Guide to Master’s in Nursing Programs: What is an MSN, Why Get It & What Types of Master’s Degrees in Nursing Are There?

In the field of nursing, education and career advancement are closely linked. And there is no better way to advance past the Registered Nursing position than by earning a Master of Science in Nursing. Master's in Nursing programs open the door to advanced clinical practice, leadership, education, and policy-making roles in the healthcare field. 

However, there is considerable variation between Master’s in Nursing programs, each one preparing you for a specific area of practice and career – something you should research well enough before enrolling. This guide walks you through what an MSN is, why it's worth pursuing, the different types of nursing master’s degrees, and how to choose the right program for your goals.

What Is a Master's in Nursing?

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate-level degree that prepares Registered Nurses (RNs) to assume advanced practice roles, leadership positions, education-focused careers, or specialized administrative functions. MSNs build on undergraduate nursing education and professional experience, offering a deeper foundation in clinical, theoretical, and leadership competencies.

Read our MSN degree guide to find out more about it.

Thus, it is generally seen as the next step on the nursing career ladder, education-wise, once you have earned your BSN degree and practiced on the frontlines of healthcare provision. It also paves the way for obtaining a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – a terminal degree in clinical practice, often pursued for roles in systems leadership, policy, or the highest levels of clinical practice.

Curriculum for Master’s in Nursing Programs

MSN curricula combine theoretical education and practical experiences. They typically include subjects such as advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, health policy, ethics, population health, leadership and management, evidence-based practice and research, as well as specialty-specific coursework and a practicum. Earning a Master’s in Nursing typically requires approximately 2 years of full-time study. 

Discover how long nursing school is based on degree, specialization, and other factors.

However, it is worth remembering that Master’s in Nursing programs often specialize in specific areas of practice and expertise. Thus, the curriculum of your program of choice will differ based on what type of role it prepares you for.

Why Get a Master's in Nursing? Benefits of Advancing Education

Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing comes with multiple benefits for your career outlook, outcomes of your job, and your performance in clinical settings. The healthcare profession is one characterized by rapid change and development, with expanding responsibilities and a growing need for specialized care. Thus, earning an MSN provides a strategic advantage that increases your value as an advanced nursing practitioner. 

Here are the three primary reasons nurses aim to advance their education and earn an MSN degree:

• Career advancement – A Master’s in Nursing qualifies you for a broad range of specialized roles that go beyond bedside care, including Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, Nurse Educators, Nursing Administrators, Nursing Informatics Specialists, and even policy advocates, the degree being generally required for academic or leadership roles, as well as for increased clinical autonomy. 

• Salary increase – As a rule, higher education almost always means a higher salary for nurses, and this is true for MSN-prepared nurses who earn significantly more than those with only a BSN. For instance, the MSN salary estimates for Nurse Practitioners reached $126,260 in recent years, with roles like Psychiatric Mental Health NPs earning up to $160,000 per year. Educators, informaticists, and administrators also see substantial pay increases compared to generalist RN roles. 

• Demand for advanced-practice nurses – With the ongoing national shortage of nurses, primarily in frontline roles, mental health facilities, and nursing faculty positions, nurses with an MSN become a must for the continuity of the profession. The increased access to healthcare, aging populations, and a shift toward value-based care are expected to drive a rise in demand for advanced nursing practice.

15 Types of Nursing Master’s Degrees

Nursing Master’s degrees come with specific areas of specialization that prepare students for a particular area of practice. If you are considering advancing your education, you must know what Master’s in Nursing programs you can enroll in and which one serves you best. 

Below, we will go through the 15 main choices of Master’s in Nursing degree programs, their specifics, what they prepare you for, and why you may want to choose them.

1. Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN FNP)

Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) deliver comprehensive primary care to individuals and families across the lifespan, with FNP MSN programs showcasing a focus on community health and comprehensive preparation for diverse scenarios. If you choose to specialize as an FNP, you can find employment in outpatient clinics, family practices, and underserved areas.

You can read more about the Family Nurse Practitioner role, including an in-depth look at the scope of practice, job outlook, salary estimates, and educational process.

You can also enroll in the MSN FNP Program at Nightingale College – an AACN-accredited 2-year hybrid academic option that combines online instruction, in-person seminars, and preceptorship experiences to deliver top-quality nursing education in the most accessible way available.

Enroll in the MSN FNP Program and enhance your career!

2. Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN PMHNP)

This Master’s in Nursing degree option provides learners with advanced training in mental health assessment, therapy, and psychopharmacology, being specifically designed for students interested in psychiatric nursing and behavioral health who want to work in psychiatric or mental health care facilities. 

One noteworthy perk of this option is that it prepares you for one of the highest-paying nurse jobs – the national salary estimate for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is $151,588 per year.

Read more about the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner role.

Nightingale College offers a dedicated MSN PMHNP Program, an AACN-accredited learning path that prepares students for a career as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This 24-month hybrid program combines online instruction, in-person seminars, and preceptorship experiences to provide you with top-quality, certified nursing education in the most accessible way possible.

Enroll in the MSN PMHNP Program and achieve your desired career!

3. Master of Science in Nursing – Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (MSN-AGNP)

Adult-Gerontology Master’s in Nursing programs prepare students to deliver primary or acute care to adults and the elderly. Academic tracks usually focus on aging populations, complex chronic conditions, and interprofessional care planning.

4. Master of Science in Nursing – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (MSN-PNP)

Designed for RNs who want to specialize in pediatric healthcare through a graduate-level curriculum, PNP MSN programs typically cover pediatric pharmacology, child health assessment, developmental screening, and evidence-based pediatric care. The curriculum and area of practice may be similar to those of an FNP, but with a specific focus on treating infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.

5. Master of Science in Nursing – Clinical Nurse Specialist (MSN-CNS)

This Master’s in Nursing pathway focuses on advanced clinical expertise within a specific population or setting. The curriculum emphasizes clinical decision-making, care coordination, and quality improvement grounded in nursing research. It is worth noting that Clinical Nurse Specialists are some of the best-paid nursing professionals, with an estimated salary in 2025 of $141,905

6. Master of Science in Nursing – Certified Nurse Midwifery (MSN-CNM)

Nurse-midwifery is a vital component of the nursing profession, and this Master’s pathway offers graduate-level education in women’s health and childbirth. The curriculum encompasses areas of study such as reproductive physiology, prenatal care, labor and delivery, and newborn assessment from a holistic nursing perspective, providing the knowledge necessary to become a Certified Nurse Midwife.

7. Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Education/Instruction (MSN-Ed)

This Master’s in Nursing degree option prepares learners for a career in academic or staff development roles – primarily as Nurse Educators, with its program including training in curriculum design, instructional strategies, student learning assessment, and teaching technologies.

Find out more about the process of becoming a Nurse Educator.

If you have made up your mind, you can enroll in the MSN Ed Program at Nightingale College, an AACN-accredited, 24-month educational path that blends online and in-person instruction to prepare you for a career in nursing education and academia.

Read more about the MSN Ed Program and advance your career!

8. Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Administration

The program focuses on the business and leadership side of healthcare, with coursework covering topics such as organizational management, financial oversight, strategic planning, and human resources within nursing contexts. By completing this program, you can go on to become a Nurse Administrator, Nurse Case Manager, or similar position within clinical and non-clinical settings.

9. Master of Science in Nursing – Clinical Nurse Leader (MSN-CNL)

A Clinical Nurse Leadership MSN degree prepares nurses to lead teams of professionals and enhance patient outcomes at the unit, section, or team level. Its curriculum typically includes areas of study such as systems leadership, clinical outcomes measurement, and care transition management.

10. Master of Healthcare Administration (MSN/MHA)

Designed for nurses who want to lead healthcare organizations, this dual-degree program offers advanced coursework in healthcare policy, organizational leadership, and systems management. The MHA is ideal if you are seeking to occupy executive roles such as Chief Nursing Officer, Director of Nursing, or Systems-Level Policy Advisor.

11. Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management (MSN/MBA)

An interdisciplinary dual-degree graduate program designed to merge clinical nursing knowledge with business acumen, the MBA in Healthcare Management involves studying subjects as varied as financial accounting, healthcare economics, and operations management. The learning option provides a solid foundation for accessing leadership and administrative roles, while also paving the way for advanced roles at the top of the nursing leadership ladder, such as Chief Nursing Officer or Director of Nursing.

Find out more about Leadership and Administration roles in nursing contexts.

12. Master of Science in Nursing – Informatics (MSN-I)

This Master’s in Nursing program is a blend of healthcare and information science education that prepares you to implement, manage, and evaluate digital health systems and use data to drive clinical decisions and improve outcomes.

The program will familiarize you with clinical data management, electronic health records (EHR) systems, health analytics, and decision support tools, while also emphasizing the importance of privacy, cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and systems integration in modern healthcare settings.

Find out more about Nursing Informatics, its importance for the industry, and why you should consider it as a career path.

13. Master of Science in Nursing – Public Health (MSN-PH)

In contrast to community-focused primary care, the MSN program in Public Health emphasizes health promotion and disease prevention, with a curriculum that typically combines epidemiology, community-based assessment, public health program development, and environmental health.

Find out more about public health nursing, including the full extent of the scope of practice, educational requirements, and how to become a Public Health Nurse.

14. Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Research

MSN programs centered around nursing research have the objective of preparing you to generate, evaluate, and apply knowledge and evidence-based findings in patient care and healthcare systems.

Thus, you will study topics such as research design, data analysis, biostatistics, and ethics in clinical research. Once you graduate, you will be able to confidently contribute to scientific literature, support evidence-based nursing, and collaborate on interdisciplinary research initiatives in academic, governmental, or clinical settings. A Master’s in Nursing Research is also great to have on your resume, particularly if you want to advance to the Director of Nursing Practice (DNP) role later on in your career.

15. Master of Science in Nursing – Healthcare Policy

The Healthcare Policy MSN specialization prepares you to partake in the shaping of healthcare systems through policy development and advocacy. The program curriculum will involve advanced coursework in health law, regulatory and legislative frameworks, healthcare economics, and political strategy. 

Upon graduating, you can assume roles that influence policy decisions, evaluate the impact of legislative changes on care delivery, and take on advisory or consulting roles in government agencies, advocacy organizations, or healthcare leadership.

Can You Become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist with an MSN Degree?

No. It used to be that Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) required a Master’s in Nursing to receive their certification and start practicing. However, as of 2025, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) requires all academic institutions to switch from MSN to DNP programs for CRNAs.

Types of Master’s in Nursing Programs by Format

Beyond their specialty, Master’s in Nursing programs can also differ based on points of entry and formats adopted that accommodate learners at different stages of their careers and educational backgrounds.

Below, you can find the types of programs you can see and select the pathway that fits your experience, schedule, and learning goals:

• RN to MSN programs – Designed for registered nurses who have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) who want a fast-track to accessing advanced practice or leadership roles.
• BSN to MSN programs – Explicitly designed for nurses who already hold a BSN. It focuses on advanced clinical skills, leadership, and specialty-centered education. 
• Dual master’s programs – Combination of MSN and other graduate degrees (generally an MBA or MHA) that prepares nurses for interdisciplinary roles that combine clinical expertise with business or healthcare administration.
• Direct-entry master’s programs – For learners with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees interested in changing careers and joining the nursing profession with an MSN-level education.
• Bridge programs – Learning pathways for nurses who already hold an MSN to pursue additional certifications or doctoral degrees without repeating foundational graduate coursework.

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Nursing?

Earning a Master’s in Nursing comes with multiple job benefits, advancement options, enhanced clinical autonomy, and leadership opportunities in nursing work settings. 

The first and primary benefit enabled by earning your MSN is the possibility of accessing various advanced practice nursing roles, including:

• Nurse Practitioner Roles – Family Nurse Practitioners, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners, Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, and many other specializations
• Specialist Roles – Nursing Informaticists, Certified Nurse Midwives, Public Health Nurses, and Clinical Nurse Specialists
• Teaching Roles – Nurse Educators, Post-Secondary Teachers, and Instructors
• Researcher Roles – Healthcare Policy Analysts, Researchers, and Advisors
• Leadership Positions – Nurse Case Managers, Chief Nursing Officers, and Directors of Nursing

One of the main perks of earning a Master’s in Nursing is the fact that you can work in many more environments, both clinical and non-clinical. Although the work settings of MSN graduates are similar to those of nurses with other degrees (primarily hospitals, outpatient clinics, and primary care practices), many advanced practice nurses can also find work in environments such as community and public health agencies, psychiatric care and mental health facilities, educational and research institutions, as well as government agencies.

Your scope of practice and level of clinical autonomy will also increase, allowing APRNs to diagnose and treat conditions autonomously, while maintaining constant collaboration. They can also prescribe medications, develop treatment plans, and order or interpret diagnostic tests. Crucially, access to various non-clinical MSN roles involves not only autonomy within the workplace but also the ability to make decisions and influence the functioning of units and the industry as a whole. Lastly, MSN degrees also allow you to access management, administrative, and leadership roles.

Additionally, enrolling in one of the Master’s in Nursing programs is also a key advancement opportunity in the field of nursing. Beyond opening the way to access advanced practice nursing roles, reaching the MSN level of education represents the central prerequisite for pursuing enrollment in doctoral programs and subsequently achieving the highest point of the nursing career ladder.

MSN Salary Outlook in 2025

One of the most essential benefits of pursuing a Master’s in Nursing is the increased earning potential achieved by continuing your education.

Generally speaking, the estimated MSN salary of ARPNs in 2025 is $129,480 per year, or $62.25 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, there are notable variations in earning potential based on specialty:

Find out more about the salaries of MSN nurses, depending on role, location, and specialization.

It is worth noting that, when compared to nurse salaries in general, most high-paying nursing jobs usually require a Master’s or more advanced degree.

How to Choose the Right Master’s Degree for You

If you are convinced that an MSN is the next step for your education and career, you will need to know how to pick the appropriate program for your needs and priorities. The factors that should influence your choice go beyond the specialization and the benefits brought by available Master’s in Nursing programs. Here are the most critical elements to consider: 

• Online vs. campus-based – Choosing between an online and a campus-based MSN program depends on your learning style, schedule, and access to local nursing institutions. Generally, online MSN programs offer greater flexibility for working nurses, learners with parenting responsibilities, and those expecting children, while also allowing asynchronous coursework and virtual lectures. Still, some learners perform much better in traditional in-person classes. Find out more about the process of becoming a nurse online.
• Program length and flexibility – The various formats of Master’s in Nursing programs showcase variations in length, flexibility, and study intensity, with BSN-to-MSN pathways generally taking 18 to 24 months to complete. Other part-time learning options can take up to 3 years, similarly to bridge RN-to-MSN programs that streamline the progression by blending undergraduate and graduate curricula. When choosing your program, consider the period you are willing to spend studying, as well as the intensity and frequency of coursework.
• Clinical hours requirements – The majority of Master’s in Nursing programs include a minimum requirement for supervised clinical hours (usually ranging from 500 to over 700, depending on specialization). Practical experience is also a crucial factor when evaluating geographic accessibility.
• Faculty expertise and support – Faculty guidance and learner support are essential cornerstones of the educational experience and your outcomes when studying to earn an MSN or similar degree. Beyond the knowledge of the faculty, you should also prioritize programs that provide the tools necessary to graduate, earn your certification, and succeed in your future career.
• Program accreditation – Accreditation ensures that a nursing program meets national standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, clinical training, and student outcomes. Look for Master’s programs accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

At Nightingale College, we have developed our academic programs to provide maximum support and top-quality education to our learners, while ensuring flexibility, availability, and accommodation of diverse needs and requirements. 

All our Master’s programs, preparing you for three different career paths – MSN FNP, MSN Ed, and MSN PMHNP – are CCNE-accredited and showcase curricula based on national standards and research related to effective teaching, learning, and role development. You can read more about our accreditations here. 

To ensure suitable access, the MSN programs combine online instruction with in-person seminars and preceptorship experiences held in one of the Supervised On-Ground Field Experience (SOFE) areas throughout the US. 

As a learner, you will also be able to access essential services and resources meant to support your educational journey and promote excellence in your chosen field. These include full-time librarian assistance, access to databases and libraries, writing and technology knowledge centers, exam coaching, webinars, success plans, time management and study skills, career services, and a variety of outside resources.

To improve access and quality of education for learners from historically underserved and underrepresented communities, we also provide various types of material support, primarily in the form of scholarships aimed at promoting excellence in the field.

Whichever hybrid MSN-level academic program you choose, you will be able to complete your educational pathway within 24 months.

Browse our MSN academic programs and advance your education and career! 

Licensure and Certification After an MSN

Once you complete your Master’s in Nursing program of choice, you will have to pass a national board certification exam relevant to your specialty. These exams are administered by various organizations such as the AANP and ANCC (for Nurse Practitioners), or the NCC (for Nurse Midwives and Women’s Health Practitioners).

This type of certification is required before state licensure. However, once you pass the certification exam, you can apply for licensure to legally practice in your role. Requirements vary by state and can impact your scope of practice, particularly concerning prescriptive authority and independent practice rights. 

Finally, you will also need to renew your license and certification, which is generally required every 2–5 years. You must also complete continuing education (CE) credits to stay current with clinical advances and maintain your professional level.

FAQs About Master’s in Nursing Programs

How Long Do Master of Nursing Programs Take?

Master’s in Nursing programs can generally be completed within 18 to 24 months, with some bridge programs, dual Master’s degrees, and part-time learning options taking up to 3 years.

Is Getting an MSN Still Worth It?

Yes, earning an MSN degree is a constitutive step in the nursing career ladder, guaranteeing not only multiple career benefits, an increased earning potential, and more autonomy in clinical environments, but also advancement opportunities, both educationally and professionally.

Are All Master’s Nursing Programs the Same?

No, most MSN programs have specific specializations that will directly affect your educational outcomes and prospective scope of practice. Before enrolling in a program, you should research the specialty and career it prepares you for. Additionally, programs can differ in terms of format, length, teaching intensity, and accessibility.

What Master's Degree Should I Get?

The choice of an MSN degree highly depends on your professional expectations and subsequent advancement plans. Each Master’s program qualifies you for licensure and practice in a specific area of advanced practice and expertise.

At Nightingale College, you can access three MSN-level academic programs, preparing you for popular nursing career choices:

• MSN Ed – Recommended when aiming to assume roles in nursing education and research.
• MSN FNP – Ideal if you want to work with a varied range of patients, to uphold and promote broad community health.
• MSN PMHNP – The essential choice if you wish to pursue a career in psychiatric and mental health care.