20 Best Online MSN in Nursing Administration Programs – 2024


Written By: Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA

Are you a registered nurse looking for a way to influence and impact change within the nursing community? Does leading teams of nurses sound like something you would enjoy? If so, have you considered applying for an MSN in nursing administration program? These programs are a great way to utilize your nursing knowledge and experience and combine them with administrative skills to take on high-level roles within healthcare.

You may be interested in this type of degree but prefer a distance learning option. In that case, you may wonder, "What are the best online MSN in nursing administration programs?” In this article, I will provide you with a list of the 20 best online MSN in nursing administration programs for 2024. You will learn about the programs’ cost, curriculum, job opportunities, and earning potential, all of which are important in helping you decide if this is the career path you wish to pursue.



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


The best online MSN in nursing administration programs aim to prepare nurses for leadership and administrative positions within healthcare organizations. By focusing on the economic and organizational structure of healthcare, these programs prepare graduate students with the knowledge and skills to manage large teams, improve patient outcomes by using quality measures, and analyze and interpret complex health policies and regulations. Additionally, by offering distance-learning options, online MSN in nursing administration programs make attaining an advanced degree more feasible for working nurses.



Is an Online MSN in Nursing Administration Program Hard to Complete?


Online MSN in nursing administration programs can be challenging. However, they are generally easier to complete than other non-clinical MSN degrees. The programs do require a time commitment for study and additional clinical hours, which can be challenging if you are working at the same time. The coursework will build upon foundational nursing knowledge while introducing you to newer complex topics. There will be parts of the program that are hard to complete, but if you are dedicated and hardworking, you will be successful.



Who Accredits MSN in Nursing Administration Online Programs?


Two different agencies accredit online MSN in nursing administration programs, ensuring curriculum and coursework meet minimum standards. The accrediting agencies are 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 Nursing Administration Online Programs Start?


MSN in nursing administration online programs have various start dates. Some schools begin their programs once each year, while others offer several start dates. Below are examples of the start dates at five of this article’s featured schools.

Texas Tech University offers start dates for its program in the fall and spring semesters each year.

Lamar University offers four start dates each year, one start date each spring and summer and two start dates each fall.

The online MSN in nursing administration program at Cedar Crest College begins annually in the fall semester.

Mercy College offers fall, spring, and summer start dates.

At South Dakota State University, the MSN in nursing administration online program begins in the fall annually.



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


The curriculum for online MSN in nursing administration programs often consist of coursework and clinicals requiring between 30 and 40 credit hours to complete one of these online MSN in nursing administration programs. The following are some examples of the credit requirements for five of the nation’s best programs.

The University of Alabama’s online MSN in nursing administration program includes 33-39 credits.

At Texas Tech University, you will complete 36 credits to earn the online MSN in nursing administration degree.

There are 36 credits required for the program offered at the University of Texas at Arlington.

You will need to complete 30 credits to graduate from the online MSN in nursing administration program at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

At the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, MSN in nursing administration online students complete 36 credit hours.



How Long Are MSN in Nursing Administration Online Programs?


MSN in nursing administration online programs typically take between one and two years, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time.

The online MSN in nursing administration degree can be completed in 14 months at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

You can graduate from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 24 months or two years.

At Arkansas State University, you can complete the online MSN in nursing administration program in as little as 12 months if you enroll full-time.

The program at Lamar University is designed to be completed in 24 months or two years.

The online MSN in nursing administration program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte is designed in a part-time format to accommodate working professionals. You can complete the degree in 27 months or just over two years.



How Much Do MSN in Nursing Administration Online Programs Cost?


The cost for online MSN in nursing administration programs can range from $11,000 to $35,000. The number of credits you need and whether you must pay in-state or out-of-state tuition can impact your total cost. The following are a few examples to consider.

The tuition cost at the University of Alabama is $440 per hour. Depending on the number of credits you need, you will pay between $14,520 and $17,160.

At the University of Alabama in Huntsville, tuition costs $489 per credit hour. The program features a 30-credit hour curriculum, making tuition average $14,670.

The University of St. Francis charges $775 per credit hour. The online MSN in nursing administration program requires 36 to 42 hours, which means you can expect to pay between $27,900 and $32,550.

The total tuition cost for the MSN in nursing administration online program at Arkansas State University is $11,254.

Tuition at Mount Mercy University is $690 per credit hour. The program includes 36 credits, making the total cost of tuition $24,840.



What Is the Minimum GPA Required to Get into Online MSN in Nursing Administration Programs?


The minimum GPA required to get into most online MSN in nursing administration programs is 3.0. Keep in mind that although the minimum GPA is sufficient to submit your application, the higher your grade point average, the more likely your chance of being admitted. As you search for schools where you may apply, verify if your GPA will be calculated based on a cumulative college average, your undergraduate nursing average, or the most recent credits you completed, as there may be a difference in your averages.



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


The admission requirements for MSN in nursing administration online programs vary slightly and are determined by each school. The examples below can give you an idea of the requirements for some of the nation’s top programs.

Admission requirements at The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center include the following. You must have a BSN degree earned at an accredited school and an active and unrestricted RN license. You must submit official transcripts reflecting the completion of a nursing research course and a general statistics course, each with a grade of "B" or higher and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 for all nursing coursework. Additionally, you need to submit an admissions essay and three letters of professional reference or recommendation. You may be asked to participate in an admissions interview, as well.

To be considered for admission to Arkansas State University, you will need a BSN degree from an accredited nursing program and a current and unencumbered RN license. Additionally, you must have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above and provide all official college transcripts as well as a curriculum vitae and two letters of recommendation.

The admission requirements for the online MSN in nursing administration program at South Dakota State University are a combination of the graduate school and the school of nursing minimum standards. You must have a BSN degree with a BSN grade point average of 3.0, an active and unrestricted nursing license, and at least 1,500 hours of clinical nursing experience. All candidates must complete a college statistics course and complete all school compliance guidelines (background check, fingerprints, drug screen, BLS, and complete vaccine series). After completing the first phase of initial screening, you will have an interview with the program faculty.

Tarleton State University has the following eligibility requirements for admission. You must have earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited nursing school and have a current and unrestricted nursing license in Texas or be eligible for licensure in Texas. You must have completed a statistics course with a grade of C or above and must submit a resume and a purpose and goals essay, as well as copies of all official transcripts.

At Felician University, admission requirements state that you will need to have an MSN degree with a GPA of 3.0 or above, provide official transcripts reflecting all previous collegiate work, and provide proof of licensure as a professional nurse in New Jersey. You must provide two professional or academic references, a personal statement, and complete undergraduate statistics and nursing research courses with a grade of "C" or higher.



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

(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 20 Best Online MSN in Nursing Administration Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)


1. University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa, AL


2. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Lubbock TX


3. University of Texas at Arlington - Arlington, TX


4. The University of Alabama in Huntsville - Huntsville, AL


5. University of North Carolina at Charlotte - Charlotte, NC


6. Ball State University - Muncie, IN


7. University of Texas at Tyler - Tyler, TX


8. University of St. Francis - Joliet, IL


9. University of Oklahoma - Oklahoma City, OK


10. Arkansas State University - Jonesboro, AR


11. East Tennessee State University - Johnson City, TN


12. Mount Mercy University - Cedar Rapids, IA


13. King University - Bristol, TN


14. Lamar University - Beaumont, TX


15. Cedar Crest College - Allentown, PA


16. La Roche University - Pittsburgh, PA


17. Mercy College - Dobbs Ferry, NY


18. Tarleton State University - Stephenville, TX


19. South Dakota State University - Brookings, SD


20. Felician University - Rutherford, NJ



VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



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


The courses offered in online MSN in nursing administration programs focus on specialized topics relevant to business and finance related to healthcare as well as generalized advanced nursing practice content. Course listings may vary from one school to the next, but the content is similar.

The University of Texas at Arlington MSN in nursing administration curriculum includes a combination of core and specialty courses. Some classes you will take include Exploration of Science and Theories for Nursing, Principles of Research in Nursing, Nursing Informatics, Nursing Management in The Health Care Environment, Nursing Leadership and Complex Health Care Systems, and Roles and Functions of the Nurse Administrator.

Nursing Administration MSN courses at Ball State University include Nursing Administration in Complex Organizations, Administrative Management for Nurses, Financial Management for Nurses, Managing Organizational Behavior, Survey of Marketing, and Nursing Information Technology.

The curriculum at the University of Texas at Tyler includes some of the following classes: Health Policy & Population Health, Health Care Informatics, Leadership in Healthcare Environment, Organizational Systems Leadership, Legal, Regulatory, & Financial Management, and Translational Science I and II.

Courses for the online MSN in nursing administration program at East Tennessee State University include Conceptual Systems in Advanced Nursing Practice, Strategic Planning for Health Care Organizations, Organizational Theory and Nursing Administration, Healthcare Organization and Law, Fiscal Management in Nursing Administration, and Human Resource Management in Healthcare Organizations.

The Nursing Administration curriculum at Cedar Crest College includes classes such as Conceptual & Theoretical Foundations for Nursing, Research for Evidence-based Nursing Practice, Issues and Trends Relevant to Nursing, Organization, and Structure of Nursing Care Delivery Systems, Informatics & Technology in Nursing, and Vulnerable Populations: Nursing Perspectives.



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


Practical training for MSN in nursing administration online programs is obtained through clinical hours or preceptorships. For most programs, you can expect to complete around 120-400 hours.

You must complete 180 hours of practicum to fulfill the practical training requirements for the online MSN in nursing administration program at Ball State University. These hours are completed under the guidance of a preceptor in an approved healthcare setting. You may choose your own preceptor and clinical site and request approval from your clinical advisor. The school will work with you to help you complete your practicum requirement at sites near your home whenever possible.

At King University, practical training for the MSN nursing administration program includes 395 clinical practicum hours, which are earned through field study and internships. Throughout your clinical practicum, you will have ongoing support and guidance from clinical faculty and graduate-prepared nurse preceptors.

At La Roche University, you will complete 180 practical training hours. Clinicals hours are earned through two seminar and practicum experiences, consisting of 90 hours each, 60 practicum hours, and 30 seminar hours. These opportunities allow you to utilize the knowledge and concepts you gained in the program. You will also complete a Capstone Scholarly Experience as part of the practical training for the program.

Practical training for the online MSN in nursing administration program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte includes 360 clinical hours. You will earn training hours through an advanced practicum in nursing administration and leadership and through the synthesis of an advanced nursing capstone course. Clinical hours are guided by a faculty member and qualified preceptor in clinical sites identified by clinical faculty.

The practical training requirements at the University of Alabama in Huntsville are met through the Internship in Nursing Leadership. This internship accounts for three credit hours, consisting of 135 clinical hours. You will participate in indirect patient contact focused on administrative nursing experience under the supervision of a nurse preceptor and program faculty.



7 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an Online MSN in Nursing Administration Program


The best MSN in nursing administration online programs are designed to help you develop skills relevant to nursing leadership. When you pursue your degree through one of these specialized programs, you to develop the following skills and abilities.

1. You will develop an understanding of how to demonstrate ethical and professional standards:

The ethical and professional standards and considerations in administrative nursing positions differ from those faced in other nursing roles. You will function in a position of power or authority, which means you must be aware of a different set of standards. To be successful, you must model these standards for your employees and co-workers.

The good news is that in MSN in nursing administration online programs, you will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of ethical and professional standards. You will also have practice in real-life scenarios to fully understand the ethical and professional standards before graduating.

2. You will learn to manage the financial aspects of healthcare, including budgeting and accounting:

Being responsible for the monetary aspects of a company is a critical skill you will obtain in MSN in nursing administration online programs. You will learn to create and manage budgets, how to work with an accounting department, and other important financial aspects of running and working for a healthcare company. Your role may involve creating an annual operating budget, determining the revenue generated by individual units, monitoring the cost of supplies and medications, as well as overseeing staffing expenses.

3. You will learn to optimize healthcare outcomes by using statistics and quality control measures:

Patient outcomes and the success of a company depend on many factors. As a nurse administrator, you need the skills to optimize these outcomes by using statistics and quality measures to implement plans for improving outcomes based on the patient population or community your company serves. Optimizing healthcare outcomes ensures positive results and minimizes waste in the form of materials and money.

4. You will learn ways to advocate and influence advances in the nursing profession:

Working as a nurse administrator gives you more say and influence over future planning. Online MSN in nursing administration programs will prepare you to become an advocate for change and use your influence to impact future advances in the nursing profession. You may advocate for better working conditions, promote safety and injury prevention, or propose new policies or regulatory changes.

5. You will learn to analyze evidence-based recommendations and use them to make positive organizational changes leading to improved patient outcomes:

The curriculum in MSN in nursing administration online programs includes classes focused on statistics and research. In these classes, you will develop skills to help you analyze and interpret data to make evidence-based recommendations. These recommendations will help ensure your organization implements best practice guidelines and meets industry standards which lead to improved patient outcomes.

6. You will develop the ability to adapt national quality initiatives to create and implement quality improvement metrics for patients within your organization:

Public health departments and national health organizations are continually updating their quality initiatives. Nurse administrators must understand quality initiatives and stay abreast of changes to keep their organizations in compliance. Online MSN in nursing administration programs will teach you about quality initiatives and show you ways to stay in the know so that you can create and implement quality improvement metrics within your organization. This is an important skill as it takes into consideration the unique needs of your company and the patients you serve.

7. You will learn to build and manage healthcare workforces:

Whether you oversee small or large teams, it is important to build and manage teams that work efficiently and effectively together. In these programs, you will develop the skills and abilities needed to build and manage a healthcare workforce. You will learn strategies to help you vet employee prospects, hire and train new team members and manage the workflow of teams.



5 Main Advantages of Online MSN in Nursing Administration Programs


There are many advantages to earning a degree through online MSN in nursing administration programs. The following are five of the main advantages associated with pursuing your degree through these programs.

1. You can create collaborative and diverse relationships with other healthcare professionals:

Working as a nurse administrator will allow you to work closely with other administrators and executives. You will develop professional relationships that may not have been attainable early in your nursing career. Developing diverse, collaborative relationships with other healthcare professionals is a huge advantage because it typically leads to better working environments and improved patient outcomes.

2. You can use your clinical experience and administrative knowledge to improve healthcare companies' organizational structure and effectiveness:

Another main advantage of MSN in nursing administration online programs is you will be in a position to change current practices and adopt new policies and procedures designed to meet the needs of your patients, employees, and organization. You can improve organizational structure, which can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the work your teams perform.

3. You can use your position to help improve retention rates for nurses and work to reduce the nursing shortages caused by burnout:

As a nurse administrator, you will be directly responsible for hiring and retaining nursing staff. One of the leading reasons why nurses leave their jobs is related to burnout and unsatisfactory working conditions.

Although all nurses can do their part to improve team morale and help improve workplace satisfaction, having an MSN in nursing administration allows you to work from a management perspective to implement initiatives for change that can improve employee satisfaction and retention rates and help reduce the risk of burnout. The measures you implement can help reduce the current nursing shortage and ensure nurses have a good work-life balance.

4. You can have an active role in nursing but with fewer physical requirements:

If you love nursing but feel like a less physical job would better suit you, pursuing a nurse administrator role is an excellent option. Nurse administrators do not have the same strenuous physical requirements as bedside nurses. While you may still spend time on your feet, you will not be lifting, pulling, and participating in strenuous activities for long shifts. This is a significant advantage if your body is tired from years of bedside nursing or if you are looking for a less physically demanding career path.

5. The skills you obtain in online MSN in nursing administration programs can transfer to work outside of nursing and healthcare:

Earning a degree and gaining work experience in the administrative and executive arena means you will have endless career opportunities. If you later decide you want to pursue a position outside of nursing and healthcare, the managerial, budgeting, and organization skills you develop in nursing administration programs can be easily applied to other leadership roles. You may never leave the nursing industry, but knowing you have the skills to lead and manage teams in other settings is an advantage afforded by this degree.



3 Main Disadvantages of Online MSN in Nursing Administration Programs


Although MSN in nursing administration online programs have several advantages, it is wise to consider the disadvantages, as well. Knowing the pros and cons can help you decide if this career path is something you want to pursue or if you should shift your focus elsewhere. The following list reflects three disadvantages associated with these programs.

1. Working as a nurse administrator can be quite stressful:

Being in an executive or administrative role means you are in charge, and everyone will look to you for answers. As a nurse administrator, you will have the added stress of knowing your decisions impact the welfare of patients as well as the employees you supervise. MSN in nursing administration online programs will teach you ways to manage stress, but they cannot take away the pressure that comes with the job. You must learn to pace yourself and trust yourself and your judgment. Do not be afraid to ask for help and guidance from your supervisors. Finally, remember that self-care is important in helping you manage stress.

2. Your new role will require you to have difficult conversations with employees:

Being an administrator means you may have to address tough situations and uncomfortable issues. You may have to discuss poor performance reviews or terminate a contract if an employee does not perform well or meet the minimum standards. No one likes addressing negative issues, especially when it comes to letting employees go or handling disciplinary actions. However, it is part of the job of a nursing administrator.

3. Nurse Administrators typically have salaried positions that can require long working hours, often without the benefit of overtime pay:

When you graduate from an online MSN in nursing administration program, chances are, you will transition to a salaried role. Although being paid a salary helps you know how much your paycheck will be from week to week without guessing, you may feel disadvantaged when it comes to working long hours. Most nursing administrators are only compensated for work they do in their 40-hour schedule. So, if you stay late for paperwork, get called in at night or on a holiday, or must show up for a facility emergency, you may not get paid for that extra time.



3 Major Challenges Online MSN in Nursing Administration Students and Graduates Face and How to Overcome


Success in online MSN in nursing administration programs is possible but does not come without challenges. Knowing what is expected of you in the program can help you prepare for what is to come and plan for handling challenges when they arise. The following are three of the major challenges you will face in MSN in nursing administration online programs and a few tips for how to overcome them.

CHALLENGE #1: Developing a Leadership mindset


About the Challenge:

The goal of online MSN in nursing administration programs is to prepare you for administrative and leadership positions in nursing. One of the biggest challenges students face is learning to transition from the role of a team member to one of leadership.

How to Overcome:

The best way to overcome this challenge is through experience. Learning your individual leadership style and the scope of your role will make it easier to balance being the authority figure while developing and promoting positive relationships with the teams you lead. Some days you will make hard decisions and have difficult conversations, but not all days are hard. Take the time to get to know the people who work with you and know yourself. Think about the things you liked or did not like in your previous supervisors and administrators and reflect upon that as you develop your leadership style and build relationships.


CHALLENGE #2: Learning ways of managing interprofessional conflict


About the Challenge:

As a nurse administrator, there will be times when workplace conflict comes knocking on your office door. Whether you experience conflict with a worker on your team or another person in leadership or are called upon to intervene when conflict arises among members of your staff, you must be prepared to address the issues in a professional way.

How to Overcome:

The first step in overcoming this challenge and succeeding in your job is to learn effective communication techniques. Learning effective communication allows you to approach situations of conflict with a professional attitude allowing others to express themselves without fear of retaliation will help alleviate the stress associated with workplace conflict and make your job easier. In online MSN in nursing administration programs, you will learn different communication techniques and conflict management strategies. As you get to know the other professionals you work with better, it will become easier to adapt your strategy and resolve conflict with less stress.


CHALLENGE #3: Spending most of your time in meetings and managing mountains of paperwork


About the Challenge:

Shifting to an administrative role can be a big deal for a nurse. As nurses, we are used to paperwork and occasional meetings. However, when you transition from a clinical role to an administrative one, there will be less patient interaction and more paperwork and meetings. The monotony of some tasks can leave you feeling bored.

How to Overcome:

While you may not be able to reduce the amount of paperwork or the number of meetings you must attend, you can make the tasks seem less daunting. It will be helpful to organize and divide tasks like paperwork into smaller sections. Set reasonable goals for what needs to be accomplished each day and know what tasks can wait for later. Utilize a calendar to ensure you attend all meetings. You can also use your calendar to block out times when you are not available for meetings so you can get your other work done. It can take some time to adjust to paperwork and meetings, but you may enjoy having more predictable work.



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


Graduates of MSN in nursing administration online programs work in several types of healthcare settings. The three main places you may find program graduates include the following.

1. Large Healthcare Organizations:

As a nurse administrator, you can work in a variety of large healthcare organizations. With your degree, you could work for insurance companies, in case management, or provide direct patient care services, all with an administrative focus. Nurse administrators may work as an executive, nurse managers, or directors of services.

2. Hospitals:

One of the most common settings for graduates of online MSN in nursing administration programs to work in is hospitals. In this setting, you may act as a chief nursing officer, director of nursing, or nurse manager. If you desire a nursing administration role in a setting where you can interact more with the clinical side of nursing, working in a hospital is an excellent option.

3. Outpatient Care Facilities:

There are innumerable types of outpatient care facilities where large numbers of nursing and healthcare workers are employed. As such, each setting needs qualified administrators to oversee nursing personnel. A few examples of these settings include hospice agencies, home health services, and community health centers.



6 Best Jobs for Graduates of Online MSN in Nursing Administration Programs


There are numerous and diverse job opportunities for graduates of online MSN in nursing administration programs. Some of the best jobs you may find include the following.

1. Nurse Executive:

In this role, you will be responsible for managing nurses and other healthcare workers who fall under the nursing department. You will also oversee the hiring and training of new employees and manage a schedule for all employees who fall under your leadership. Additional job requirements include managing the departmental budget, planning for continuing education, ensuring patient satisfaction, and strategizing with other executives.

2. Nurse Manager:

Similar to an executive, you will be responsible for hiring and training nursing and support staff. You will also function as an intermediary between the nursing department and other interdisciplinary departments. As a nurse manager, you will oversee daily operations and ensure your department stays within its budget and meets monthly, quarterly, and annual goals.

3. College or University Faculty:

With an MSN in nursing administration, you can teach in an adjunct or even tenured role as a university or college nursing instructor. You can teach undergraduate nursing courses or more specialized master’s degree courses, especially those focusing on nursing administration. Working for a university also means you can participate in research or even pursue a leadership role such as a program coordinator.

4. Director of Nursing Services:

This role is typically found within long-term care settings or outpatient organizations providing managed care such as home health or hospice. A director of nursing services supervises all nursing staff, ensuring patients receive quality care. In this role, you may assist nurses directly and communicate on their behalf with patients, families, doctors, and other specialists to ensure the continuity of care.

5. Nurse Consultant:

As a nurse consultant, you can work for a larger firm or even choose to be self-employed. Your role would encompass evaluating organizational structures and budgets and providing valuable input on how they can more strategically manage their nursing departments. If you like the idea of providing input and insight into building strong businesses and enjoy “painting the bigger picture” but also like the idea of working on different projects, becoming a nurse consultant is an excellent option.

6. Pharmaceutical Administrator:

A less obvious choice, but an important one nonetheless, is working as an administrator in a pharmaceutical company. Your knowledge of physiology, pathophysiology, and advanced pharmacology makes you a perfect candidate to work as a pharmaceutical administrator. In this setting, you could supervise nursing staff who work in pharmaceutical production or sales or take on a broader role managing all healthcare professionals within the company.



What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?


The starting salary for graduates of MSN in nursing administration online programs is around $74,600 per year. If you find it easier to analyze the numbers in smaller increments, you can expect to make $6,200 per month, $1,435 per week, or $35.87 per hour.

Hourly$35.87
Weekly$1,435
Monthly$6,220
Annual$74,600
(Source: Comparably.com)



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


As with most nursing jobs, you can expect an increase in your salary as you gain more experience. Graduates of online MSN in nursing administration programs earn an average salary of $110,812 annually. This pay is equal to $9,230 per month, $2,131 per week, or $53.28 per hour.

Hourly$53.28
Weekly$2,131
Monthly$9,230
Annual$110,812
(Source: Comparably.com)



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


The 10-year job outlook for graduates of MSN in nursing administration online programs is impressively positive. With a 45.68% projected to increase between 2021 and 2031, this is much higher than the outlook for jobs in other industries. This projected increase in jobs means there will be plenty of job opportunities!

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



3 Main Reasons Behind the Demand for Graduates of MSN in Nursing Administration Online Programs


Knowing if there is a demand for a trade is important as you decide which career path to follow. If there is a demand, it is important to consider what drives the demand and whether there is likely to be a continued need for the services you wish to provide. There is not only a current demand for qualified nurse administrators, but the job outlook is expected to be positive and driven by several factors. The following are three main reasons behind the demand for graduates of online MSN in nursing administration programs.

1. Increased awareness of the importance of healthcare:

As consumers become increasingly aware of the importance of preventive care, there is more demand for healthcare services. With that demand comes the need for qualified nurse administrators to lead the nursing teams providing care.

2. An increase in the number of registered nurses means there is a need for nurse administrators to manage them:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects there will be approximately 203,200 job openings for registered nurses each year between 2021 and 2031. As more nurses join the workforce, it is necessary to have administrators, like graduates of MSN in nursing administration online programs, to manage their work.

3. Current nursing administrators reaching retirement age:

The second-largest generation in the American population, baby boomers, are reaching retirement age. As nurse administrators in this generation reach the end of their careers and retire, there is an increased need to find qualified replacements. When you graduate from an online MSN in nursing administration program, you will become an excellent candidate for filling these roles.



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


The cost of MSN in nursing administration online programs ranges between $11,000 and $35,000. New program graduates earn approximately $74,600 annually. Even at the starting salary, and if you choose one of the higher-priced programs, you can still see a positive return on your investment within the first few years. Experienced nursing administrators earn an average of $110,812. With these numbers in mind, it is clear that the cost of online MSN in nursing administration programs is worth the return on investment.



Bonus! 5 Important Personality and Character Traits the Best Online MSN in Nursing Administration Programs Look for in Applicants


Good nurses demonstrate a particular set of qualities that exemplify professionalism, compassion, and integrity. Admission faculty for online MSN in nursing administration programs know what it takes to become effective nurse leaders and administrators and look for those qualities in program applicants. If you want to increase your chances of being admitted into a top program, it is important to know what programs look for in candidates and develop these top personality and character traits.

1. Leadership.

The number one characteristic MSN in nursing administration online programs seek in candidates is the ability to lead others. Any experience you have in a leadership role is something that should be highlighted in your application. You may have experience as a team leader or charge nurse, which is relevant. Any other experience you have leading others is also important. For example, if you were part of the student leadership council in school or captain of a sports team, you should highlight those experiences.

2. Detail-Oriented.

As a nurse administrator, you are responsible for all the details related to your nursing team, which means you must have a keen eye and the ability to demonstrate attention to detail. You can show your ability to be detail-oriented by turning in a complete, error-free application or by giving examples of how you helped develop procedures to promote high-quality standards for patient care in your current or previous job.

3. Confidence.

Working as a nurse administrator requires confidence. Keep in mind that there is a difference between being confident and being arrogant. You want to present yourself in a manner that shows you feel comfortable with your professional abilities and in your decision to pursue a degree in nursing administration. One way to show confidence is to prepare for your admissions interview. Be ready to share your accomplishments, your professional goals, and your reason for choosing nursing administration as a career path.

4. Critical Thinker.

Being a nurse administrator will require you to make quick and critical decisions. The admissions faculty for online MSN in nursing administration programs look for applicants who do well under pressure and feel confident making big decisions. If you have previous experience working in an emergency room, ICU, or another fast-paced environment, be sure and include it on your application. Also, be prepared to answer questions about these experiences during your interview, as admission teams will likely want to hear your perspective on how to handle situations that require critical thinking.

5. Compassion.

All nurses need to demonstrate an attitude of compassion, and nurse administrators are no exception to this rule. As a nurse administrator, you must be eager to understand how patients, their loved ones, and the nurses on your team feel and demonstrate a willingness to help them through difficult times. Your ability to show compassion can mean the difference between being an “okay” nurse leader and being a great leader.



My Final Thoughts


If you are a registered nurse who wants to impact healthcare but desires to step away from a clinical role, becoming a nursing administrator is an excellent career choice. In this article, we addressed the question, "What are the best online MSN in nursing administration programs?” You found information about the program curriculum, training, and possible job opportunities.

The healthcare industry needs nursing administrators who are passionate about building great teams and organizations and promoting positive outcomes. If a career in nursing administration is something you feel passionate about, consider the 20 best online MSN in nursing administration programs for 2024 in this article. Find a program that aligns with your goals, and start pursuing your dream today!



Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert


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

The best online MSN in Nursing Administration program in the nation is offered at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL.

University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa, AL


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

Admission to online MSN in nursing administration programs can be competitive. However, if you work to exceed the minimum admission criteria and demonstrate leadership qualities, you can improve your chance of admission.


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

The recommended minimum GPA for most MSN in nursing administration online programs is 3.0. Remember, the higher your undergraduate GPA, the more attractive you become to admission faculty.


4. Do I Need Any Work Experience To Get Into MSN In Nursing Administration Online Programs?

Although MSN in nursing administration online programs may require candidates to have some work experience, the type and amount of experience vary. Some clinical experience providing direct patient care is especially important.


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

The typical cost per credit for MSN in nursing administration online programs ranges between $400 and $800.


6. What Are The 3 Hardest Classes In Online MSN In Nursing Administration Programs?

Most students report that the three hardest classes in online MSN in nursing administration programs are Health Care Finance and Budgeting, Healthcare Law and Ethics, and Research and Statistical Methods. Your hardest classes may differ depending on your academic strengths and weaknesses.


7. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make Per Year?

New graduates of online MSN in nursing administration programs earn approximately $74,600 per year.

$74,600


8. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour With Experience?

The average hourly pay for graduates of MSN in nursing administration online programs is $53.28 per hour.

$53.28


9. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month With Experience?

The average monthly salary for online MSN in nursing administration program graduates is $9,230.

$9,230


10. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of MSN In Nursing Administration Online Programs Make Per Year With Experience?

Graduates of MSN in nursing administration online programs earn an average of $110,812 annually.

$110,812


11. What Are The 3 Best Alternative Degree Options For Online MSN In Nursing Administration Programs?

There are several alternative degree options for online MSN in nursing administration programs. The top three best alternative degrees are Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) focusing on healthcare leadership or administration, and MSN in Nursing Informatics.


Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
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).