Offices
Serve as either a primary or specialty care provider who delivers advanced nursing services to patients and their families.
Nursing Facilities
Maintain and secure all patient data, ensuring healthcare providers can access accurate and complete records.
Community and Public Health Organizations
Work to improve the health within a community by analyzing data and identifying programs that can improve outcomes.
Colleges and Universities
Guide and teach future nursing professionals best practices and clinical skills they will apply throughout their career.
Government
Provide patients and caregivers with the support/education they need to receive top-level care and make informed decisions.
28%
Job growth projected for medical and health services managers through 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).2
$110,680
Median annual salary for medical and health services managers as of May 2023, according to the BLS.2
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online nursing degrees accredited?
Yes, you can enroll in and graduate from online nursing programs that are accredited and can help you in your career.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.
Officially recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a national accreditation agency, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, (CCNE) is an autonomous accrediting agency, contributing to the improvement of the public's health. CCNE ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate, and residency/fellowship programs in nursing.
CCNE serves the public interest by assessing and identifying programs that engage in effective educational practices. As a voluntary, self-regulatory process, CCNE accreditation supports and encourages continuing self-assessment by nursing programs and supports continuing growth and improvement of collegiate professional education and nurse residency/fellowship programs.
In 2019, SNHU's online nursing programs received a 10-year reaccreditation from CCNE, which awarded initial accreditation in 2014.
Lisa Urban“The goals of accreditation are to ensure that nursing programs consistently fulfill their stated mission and expected program outcomes through self-evaluation, continuous program improvement and the pursuit of academic excellence,” said Dr. Lisa Urban, associate chief of nursing at SNHU. “These [CCNE] accreditation goals align with the university and SNHU nursing program missions.”
Are online MSN degrees respected?
The short answer is yes. Assuming the program is accredited and aligned with the latest industry standards, an online MSN degree is respected by today's employers.
Just ask Katie Smith '21, a recent grad of Southern New Hampshire University's MSN program.
According to her, she not only got a respected degree that helped her build skills as a nurse – she also gained invaluable support along the way.
Of her academic advisor, Smith said: "It was just really nice to have that support and have someone in my corner that I could turn to that understood the academic world."
Smith's MSN also positioned her to pass on her skills and help build an even stronger nursing community.
"I’m definitely not the same nurse I was when I started," she said. "Learning to mentor either new people or especially new grads has been a real honor and privilege."
How long does it take to get a Master of Science in Nursing?
This depends on many factors, depending on how many courses you take per term and your chosen track.
The 36-credit MSN tracks at Southern New Hampshire University include healthcare quality and safety, nursing education, nurse executive leadership and population healthcare. These tracks are comprised of 12 courses. Full-time status means you'd take 2 courses during each 10-week term. Full-time students who satisfactorily complete their coursework in these tracks could expect to complete an MSN degree in less than 1.5 years.
The family nurse practitioner track is 51 credits, or 17 courses. Full-time students could finish this track in less than 2 years.
Attending school as a full-time student isn't always feasible for working adults. At SNHU, taking 1 class per term puts you at part-time status, which means it would take longer for you to earn your degree, but could work better with your life and schedule. However, it can be worth it, if it gives you the time you need to learn the information and do the coursework. There is flexibility within this model too, even taking two courses per term for one or two terms can save significant time on your educational journey.
What's most important in deciding whether to enroll at full- or part-time status is how successful you can be at that level. If you feel comfortable taking 2 courses per term with your schedule, it may be worth it to you so that you can reach that finish line sooner.
What can you do with a Master of Science in Nursing?
Earning your master's degree means you're creating more opportunity for yourself. It opens so many more doors for your career and, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)5, it positions you to be able to:
- Conduct research
- Consult with corporations
- Impact public policy
- Implement evidence-based solutions
- Lead health systems
- Provide direct patient care at an advanced level
- Teach online and in the classroom
With a projected 28% growth for medical and health services managers, the outlook looks good for MSN-educated nurses.3 The AACN notes that because of the high demand, established and new positions are opening in practice areas like administration, forensics, genetics/genomics, geriatrics, informatics, pediatrics, public health and systems improvement.5
In addition, the right MSN program can help you build cultural competence – a skill the National Academy of Medicine pinpoints has one of the most vital for today's nurse leaders.
"As healthcare professionals, we have to note a patient’s perception in order to address the pressing issue of their reality," said Dr. Maude McGill, graduate clinical faculty of SNHU's online nursing programs.
These perceptions are indeed felt by all patient populations – factors like age, gender, socioeconomic status and more can impact how communities receive care. But for people of color (POC), this issue presents an especially challenging barrier to effective treatment. "There’s often the fear of not being understood, or being dismissed or minimized,” McGill said.
However, with representation, exposure and empathy, nurses can identify a better way forward.
"Increased exposure to diversity leads to an understanding of inclusivity which leads to responses that break barriers and biases; it leads to responses that are effective, inclusive, and equitable; responses that are indeed patient-centered, student-centered, person-centered," she said.
Is it worth it to get an MSN?
If you have career goals that align with where an MSN can take you, then, yes, earning a master's in nursing is definitely worth the investment.
"A degree opens doors that were previously closed," said Sherry Consolin '19. "As I proceed through the program, I discover new opportunities for nurses that excite me."
Beyond the reward of expanded knowledge, nurses who earn their MSN degree broaden their range of opportunities and open the door to a potential boost in pay.
"The employer interprets the additional credential as a highly desirable indicator of future performance and assigns value to the degree holder accordingly," said Laurie Lewis, an SNHU Career advisor.
Some value may not be monetary rewards, either. Though the potential of a bumped-up paycheck is certainly one of the biggest benefits, there may be other perks. You may find it valuable to be eligible for positions that come with better hours – meaning an MSN could have benefits to your personal life, too.
And while you may have a career goal in mind as the reason behind getting your master's, an MSN continues to open the door to opportunity beyond that first role that you land.
Plus, getting your master's in nursing doesn't have to be expensive. SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation, meaning you could achieve your return on investment (ROI) on your degree faster.
Can I get my MSN online?
Yes. Students who are already registered nurses – and who have previously earned their BSN – can enroll in an online MSN program.
Not only are nurses able to pursue this advanced degree online, but for many, attending online makes more sense. Many nurses have demanding schedules that aren't always the same week to week, making it nearly impossible to attend set classes at a brick-and-mortar institution. The time and money attributed to commuting to a physical institution alone is valuable, and at SNHU we get it.
By earning a master's in nursing online, it allows you to continue your career as a nurse – while working to advance it at the same time. SNHU's program was designed so that the learnings from each course are immediately applicable to your career, which can help patients reap the rewards right away.
What is the best online MSN program?
The best online MSN program is the one that can help you reach your personal and professional goals, at an affordable price, on your timeline and is accredited.
At SNHU, that translates to:
- Career-focused: Our MSN program was built by nurses, for nurses. It was designed around recommendations within ""The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health"" report from the National Academy of Medicine, formerly the Institute of Medicine – which outlined how roles should change in our healthcare system. In 2021, the report was updated to reflect new recommendations to meet further meet the needs of today's nursing workforce.
- Affordability: Take advantage of some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
- Convenient: Enroll in 1 or 2 classes per term – whichever works best for your busy schedule. Plus, you'll have 24/7 access to your courses, meaning you can complete your work any time during the week to meet your deadlines.
- Accredited: The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791. Officially recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a national accreditation agency, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is an autonomous accrediting agency, contributing to the improvement of the public's health. CCNE ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate, and residency/fellowship programs in nursing.
SNHU also offers 5 MSN program tracks – family nurse practitioner (FNP), nurse executive leadership, nursing education, healthcare quality & safety and population healthcare – helping you meet your needs as you determine the next path of your career.
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1 The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.
2 World Health Organization, 10 facts on patient safety, on the internet, at https://www.who.int/news-room/photo-story/photo-story-detail/10-facts-on-patient-safety (viewed April 1, 2021)
3 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm (viewed February 8, 2023).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
4 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2021. The Future of Nursing 2020-2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/25982.
5 American Association of Colleges of Nursing, Master's Education, on the internet, at https://www.aacnnursing.org/Nursing-Education-Programs/Masters-Education (viewed Nov. 21, 2019)