2 Best Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs – 2024


Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN

Are you a registered nurse desiring to earn a master’s degree? Do you enjoy patient care and want to improve your skills and address patient care issues on a deeper, more personal level? If so, have you considered earning your degree through an MSN in holistic nursing program?

Maybe you thought of becoming a holistic nurse but need a flexible learning format to earn your degree. In that case, an online program could be a great option! If this sounds like you, you may wonder, "What are the best online MSN in holistic nursing programs?” In this article, I will answer that question by sharing information about the 2 best online MSN in holistic nursing programs for 2024. You will learn about curriculum, practical training, and costs and find answers to frequently asked questions. When you finish reading, you will have more insight into these specialized programs to help you decide if this is the degree and career path you wish to pursue.



What Exactly Is the Goal of an Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Program?


The goal of online MSN in holistic nursing programs is to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice roles in whole-person nursing care. These programs aim to teach students how to treat all aspects of a patient’s well-being, including cognitive, emotional, social, and environmental status. Students learn to care for these aspects of the patient’s being while developing an understanding of their cultural and spiritual beliefs.



Who Accredits MSN in Holistic Nursing Online Programs?


Online MSN in holistic nursing programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

S.NO.Accrediting Agency
1Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
2Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)



When Do MSN in Holistic Nursing Online Programs Start?


MSN in holistic nursing online programs have different start dates. Schools with fewer faculty, smaller facilities, or limited clinical sites may offer only one start date each year. Conversely, larger schools with broader clinical networks and large faculty pools may offer three or more start dates each year. The start dates for the two best online MSN in holistic nursing programs in the nation are as follows.

Florida Atlantic University admits students to its MSN in Holistic Nursing program in the fall and spring semesters each year.

At Tennessee State University, the online MSN in Holistic Nursing program begins three times yearly in the spring, summer, and fall semesters.



How Many Credits Are There in MSN in Holistic Nursing Online Programs?


The number of required credits for online MSN in holistic nursing programs varies from one school to the next. The requirements for the two top programs in the nation range between 22 and 45 credits. However, the credits you must complete will depend upon your previous degree and the number of transferrable credits you can bring to the program. The following are a few examples.

The Florida State University online MSN in holistic nursing program requires students to complete at least 33 credits. This curriculum is designed to broaden your expertise of contemporary perspectives on rehabilitation and comprehensive nursing practice focused on patient care. The distribution of the 33 credit hours is as follows:

○ Graduate Core Courses- 12 credits
○ Direct Care Course - 9 credits
○ Concentration Course - 12 credits


Tennessee State University requires students in the online MSN in holistic nursing program to complete 45-hour credit hours. Credits are earned as follows:

○ Curriculum Courses - 22 hours
○ Major Holistic Nursing Concentration - 14 hours
○ Elective Course - 3 hours
○ Project or Thesis - 6 hours




How Long Are MSN in Holistic Nursing Online Programs?


The length of online MSN in holistic nursing programs differs slightly based on your degree level when beginning the program and whether you choose to enroll as a part-time or full-time student. Students entering the programs with an associate degree in nursing typically take four years to earn the degree. Baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses may earn the MSN in holistic nursing in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time.

The online MSN holistic nursing program at Florida Atlantic University is designed to be completed in four semesters if you enroll full-time. Part-time students typically complete the program in six semesters.

Tennessee State University's online MSN nursing program is designed for working nurses, allowing part-time or full-time enrollment options. Part-time students graduate in eight semesters. Full-time students usually complete the program in five semesters.



How Much Do MSN in Holistic Nursing Online Programs Cost?


The cost of online MSN in holistic nursing programs varies among schools. Some schools charge different tuition rates for students based on their residency status: in-state or out-of-state. Others offer the same tuition cost regardless of residency. Additionally, many schools offer reduced tuition rates for online learners. When you research program costs, one important factor to consider is whether the estimated cost includes fees and other estimated expenses or if the price is a tuition-only quote. The following list reflects the cost of the two best MSN in holistic nursing online programs in the nation.

At Florida Atlantic University, tuition is calculated at a per-credit rate of $371.82 for in-state students and $1,026.81 for out-of-state students. This fee excludes other learning tools, handbook costs, and other financial expenses associated with MSN in holistic nursing program. The program requires 33 credits, which means tuition costs between $12,270.06 and $33,884.73.

Tennessee State University also charges a per-credit rate for tuition, which varies based on whether you live in or out of the state. Students who are Tennessee residents pay $533 per credit hour, and out-of-state students pay $1,115. The program features a 45-credit hour curriculum, making tuition range from $23,985 to $50,175.



What Is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs?


Most online MSN in holistic nursing programs require candidates to have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some schools consider your cumulative college GPA, while others look at your previous nursing degree average or the average of your most recent credits. One important thing to remember is that admission can be competitive. Therefore, the higher your grade point average, the better your chances of gaining admission. The following are the GPA admission requirements for the programs featured in this article.

Florida Atlantic University prefers applicants with a minimum 3.0 grade point average for the final 60 baccalaureate-level college credits. Candidates with a lower GPA may be considered with submission of Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores.

Candidates seeking admission to the online MSN in holistic nursing program at Tennessee State University need a minimum college GPA of 3.0 in all required courses for their previous BSN degree OR in all nursing scores.



What Are the Admission Requirements for Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs?


Admission to MSN in holistic nursing online programs is typically competitive. Prospective students must compete with other applicants for limited spots, which means meeting minimum admission requirements may not be enough. Working to exceed the minimum admission criteria can improve your chances of admission. For example, taking extra classes to improve your GPA and getting work or volunteer experience can make your application stand out. The following are the admission requirements for the programs featured in this article.

Admission criteria for the online MSN in holistic nursing program at Florida Atlantic University include the following. Candidates must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing earned at a regionally accredited college or university and a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited nursing program with a preferred college GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the most recent 60 college credits earned. Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended, letters of professional recommendation, a professional resume, and a Statement of Intent. Candidates must complete an introductory Statistics class and bachelor's level nursing research course.

At Tennessee State University, candidates must possess a current, unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse and have one year of work experience as an RN. Applicants must have a minimum Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree with at least a 3.0 grade point average. Applicants must submit three letters of professional recommendation, a professional resume or curriculum vitae, an admissions essay, and a letter of intent.



What Are the Best Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs in the Nation?

(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 2 Best Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)


1. Florida Atlantic University - Boca Raton, FL


2. Tennessee State University - Nashville, TN



VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



What Kind of Courses Will You Take in Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs?


Online MSN in holistic nursing programs consist of in-depth curriculum plans filled with advanced content. You will study in classes including advanced physiology and pathophysiology, pharmacotherapy, epidemiology, and evidence-based practice. The following are examples of a few classes in the curriculum for our featured programs.

The online MSN in holistic nursing program at Florida Atlantic University features classes such as Developing Expertise in Holistic Healing, Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics, Nursing Research Evidence-Based Practice, Foundations in Holistic Nursing, and Philosophy & Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice Roles.

At Tennessee State University, students enrolled in the online MSN in holistic nursing program take classes, including Holistic Nursing Interventions, Pharmacotherapeutics, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Health Assessment, and Role Development.



What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs?


The practical training for online MSN in holistic nursing programs is designed to offer opportunities for hands-on learning. The training, typically referred to as clinical practicum, may occur in different healthcare settings with patients of all ages. Some schools offer clinical placement assistance, helping you find and secure appropriate clinical sites and preceptors. Others require students to locate their own sites and preceptors and seek approval from the program director. As you research different programs, it is good to ask about clinical requirements, including finding out who arranges them. The following are the practical training requirements for the two best MSN in holistic nursing online programs in the nation.

The online MSN in holistic nursing program at Florida Atlantic University includes 290 hours of supervised clinical experience. Clinical hours are earned through laboratory simulations and hands-on patient care in various clinical settings.

At Tennessee State University, students enrolled in the online MSN in holistic nursing program complete an Advanced Health Assessment during the summer semester before beginning concentration-specific clinicals. The program includes three holistic nursing clinical courses comprised of 500 total clinical hours.



7 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs


Online MSN in holistic nursing programs prepare students for advanced roles in patient care. In addition to clinical skills, students learn skills relevant to the holistic nursing approach to patient care. The following are seven of the most important skills and abilities you will gain if you pursue a degree through an MSN in holistic nursing online program.

1. You Will Learn the True Art of “Whole-Person" Nursing:

In online MSN in holistic nursing programs, you will learn to address issues in your patient’s care with an approach focused on every aspect of the patient. You will learn to focus care addressing mind, body, spiritual, cultural, socioeconomic, and environmental factors, recognizing that these factors combined make up a patient’s total well-being, or lack thereof.

2. MSN in holistic nursing online programs teach an integrative approach to nursing care:

As a student in an online MSN in holistic nursing program, you will learn how conventional and alternative therapies complement one another and how to integrate these practices into patient care. For example, some of the most common complementary approaches to care include meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing, yoga, progressive relaxation, and the use of natural products to promote comfort and wellness.

3. You will learn the five core values of holistic nursing and how to implement them:

Holistic nursing involves five core values: Philosophy & Education, Ethics, Theories, & Research, Nursing Self-Care, Communication, Therapeutic Environment & Culture Competence, and the Holistic Caring Process. MSN in holistic nursing online programs will teach you about these core values and help you develop skills for implementing them into your daily practice. Understanding the core values of holistic nursing makes you a more effective holistic nurse and can help improve patient, organizational, and professional outcomes.

4. You will learn to teach advanced relaxation techniques:

Because holistic nursing involves a whole-person, patient-centered approach, you will do more than address physical symptoms and give medication. One of the holistic skills you will learn in online MSN in holistic nursing programs is how to teach patients advanced relaxation techniques. This skill is instrumental in helping offset the negative impact of stress related to illness while promoting patient independence and healing.

5. You will become skilled in using therapeutic massage:

The Handbook for Holistic Nursing Practice identifies therapeutic massage as a holistic nursing intervention, and it is a skill you will learn in MSN in holistic nursing online programs. Massage therapy relaxes muscles and improves range of motion. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, which positively impacts mood. All of these effects help enhance medical treatment, improving patient outcomes.

6. MSN in holistic nursing online programs will teach you to use mindfulness related to self-care:

As a nursing instructor, I always told my students that it is difficult to care for others when we are "running on empty." One of the five core values of holistic nursing is Holistic Nursing Self-Care. As a student in one of these programs, you will learn measures of self-care to help promote mind-body wellness and resilience. When you are healthy and have a life that is well-balanced, you are better equipped to care for others.

7. You will learn to use holistic communication:

Holistic communication involves not only sharing factual information but sharing emotional information as well. The concept requires letting go of personal judgments and appreciating your client's point of view. Online MSN in holistic nursing programs will teach you the art of holistic communication, which includes practicing attentive nonverbal communication, showing a willingness to hear what the patient says, and trying to understand how they feel. You will learn to demonstrate active listening by not only hearing what the patient says but reflecting on what you hear back to them. When patients believe their thoughts and feelings are important, it helps reduce anxiety and builds stronger nurse/patient relationships.



What Kind of Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Tuition Waivers Are Offered by Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs?


One of the most important factors for prospective students to consider is how to pay for college. Although online MSN in holistic nursing programs are less expensive than some other graduate programs, most students still require some type of financial assistance to alleviate the burdens associated with program costs. Most schools offer some type of scholarships and grants and may offer work-study programs for eligible students. Additionally, there are many resources for private financial assistance, including private scholarships, employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs, and personal or private loans. For example, the American Holistic Nurses Association offers scholarships to students in undergraduate and graduate holistic nursing programs.

Florida Atlantic University offers financial assistance opportunities, including assistantships and fellowships. The university also offers FAU grant opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students, like those enrolled in online MSN in holistic nursing programs. Grants are available to students enrolled at least part-time who demonstrate financial need. Prospective students must fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Assistance (FAFSA). Although graduate students are not eligible for federal grants, students may be eligible for federal direct loans, such as Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Direct PLUS Loans.

At Tennessee State University, students enrolled in the MSN in holistic nursing online program have access to financial aid opportunities, including assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, and grants. The university also offers work-study programs for eligible students.



5 Main Advantages of Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs


As with any college degree program or career path, there are pros and cons of online MSN in holistic nursing programs and the careers graduates pursue. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages against your personal and professional goals will help you decide if this is the right path to pursue to accomplish your goals. The following are five main advantages of online MSN in holistic nursing programs.

1. Graduates of MSN in holistic nursing online programs can work in a variety of settings:

One of the biggest advantages of online MSN in holistic nursing programs is when you graduate, you will not be limited to one specific setting or patient population. Graduates work in inpatient hospitals, physicians' offices, private practice, academia, and government agencies, to name a few.

2. You can combine conventional and alternative therapies in your nursing practice:

When you graduate from MSN in holistic nursing online programs, your practice will combine traditional nursing concepts with alternative methodologies to provide whole-person care. The ability to combine these two types of care means you can reach more patients and have a greater impact on client outcomes.

3. You will have a fulfilling career:

One of the great things about MSN in holistic nursing online programs is that they prepare you for a career filled with satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment. The care you provide for patients will encompass a whole-person approach, which means you can impact not only their physical health but also their emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.

4. Holistic nursing is a growing field:

An increased interest in complementary and alternative medicine has led to impressive growth in the holistic nursing field. Growth in the field means more opportunities to find steady jobs with long-term potential, which is an excellent advantage of earning your degree through online MSN in holistic nursing programs.

5. You can choose a subspecialty:

With a degree from MSN in holistic nursing online programs, you can choose to specialize further. For example, if you enjoy working with children, you could become a certified pediatric nurse and offer holistic nursing services to children.



3 Main Disadvantages of Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs


Even though the best MSN in holistic nursing online programs have several advantages, it is also crucial to consider their disadvantages to help you decide if a career in holistic nursing is right for you. The following are three main disadvantages to consider.

1. Holistic nursing can take a toll on you emotionally:

As great a concept as holistic nursing is, one of the disadvantages is that it can result in an emotional or mental toll on nurses. You will care for all aspects of your patient's being, including their mental, emotional, physical, social, socioeconomic, and spiritual health. The responsibility that comes with addressing all these issues can be taxing, no matter how good a nurse you are or how dedicated you feel to your patients and profession.

2. Holistic nursing demands a lot of time:

If you want to be effective as a holistic nurse, you must dedicate significant time to your patients. Providing whole-person care means being available for all levels of the care they need. Online MSN in holistic nursing programs will teach you time management skills, which can help alleviate some of the stress caused by this disadvantage.

3. Not everyone understands or appreciates the idea of a holistic nursing approach:

Because holistic nursing involves a different approach, the concept is often misunderstood by patients and their loved ones. It is not uncommon for patients or their families to feel as if you are getting too personal. Utilizing therapeutic communication is a skill you will learn in MSN in holistic nursing online programs and one way to help your clients feel secure so they can open up to you, which creates opportunities for patient education to improve their understanding.



3 Major Challenges Students Face in Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs and How to Overcome


Any college degree program, especially graduate programs, comes with challenges. Students in online MSN in holistic nursing programs are not exempt from facing challenges. The following are examples of three major challenges students face in these specialized programs, and often after graduating, and ways to overcome them.

CHALLENGE #1: Identifying Issues of Polypharmacy

About the Challenge:

As healthcare consumers have increased access to healthcare services, one challenge that tends to arise is polypharmacy. Polypharmacy is a general term used to describe the concurrent use of multiple medications by patients to treat one or more conditions. Polypharmacy is a critical issue in healthcare, especially among elderly populations. The more medications a patient takes, the greater their chance of experiencing an adverse drug event (ADE).

How to Overcome:

The curriculum for online MSN in holistic nursing programs includes classes in advanced pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics. The way to overcome the challenge of identifying issues of polypharmacy is to learn as much as possible about illness and disease processes and the drugs used to treat them. As you gain more experience, your ability to identify risk factors for polypharmacy and implement measures to protect patients will improve. Do not be afraid to ask the advice of faculty and preceptors as you learn and grow.


CHALLENGE #2: Learning to Treat Patients Beyond Their Immediate Diagnosis.

About the Challenge:

One of the appealing things about holistic nursing is that it encompasses "whole-person" care. While the benefits of holistic care are undeniable, this type of care is not without challenges. Unlike other types of nursing or healthcare that focus on a specific diagnosis or complaint, holistic nursing involves assessing and treating all aspects of the patient. Holistic nurses provide for immediate healthcare needs but also tend to issues involving the patient's spirit, mind, and environment.

How to Overcome:

Like any relevant nursing skill, learning to incorporate whole-person care takes time. One of the best ways to overcome the challenge of implementing holistic care is to take a holistic approach to all patient care. Classes like psychology, mental health and illness, and faith-based courses offer nursing students insight into the mental, emotional, and spiritual side of patient care. If these classes are not part of the curriculum in the online MSN in holistic nursing programs you are considering attending, you may find it helpful to pursue a few of these classes as electives.


CHALLENGE #3: Holistic Nursing (and Holistic Nursing Programs) Can Be Mentally and Emotionally Taxing.

About the Challenge:

Holistic nursing requires you to devote individualized care to each patient on a deep level. You will use conventional nursing methodologies coupled with alternative care options, which may include acupuncture, massage therapy, hydrotherapy, and wellness coaching. The demands of the job can lead to mental and emotional fatigue. As a student in online MSN in holistic nursing programs, you may feel overwhelmed as you learn to provide whole-patient care. It is natural to feel anxiety at times, but it is important to learn ways to overcome those feelings, so you do not become mentally or emotionally exhausted and experience burnout.

How to Overcome:

The best way to protect yourself and overcome the challenges to your mental and emotional well-being is to practice self-care. It is crucial for holistic nurses to recognize situations that cause emotional distress and to prepare for them. You may not have the option of choosing which patients to see or treat, but you do have the option to take care of yourself. Simple measures like eating a well-balanced diet and getting enough sleep and rest can significantly improve your mental and emotional health.



Where Do Graduates of Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs Mostly Work?


Graduates of online MSN in holistic nursing programs work in all types of healthcare settings. You may choose to work in a hospital, private practice, as a consultant, or in academia. The patient population you prefer to care for, and the level of hands-on care you wish to provide are likely to determine where you work after earning your degree. The following are three examples of settings where MSN holistic nurses work.

1. Mental Health, Addiction, or Behavioural Health Centers:

Graduates of MSN in holistic nursing online programs with an interest in mental health issues such as addiction and behavioral health disorders may work in inpatient or outpatient settings or rehabilitation centers. With a degree as a master’s-prepared holistic nurse, you have the knowledge and skills needed to care for clients dealing with mental health, addiction, or behavioral disorders by addressing the root causes of their issues and creating an atmosphere to learn healthy behaviors and coping mechanisms.

2. Physicians’ Offices or Private Practice:

Many graduates of online MSN in holistic nursing programs work in private clinics or practices. In this setting, you may care for specific patient populations, such as pediatrics or geriatrics, or specialize in caring for patients of all ages. One of the perks of working in these settings is you will likely develop long-term provider/patient relationships.

3. Hospice Care:

Holistic nurses working in hospice settings provide end-of-life care for clients, including providing holistic support to their loved ones and caregivers. In this setting, graduates of online MSN in holistic nursing programs prioritize the spiritual, emotional, and physical comfort of patients and their loved ones when life-saving measures have been ruled out.



5 Best Jobs for Graduates of Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs


After graduating from MSN in holistic nursing online programs, you can work in many settings performing in diverse nursing roles. The following are five of the best jobs for graduates.

1. Adult-Gerontology Holistic Nurse Practitioner:

Some students in online MSN in holistic nursing programs choose to pursue additional certifications or degree paths, such as Adult-Gerontology NP. In this role, you will provide care to patients in the Adult-Gerontology population using a holistic approach to promote whole wellness and positive outcomes.

2. Holistic Nurse Navigator:

Nurse navigators are healthcare professionals who assist patients from the time they receive an initial diagnosis through treatment processes, often through end-of-life care. This role includes educating patients about their diseases and treatments, offering assistance to overcome barriers to access to care, and providing information about resources relevant to the patient’s care. As a graduate of an online MSN in holistic nursing program, you can utilize your knowledge of whole-person care to provide high-quality nursing care.

3. Holistic Home Health Nurse:

If you enjoy caring for patients outside of a clinical setting, after graduating from one of the best online MSN in holistic nursing programs, you may consider a job as a holistic home health registered nurse. This job involves traveling to client homes to provide nursing services. As a holistic home health RN, you will monitor the progression of your clients' illnesses or diseases, provide education to patients and caregivers, and collaborate with interdisciplinary team members.

4. Holistic RN Case Manager:

Graduates of MSN in holistic nursing online programs make excellent candidates to work as RN case managers. In this role, you will be tasked with the evaluation and implementation of patient care plans, collaborate with healthcare team members, and coordinate discharge and follow-up patient care. Your degree in holistic nursing allows you to approach the responsibilities of an RN case manager’s job with the patient’s whole wellness in mind.

5. Holistic Intensive Care Registered Nurse:

Patients in intensive or critical care units require high levels of professional nursing care. As a master’s-prepared registered nurse specializing in holistic care, you will not only have the clinical skills to evaluate critical patient statuses and provide essential nursing care, but you will also understand and implement a holistic approach to the care aimed at treating the whole patient.



What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?


New graduates of online MSN in holistic nursing programs make an average of $33.31 per hour, $1,333 weekly, or $5,770 per month. This pay is equal to a $62,290 annual salary.

Hourly$33.31
Weekly$1,333
Monthly$5,770
Annual$69,290
(Source: Ziprecruiter.com)



What Average Salary Can Graduates of MSN in Holistic Nursing Online Programs Expect?


The annual average salary of graduates of MSN in holistic nursing online programs is $102,922. This salary equates to $49.48 hourly, $1,979 weekly, or $8,580 monthly.

Hourly$49.48
Weekly$1,979
Monthly$8,580
Annual$102,922
(Source: Ziprecruiter.com)



10-Year Job Outlook for Graduates of MSN in Holistic Nursing Online Programs


According to data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates of MSN in holistic nursing online programs have a bright employment outlook for the next ten years. The Bureau projects jobs in this field will increase by 45.68% through 2031.

2021-31
+45.68%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



Is the Cost of an Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Program Worth the Return on Investment (ROI)?


An important factor to consider when deciding whether to pursue a college degree or a specific career track is whether the cost of earning the degree is worth the return on your investment. The nation's two best online MSN in holistic nursing programs cost as little as $12,000 to a little more than $51,000. The beginning salary for program graduates is approximately $69,290, which is more than the most expensive program. With continued experience, MSN holistic nurses earn more than $100,000 annually. When comparing the cost of these programs to your earning potential, the cost is worth the return on your investment.



Bonus! 5 Most Important Things the Best Online MSN in Holistic Nursing Programs Look for When Accepting Applicants


The following are the 5 most essential things online MSN in holistic nursing programs consider when accepting applicants.

1. Good Scholastic Record.

Online MSN in holistic nursing programs are graduate-level nursing programs. As such, schools look for candidates with a proven, strong academic record. Admissions teams evaluate your college transcripts to see how well you performed in your previous nursing program. Although schools designate a minimum grade point average for admission, it is best to aspire to exceed the minimum. The better your academic performance, the more appealing a candidate you become.

2. A Strong Personal Statement.

One of the admission criteria for MSN in holistic nursing online programs is to prepare a Personal Statement, also known as a Statement of Intent. Your statement is your opportunity to express your desire to become a master's-prepared holistic nurse, including sharing why you chose this career and what it means to you. Your statement should be well-written, error-free, and compelling enough to keep the reader's attention. Remember, admission to graduate nursing programs can be competitive, so you want every aspect of your application to stand out!

3. Excellent Letters of Recommendation.

Just because you know several people who can write a great letter, that does not mean every one of them is the right person to choose for your recommendation letters. Letters of recommendation should be prepared by individuals with a graduate degree, as this is the degree you are seeking. Former nursing professors and previous or present employers are some of the best people to ask for a reference. Their letter should speak to your character, work ethic, and reason for believing you will succeed in the program.

4. Nursing Experience.

Although some MSN in holistic nursing online programs accept new BSN nurses with no work experience, most require candidates to have at least one year of work experience as a licensed registered nurse. Even if your job title was not “holistic” in nature, all nurses learn about the importance of holistic nursing care. When you prepare your resume to submit with your application, include nursing experience or volunteer work and use keywords such as empathetic, compassionate, motivated, whole-patient care, and holistic. Little touches like using the right terminology will catch the eye of the admissions team and make our application more appealing.

5. Emotional Intelligence.

As a holistic nurse, you will face emotionally-taxing situations, and you must maintain the highest level of professionalism. Graduate nursing programs expect candidates to have a high level of emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the ability to perceive, understand, manage, and regulate one’s emotions.



My Final Thoughts


If you desire to earn a master’s degree in nursing and specialize in holistic nursing, you probably have several questions. The most pressing for most prospective students is, “What are the best online MSN in holistic nursing programs?” Choosing the right program takes careful consideration and research.

In this article, I shared some information in hopes of helping make your decision easier. The 2 best online MSN in holistic nursing programs for 2024 featured in this article offer excellent options for becoming a master’s prepared registered nurse specializing in holistic nursing care. With a positive job outlook, good earning potential, and endless job opportunities, there is no better time to pursue your degree and earn your MSN in holistic nursing!



Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert


1. What Is The Best Online MSN In Holistic Nursing Program In The Nation?

Florida Atlantic University offers the best online MSN in Holistic Nursing Program in the country.

Florida Atlantic University - Boca Raton, FL


2. Is It Easy To Get Admission Into Online MSN In Holistic Nursing Programs?

Entry into online MSN in holistic nursing programs is competitive. You can improve your chances of getting accepted by researching programs, applying early, and working to exceed minimum admission requirements.


3. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into MSN In Holistic Nursing Online Programs?

The minimum GPA to get into most MSN in holistic nursing online programs is 3.0. Some schools consider your cumulative college GPA, while others look at the GPA for your last 30 to 60 credits. Be sure to verify the minimum admission GPA at each school where you plan to apply.


4. Can I Get Into MSN In Holistic Nursing Online Programs With A Low GPA?

Online MSN in holistic nursing programs determine the GPA required for admission. Some schools offer conditional admission to applicants whose GPA falls below the minimum. However, it is important to remember that admission to these programs is competitive. So, the higher your GPA, the better your chances of being admitted.


5. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For MSN In Holistic Nursing Online Programs?

The per-credit cost for MSN in holistic nursing online programs varies, ranging between $300 and $1,100.


6. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?

Working part-time while attending the Master's program in holistic nursing is feasible.


7. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?

While it is possible to work full-time while enrolled in MSN in holistic nursing online programs, it can be challenging. Consider the time commitment for both work and school carefully and discuss scheduling options with your employer and academic advisor to come up with solutions for success.


8. What Are The Hardest Classes In Online MSN In Holistic Nursing Programs?

Opinions differ about which classes are the hardest in online MSN in holistic nursing programs. Many students say the most challenging classes are Advanced Pathophysiology, Pharmacotherapeutics, and Evidence-Based Practice.


9. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make?

New graduates of MSN in holistic nursing online programs make approximately $69,290 annually.

$69,290


10. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour?

On average, graduates of online MSN in holistic nursing programs make $49.48 per hour.

$49.48


11. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month?

Graduates of MSN in holistic nursing online programs earn an average monthly salary of $8,580.

$8,580


12. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of MSN In Holistic Nursing Online Programs Make Per Year?

On average, graduates of online MSN in holistic nursing programs make $102,922 annually.

$102,922


Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).