6 Best MSN Programs in West Virginia – 2026

Written By: Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA

An MSN degree is your ticket to professional opportunities that will take you far beyond bedside nursing in West Virginia. MSN programs in West Virginia can help you become a nurse practitioner, a clinical nurse specialist, or a nursing administrator, specialties that command average salaries of $110,560 a year on average. Hesitant to quit your job so you can go back to school? Don’t worry: Many nursing master’s degree programs in the Mountain State offer distance learning options. You’ll also enjoy more job security; employment opportunities for RNs with an MSN degree will increase by 52 percent in 10 years. Enter the next phase of your nursing career with this list of the 6 best MSN programs in West Virginia.

WHAT ARE THE BEST MSN PROGRAMS IN WEST VIRGINIA (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2026?

Based on our Ranking Methodology, listed below are the 6 Best Master of Science in Nursing Programs in West Virginia (Online & Campus) for 2026.

1. Marshall University - Huntington

Programs Offered: MSN

MSN Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Midwifery, Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

MSN Program Details: Are you a Registered Nurse with a bachelor’s degree in nursing? Have you considered the career opportunities that pursuing an advanced nursing degree could offer? If so, earning a Master of Science in Nursing could be a great option. There are many career paths that you can choose from when you earn an MSN. For example, Marshall University offers an MSN program in West Virginia with five specialty options. The program admits students twice each year in the spring and fall semesters.

The Nurse Midwifery and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs are offered as a collaborative effort between Marshall University and Shenandoah University. The Nurse Midwifery program requires the completion of 51 credits and 720 clinical hours. The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is a 54-credit pathway that includes 600 clinical hours.

Both pathways begin with a core curriculum component consisting of 12 credit hours focused on nursing theories, leadership, and advanced nursing research. After completing the core curriculum component at Marshall University, students begin studies in their chosen emphasis, earning credits from both Marshall and Shenandoah universities.

The university also offers a Family Nurse Practitioner MSN specialty and two non-clinical specialties: nursing education and nursing administration. The Family Nurse Practitioner program features a 42-credit curriculum with a blended learning format combining classroom, online, laboratory, and clinical learning modalities. This pathway includes 780 clinical hours. The Nursing Administration and Nursing Education programs each require 36 credit hours and are 100% online.

MSN Admission Requirements: Prospective students seeking admission to the MSN program at Marshall University must complete both the University Graduate School Application and the MSN Application. If you wish to pursue the Nurse Midwifery or Psychiatric Mental Health NP program, you must also meet general admission requirements for Shenandoah University.

To be considered, you must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing from a program accredited by the ACEN or CCNE and have a current, unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse. Candidates for the Nursing Education and Nursing Administration pathways must have a cumulative college GPA of 2.5 or higher. At the same time, the FNP, PMHNP, and Nurse-Midwifery options require a minimum 3.0 grade point average for all college coursework. Transcripts should also reflect completion of undergraduate courses in basic statistics and basic research with a grade of “C” or better in each. Other supporting documentation to be submitted includes letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, and a Personal Statement. Nurse Midwifery and PMHNP candidates must interview with Shenandoah University MSN faculty.

Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students

• As a student in the MSN program in West Virginia at Marshall University, you will get hands-on training with a focus on serving rural and underserved populations.
• Marshall University cares about student success not only in the classroom or clinical setting but also after program completion. The MSN curriculum is designed to prepare you to take and pass national certification examinations administered by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Graduates of the MSN program have outstanding pass rates, reflecting the school’s commitment to excellence in nursing education and student success.
• Marshall University collaborates with Shenandoah University and a broad range of healthcare facilities and professionals. Because of these collaborative relationships, students have more opportunities to build professional networks, making job placement and mentorship easier.

2. West Virginia University - Morgantown

Programs Offered: MSN

MSN Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner

MSN Program Details: West Virginia University offers an MSN program with the option to pursue specialization and certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Admission occurs in the fall semester each year, with part-time and full-time enrollment options available. You can complete the program in five to eight semesters, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.

The program, one of the best MSN programs in West Virginia, features a blend of synchronous and asynchronous online coursework, with minimal campus visits. Campus visits are designed to prepare for the Physical Assessment Practicum and competency-based testing, assessment demonstrations, hands-on skills practice, and simulations.

The Master of Science in Nursing FNP program is a 47-credit pathway. You will study topics, including Theoretical Foundations & Diagnostic Reasoning for Advanced Nursing Practice, Advanced Practice Nursing Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Across the Lifespan, and Informatics & Healthcare Technologies.

The final two semesters include 570 clinical hours. Clinical practicums occur in a variety of primary care settings and offer ample opportunities to provide care for individuals and families with acute and chronic health issues across the lifespan.

MSN Admission Requirements: To be eligible for admission to the MSN program at West Virginia University, you must first meet general admission requirements for WVU. You need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a nationally accredited nursing program and a regionally accredited institution, and you must hold an active, unencumbered license to practice as a Registered Nurse. Candidates are required to submit a current resume or curriculum vitae, along with official transcripts from all post-secondary schools. A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 is preferred. However, provisional admission may be considered if your overall grade point average is 2.75-2.99, depending upon space availability and other application factors.

Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students

• At West Virginia University, program faculty collaborate with you to help identify appropriate clinical sites and qualified preceptors. Faculty involvement ensures appropriate contracts are in place and that you will have a variety of experiences to prepare you for the broad practice role of a Family Nurse Practitioner.
• West Virginia University’s MSN program is recognized for quality and student success. According to the 2026 U.S. News & World Report graduate nursing rankings, the program is ranked among the Best Nursing Schools: Master’s, placing it in the top 15% of accredited master’s nursing programs nationwide!
• West Virginia University receives excellent reviews in national peer assessments for faculty expertise, student engagement, clinical training, and rigorous curriculum, designed to prepare students for advanced practice roles.

3. Wheeling University - Wheeling

Programs Offered: RN-to-BSN-to-MSN and MSN

RN-to-BSN-to-MSN Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Administration

MSN Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration, and Nursing Education

RN-to-BSN-to-MSN Program Details: If you are a Registered Nurse with an associate degree in nursing and you wish to earn a Master of Science in Nursing degree, Wheeling University offers an RN-to-BSN-to-MSN program that could be of interest to you. This MSN program in West Virginia is designed for working Registered Nurses, offering online, distance-based learning combined with clinical rotations in your home community.

You may transfer up to 46 credits from your associate degree toward the program’s total required credits. Additionally, the curriculum includes 12 credits of coursework that count toward both the BSN and MSN degrees, giving you a head start in the MSN program. Because RN-to-BSN-to-MSN students must complete core courses, individualized study plans are created that include the specific classes needed to satisfy the BSN requirements. After completing core courses and BSN requirements, you will take only the courses specific to your chosen MSN track and complete the required clinicals.

RN-to-BSN-to-MSN Admission Requirements: The RN-to-BSN-to-MSN is open to candidates who have completed an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing and who hold a current RN license. You must complete an online application and provide a copy of your nursing license along with transcripts from each college or university you previously attended.

MSN Program Details: Whether you are interested in becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner or want to pursue a career in nursing administration or nursing education, Wheeling University has an MSN program for you.

Each MSN pathway requires the same 15 credits of core MSN coursework. After completing MSN core classes, you will progress to track-relevant courses and clinicals. The Family Nurse Practitioner program requires 52 credits and 672 clinical hours. The Nursing Administration and Nursing Education pathways require 42 and 39 credits, respectively, plus 168 clinical hours each.

MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the MSN program, first complete an online application. Candidates must possess a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited nursing program and a current, unencumbered RN license. You need to submit two letters of recommendation and request official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended. You must have a cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 and proof of successful completion of undergraduate research and statistics courses. You are also required to pass a criminal background check.

Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students

• If you want to pursue an MSN degree but need flexibility to continue working and handle other responsibilities, Wheeling University is a great choice. All coursework is delivered online, and practicum hours are completed in your home community.
• Having participated in recruitment and retention efforts for the nursing programs where I taught, I found that one concern for many prospective students was whether they could afford to attend school. Wheeling University understands the need for a quality education at an affordable price. Graduate tuition averages around $9,500 annually, well below the average for other schools offering similar programs.
• As a Catholic institution, Wheeling University emphasizes compassion, justice, and service in healthcare. The faith-based mission of the MSN program promotes holistic care and collaboration, which positively impacts student, patient, and organizational outcomes.

4. American Public University System - Charles Town

Programs Offered: RN-to-MSN and MSN

RN-to-MSN Specialties Offered: Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, and Community & Public Health Nursing

MSN Specialties Offered: Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, and Community & Public Health Nursing

RN-to-MSN Program Details: If you are a Registered Nurse with a diploma or associate degree in nursing, American Public University’s RN-to-MSN program offers a path to obtain both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing while specializing in nursing education, nursing leadership, or community and public health nursing. The program features asynchronous online coursework with classes that start monthly, making it an excellent option for working professionals.

The RN-to-MSN program is a 147-credit pathway. You may transfer up to 90 credits from your associate degree program. Additionally, the program is structured so that, while you are completing the BSN requirements, you may replace three baccalaureate degree courses required for the BSN degree with three master’s degree courses.

If you enroll in the Nurse Educator pathway, you will take classes such as Nursing Curriculum Development, Assessment, & Evaluation, Learner-Centered Teaching Methodologies, and Educational Assessment & Evaluation for Nurse Educators. The Nurse Leader program features classes, including Operational Quality in Healthcare, Healthcare Systems & Health Policy, and The Business of Healthcare. The Community & Public Health program features classes such as Program Development & Evaluation in Community & Public Health Nursing, Biostatistics with Lab, and Social & Behavioral Aspects of Health. Students in each concentration complete 160 clinical hours.

RN-to-MSN Admission Requirements: To apply for admission to the RN-to-MSN program, you need an associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited or board-approved institution and an active, current, unencumbered U.S. Registered Nurse license in the state where practicums will be conducted. All candidates must submit a Statement of Purpose and Goals, a current resume or curriculum vitae, a signed Statement of Understanding, and transcripts from all post-secondary institutions reflecting a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

MSN Program Details: If you are a Registered Nurse with a baccalaureate degree in nursing ready to pursue a master’s degree, the MSN program at APU is a great option. Like the RN-to-MSN program, the MSN pathway allows you to choose from three specialty concentrations: Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, or Community & Public Health Nursing.

The program features online coursework designed to help you develop the skills necessary to become an integral part of the collaborative healthcare team. Your program will conclude with practicum experiences in your home community tailored to your professional interests.

Each MSN pathway features a 36-credit curriculum. The study plans consist of 18 credits of core MSN coursework and 18 credits of specialty-specific coursework. Additionally, students in each pathway complete 160 practicum hours.

MSN Admission Requirements: To be eligible for admission to the MSN program, you must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a program accredited by the ACEN, CASN, CCNE, or CNEA and have a current, unrestricted RN license in the state/province where practicums will be conducted. You are required to submit a signed Statement of Understanding, a Statement of Purpose and Goals for Graduate Education, a current curriculum vitae or resume, and official transcripts from all colleges or universities you previously attended. Transcripts should show a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 for your BSN program, along with completion of an undergraduate-level statistics course with a grade of “C” or better.

Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students

• As a nurse educator, one of the things I recommend considering when choosing a program in West Virginia (or any other state) is whether students meet the projected proficiency outcomes. Projected outcomes are goals set by the program that meet minimum licensing and credentialing standards. The school you choose should have proof of meeting these goals. For instance, MSN students at American Public University System consistently exceed Student Proficiency Goals and Outcomes, indicating a strong program.
• At American Public University System, nursing courses begin every other month. This scheduling format makes it easy for you to begin pursuing your degree at a time that is most convenient.
• The MSN program at American Public University System is taught by faculty with decades of combined experience. Each faculty member brings unique insight to enrich your learning experience.

5. West Virginia Wesleyan College - Buckhannon

Programs Offered: Accelerated RN-to-MSN and MSN

Accelerated RN-to-MSN Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Leadership

MSN Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Leadership, and Advanced Practice Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner & Nurse-Midwifery)

Accelerated RN-to-MSN Program Details: The Accelerated RN-to-MSN program at West Virginia Wesleyan College provides a bridge for RNs with an associate degree to pursue graduate study. Students are admitted as a cohort each fall semester. You may choose to specialize in the Family Nurse Practitioner or Nursing Leadership concentration. The program utilizes online and hybrid learning models with brief campus-based residencies required.

This MSN program in West Virginia is designed so that baccalaureate-level nursing content is front-loaded into the curriculum. You will complete 20 hours of Bridge coursework, then transition to the MSN coursework relevant to your chosen specialty. After matriculating into the MSN portion of the program, you will complete 35 to 47 credits, depending on your chosen pathway. Practicum experiences are arranged in or near your home community, making this a great option for students who prefer less travel and more flexibility.

Accelerated RN-to-MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the Accelerated RN-to-MSN program, you must be a graduate of an accredited AND program and possess an active, unencumbered RN license. Candidates are required to complete an application for graduate admission and submit a Personal Statement of Goals & Objectives, a current resume or CV, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts for all collegiate coursework. Transcripts should reflect a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher for all college work.

MSN Program Details: West Virginia Wesleyan College also offers an MSN program designed for baccalaureate-prepared RNs seeking to advance their careers. With four specialty options, you are sure to find a pathway that aligns with your goals.

The Family Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Leadership pathways are offered exclusively at West Virginia Wesleyan College. The FNP program combines online and hybrid learning with occasional campus-based residencies and clinicals in your hometown. The Nursing Leadership pathway is 100% online.

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Nurse-Midwifery advanced practice nursing pathways are offered through collaboration with Shenandoah University. If you choose to pursue one of these specialties, you will complete graduate core courses at WVWC, then enroll at Shenandoah University to complete specialty-relevant coursework. Clinical practicums are arranged in your home community.

MSN Admission Requirements: To be eligible for admission to the MSN program at West Virginia Wesleyan College, you need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited program and must possess and submit verification of a current, unrestricted RN license. In addition to completing an admission application, you must submit three professional Recommendation for Graduate admission forms, a current CV or resume, a Personal Statement, and all college and university transcripts. A minimum college GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required.

Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students

• When I taught nursing, I tried to instill in each student the belief that you do not have to “specialize” in nursing leadership to be a nurse leader. In fact, all nurses should have a work ethic and mindset that sets high standards for themselves and others. One of the things I like about the West Virginia Wesleyan College MSN program is that it emphasizes “preparing tomorrow’s nurse leaders today.” The program is designed to build upon your leadership and administrative skills, health promotion and disease prevention expertise, interprofessional collaboration, and clinical decision-making.
• The MSN program at West Virginia Wesleyan College offers a strong academic structure combined with the flexibility of a hybrid learning format. While brief on-campus residencies are required, didactic instruction is online and combined with practicum experiences arranged in your home community, supporting a healthy work/school/life balance.
• West Virginia Wesleyan College MSN program graduates have excellent job placement rates following program completion. According to job placement surveys, nearly 100% of respondents report being employed within three to six months of graduation.

6. University of Charleston - Charleston

Programs Offered: MSN

MSN Specialties Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner

MSN Program Details: If you are ready to advance your career and become a primary care provider to patients across the lifespan, the University of Charleston offers a Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program in West Virginia that can help you achieve your goals. As a student in this program, you will gain the knowledge and skills you need to provide care to patients from infants through older adults in a variety of both inpatient and outpatient settings.

The MSN program admits new students in the spring and fall of each year. You can complete the program in five semesters if you enroll full-time or in seven semesters if you choose part-time study. The program is designed for working nurses and offers online didactic coursework with no residency requirement.

The 42-credit curriculum includes classes such as Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Pharmacology, Primary Care Across the Lifespan, and Transitions to Advanced Nursing Practice. You will complete 750 practicum hours over the course of the last three semesters, averaging approximately two clinical days per week.

MSN Admission Requirements: Admission to the MSN program at the University of Charleston is open to applicants who have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree earned at an accredited institution and who hold a current, unrestricted license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the United States. To be considered, you must provide a Statement of Purpose, two professional recommendations, a current resume or curriculum vitae, and transcripts from all post-secondary schools you previously attended. A minimum final GPA of 2.5 for your BSN program is required.

Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students

• As a nurse educator, I am often asked what things are important to consider when choosing a nursing program. One thing I recommend prospective students consider is the success rate of graduates on national certification examinations. This is an important factor because, no matter how well you do in the program, you must obtain certification to practice as an FNP. The University of Charleston reports an annual certification pass rate of 100% for first-time testers and repeat test takers, which is higher than the national average of 83%.
• The MSN program at the University of Charleston has an excellent reputation for preparing highly qualified nurses for advanced practice roles. Because of the school’s commitment to academic excellence, program graduates are often sought out by top healthcare employers, resulting in excellent job placement and satisfaction rates.
• The University of Charleston’s MSN program has high retention and graduation rates, which are strong indicators of its strength.


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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED

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3. What Is The Average MSN Salary In West Virginia?

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