8 Best Online MSN in Population Health Programs – 2024


Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA

Population health is a vital branch of healthcare affecting people of all ages from varying backgrounds and locations. It is one of the fastest-growing branches of nursing and medical practice, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are a registered nurse interested in a career in population health but need help knowing where to begin, this article is for you!

An MSN in population health program is an excellent option if you want to pursue a master’s degree in nursing and desire a population health career path. The great news is there are options to earn this degree online if campus-based learning is not an option for you. Maybe you considered this academic or career path but wonder, “What are the best online MSN in population health programs?”

In this article, I will share information with you to answer that question by providing a list of the 8 best online MSN in population health programs for 2024. I will share information about the admissions process and what programs look for in candidates and provide some insight into what the programs offer. When you finish reading, you will have enough information to help you decide if moving forward with one of these programs is right for you.



What Exactly Is the Goal of an Online MSN in Population Health Program?


The goal of the best online MSN in population health programs is to prepare registered nurses with an in-depth knowledge of population health at the master’s level. These programs aim to equip students with the ability to demonstrate competence in critical thinking, decision-making, and deliberate approaches to implementing advanced nursing practices. As a student in one of these specialized programs, you will develop the ability to create strategies to influence healthcare, nursing, and health policies, impacting diverse populations on many levels.



Who Accredits MSN in Population Health Online Programs?


The best MSN in population health online programs are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or 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 Population Health Online Programs Start?


Online MSN in population health programs have various start dates. Some programs offer one or two start dates each year, while others offer several. As you begin applying to programs, pay close attention to application deadlines so you can start at your preferred time instead of being delayed to a later start date.

Nova Southeastern University offers start dates in the fall and winter quarters for the MSN in Population Health online program.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa begins classes in the fall semester annually.

At McKendree University, the online MSN in population health program offers start options in the spring, summer, and fall semesters.

You can begin your studies at Jacksonville State University in the fall, spring, or summer semester.

Missouri State University’s online MSN in population health program starts in the fall semester each year.



How Many Credits Are There in MSN in Population Health Online Programs?


As you prepare to apply to MSN in population health online programs, one of the things to consider is the curriculum requirement. Most programs require students to complete between 30 and 45 credits. However, your previous academic achievements and transferrable credits may mean you can graduate by taking fewer credits. This is one reason it is essential that you get official transcripts submitted with your initial application so that admission faculty can review your previous work and determine what credits you need. The list below shows examples of the credit requirements for some of our featured programs.

The curriculum at Nova Southeastern University includes 36 credit hours.

If you pursue the MSN population health program at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, you will complete between 30 and 39 credits, depending on your previous education.

At McKendree University, you will complete 34 credits. 12 credits of the program are earned from MSN coursework and 21 credits from population health courses.

The Jacksonville State University program is a 38-credit pathway.

The Missouri State University online MSN in population health program requires students to complete 40 credits.



How Long Are MSN in Population Health Online Programs?


Online MSN in population health programs take an average of two years to complete if you pursue the degree full-time. Some students enroll part-time and take three years or longer to graduate. As you research available programs, it is important to find out if the schools that interest you offer a part-time or full-time option or both and choose an option that works for you.

You can complete the program at Nova Southeastern University in less than two years. The program is designed in a four-semester format, including one summer semester.

The online MSN in population health program at the University of Hawaii at Manoa is a two-year, 5-semester program, including one summer semester.

McKendree University offers part-time and full-time options. You can complete the program in two years full-time or four years part-time.

At Worcester State University, you can earn your MSN specializing in population health in as few as 18 months.

When you pursue your population health MSN at Caldwell University, you can typically graduate with just two years of part-time study.



How Much Do MSN in Population Health Online Programs Cost?


The cost of MSN in population health online programs varies among schools. Some programs have a flat tuition rate for all students. Others have different rates for in-state and out-of-state students. The total cost of some of these programs can range between $15,000 and $74,000.

Tuition at Nova Southeastern University is calculated at a rate of $719 per credit hour. The program is a 36-credit hour pathway, which means tuition costs approximately $25,884.

At the University of Hawaii Manoa, resident students pay $1,001 per credit hour, and out-of-state students pay $1,896. You will complete between 30 and 39 credits. Therefore, based on the number of credits you need and whether you live in the state or out, tuition will range between $30,030 and $73,944.

McKendree University charges $495 per credit hour for its online MSN in population health program. The program features a 34-credit curriculum. Therefore, the total cost of tuition is $16,830.

At Cleveland State University, tuition is based on whether you live in the state or out of state. In-state students pay $590.40 per credit hour or $20,664. Out-of-state students pay $600.40 per credit hour or $21,014.

Jacksonville State University’s MSN in population health online program costs $410 per credit hour. The program requires 38 credits, which makes the program cost $15,580.



What Is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into Online MSN in Population Health Programs?


One of the first factors admission teams consider when reviewing applications is your previous academic success, as reflected in your grade point average. Having been a nursing and allied health instructor, I can tell you that, although this is not the only important thing considered in your application, it is one of the most crucial. I strongly recommend verifying the minimum GPA needed to get into the programs that interest you and then working toward exceeding that.

If you are not currently in school and find that your GPA is close to the minimum required, consider taking a few courses related to population health. Doing so has a few benefits. First, you can improve your GPA. Also, taking this type of class demonstrates your genuine interest in this career path, something admission faculty desire in candidates.

Most schools require a minimum college grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, some exceptions can be made based on a holistic review. For example, Nova Southeastern University prefers candidates with a BSN grade point average of 3.0. However, if your GPA is between 2.75 and 2.99 and you have at least two years of clinical experience as a registered nurse, you are still eligible for the program. At Jacksonville State University, candidates with a 3.0 or higher GPA are preferred. However, if your GPA is between 2.5 and 2.99 and you meet other criteria, you may be offered conditional admission.



What Are the Admission Requirements for Online MSN in Population Health Programs?


The admission criteria for online MSN in population health programs are determined by the school. Most minimum requirements are similar; however, you may find some differences. For this reason, it is essential that you verify the specific requirements for each school where you plan to apply.

Candidates seeking admission to the online MSN in population health at Nova Southeastern University must have a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree from a regionally accredited college or university and an ACEN-, CCNE-, or CNEA- accredited nursing program and must possess a valid, unrestricted United States RN license. You must provide copies of transcripts from all colleges or universities you attended, which must reflect an overall BSN grade point average of 3.0 or an overall 2.75 GPA with two years of independent nursing experience. Along with your application, you must provide a curriculum vitae or resume and two letters of recommendation and participate in an interview with the program director.

At the University of Hawaii Manoa, you may apply to the program with either an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing. You must have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 and a current, unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse. All candidates must complete an undergraduate research course within seven years of beginning the program. You must apply to both the University of Hawaii Manoa Graduate Division and the School of Nursing. Additionally, you must submit official college transcripts, three professional references, an essay that describes your goals for the program, and pass an interview process.

Jacksonville State University’s online MSN in population health program requires applicants to meet the following admission requirements. You must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing earned at a regionally accredited university and a professionally accredited nursing program. You must provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you attended reflecting a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, three letters of professional recommendation, and a statement of purpose. You must have an active, unrestricted RN license and maintain that license throughout the program.

To be considered for admission to the online MSN in population health program at Missouri State University, you must first submit an application through Nursing CAS. You must have a BSN from a nationally accredited nursing program and an active RN license in the state where clinical practicums will occur. Preferred applicants will have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.25 for the last 60 credit hours attempted. If your GPA is less than 3.25, you must submit GRE test scores. You must provide a professional resume or curriculum vitae, an admission essay, and three letters of recommendation. Additionally, all applicants must complete all prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of "C" and healthcare informatics and graduate inferential statistics courses with a grade of “B-” or higher.

Caldwell University’s admission requirements include that candidates must have a BSN from a regionally accredited nursing program with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and an unencumbered RN license. When applying, you must complete an online graduate admission application and provide two letters of recommendation, a professional resume, and an essay addressing the question, “How would you envision the MSN in Population Health helping you to achieve your career goals?”



What Are the Best Online MSN in Population Health Programs in the Nation?

(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 8 Best Online MSN in Population Health Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)


1. Nova Southeastern University - Fort Lauderdale, FL


2. University of Hawaii at Manoa - Honolulu, HI


3. McKendree University - Lebanon, IL


4. Jacksonville State University - Jacksonville, AL


5. Missouri State University - Springfield, MO


6. Worcester State University - Worcester, MA


7. Cleveland State University - Cleveland, OH


8. Caldwell University - Caldwell, NJ



VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



What Kind of Courses Will You Take in Online MSN in Population Health Programs?


Online MSN in population health programs featured in-depth curriculum plans focused on graduate nursing courses and population health specialized classes. You will study topics such as Global Population Health, Epidemiology, Disaster Planning and Management, and Healthcare Policy and Leadership. The following are examples of some of the classes offered at five of the programs featured in this article.

Worcester State University offers a rich academic plan for its MSN in population health online program. At Worcester, you will learn in classes such as Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice in Public & Population Health, Public & Population Health Nursing Leadership, Global Perspectives on Health & Environment, Genetics and Genomics in Public & Population Health, Population-Based Public Health Nursing Interventions, and Informatics & Data Science for Population & Public Health.

Nova Southeastern University’s online MSN in population health program curriculum includes classes such as Theory & Research, Population Health Impact Management, Global Population Health, Healthcare Policy & Leadership, Evidence & Practice, and Health Promotion & Disease Prevention.

At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, you will study courses, including Nursing Research & Theory, Global Health, Biostatistics, Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing, Health Policy, Advanced Nursing Population Health Nursing, and Disaster Nursing.

The McKendree University online MSN in population health program includes classes such as Quality Safety and Performance in Organizations, Impacting Population Health and Wellness Across the Continuum, Foundations in Population Health, Leadership in Population Health, Advanced Population Health Practicum, and many more.

At Jacksonville State University, you will study Theories in Nursing, Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Pathophysiology, Organizational and Systems Leadership in Population Health, Advanced Pharmacology, Nursing Research, and many more.

Missouri State University’s program curriculum features classes, including Nursing Science, Population Health: A Local to Global Perspective, Advanced Roles and Leadership, Applications of Advanced Pathophysiology, Health Policy to Improve Health Disparities, Clinical Epidemiology, and more.



What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Online MSN in Population Health Programs?


One component of all nursing programs is practical training or clinical practicum experiences. In practical training, you will have the opportunity to work in real-life situations, learning from clinical faculty and preceptors. The number of hours you must complete is determined by the school and may vary, depending on your previous college and employment experience. The following are some of the practical training requirements at some of the MSN in population health online programs featured in this article.

At Nova Southeastern University, you will complete 150 hours in a Population Health Practicum. The program includes classes designed to prepare you for the practicum, including Surveillance in Health Informatics, Global Population Health, and Advanced Health Assessment. Clinical faculty will work with you to find approved clinical sites and preceptors. When possible, you may complete your practicum requirements near your home.

When you pursue your MSN in population health through the online program at Jacksonville State University, you will complete two population health practicums. Each practicum includes 254 clinical hours, giving you more than 500 hours of hands-on practice. Clinical practicums allow you to apply your knowledge of health promotion and disease prevention in select populations. The university offers clinical placement assistance to ensure you have appropriate clinical sites and qualified preceptors to guide you through experiential learning.

At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, you will complete coursework online and participate in field experiences locally in your own community. The program features a six-credit capstone project consisting of two advanced population health nursing capstone practicums, which are completed over two semesters. You will accomplish 135 hours of practical training for each practicum, earning at least 270 clinical practice hours.

The online MSN in population health program at McKendree University includes 150 practicum hours. You will work with program faculty to customize practical training experiences which complement your professional goals. Clinicals are divided into increments throughout the program and held as close to your home as possible.

At Missouri State University, you will participate in five practicum experiences and complete a Capstone Project. Clinical practicums include Population Health, Population Health Management, Advanced Physical Assessment & Health Promotions, and Population Health Management Education. You will complete at least 384 hours of direct practical training at approved clinical sites. You will also earn a minimum of 96 clinical hours through the Capstone Project.



5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an Online MSN in Population Health Program


Online MSN in population health programs offer rich curriculum plans and practical training experiences. When you pursue your degree through one of these programs, you will develop new skills and abilities while building upon your previous knowledge and skills. The following are examples of the five most important skills and abilities you will gain in online MSN population health programs.

1. You will learn to use research to promote better health outcomes for specific populations:

Online MSN in population health programs will provide you with the foundation needed to conduct research on important population health issues. When you graduate, you can use your knowledge and skills to work on research projects and use your findings to promote positive changes designed to improve population health.

2. You will gain a broader understanding of the scope of healthcare and how access to services impacts specific populations:

When you pursue an MSN in population health, you will develop a deeper understanding of how access to healthcare, or the lack thereof, affects populations. You will learn ways of identifying vulnerable populations and promoting access to care, positively impacting the health outcomes of populations.

3. You will learn to use statistics to identify patterns in the occurrence of illness and disease affecting diverse populations:

Your ability to recognize patterns in the way illnesses and diseases spread and to identify at-risk populations will be instrumental in helping you create education initiatives and plans of action to prevent their spread. In MSN in population health online programs, you will learn to apply statistics to research.

4. You will learn to coordinate health programs designed to educate the public:

As a population health nurse, you will be a great resource for information and education about current or possible health risks. You will learn to apply the knowledge and skills you gain in the program to coordinate education programs designed to promote health and prevent disease among diverse populations.

5. You will learn to lobby for changes in healthcare affecting the populations you serve:

As a master’s prepared nurse with training in population health, you are perfectly positioned to be the voice of reason to initiate action toward positive changes in healthcare. You may lobby for changes in current healthcare initiatives or influence and develop new health policies.



5 Main Advantages of Online MSN in Population Health Programs


There are pros and cons to any college degree program or career path. The trick is to learn how to weigh the advantages and disadvantages and determine if the pros outweigh the cons. If they do, pursuing that path may be right for you. Conversely, if the cons bear more weight than the advantages, you may find that choosing a different career path is the better option. The following is a list of what I believe are the five main advantages of online MSN in population health programs.

1. Population Health is an excellent career path for earning potential and job security:

If you want a job where you can make a difference that offers the potential of good job security and a nice income, an MSN in population health is a great choice. ZipRecruiter reports the average income for graduates of MSN in population health online programs is $88,599. Some graduates earn much more, depending on the job setting, title, and how much experience they have.

Also, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this industry will see continued growth of 45.68% through 2031! These figures indicate this is the perfect time to pursue your degree as a population health nurse.

2. You can advocate to promote improved healthcare quality and delivery of services:

When you graduate from an MSN in population health program, you will have not only the knowledge and skills but also the credentials that make you a perfect advocate for population health issues. You can create initiatives designed to promote education and access to healthcare services and to influence the way services are provided.

3. Your degree will not limit you to one patient population:

With an MSN in population health, you will have opportunities to serve people of all ages from diverse backgrounds. Your knowledge and clinical experience will serve as the perfect catalyst to promote better population health and outcomes without limiting you to a specific age group or patient demographic.

4. You can choose a population health subspecialty:

One of the amazing things about a career in nursing is that you can specialize and even choose subspecialties. For example, in online MSN in population health programs, you will earn your master’s in nursing with a focus on population health, but you can also choose a subspecialty such as environmental health, biostatistics, or community health.

5. Your efforts can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve health outcomes for underserved and vulnerable populations:

The knowledge and skills you develop as a master’s prepared population health nurse will be instrumental in helping to improve health outcomes for diverse populations. You may create programs to educate vulnerable populations about health promotion and disease prevention or influence public policy related to population health. Your dedication to improving population health and outcomes can make a difference on many levels!



2 Main Disadvantages of Online MSN in Population Health Programs


MSN in population health online programs offer some great benefits, but nothing is without its downsides. If you are aware of possible disadvantages, you know what to expect and can plan possible ways of working through them. The following are a few examples of the disadvantages of pursuing your master’s in nursing and specializing in population health.

1. Social conditions may create a barrier between you and the people you serve:

Even with earning an MSN in population health, you may face barriers that make it difficult to do your job effectively. Social conditions such as mental health conditions, socioeconomic status, availability of healthcare resources, and family dynamics are common barriers to providing education and services to individuals, groups, and populations. These social factors could lead to poor understanding of the education you provide, noncompliance with recommended treatment plans, and poor patient and population outcomes.

2. Working in population health can be very stressful:

While some population health jobs are in large healthcare organizations or research facilities, not all population health nurses work in this type of environment. If you work in an underserved area or deal with disaster management, you may find the job is quite stressful. Depending on where you work and whether you work directly with the public, you could feel the job is emotionally stressful. In this job, it is important to practice self-care. Do not be afraid to reach out for help when you need it, and do your best to maintain a healthy work/life balance.



Where Do Graduates of Online MSN in Population Health Programs Mostly Work?


After graduating from online MSN in population health programs, you can work in diverse settings, depending on your main interests. The following are examples of a few places you may work after earning your degree.

1. Research Facilities:

One of the most common places where population health nurses work is research. In a research setting, you may participate in investigations and collect, analyze, and interpret data related to illnesses and diseases that pose public health risks.

2. Local, State, or Federal Governments:

Graduates of online MSN in population health programs work in many roles within government settings. Your primary goal in government population health will be to design programs used to educate the public about health promotion and disease prevention. Your efforts in this role could help reduce the spread of illness or injury among diverse populations. You may work to ensure community preparedness for potential health disasters, including planning and coordinating healthcare response and recovery efforts.

3. Correctional Facilities:

MSN-prepared population health nurses often work in correctional facilities and prisons. In this setting, you will perform assessments of incarcerated individuals and provide public health services, including the control and prevention of communicable diseases, teaching inmates and staff preventive measures to stop or reduce the spread of infections, and implementing procedures to control the spread of infectious diseases.



3 Best Jobs for Graduates of Online MSN in Population Health Programs


Population health offers many opportunities for master's-prepared nurses. Whether you want a role as a communication liaison, working with disaster situations, or educating the public and public health officials, the possibilities are endless. The following are three of the best jobs for graduates of MSN in population health online programs.

1. Population Health Information Officer:

The population health information officer is responsible for managing communication between health organizations, the Board of Public Health, the media, and the public. In this role, you may develop public information and outreach initiatives, plan news conferences and releases, maintain population health marketing efforts, and monitor news and other media to remain informed about local and community issues related to population health.

2. Population Health Disaster Specialist:

As a disaster specialist in population health, you will work to create initiatives focused on effective disaster response and recovery. This job also involves training other population health professionals on their appropriate response to disasters, whether they are natural disasters or man-made. Your knowledge, skills, and experience will make you a valuable source of information and insight to help reduce the effects of disasters and their impact on population health.

3. Population Health Educator:

With an MSN specializing in population health, you can work as a population health educator. Your job may involve working for domestic or international organizations or in academic settings. Depending on the setting where you choose to work, you may teach nursing students, preparing them for roles in population health. You may work for an organization to promote public awareness of a specific illness or disease.



What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?


New graduates of online MSN in population health programs can earn an hourly wage of $28.68, a weekly income of $1,147, or a monthly income of $4,970. This pay is equal to a yearly salary of $59,650.

Hourly$28.68
Weekly$1,147
Monthly$4,970
Annual$59,650
(Source: Ziprecruiter.com)



What Average Salary Can Graduates of MSN in Population Health Online Programs Expect?


The average salary for graduates of online MSN in population health online programs is $88,599 annually. This salary breaks down to $42.60 hourly, $1,704 weekly, or $7,380 monthly.

Hourly$42.60
Weekly$1,704
Monthly$7,380
Annual$88,599
(Source: Ziprecruiter.com)



10-Year Job Outlook for Graduates of MSN in Population Health Online Programs


The 10-year job outlook for graduates of online MSN in population health programs is excellent. Per data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates can expect to see an increase in available jobs of approximately 45.68% through 2031. This projected job growth indicates this is an excellent time to earn your master’s in nursing and specialize in population health.

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



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


Earning a graduate degree, like an MSN in population health, can be a significant investment. Although some programs cost as little as $15,000, others cost upward of $75,000. As you consider your options for earning a degree, it is natural to wonder if the investment is worth what you will get in return. One way to answer that question is to compare the cost of your education to your potential income after graduating.

For example, new graduates of online MSN in population health programs earn an average of $59,650. Even in an entry-level position, you have the potential to see a positive return on your investment within three to five years easily.

With continued experience in the field, you will experience salary increases. Many graduates earn an average of $88,599 annually. This reference to average income is not a cap on earning potential. In fact, many degree holders earn significantly higher wages.

When you compare the cost of MSN in population health online programs to your potential earnings, I believe the return on investment is worth it.


Bonus! 5 Tips to Successfully Make It Into Top Online MSN in Population Health Programs


Deciding to get your master’s in population health nursing is one of several steps to actually getting there. Once you have chosen a career path, you must find a school you want to attend and get accepted into their program.

Each candidate is different, and admissions teams realize that. There are several factors admission teams consider when choosing which candidates to invite to their programs. As a former nursing and allied health instructor, I want to share a few tips about what admission faculty look for in candidates to help improve your chances of getting accepted into one of the nation’s best MSN in population health online programs.

1. Your Academic History/Grade Point Average.

One of the first things admissions teams review is your previous academic performance. Each school determines the minimum grade point average required for candidates to be admitted. Your GPA from previous coursework says a lot about your likelihood of success in graduate programs, like online MSN in population health programs.

When I reviewed applications, I looked for candidates whose transcripts reflected GPAs higher than the minimum required for admission. Having a GPA that exceeds the minimum required demonstrates your dedication and hard work and is a strong indicator of how well you will perform in the program.

2. How You Demonstrate Leadership.

Earning your degree as an MSN in population health increases the likelihood of you acting in some leadership capacity. When I review applications from prospective students, I love seeing acts of leadership, and this skill is especially important for nurses who plan to work in population health. Don’t worry about being “over the top” when trying to demonstrate your leadership skills. Be genuine and highlight opportunities you had to be a leader.

You can demonstrate your ability to lead others by developing plans to improve the way services are provided at your school or place of work. For example, you could volunteer to be part of a planning committee or head up initiatives addressing needs at your current job. If you have worked as a charge nurse or team leader, you can mention on your resume that you use skills-based delegation to allocate nursing personnel and resources or head up a mentorship program for new nurses or nursing students.

3. Get excellent letters of recommendation.

Every nursing program requires applicants to submit letters of recommendation with their application. When choosing who you want to write your recommendation, look for individuals with at least a master’s degree. Good candidates for references are current or former employers, supervisors, or nursing faculty from your previous program. Letters of recommendation should be well-written and should reflect the writer’s personal knowledge of your skills, abilities, and drive for success.

Some schools have online forms that letter writers must use to submit recommendations. Others ask for a hard copy of a written recommendation. Either way, be sure the writer’s correct contact information is listed on the letter. Although most schools do not contact the person giving a reference, you want to make sure they can if they choose to do so.

4. Let your passion for population health shine through your personal statement.

Another important part of your application is your statement of intent, often referred to as a personal statement or admissions essay. This statement is your opportunity to let the admissions team get to know you before you actually sit down with them face-to-face. Most schools request that statements be 500 to 1,000 words. Verify the requirement before completing your statement, though. You should articulate things, including why you want to pursue this degree, why you feel this program and school is the best place to earn your degree, and why you believe you are a good candidate for admission.

Your statement should begin with an attention-grabbing introduction, a brief introduction of yourself and your background, especially as it is relevant to this program. The body of your statement should include relevant experience and your accomplishments, your professional goals, and why you are interested in this school. The conclusion of your statement should summarize the information in the body, especially information that highlights your qualifications.

5. Give them a face to remember!

If you are serious about getting into a program, you need to stand out from other applicants. I can tell you from experience, admission teams review tons of applications. They look at transcripts, letters of recommendation, and admission essays, sometimes all day. Unfortunately, with so many applicants, it is easy for one candidate to blur with another.

Most schools offer open house events or workshops for prospective students. If you live close enough to the school, consider attending one or more of these events. Dress professionally, as if you were going to a job interview. Take a notepad or something else to write on (and use it). Introduce yourself to faculty and staff and express your thanks for the school offering the event. Ask if the person you are speaking with has a business card; this shows them you are genuinely interested in the program and getting to know the staff.



My Final Thoughts


In this article, I offered information to address the question, "What are the best online MSN in population health programs?" You learned about the programs’ curriculum, practical training, cost, and gained insight into what programs look for in candidates.

The 8 best online MSN in population health programs for 2024 featured in this article offer excellent learning opportunities to prepare you for a role in population health at the graduate nursing level. By pursuing your education through one of these top programs, you can make a difference in population health at local, state, national, or international levels. If earning a master's degree in nursing and specializing in population health is your dream, you can make it become a reality. Don’t wait! If this is your dream, start your journey today!



Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert


1. What Is The Best Online MSN In Population Health Program In The Nation?

The best online MSN in population health program in the United States is offered at Nova Southeastern University.

Nova Southeastern University - Fort Lauderdale, FL


2. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into MSN In Population Health Online Programs?

Most MSN in population health online programs require applicants to have a minimum collegiate grade point average of 3.0. However, admission criteria are determined by each school, so be sure to verify the requirements at each school where you plan to apply.


3. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For MSN In Population Health Online Programs?

The per-credit cost for online MSN in population health programs ranges greatly, between $400 and $1,800.


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

Many students in MSN in Population Health online programs choose to work part-time while enrolled. Careful planning for both your work and school schedules is crucial, but it is possible to work and succeed in the program.


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

It is possible to work full-time while enrolled in online MSN in population health programs. I stress to prospective students the importance of evaluating their work and personal obligations and the time commitment required, then weighing that against the commitment needed for school to determine if working full-time is an option. If you have no option but to work full-time while in the program, talk with your academic advisor and discuss scheduling options. You may find it is in your best interest to enroll part-time so you do not become overwhelmed.


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

New graduates of online MSN in population health programs make an average of $59,650 yearly.

$59,650


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

The average hourly wage for graduates of MSN in population health online programs is $42.60.

$42.60


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

Graduates of an online MSN in population health programs earn an average of $7,380 per month.

$7,380


9. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of MSN In Population Health Online Programs Make Per Year?

The average yearly salary for graduates of MSN in population health online programs is $88,599.

$88,599


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).