Best MSN Program in Every State – 2025 Rankings


Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org

Welcome to our page with the listing of the Best MSN program in every state across the nation. Nursing Schools listed in our list of “Best MSN Program in Every State” provide students with rigorous high-quality employable MSN education.




How Did We Rank The Best MSN Program In Every State?


We gathered a list of all nursing schools offering MSN programs in every state and then ranked the Best based on the following three factors:

• Academic Quality (Admissions Rate, Enrollment Rate, Graduation Rate & Retention Rate) – 50% of Overall Score
• Total Number of MSN Tracks Offered by the College – 10% of Overall Score
• NursingProcess.org Editorial Staff Ratings and Nursing School Reputation – 40% of Overall Score

The data required for our rankings was gathered from IPEDs, State Board of Nursing Websites, U.S. News & World Report, Niche, Grad Reports, Rate My Professors, and the official school websites.

FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF THE BEST MSN PROGRAM IN EVERY STATE FOR 2025

Read on to find out about the best MSN Program nearest to you in this state-by-state roll call.


#1 in Alabama

University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: RN to MSN and MSN

One of the best MSN programs in Alabama, the master of science in nursing at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is known to have produced leaders in nursing. Ranked 15th in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report, the college offers two MSN pathways and several specialization options. The program is offered in the state’s only academic health science center, where you will not only learn in an interdisciplinary environment but also benefit from its vast resources.

#1 in Alaska

University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

As a resident of Alaska, if you are keen on completing your master's in nursing through the distance format, then the University of Alaska Anchorage’s MSN program can be a good fit. Here, you take didactic courses through the online format and complete clinical training in your own community provided the clinical site is in Alaska. The college offers its MSN with three specialization options. Regardless of the specialization you choose, here, you will be groomed for evidence-based practice and culturally competent nursing care.

#1 in Arizona

University of Arizona, Tucson   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: ADN to MSN and MSN

The University of Arizona not only offers one of the best MSN programs in Arizona, but the nursing school is also well-recognized across the nation for excellence in education and innovative research. Here, you can complete your MSN in as little as 15 months from the comfort of your home. Offered in two pathways, the MSN program is designed to prepare you for clinical systems leadership in a variety of practice settings.

#1 in Arkansas

University of Central Arkansas, Conway   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

If you are passionate about nursing education, then the University of Central Arkansas’s MSN program can be a stepping stone to your dream career. Whether you desire to make a difference in higher education, staff education, or patient education, this MSN program is designed to prepare you for the role of a nurse educator. Also, the program makes you eligible to take the Certified Nurse Educator exam.

#1 in California

University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

At the University of California-San Francisco, you can complete your MSN in your specific area of focus as this is one of the few MSN programs in California that offers many specializations and dual specialization options. Regardless of what you choose, the college prepares you with a strong knowledge base and equips you with specialty-specific skills and knowledge. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to meet the health needs of your chosen population foci. Also, you will be able to participate in research to improve health outcomes across diverse populations.

#1 in Colorado

University of Northern Colorado, Greeley   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

University of Northern Colorado tailors the MSN program to meet your individual educational needs. The program delivers courses mostly online with only two summer intensives on-campus. The MSN is offered in three specialization options. Regardless of the specialization you choose, you will be trained under the expertise of an accomplished faculty who bring their years of experience to the virtual classroom.

#1 in Connecticut

Yale University, West Haven   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Graduating from an Ivy League university like Yale will open up doors to some of the most promising career opportunities in the field of nursing. If you are ambitious about completing your graduate nursing studies at one of the best MSN schools in the nation, then Yale’s nursing school grooms you for success. At this nursing school, you can choose from several specialization options and graduate with specialized skills in your chosen area of focus.

#1 in District Columbia

Georgetown University, Washington   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Georgetown University’s nursing education, rooted in the Catholic, Jesuit tradition is committed to justice, health equity, and service. If you choose any of the MSN tracks offered here, you will be able to complete the program online. No matter your chosen population foci, you will be guided through your coursework by a distinguished faculty, most of whom are fellows, active clinicians, and leaders.

#1 in Delaware

University of Delaware, Newark   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

At University of Delaware, you will be trained to a become population health expert who has the ability to deliver high-quality specialized care. Counted among the best MSN schools in Delaware, this nursing school provides students with ample opportunities to participate in research and gain valuable knowledge in several specialty areas. Here, you can choose to specialize in family health, adult-gerontology care, psychiatric mental health, or health systems leadership.

#1 in Florida

University of South Florida, Tampa   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

University of South Florida’s MSN program has been preparing nurse leaders who are committed to caring for the health needs of the state’s diverse patient population. Through innovative research, well-designed simulation experiences, and excellent partnerships, here you will be empowered to take your nursing career to the next level. To accommodate the needs of adult learners, the college offers its MSN program in the online format, requiring you to visit the campus only for the practicum.

#1 in Georgia

Emory University, Atlanta   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Emory University’s MSN program ranks among the best MSN programs in the nation, according to the U.S. News & World Report. The college offers its MSN program with several specializations and dual specialization options. The program is offered in the on-campus format, with most students completing the program within 15 months. Unlike the other MSN programs where the practicums take place at the end, here, you will complete clinicals concurrently with didactic classes.

#1 in Hawaii

Hawaii Pacific University, Honolulu   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: RN to MSN and MSN

The MSN program offered by Hawaii Pacific University is guided by the philosophy of holistic care in a culturally diverse environment. The nursing school offers two MSN pathways with specialization options in adult-gerontology care and family health. Scheduling options, a diverse student community, and support at every step to the extent of even having the clinical practicum arranged by the college are some of the reasons why this MSN program is a popular choice among adult learners.

#1 in Idaho

Idaho State University, Pocatello   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Idaho State University has played a vital role in improving the health of the people in Idaho, especially the underserved populations. If you are aspiring to make a difference in the lives of people, then this MSN program trains you to become a nurse educator who can positively impact the healthcare system. The college offers a part-time and full-time coursework to meet the individual needs of its students.

#1 in Illinois

Rush University, Chicago   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Are you a non-nurse aspiring to become a clinical leader but not sure where to start? If yes, you are in the right place as Rush University offers its MSN to students with a bachelor’s in another field. This MSN takes you straight from being a non-nurse to a clinical nurse leader. To ensure you leave the college with the relevant skillset, you are provided with ample hands-on experiences across various health care settings.

#1 in Indiana

University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

University of Indianapolis offers various specialization options to advance your nursing career. Also, based on your preference, you can either complete the program online or in the on-campus format. Regardless of what you choose, here you will gain an education that is rooted in Christian values of service, care, and compassion. Furthermore, this MSN program takes pride in the impressive performance of its graduates on the national specialty certification exams.

#1 in Iowa

University of Iowa, Iowa City   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

One of the best MSN programs in Iowa, the MSN program offered by University of Iowa is a top-rated program that produces leaders who are committed to health promotion and health improvement. The college’s nationally recognized faculty ensure you are well-supported throughout your journey here, to the extent of even arranging practicum preceptors for your clinical experiences.

#1 in Kansas

University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

University of Saint Mary’s MSN program is affordable and comes with the flexibility of online classes. With specialties that can take your nursing career to the leadership level, this MSN also sets the stage for doctoral education, should you plan an advancement in the future. Also, if you are an alumnus of the University of Saint Mary, you can avail of further tuition discounts.

#1 in Kentucky

Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

If you find your calling in mental health, then enrolling in the MSN program offered by Western Kentucky University can be a good option. This nursing school offers an MSN with a specialization in psychiatric mental health. This program builds on your BSN and makes you an expert in treating mental health patients across the lifespan.

#1 in Louisiana

Northwestern State University, Shreveport   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

The MSN program offered by Northwestern State University is not only counted among the best MSN programs in Louisiana but also has earned the distinction of being the state’s first MSN. The master’s program is offered with several specialization options in two formats, online and on-campus. Regardless of what you choose, you will be equipped with evidence-based knowledge and critical thinking skills.

#1 in Maine

University of Maine, Orono   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

University of Maine established its graduate nursing programs in 1992. With two in-demand specializations, the college prepares you for leadership roles in various types of healthcare settings. Also, because the college is the only research center in Maine, here you can enjoy unique learning opportunities by getting involved in research that covers a range of health topics. Additionally, the college provides extensive clinical experiences in varied settings, including schools, healthcare centers, and jails.

#1 in Maryland

Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Counted among the best MSN programs in Maryland, Johns Hopkins University’s MSN program can prepare you with robust leadership skills to make an impact in the healthcare system. Grounded in evidence-based knowledge, the program is internationally recognized for producing interdisciplinary leaders. Based on your interest, here, you can choose an area of leadership focus, from either management & administration, information technology, health policy, or case management/population management.

#1 in Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

University of Massachusetts Boston’s MSN program ranks among the top in the nation, according to the U.S. News & World Report. If you graduate with an MSN from this school, you will not only be prepared with one of the best clinical experiences but you will also be trained by a faculty that comprises, researchers, nursing educators, and practitioners. The college offers its MSN in two NP specialties.

#1 in Michigan

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Counted among the best MSN schools in the nation, University of Michigan is also one of the largest public research universities. This MSN school offers a clinical and a leadership-focused MSN, so based on where you find your calling you can choose your MSN path. Regardless of the path you enter, you will leave the school as an expert, prepared to embark on a successful career anywhere in the world.

#1 in Minnesota

St. Catherine University, Saint Paul   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

If you are looking for MSN programs in Minnesota that are grounded in Catholic values, then St. Catherine University’s MSN program should be your best bet. This MSN school is not only affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, but the school also emphasizes social justice and stays committed to the health improvement of the underserved populations. Here, regardless of the MSN path you choose, you will be trained to become holistic practitioners and leaders in health care.

#1 in Mississippi

University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: RN to MSN and MSN

At the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s MSN program, you can enter either after an ADN or after completing your bachelor’s in nursing. This MSN school is not only located on the state’s only academic health science campus but also has the state’s only Level 1 trauma center and children’s hospital. This opens up unique learning opportunities where you will have access to vast resources and ample research opportunities.

#1 in Missouri

Saint Louis University, Saint Louis   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Saint Louis University’s MSN program, counted among the top MSN programs in Missouri, offers working students maximum flexibility in terms of online classes and a choice of part-time and full-time schedules. Furthermore, here, you can choose from several specialization tracks that position you for leadership roles in varied healthcare settings.

#1 in Montana

Montana State University- Bozeman, Bozeman   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Do you see yourself playing leadership roles like that of a nurse manager, chief nursing officer, or quality improvement coordinator? If yes, then you may want to learn about Montana State University- Bozeman’s MSN program that trains you for clinical nursing leadership. This MSN program is offered in the distance format and allows you to complete clinical experiences within your geographic location.

#1 in Nebraska

Nebraska Wesleyan University, Lincoln   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

If you are aspiring to become a nurse educator or nurse leader, then at Nebraska Wesleyan University, you can complete your master’s in nursing either in nursing education or nursing leadership. Regardless of what you choose, you will take classes from the comfort of your home and complete the clinical experiences at a site near you. However, to help you connect with your peers and faculty, the college offers a three-day residency at the Lincoln campus.

#1 in Nevada

University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Las Vegas   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers one of the well-known MSN programs in Nevada. Here, based on your interest and career goals, you can choose from three specialization options. Regardless of what you choose, you will be prepared to work in a variety of health care settings. To accommodate the needs of working students, the college offers its MSN coursework online, with the requirement of attending a two-day on-campus orientation at the beginning of the program.

#1 in New Hampshire

University of New Hampshire, Durham   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

At the University of New Hampshire, you will be groomed for success. If you are ready to take your nursing career to the next level, then you can consider this MSN program as a good option. Offered with several specializations, here, you will be equipped with evidence-based knowledge, critical thinking skills, and cultural competence to improve patient outcomes at all levels.

#1 in New Jersey

Rutgers University, Newark   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Rutgers University’s MSN program is ranked among the best MSN programs in the nation according to the U.S. News & World Report. The college boasts of an accomplished faculty who are globally recognized and constantly strive for excellence in nursing education and research. If you are interested in completing your master's from this nursing school, you have two areas to choose from, nursing informatics and nursing leadership.

#1 in New Mexico

University of New Mexico, Albuquerque   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

At the University of New Mexico, you will study in a close-knit environment where the student to faculty is 1:8. This nursing school focuses on the health needs of the underserved populations and through its MSN program emphasizes health equity and social justice. The college offers several clinical and non-clinical MSN paths.

#1 in New York

Columbia University, New York   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Columbia University has significantly contributed to New York’s health needs, especially in the underserved and economically disadvantaged communities. By training leaders to impact change, this nursing school has been at forefront of improving patient outcomes at every level in the state. Through its MSN in advanced clinical management and leadership, the college prepares you to be an effective agent of change.

#1 in North Carolina

Duke University, Durham   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Among the best MSN programs in North Carolina, Duke University’s MSN must be high on your list if you desire to complete your MSN in the ‘Old North State’. The school offers its MSN in several areas of health, ranging from neonatal health, and adult gerontology acute care, to psychiatric mental health and women’s health. Also, the college trains you in healthcare leadership and nursing education, should you be inclined towards taking a non-clinical MSN path.

#1 in North Dakota

University of North Dakota, Grand Forks   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

For more than 100 years, the University of North Dakota has been serving the state by producing excellent nursing graduates. If you are keen on joining its large network of skilled alumni, then here the college offers an online MSN that promises high-quality education. The program comes with three start dates and upon graduation, you will be eligible to take the certification exam in your chosen area of focus.

#1 in Ohio

The Ohio State University, Columbus   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

The Ohio State University’s online MSN program is regarded as one of the top-ranking programs in the nation. Known to consistently offer high-quality education through the distance format, the college takes pride in producing excellent nursing graduates. Here, you can choose from several specialty tracks that the college offers. Regardless of the track, you enter, upon graduation, you will be equipped with evidence-based skills to work in a variety of clinical settings.

#1 in Oklahoma

Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: RN to MSN and MSN

Oklahoma City University’s MSN program is a community-oriented curriculum that is 100% online. Whether you are an ADN nurse or prepared at the baccalaureate level, here, you can complete your master's in nursing either in nursing education or nursing leadership. No matter the track you enter, you will be mentored by distinguished professionals who bring in their years of experience to the classroom.

#1 in Oregon

Oregon Health and Science University, Ashland   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

If you are aiming to apply to one of the best MSN schools in Oregon, then you must learn about Oregon Health and Science University’s MSN program. Whether you desire to be prepared for leadership roles or are keen on teaching, the college equips you with relevant skills to practice in various health care environments.

#1 in Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Do you care to solve some of the pressing health issues of our society? If your answer is yes, graduating with an MSN from the University of Pennsylvania can help you achieve this goal. With an emphasis on clinical decision-making and management, here, you can choose from many specialty options and develop expertise in any one area of emphasis.

#1 in Rhode Island

University of Rhode Island, Kingston   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Rhode Island’s nursing school is known for its innovative research and excellent education. If you are ready for the next step in your nursing career, then here, through its MSN program, you will be trained in interdisciplinary skills and evidence-based knowledge. The college also offers students several opportunities to fund their education, be it through scholarships, graduate traineeships, or assistantships.

#1 in South Carolina

University of South Carolina, Columbia   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Do you wish to apply to a veteran-friendly MSN program in South Carolina? If yes, then the University of South Carolina’s MSN program can be a befitting choice. The college not only supports your seamless transition into student life but also offers qualifying veterans tuition assistance. Also, to meet individual student needs, in addition to several specializations, the college offers flexibility in terms of online classes and scheduling options.

#1 in South Dakota

Mount Marty University, Yankton   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Mount Marty University’s faith-based MSN program educates you in two in-demand areas of nursing; primary care and psychiatric mental health. Here, in addition to gaining education rooted in Catholic values, you will hone clinical skills to provide care in rural and underserved settings. As a graduate of this MSN program, you will not only develop excellent evidence-based practice skills but will also leave the college as a compassionate caregiver.

#1 in Tennessee

Vanderbilt University, Nashville   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

Vanderbilt University offers several specialty tracks in conjunction with its MSN program. As one of the best MSN programs in Tennessee, its MSN program is highly acclaimed for producing skilled advanced practice nurses who consistently perform well on the specialty certification exams. Also, the flexible format of the program and multiple entry options make it a rather popular choice among MSN students.

#1 in Texas

University of Texas-Austin, Austin   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

University of Texas’s MSN program prepares you to offer care in various areas of health, including adult-gerontology care, family health, pediatric care, and psychiatric mental health. Also, the college offers a leadership track that prepares you to play leadership roles in diverse healthcare settings. What's more, this nursing school ranks among the best MSN schools in the nation according to the U.S. News & World Report.

#1 in Utah

Brigham Young University, Provo   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

If you are looking at enrolling in a value-based MSN program in Utah, then Brigham Young University can be a suitable choice. The college offers Christ-centric education that is grounded in values of service and social justice. Here, the MSN is focused on primary health with an emphasis on health promotion, especially for vulnerable and underserved populations.

#1 in Vermont

University of Vermont, Burlington   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

If you are aspiring on becoming a clinical nurse leader, then the MSN program at the University of Vermont prepares you with the relevant skills and knowledge to practice as a clinical nurse leader. Moreover, the college tailors its training to match your career goals. Also, didactic courses are well complemented with clinical experiences in a variety of clinical settings.

#1 in Virginia

University of Virginia, Charlottesville   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: RN to MSN and MSN

Whether you are aiming to become a generalist care provider or aspiring to gain specialized skills in the care of a specific population focus, at the University of Virginia, you can achieve this goal by enrolling in its highly acclaimed MSN program. This MSN school enjoys the unique advantage of being part of UVA Health, Virginia's #1 hospital and Level 1 trauma center. You can enter its MSN program either after completing an ADN or BSN.

#1 in Washington

Washington State University, Spokane   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: RN to MN and MN

Washington State University which offers one of the best MSN programs in the ‘Evergreen State’ prepares you for advanced practice in various types of healthcare settings. The college offers two MSN pathways of RN to MSN and MSN, with full-time and part-time schedules. Here, you will be guided by a faculty who actively engage in pathbreaking research, little wonder that the college ranks among the top nursing schools in the nation to receive funding from the NIH.

#1 in West Virginia

Marshall University, Huntington   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

As a graduate of Marshall University’s MSN, you will be prepared to provide advanced nursing care in a variety of urban and rural healthcare environments. With several MSN specialties, you can choose an area of focus based on your interest and career goals. The curriculum is designed to equip you with marketable skills and also provide a solid base for doctoral study.

#1 in Wisconsin

Marquette University, Milwaukee   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

If you are keen on completing your MSN education from one of the best MSN programs in Wisconsin, then Marquette University offers an excellent MSN program with several specialization options. The college’s small-sized classes of 8:1 allow an individualized learning experience and help you forge lasting bonds with peers and faculty. Regardless of the specialization you choose, you will complete a coursework that is grounded in values of service and evidence-based knowledge.

#1 in Wyoming

University of Wyoming, Laramie   ( Visit )

Programs Offered: MSN

At the University of Wyoming, you can complete your MSN focused on either nursing education or nursing leadership. Regardless of what area of focus you choose, you will be prepared to impact change by addressing the challenges faced in today’s healthcare system. Here, based on your preference, you can complete your education either in the part-time or full-time format.