10 Best HBCU MSN Programs – 2025
Written By: Jessica Holbrook, RN, MSN, CCRN
Are you a registered nurse considering earning a master’s degree in nursing? Have you been weighing your options about where to go to school or how to get started? Does earning your degree through a program that supports diversity and inclusion mean something to you? If so, an HBCU MSN program is something you should consider.
Maybe you thought of Historically Black Colleges and Universities but wonder, “What are the best HBCU MSN programs?” If that sounds like you, this is the article for you! As you continue reading, I will share information with you about the 10 best HBCU programs for 2025 in the nation. You will learn about different specialties you can pursue, what it takes to be admitted into the top programs and find out the advantages and disadvantages of these programs. By the time you have finished reading, you will have enough insight to decide if earning your MSN through an HBCU is something you wish to pursue.
What Exactly is the Goal of an HBCU MSN Program?
The goal of the best HBCU MSN programs in the nation is to provide students with a graduate nursing degree and prepare them for practice in advanced nursing roles. The programs focus on preparing culturally competent master’s prepared nurses through a supportive learning environment that promotes an atmosphere of diversity and inclusion.
5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an HBCU MSN Program
When you choose to earn your degree through HBCU MSN programs, you will develop many important skills and abilities that are relevant to advanced nursing practice roles. No matter what your chosen specialty, these programs will prepare you to step into your new role with confidence. The following are five of the most important skills you will gain in an HBCU MSN program.
1. You will develop stronger leadership skills:
When you earn a master’s degree in nursing, you will develop leadership skills that extend beyond bedside nursing. Part of the curriculum for graduate nursing programs includes instruction on leadership for the advanced practice nurse and team building. This skill is something you can utilize both at work and in your personal life.2. You will learn to use cultural competence in patient care and your professional relationships:
As nurses, we treat patients and work with peers from diverse backgrounds. Because everyone is different, it is important for us to show respect and acceptance for others, which promotes positive patient and organizational outcomes. In HBCU MSN programs, you will learn about the importance of cultural competence and ways to demonstrate it in practice.3. You will develop solid analytical and critical thinking skills:
It is essential for patient safety and positive patient, professional, and organizational outcomes for nurses to make reasonable, appropriate decisions supported by facts and experience. HBCU MSN programs will provide you with learning opportunities that challenge you to analyze situations and use critical thinking to make appropriate decisions.4. You will gain advanced knowledge and understanding of evidence-based practices and how to implement them in your clinical role:
Master’s-prepared nurses understand the importance of using evidence-based practice in patient care. Your MSN program will prepare you with advanced knowledge of how to utilize and implement evidence-based practice in patient care.5. You will learn effective ways to advocate for patients and your profession:
It is the responsibility of all nurses to practice advocacy. Whether you are advocating for a patient who needs someone to speak on their behalf or your team who needs safer working conditions or better equipment, you can make a difference. When you earn a master's degree in nursing, you will not only have the knowledge you need to effectively advocate, but you will have the credentials to back it up. You can use your knowledge and experience as leverage to advocate for important things for patients and the profession overall.5 Main Advantages of HBCU MSN Programs
Before choosing a school or program, it is wise to consider the pros and cons to determine which path is best to help you reach your desired goals. Among the many advantages of HBCU MSN programs, the following are five of the most important to consider.
1. You can choose a specialty concentration:
HBCU MSN programs offer several options to specialize in. For example, you could choose a clinical specialty, such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, or Clinical Nurse Specialist. You may also choose a non-clinical role, such as a specialization in Nursing Informatics or Nursing Administration.2. There is a high demand for nurses with graduate degrees:
An important factor to consider when choosing a career path is whether there is a need for the services you provide. Nursing is a field that is ever-growing, which means new opportunities for nurses. Additionally, a nationwide shortage of nurses is also contributing to the current demand for nurses. With an MSN from an HBCU, you will have the knowledge and skills needed to step into these roles.3. There is great income potential!:
One of the awesome things about nursing is that you can earn a great income. Graduates of HBCU MSN programs earn an average of $118,040 yearly, but there is no limit to your earning potential. Depending on your years of experience and chosen specialty, you can earn much higher wages.4. You will have a great sense of personal and professional accomplishment:
Nursing is an amazing career with endless opportunities. One of the most important things about the profession is that you can impact the lives of others in many ways. When you earn your MSN, you will feel a sense of accomplishment, and deservedly so. Also, the longer you work in the field, the more opportunities you will have to meet people and be a part of the health and wellness journey, which is something to be proud of.5. You will be qualified for administrative positions in nursing:
If you like the idea of working with and guiding teams of nurses and other healthcare professionals, HBCU MSN programs can help you get there. With a master’s degree in nursing, you will have the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills that make you an excellent candidate for leadership and administrative positions in the field.2 Main Disadvantages of HBCU MSN Programs
Like any college program or career path, HBCU MSN programs have disadvantages as well as advantages. Despite the challenges, if you know what to expect, you can prepare and decide if this is the right path for you.
1. The more you know, the more accountable you become:
Earning your degree through HBCU MSN programs is an excellent option if you want to work in an advanced clinical role, teach nursing, or work in nursing administration. However, with your advanced degree comes more responsibility. Although I encourage all nurses to continue learning and growing in the profession, I recommend carefully considering your career goals and what you want to accomplish before deciding if you want the responsibility that comes with earning your master’s degree in nursing.2. Admission to HBCU MSN programs is competitive:
Once you decide you want to earn your master's degree in nursing, the next step is to find schools that interest you and begin applying for admission. Because admission to these programs is competitive, it is crucial to verify the admission criteria for each school carefully. Take your time completing the necessary applications and forms, and check all documents for accuracy before submitting your application.Who Accredits HBCU MSN Programs?
Of all the advice I believe is important when choosing a nursing school, one of the most important things is to find a program that is accredited. In nursing, accreditation ensures that education programs are held to a common standard of quality. Accreditation is important because it enhances the quality of care nurses administer. In your search for the best HBCU MSN programs, look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
| S.NO. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
When Do HBCU MSN Programs Start?
Start dates for HBCU MSN programs vary based on the school. Some schools begin their programs once each year, and others offer two or three start dates. There are also some schools that accept applications on a continuous basis and begin their classes when they have enough students to make a class. The list below reflects the start dates for five of the nation’s top HBCU MSN programs.
• Albany State University is home to three of the best HBCU MSN programs in the nation. The Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Education programs begin in the fall each year. The Nursing Informatics pathway begins in the summer annually.
• Howard University begins its Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator programs in the fall semester of each academic year.
• Classes for the HBCU MSN programs at Hampton University begin in the fall semester yearly.
• Tennessee State University offers students in its programs three start dates yearly. You may choose to begin your studies in the fall, spring, or summer semester.
• At Florida A&M University, classes for the HBCU MSN programs begin in the spring and summer semesters.
• Howard University begins its Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator programs in the fall semester of each academic year.
• Classes for the HBCU MSN programs at Hampton University begin in the fall semester yearly.
• Tennessee State University offers students in its programs three start dates yearly. You may choose to begin your studies in the fall, spring, or summer semester.
• At Florida A&M University, classes for the HBCU MSN programs begin in the spring and summer semesters.
How Many Credits are There in HBCU MSN Programs?
HBCU MSN programs offer excellent, specialty-relevant curriculum plans. The credits you need for your program may vary, depending on whether you have previous credits that transfer or the type of program you pursue. On average, MSN programs require students to complete between 30 and 50 credits. A few examples of the credit requirements for some of the programs featured in this article include the following.
• Winston-Salem State University offers Advanced Nurse Educator and Family Nurse Practitioner HBCU MSN programs. The programs feature 39-credit and 51-credit curriculum plans, respectively.
• At Bowie State University, students in the Family Nurse Practitioner program complete 49 credit hours. The Nurse Educator track offered at the university features a 35-credit curriculum.
• The HBCU MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program at Alcorn State University requires students to complete 44 credits. The university also offers a Nurse Educator pathway that requires 35 credit hours.
• Prairie View A&M University has three HBCU MSN programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Administration, and Nurse Education. The FNP pathway is a 53-credit hour pathway. The Nurse Administration pathway requires 36 credits, and the Nurse Education pathway requires 39 credits.
• At Florida A&M University, you can pursue an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. Both programs require 42 credits to meet graduation criteria.
• At Bowie State University, students in the Family Nurse Practitioner program complete 49 credit hours. The Nurse Educator track offered at the university features a 35-credit curriculum.
• The HBCU MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program at Alcorn State University requires students to complete 44 credits. The university also offers a Nurse Educator pathway that requires 35 credit hours.
• Prairie View A&M University has three HBCU MSN programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Administration, and Nurse Education. The FNP pathway is a 53-credit hour pathway. The Nurse Administration pathway requires 36 credits, and the Nurse Education pathway requires 39 credits.
• At Florida A&M University, you can pursue an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. Both programs require 42 credits to meet graduation criteria.
How Long are HBCU MSN Programs?
HBCU MSN programs take between two and three years to complete on average. Program schedules vary among schools. Some programs require year-round study, including summer semesters. Others offer classes in the spring and fall semesters only.
• At Tennessee State University, you can complete the Family Nurse Practitioner program in six semesters if you enroll full-time or nine semesters if you enroll part-time. The Nurse Education pathway is a full-time program that takes five semesters, including one summer, to complete.
• Albany State University’s Nurse Educator and Nurse Informatics HBCU MSN programs are full-time programs that take two years to complete. The university also offers a Family Nurse Practitioner program that is available in a part-time or full-time format, which takes two to three years to complete.
• The Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator HBCU MSN programs at Howard University are available part-time or full-time. If you pursue the degree part-time, you can expect to graduate in seven semesters. Full-time students typically complete the programs in five semesters.
• Hampton University offers three MSN pathways: Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Full-time students can complete the program in four semesters. Part-time students usually graduate in five semesters.
• At Winston-Salem State University, the MSN Family Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Nurse Educator programs take five to seven semesters, including one summer semester, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.
• Albany State University’s Nurse Educator and Nurse Informatics HBCU MSN programs are full-time programs that take two years to complete. The university also offers a Family Nurse Practitioner program that is available in a part-time or full-time format, which takes two to three years to complete.
• The Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator HBCU MSN programs at Howard University are available part-time or full-time. If you pursue the degree part-time, you can expect to graduate in seven semesters. Full-time students typically complete the programs in five semesters.
• Hampton University offers three MSN pathways: Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Full-time students can complete the program in four semesters. Part-time students usually graduate in five semesters.
• At Winston-Salem State University, the MSN Family Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Nurse Educator programs take five to seven semesters, including one summer semester, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.
How Much Do HBCU MSN Programs Cost?
One of the main concerns for prospective students is the cost of their preferred program. Many schools offer discounted tuition rates for military members or students who reside in the state where the school is located. Others charge the same tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state students. Below are a few examples of what some of our featured programs cost. Unless otherwise stated, the prices mentioned are for tuition only, which means you should plan for other fees and expenses.
• At Bowie State University, tuition costs $588.78 per credit for in-state students and $870.78 per credit for out-of-state students. The FNP program requires 49 credits, making it cost between $28,850.22 and $42,668.22, based on where you live. The Nurse Educator path is a 35-credit program, which means tuition costs from $20,607.30 to $30,477.30.
• Alcorn State University charges $476.83 per credit, regardless of where you live. The FNP program costs an average of $20,980.52, and the Nurse Educator pathway costs approximately $16,689.05.
• At Prairie View A&M University, students in the HBCU MSN programs complete between 36 and 53 credits. State residents pay $859.57 per credit, and non-resident students pay $1,352.78 per credit. Therefore, based on which pathway you choose, your tuition will range from $30,944.52 to $45,557.21 if you live in the state or $48,700.08 to $71,697.34 if you live out-of-state.
• Tennessee State University also calculates the cost of attendance based on where you live. In-state tuition costs $533 per credit, and out-of-state tuition costs $1,115 per credit. The university offers three pathways for its HBCU MSN programs. The programs range from 35 to 44 credits. Therefore, in-state students pay between $18,655 and $23,452. Out-of-state students pay from $39,025 to $49,060.
• Tuition at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University costs $732 per credit. Both the Adult Gerontology Primary Care and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner programs require completion of 42 credits, which means tuition for the programs costs $30,744.
• Alcorn State University charges $476.83 per credit, regardless of where you live. The FNP program costs an average of $20,980.52, and the Nurse Educator pathway costs approximately $16,689.05.
• At Prairie View A&M University, students in the HBCU MSN programs complete between 36 and 53 credits. State residents pay $859.57 per credit, and non-resident students pay $1,352.78 per credit. Therefore, based on which pathway you choose, your tuition will range from $30,944.52 to $45,557.21 if you live in the state or $48,700.08 to $71,697.34 if you live out-of-state.
• Tennessee State University also calculates the cost of attendance based on where you live. In-state tuition costs $533 per credit, and out-of-state tuition costs $1,115 per credit. The university offers three pathways for its HBCU MSN programs. The programs range from 35 to 44 credits. Therefore, in-state students pay between $18,655 and $23,452. Out-of-state students pay from $39,025 to $49,060.
• Tuition at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University costs $732 per credit. Both the Adult Gerontology Primary Care and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner programs require completion of 42 credits, which means tuition for the programs costs $30,744.
What is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into HBCU MSN Programs?
Most HBCU MSN programs require students to have a 3.0 grade point average to be considered for admission. However, the criteria may vary from one school to another. For example, Hampton University requires candidates to have an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.7 on a 4.0 scale to be considered for its programs. At Prairie View A&M University, you must have a cumulative college GPA of 2.75 or a 3.0 GPA for your most recent 60 credits of undergraduate nursing coursework.
What are the Admission Requirements For HBCU MSN Programs?
Each college or university determines the admission criteria for its HBCU MSN programs. Most schools require students to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, an active RN license, and one year of nursing experience. You will also be asked to provide supplemental documents and forms, such as a resume, official college transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, many schools ask you to prepare a written statement of purpose or an admissions essay and may ask you to participate in an admissions interview with program faculty.
• Prospective students desiring admission to the Morgan State University HBCM MSN programs must have a BSN earned from a CCNE-, NLN-, or state-approved nursing program with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher and have at least two years of work experience as a registered nurse. In addition to completing a School of Graduate Studies application, you must provide GRE or GMAT scores, a personal statement in APA format, and three letters of professional recommendation.
• To be considered for admission to the HBCU MSN programs at Florida A&M University, you must have a BSN in nursing and a nursing GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale and hold a current, unrestricted license to practice as a registered nurse. You must complete an online application and submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities, an admissions essay, and two letters of recommendation.
• Admission criteria for the programs offered at Albany State University include the following. You must first be admitted to the ASU Graduate School and then apply to the School of Nursing. You must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing and complete the undergraduate courses Assessment in Healthcare, Pathophysiology for RNs, Research in Nursing, and Introductory Statistics. Additionally, you must provide three letters of reference and participate in an admission interview with the Graduate Nursing Programs Director.
• At Bowie University, prospective students must possess a current, active, unencumbered RN license and a bachelor’s degree in nursing. You must provide transcripts from any college or university you attended and have a college GPA of 3.0. Additionally, FNP candidates must have at least three years of professional nursing experience in an acute care setting. Recent courses in health assessment and pathophysiology are recommended.
• At Prairie View A&M University, candidates must have a bachelor's degree in nursing from a regionally accredited college or university and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 or a 3.0 grade point average for the most recent 60 college credits. You must provide three letters of recommendation and a 1,000-word statement of purpose.
• To be considered for admission to the HBCU MSN programs at Florida A&M University, you must have a BSN in nursing and a nursing GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale and hold a current, unrestricted license to practice as a registered nurse. You must complete an online application and submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities, an admissions essay, and two letters of recommendation.
• Admission criteria for the programs offered at Albany State University include the following. You must first be admitted to the ASU Graduate School and then apply to the School of Nursing. You must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing and complete the undergraduate courses Assessment in Healthcare, Pathophysiology for RNs, Research in Nursing, and Introductory Statistics. Additionally, you must provide three letters of reference and participate in an admission interview with the Graduate Nursing Programs Director.
• At Bowie University, prospective students must possess a current, active, unencumbered RN license and a bachelor’s degree in nursing. You must provide transcripts from any college or university you attended and have a college GPA of 3.0. Additionally, FNP candidates must have at least three years of professional nursing experience in an acute care setting. Recent courses in health assessment and pathophysiology are recommended.
• At Prairie View A&M University, candidates must have a bachelor's degree in nursing from a regionally accredited college or university and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 or a 3.0 grade point average for the most recent 60 college credits. You must provide three letters of recommendation and a 1,000-word statement of purpose.
What Kind of Courses Will You Take in HBCU MSN Programs?
The curriculum plans for HBCU MSN programs feature rich course content. You will take MSN core courses and classes that are specific to your chosen specialty. The following are some examples of the classes included in the curriculum at some of the top schools in the nation.
• At Morgan State University, if you pursue the Nurse Educator path, you will take classes including Theoretical Basis for Advanced Nursing Practice, Curriculum Development, Theoretical Foundations for the Advanced Nurse Educator, and Advanced Health Assessment, Health Promotion, and Diagnostic Reasoning. The Family Nurse Practitioner pathway includes classes such as Primary Health Care of Adults/Older Adults in Families, Foundations of Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Advanced Nursing Technologies, and Primary Health Care of Children in Families.
• Florida A&M University’s Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP and Women’s Health NP programs feature rich curriculum plans. You will take core courses, including Advanced Health Assessment, Primary Care for Adults Across the Lifespan, Role of APN in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Advanced Pathophysiology, and Special Issues Across the Adult Lifespan.
• Tennessee State University offers three HBCU MSN programs. The Holistic Nursing program features classes such as Nursing Theory, Holistic Interventions, Holistic Nursing, and Advanced Health Assessment. In the Nursing Education program, you will take classes including Nursing Education: Organizational Operations, Nursing Education: Curriculum Development, Project Writing, and Nursing Education: The Education Process. Family Nurse Practitioner students study topics including Pathophysiology, Pharmacotherapeutics, Primary Care in Adult-Gerontology Clients, and Primary Care in Pediatric Clients.
• FNP students at Howard University study Theoretical Foundation for Advanced Practice Nursing, Family Primary Care of Children and Adolescents, Pharmacotherapeutics, and Advanced Pathophysiology. The Nurse Educator pathway includes classes such as Teaching and Learning in Nursing Education, Nursing Research: Theory and Practice, Cultural Diversity and Social Issues, and Ethics for Health Professionals.
• At Hampton University, the HBCU MSN program in Nursing Administration includes classes such as Financial Management for Nursing Administrators or Account Concepts, Principles of Nursing Administration Clinical Specialty and Population Focus, Community Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing, and Conceptual Approaches to Nursing Practice.
• Florida A&M University’s Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP and Women’s Health NP programs feature rich curriculum plans. You will take core courses, including Advanced Health Assessment, Primary Care for Adults Across the Lifespan, Role of APN in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Advanced Pathophysiology, and Special Issues Across the Adult Lifespan.
• Tennessee State University offers three HBCU MSN programs. The Holistic Nursing program features classes such as Nursing Theory, Holistic Interventions, Holistic Nursing, and Advanced Health Assessment. In the Nursing Education program, you will take classes including Nursing Education: Organizational Operations, Nursing Education: Curriculum Development, Project Writing, and Nursing Education: The Education Process. Family Nurse Practitioner students study topics including Pathophysiology, Pharmacotherapeutics, Primary Care in Adult-Gerontology Clients, and Primary Care in Pediatric Clients.
• FNP students at Howard University study Theoretical Foundation for Advanced Practice Nursing, Family Primary Care of Children and Adolescents, Pharmacotherapeutics, and Advanced Pathophysiology. The Nurse Educator pathway includes classes such as Teaching and Learning in Nursing Education, Nursing Research: Theory and Practice, Cultural Diversity and Social Issues, and Ethics for Health Professionals.
• At Hampton University, the HBCU MSN program in Nursing Administration includes classes such as Financial Management for Nursing Administrators or Account Concepts, Principles of Nursing Administration Clinical Specialty and Population Focus, Community Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing, and Conceptual Approaches to Nursing Practice.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in HBCU MSN Programs?
Practical training is an essential part of all nursing programs, including HBCU MSN programs. The type of training required by your program will depend on which path you choose. For instance, clinical roles, like the Family Nurse Practitioner pathway, may require 600 to 700 hours of clinical practicum. Nurse Educator and Nursing Administration programs usually require fewer hours. One thing I recommend to all students is to verify with your chosen school what their process is for assigning clinical sites and preceptors. If you are responsible for identifying sites and preceptors for approval, it is important to begin the process as soon as possible to prevent delays in entering the clinical phase of your program.
• At Prairie View A&M University, the Family Nurse Practitioner program features 780 hours of clinical practice. Clinicals occur in urban and rural settings and are arranged collaboratively between you and the Clinical Coordinator. The Nurse Administration program includes 12 semester hours of nurse administration specialty content and nine semester hours of electives in business, health informatics, or a combination of both. The Nurse Education program features nine semester hours of clinical practice core courses, six semester hours of a thesis or non-thesis option, and 240 contact hours of classroom and clinical instruction practicums.
• Winston-Salem State University’s Family Nurse Practitioner program includes 672 clinical practicum hours. FNP practicums are held in a variety of clinical settings and supervised by clinical faculty and preceptors. The university arranges clinical placements and confirms qualified preceptors. The Nurse Educator program features 240 clinical hours. You will have opportunities to implement teaching modules, tests, and measurements related to health issues and demonstrate assessment and evaluation of learner achievements. The Nurse Educator practicum hours are completed in classroom, simulated, and clinical settings.
• Bowie State University offers Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator HBCU MSN programs. The FNP program includes 600 clinical hours, and the Nurse Educator program includes 180 practicum hours. At Bowie, you are responsible for identifying clinical sites and preceptors six to eight weeks before the beginning of any practicum course and submitting requests to the Program Coordinator for preceptor approval.
• If you pursue the Nursing Informatics MSN program at Albany State University, you will complete 300 clinical hours. Clinical practicum hours are completed in the final semester of the program and include a Project Management and Synthesis course and a Nursing Informatics Capstone Practicum. The Capstone Practicum involves working with a preceptor to develop a plan for practicum activities involving selecting, initiating, and implementing informatics-related projects.
• Howard University’s Family Nurse Practitioner program features 720 clinical hours. You will have opportunities to participate in clinical workshops and perform common procedures, including joint and therapeutic injections, EKG, suturing, skin abscess draining, and biopsies. The university also offers clinical training opportunities in substance use training and HIV-LGBTQ+ care.
• Winston-Salem State University’s Family Nurse Practitioner program includes 672 clinical practicum hours. FNP practicums are held in a variety of clinical settings and supervised by clinical faculty and preceptors. The university arranges clinical placements and confirms qualified preceptors. The Nurse Educator program features 240 clinical hours. You will have opportunities to implement teaching modules, tests, and measurements related to health issues and demonstrate assessment and evaluation of learner achievements. The Nurse Educator practicum hours are completed in classroom, simulated, and clinical settings.
• Bowie State University offers Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator HBCU MSN programs. The FNP program includes 600 clinical hours, and the Nurse Educator program includes 180 practicum hours. At Bowie, you are responsible for identifying clinical sites and preceptors six to eight weeks before the beginning of any practicum course and submitting requests to the Program Coordinator for preceptor approval.
• If you pursue the Nursing Informatics MSN program at Albany State University, you will complete 300 clinical hours. Clinical practicum hours are completed in the final semester of the program and include a Project Management and Synthesis course and a Nursing Informatics Capstone Practicum. The Capstone Practicum involves working with a preceptor to develop a plan for practicum activities involving selecting, initiating, and implementing informatics-related projects.
• Howard University’s Family Nurse Practitioner program features 720 clinical hours. You will have opportunities to participate in clinical workshops and perform common procedures, including joint and therapeutic injections, EKG, suturing, skin abscess draining, and biopsies. The university also offers clinical training opportunities in substance use training and HIV-LGBTQ+ care.
What are the Best HBCU MSN Programs in the Nation?
(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 10 Best online and campus HBCU MSN Programs in the nation for the year 2025.)1. Winston-Salem State University - Winston-Salem, NC
Specialties Offered:
Advanced Nurse Educator and Family Nurse Practitioner2. Bowie State University - Bowie, MD
Specialties Offered:
Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator3. Alcorn State University - Natchez, MS
Specialties Offered:
Family Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator4. Prairie View A&M University - Houston, TX
Specialties Offered:
Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Administration, and Nurse Education5. Florida A&M University - Tallahassee, FL
Specialties Offered:
Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner6. Tennessee State University - Nashville, TN
Specialties Offered:
Family Nurse Practitioner , Nursing Education , and Holistic Nursing7. Albany State University - Albany, GA
Specialties Offered:
Family Nurse Practitioner , Nurse Educator , and Nursing Informatics8. Morgan State University - Baltimore, MD
Specialties Offered:
Nurse Educator and Leadership/Management in Nursing9. Howard University - Washington, DC
Specialties Offered:
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nurse Educator (NE)10. Hampton University - Hampton, VA
Specialties Offered:
NursingAdministration, Nursing Education, and FamilyNurse PractitionerWhere Do Graduates of HBCU MSN Programs Mostly Work?
Graduates of HBCU MSN programs work in many different settings. Where you work will be determined by the type of specialty or concentration you choose to pursue. The following are a few examples of places you may work after you complete your program.
1. Hospitals:
One of the most common places for master's prepared nurses to work is hospitals. In this setting, you may work in a clinical or bedside role, or you may work in an administrative role.2. Academia:
Whether you specialize as a Nurse Educator or pursue a clinical nursing role, you can still use your master’s degree in nursing to work in an academic setting. You may choose to teach nursing at a college or university, or you could work as a nurse educator in a large healthcare facility or hospital.3. Travel Nursing:
Another popular place where graduates of HBCU MSN programs work is in the travel nursing industry. Hospitals, nursing homes, physicians' offices, and many other healthcare facilities are in dire need of nursing staff to fill vacant jobs. If you need to work but also want to feed your need to see the country or the world, travel nursing could be a great option.3 Best Jobs For Graduates of HBCU MSN Programs
The old saying, “The world is your oyster,” is true when it comes to nursing. Graduates of HBCU MSN programs can choose from unlimited job opportunities. Some of the best jobs for program graduates include the following.
1. Family Nurse Practitioner:
You can earn your MSN and specialize as a family nurse practitioner, taking care of clients from birth to old age. FNPs care for patients with varying degrees of health and illness. If you love patients of all ages, this is an excellent specialty option!2. Clinical Nurse Leader:
As a Clinical Nurse Leader, you will collaborate with the interprofessional healthcare team at the center of care. You will help promote patient care and safety by leveraging your knowledge and clinical skills to analyze and improve healthcare delivery.3. Informatics Nurse:
If you love nursing but feel a shift from bedside nursing is something you want to consider, a job as an Informatics Nurse may interest you. Informatics Nurses use analytical sciences and other data to identify, define, and communicate data, information, and knowledge into nursing practices. You will use medical information systems to track healthcare data, monitor healthcare quality, and record patient outcomes.What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
New graduates of HBCU MSN programs earn an average of $79,470 annually. This salary is equal to $38.21 per hour, $1,528 per week, or $6,620 per month.
| Hourly | $38.21 |
| Weekly | $1,528 |
| Monthly | $6,620 |
| Annual | $79,470 |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
What Average Salary Can Graduates of HBCU MSN Programs Expect?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average annual salary for master’s-prepared nurses, like graduates of HBCU MSN programs, is $118,040. This pay breaks down to $56.75 per hour, $2,270 per week, or $9,840 per month.
| Hourly | $56.75 |
| Weekly | $2,270 |
| Monthly | $9,840 |
| Annual | $118,040 |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates of HBCU MSN Programs
If you are concerned about what your job outlook will be like years down the road, earning your degree through HBCU MSN programs can help alleviate your worries. The BLS predicts that there will be an increase in jobs for MSN-prepared nurses of at least 45.68% between 2021 and 2031.
| 2021-31 | |
| +45.68% | |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
Is the Cost of an HBCU MSN Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?
HBCU MSN programs cost anywhere from $20,000 to $75,000 without financial assistance like grants or scholarships. The average yearly pay for program graduates is $118,040. Therefore, even if you choose to pursue a more expensive program and do not have scholarships or grants, you could still get a return on your investment in as few as two years. With that in mind, the cost of HBCU MSN programs is worth the return on investment.
Bonus! 5 Important Personality and Character Traits the Best HBCU MSN Programs Look For in Applicants
The faculty of HBCU MSN programs understand what it takes to succeed as a master’s prepared registered nurse, and because of this, they review candidates for their programs carefully. There are many things that programs look for in candidates, and if you know what they want, you can work to make sure you meet their expectations. The following are five important personality and character traits the best programs look for in applicants.
1. Compassion
One of the most essential qualities any nurse needs is the ability to demonstrate true compassion. Nurses pursuing graduate degrees, like an MSN, often pursue roles in leadership or management where compassion for team members and patients alike is essential.2. Self-Motivation
As a Master of Nursing Science, you may work in an independent role as a nurse practitioner or as a nurse educator or manager. The ability to motivate others begins with our ability to be self-motivated. Admission teams will look for things that suggest you are motivated, like a history of leadership at work or academic success.3. Critical Thinking Ability
Working in an advanced nursing role requires you to use critical thinking skills in several ways. You may need to make a split-second decision about patient care if you are in a clinical role. If you work in a leadership role, you may need to analyze important issues like patient/staff ratios and find ways to promote safety. Any experience you have in a setting like intensive care or emergency care looks great on an application, so be sure to mention it!4. Confidence
As a master’s-prepared nurse, you must be ready to lead other nurses and demonstrate good nursing practices. Admission faculty look for candidates who feel comfortable with their knowledge and experience and confident that their decision to pursue an MSN is the right choice. You can demonstrate confidence by being prepared to answer questions about your experience in your nursing interview, getting excellent letters of recommendation, and highlighting your professional accomplishments on your resume.5. Emotional Intelligence
Another critical personality and character trait that admission teams look for is the ability to demonstrate emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is simply a reflection of your ability to understand and manage your emotions in a way that promotes conflict resolution, stress reduction, empathy, and effective communication.My Final Thoughts
In this article, I shared information with you to answer the question, “What are the best HBCU MSN programs?” The programs, which offer amazing learning opportunities, prepare you for many career opportunities along with the ability to earn an excellent income and contribute to the profession. If you found this information helpful and believe earning your MSN through a Historically Black College or University is something you want to do, I want to encourage you to take a closer look at the 10 best HBCU MSN programs for 2025 and get started today!
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert
1. What Is The Best HBCU MSN Program In The Nation?
The best HBCU MSN program in the nation is offered at Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.| Winston-Salem State University - Winston-Salem, NC |
2. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into HBCU MSN Programs?
Most HBCU MSN programs require candidates to have a minimum 3.0 GPA. However, because criteria vary among schools, it is important to verify admission requirements with each school where you plan to apply.3. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For HBCU MSN Programs?
The cost-per-credit for HBCU MSN programs ranges from $500 to $1,400.4. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?
Yes, many students work part-time while enrolled in HBCU MSN programs.5. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?
Some students choose to work full-time while enrolled in HBCU MSN programs. It is important for you to consider how much time you can devote to school and work and to counsel with your academic advisor and employer to work out schedules that promote your success.6. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make Per Year?
New graduates of HBCU MSN programs earn approximately $79,470 per year.| $79,470 |
7. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour With Experience?
On average, HBCU MSN program graduates earn $56.75 per hour.| $56.75 |
8. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month With Experience?
The average monthly pay for graduates of HBCU MSN programs is $9,840.| $9,840 |
9. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of HBCU MSN Programs Make Per Year With Experience?
With experience, graduates of HBCU MSN programs earn an average of $118,040 per year.| $118,040 |
10. Is An HBCU MSN Program Hard To Complete?
Any graduate program, including HBCU MSN programs, can be challenging to complete. However, if you dedicate sufficient time to studying and completing assignments, and practicing self-care, you can succeed.
Jessica Holbrook, RN, MSN, CCRN
Jessica currently works in an adult intensive care unit as an ECMO specialist and as part of the medical flight team. She also works as a patient and new nurse educator in the hospital and loves to research and share information with the people she teaches. Jessica received her MSN from Weber State University in 2019. She graduated #1 in her class and was the selected speaker at the honors student graduation ceremony. She has special certifications in pediatric care, critical care, and cardiopulmonary bypass.