05/05/2025
For registered nurses interested in building on their bachelor’s degree in nursing, pursuing a master's degree in nursing may be one way to continue developing professionally. These graduate-level programs often focus on areas like clinical decision-making, healthcare leadership, and system-level thinking.
Many MSN programs offer flexible formats, including online learning, accelerated RN to MSN programs, and direct entry MSN programs—making it easier for professionals to pursue advanced nursing education while managing a busy schedule. Each format has its own timeline and requirements, which makes it important to evaluate what fits best with your goals and availability.
This guide outlines common pathways, expected time commitments, and practical considerations to help prospective students navigate the next phase of their advanced nursing education.
Benefits of Going Straight From BSN to MSN
The BSN to MSN is a common path for registered nurses who wish to further their nursing education and may help students prepare to pursue advanced roles in nursing, which often require additional licensure, certification, or experience depending on the position and jurisdiction. These programs often offer part-time, full-time, and online classroom options to accommodate a variety of learning styles and schedules.
Completing an MSN may allow nurses to build advanced communication skills, strengthen their use of evidence-based practice, and take on new responsibilities in clinical, educational, or administrative settings.
Traditional BSN to MSN Degree Pathway
A traditional BSN to MSN degree program builds on prior undergraduate nursing education. Students learn advanced nursing courses in areas such as health policy, nursing research, and population health. Programs typically include both didactic instruction and clinical practice components.
Many MSN programs require between 36 and 48 credit hours. Full-time students may complete their degree in about 18 to 24 months, while part-time students may take closer to three years. These programs are often offered in online, hybrid, or campus-based formats to support students with different needs.
Accelerated RN to MSN and Direct Entry Program Options
Some students take a different route. Accelerated RN to MSN programs are designed for registered nurses with a nursing diploma or associate degree. These programs can bridge the gap by integrating BSN-level content before progressing to MSN-level coursework.
Direct-entry MSN programs are another option for individuals who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These programs begin with foundational nursing education and prepare students to practice nursing before advancing to master’s-level studies.
Students in RN to MSN or dual-degree programs may be able to transfer credits and complete coursework that counts toward both degrees, helping them save time during their educational journey.
MSN Degree Specializations and Advanced Nursing Roles
Many MSN degree programs allow students to focus their nursing education on a range of specialized roles.
These may include clinical positions such as:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
Or non-clinical paths such as:
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Executive
- Nursing Informatics Specialist
Each of these roles may involve advanced clinical judgment, leadership responsibilities, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing roles are projected to grow substantially through 2030, reflecting broader trends in healthcare demand.
What to Expect When Going From BSN to MSN
Program lengths vary depending on the student’s background, enrollment status, and chosen specialization. Traditional BSN to MSN programs generally take 18 to 24 months of full-time study. For students enrolled part-time or balancing a busy schedule, completion may take closer to three years.
Accelerated RN to MSN or RN-MSN options may streamline this timeline, particularly when students receive credit for prior coursework. Online degrees often provide flexibility, allowing students to complete assignments around work or family responsibilities.
Clinical requirements differ by focus area. For example, nurse practitioner students typically complete between 500 and 700 clinical hours. Students in education or leadership tracks may complete field experiences aligned with curriculum design, organizational management, or healthcare policy.
How Long Does It Take to Go From BSN to MSN?
BSN to MSN program lengths typically range from 18 to 36 months, depending on whether the student enrolls full- or part-time and how many transfer credits are accepted. Accelerated RN to MSN programs and direct-entry MSN programs may vary in length based on program design.
Does an MSN Program Require You to Retake the NCLEX?
For students who already hold an active RN license, there is generally no need to retake the NCLEX to begin an MSN program. However, those enrolled in a direct-entry MSN program may need to pass the NCLEX after completing initial BSN-level coursework in order to continue to the master’s degree portion.
Key Considerations for Choosing the Right MSN Degree Program
When researching MSN degree programs, prospective students may want to consider several factors:
- Is the program accredited by CCNE or ACEN?
- Does it offer an online classroom, hybrid, or in-person format?
- What type of clinical placements or experiential learning does it provide?
- Are there faculty with experience in your chosen nursing specialization?
Understanding the admissions process is also important. This includes GPA and prerequisite requirements, expectations for a personal statement, and whether transfer credits or credit for prior learning are accepted.
Taking the Next Step In Your Nursing Career—Advancing From BSN to MSN
For registered nurses looking to expand their professional scope, a BSN to MSN program may support professional growth depending on individual circumstances and career goals. Whether through a traditional MSN program, an RN to MSN program, or a direct entry route, each pathway can offer a unique approach to building on your current experience and education.
Working closely with program advisors can help you explore options that align with your background, interests, and long-term goals. With the right support and preparation, these programs may support nurses in pursuing advanced roles in areas such as leadership, education, or specialized clinical practice, depending on licensure requirements, experience, and employer needs.
