By HAD Staff
March 2018
The demand for medical and health services managers is expected to rise by 20% between 2016 and 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. By earning their MSN in nursing administration nurses can advance their career in this field that needs well prepared nursing administrators. Because their jobs are so demanding, nurses can rarely take time away from work or family obligations to attend a traditional on-campus program. Pursuing an affordable online nursing administration degree is a great choice for working professionals. With the increasing complexity of modern medicine and the need for good leadership to manage nurses, there's a strong need for administrators with these nursing degrees. Online nursing schools enable working nurses to gain the skills necessary to assume leadership roles while continuing their jobs.
Nursing leadership requires skills in both nursing and business. Nursing school online will help RNs learn financial skills, human resource skills and management skills. It will also deepen their understanding of nursing. Students will also learn to apply nursing informatics to their care plans, improving treatment outcomes by harnessing the power of information. Nursing administration degrees prepare nurses to implement the latest developments in nursing theory to the real world.
Methodology
To compile our list of the most affordable online accredited nursing schools, we used the NCES College Navigator database to find almost 100 schools offering online MSN nursing administration degrees. We then compared the College Navigator's published annual graduate school tuition rate at each of these schools to select our 50 top nursing schools by price. Whenever an in-state tuition rate was available, we used that rate to compute the cost of that school.
50. Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health-Omaha, Nebraska
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)-Nurse Executive Track
Average graduate student tuition: $13,086/year
The affordable CCNE online master's in nursing program at Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing is for nursing professionals who want to advance to senior management positions. The accredited program can be completed in just 21 months and features five or 10 week courses. There's a week off between each course. Since the program is offered entirely online, students can access course content from anywhere they have internet connection. The program provides students with the opportunity to complete hands-on projects and a practicum experience.
49. Regis University-Denver, Colorado
M.S. Nursing: Leadership in Health Care Systems: Management Focus
Average graduate student tuition: $12,852/year
Nurses with aspirations for director-level roles should consider the online affordable master's in nursing with a management focus. Students will develop an understanding of how to:
-manage finances and budgets
-set policies and procedures
-implement health care policy
-evaluate and reward their staff members.
Courses are eight weeks long. Most students complete one or two courses at a time. Full time students can earn their degree in about two and a half years.
48. Colorado Christian University-Lakewood, Colorado
Online MSN-Clinical Care Management in Adult and Geriatrics
Average graduate student tuition: $12,511/year
CCNE offers the affordable MSN in Clinical Care Management in Adult and Geriatrics. It prepares students to improve health outcomes for adult and geriatric populations. The accredited program incorporates Christian values and principles in the curriculum to encourage students to be moral leaders and positive change agents. Students complete clinical practicum experiences throughout the program, totally 500 clinical hours. The online format allows students to collaborate with peers from across the country and gain insights from other areas.
47. Baker College-Flint, Michigan
Nursing Administration MSN Online
Average graduate student tuition: $12,510/year
Baker College offers an affordable online master's in nursing administration for nurses who want to advance to an administrative level. Faculty are well respected in the field and understand the complicated dynamics facing healthcare today. The program offers flexible scheduling options, allowing students to earn their degree while they work. This master's in nursing administration is accredited by the CCNE.
46. MidAmerica Nazarene University-Olathe, Kansas
Master of Science in Nursing Healthcare Administration Track
Average graduate student tuition: $12,000/year
MidAmerican Nazarene University offers one of the most flexible online master's in nursing administration on our list. Students can complete coursework online or in-person on a full-time or part-time basis. Students have the option of learning at their own pace. They can also attend full-time, earning their degree in just 26 months. Courses are seven weeks long and cover areas like:
-leadership
-healthcare law
-strategic planning
-human resources.
45. California University of Pennsylvania-California, Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Administration and Leadership
Average graduate student tuition: $12,000/year in-state and $18,000/year out-of-state
California University of Pennsylvania offers the affordable online MBA in Nursing Administration and Leadership program. It's a 2.5 year program for nursing professionals interested in business and healthcare. Courses cover:
-health policy
-financial management
-information systems
-corporate finance
Graduates are ready for the workforce and prepared for positions such as chief nurse officer, healthcare administrator, or healthcare entrepreneur.
44. Walden University-Minneapolis, Minnesota
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)-Leadership and Management
Average graduate student tuition: $11,586/year
Walden University is #1 in the country for MSN graduates according to the National Center for Education Statistics IPEDS database. This affordable CCNE accredited online master's in nursing administration has three different program tracks. The tracks are designed for students with their BSN or RN degree. Faculty have all earned their doctorate degree and are considered industry experts. Students come from around the country. The integrative online format allows students to network and collaborate with each other regardless of their location.
43. Queens University of Charlotte-Charlotte, North Carolina
MSN Clinical Nurse Leader Track
Average graduate student tuition: $11,583/year
Queens University of Charlotte offers the Clinical Nurse Leader Specialization. It's CCNE-accredited. The program includes the option to become certified as a Clinical Nurse Leader through the Commission on Nurse Certification (CNC). Students can earn their degree in about two years by taking a mix of eight week and 16 week courses. Coursework can be completed online when it is most convenient, as long as students meet deadlines for assignments and exams. Clinical experiences can be arranged in the students' hometown when arranged with a qualified preceptor.
42. Stony Brook University-Stony Brook, New York
Master of Science in Nursing Leadership
Average graduate student tuition: $10,870/year out-of-state and $22,210/year in-state
Stony Brook School of Nursing features an affordable online master's in nursing leadership in an executive cohort format. Students will be prepared to assume leadership positions in the public and private sectors. This 36 credit hour program does require some on-campus visits for hands-on training and in-depth discussion. Courses cover:
-business skills
-legal issues
-communication
-finance and economics in nursing leadership.
41. SUNY Empire State College-Saratoga, New York
Master of Science in Nursing Administration Online
Average graduate student tuition: $10,870/year in-state and $22,210/year out-of-state
SUNY Empire State College features a 33 credit hour online master's in nursing administration. It's designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the healthcare system. This CCNE affordable online MSN in nursing administration is a six term program. Courses are offered during the fall, spring, and summer terms. Courses cover:
-contemporary issues in health care
-finance and budgeting
-leadership
-research
40. State University of New York College of Technology at Delhi-Delhi, New York
Online Master of Science: Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $10,870/year in-state and $13,040/year out-of-state
SUNY Delhi features an affordable online MSN in nursing administration with a state-of-the-art online learning platform. There are no GRE requirements for admission. Students can complete the program on either a full-time or part-time basis. Students do a practicum experience in their own community. Courses are offered in two seven week sessions each semester for maximum flexibility. Students benefit from counseling and tutoring services to help ensure their success.
39. United States University-San Diego, California
Master of Science in Nursing–Nursing Leadership for Health Systems Management Innovation
Average graduate student tuition: $10,680/year
United States University offers the affordable MSN in Nursing Leadership for Health Systems Management Innovation. This is a 38 credit hour program with no on-campus residency requirement. The program is rooted in the Caring Science model which uses evidence based practice. Students complete a clinical residency experience in their own community to further develop their administrative leadership skills. Most students can earn their degree in about 24 months.
38. Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion, Indiana
Master of Science in Nursing-Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $10,671/year
Indiana Wesleyan University's affordable MSN in nursing administration helps develop nurses into leaders. Courses are completed in an accelerated format using a cohort model. The curriculum is delivered online with practicum experiences. There is no additional cost for books or materials, saving students from additional expenses. Faculty are experienced professionals with a passion for sharing their knowledge or expertise with nursing students.
37. Olivet Nazarene University-Bourbonnais, Illinois
Master of Science in Nursing Online-Management/Leadership Track
Average graduate student tuition: $10,560/year
The accelerated online MSN in management/leadership is a 40 credit hour program. It's designed for registered nurses seeking advancement to leadership roles. The management/leadership track includes courses in:
-transformational leadership
-finance and resource management in healthcare
-nursing leadership.
A 180 hour practicum experience is an additional program requirement. There are multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to begin the program when it's most convenient.
36. McKendree University-Lebanon, Illinois
Master of Science in Nursing Online-Nursing Management/Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $10,410/year
McKendree University features both a part-time or full-time affordable online MSN in nursing management/administration. The traditional two year program as well as the part-time program can be completed entirely online. Coursework covers:
-organizational performance
-nursing informatics
-finance
-management.
Students need to complete a clinical practicum as well as a scholarly project or thesis. Faculty have all earned their doctorate degree and are focused on sharing their knowledge and expertise with students.
35. Lenoir-Rhyne University-Hickory, North Carolina
Online MSN-Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $10,350/year
The fully online MSN in nursing administration is a 33 credit hour program. Coursework consists of core courses, functional area courses, and capstone courses. The program features a significant capstone or thesis experience which allow students to showcase their skills and abilities. There are no on-campus residency requirements, but students may come to campus for face-to-face interaction whenever needed. Clinical experiences can be completed close to home, making this an ideal program for working professionals.
34. Baker University-Baldwin City, Kansas
Master of Science in Nursing-Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $10,188/year
Baker University features an online affordable MSN in nursing administration using evidence based nursing practices. Students will be prepared for a variety of leadership roles in both public and private sectors. Coursework will provide students with a solid foundation in:
-conflict resolution
-team building
-employee management
-finance
-communication.
A practicum experience is included as part of this program.
33. Kaplan University-Davenport, Iowa
Master of Science in Nursing Online-Executive Leader
Average graduate student tuition: $10,128/year
Kaplan University offers the affordable online MSN Executive Leader program. It's focused on management, budgeting, IT, and policy implementation and development in a healthcare setting. Students complete a practicum experience, working with an experienced preceptor in nursing administration. This CCNE accredited MSN in nursing administration provides students with the focus of a structured program and the flexibility to learn when and where it's most convenient.
32. Concordia University Texas-Austin, Texas
Online MSN-Nursing Leadership
Average graduate student tuition: $9,750/year
Concordia University Texas features an affordable online MSN in nursing leadership that can be completed from anywhere in the world. Students are never required to come to campus, but there are options throughout the program for students who would like more interaction and face-to-face collaboration. A 24/7/365 help desk keeps students connected and feeling supported. Courses cover in-depth content such as:
-research
-informatics
-pathophysiology
-pharmacology.
31. Grand Canyon University-Phoenix, Arizona
Master of Science in Nursing with an Emphasis in Leadership in Health Care Systems
Average graduate student tuition: $9,737/year
Grand Canyon University is well respected in the area of online education. The online master's of nursing in leadership is offered by the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions. The accredited program features a rigorous online curriculum for nurses who want to pursue management level positions. This affordable CCNE online nursing administration program includes both a practicum and a capstone class, allowing students to apply their skills in a real-world environment.
30. Northwest Nazarene University-Nampa, Idaho
Online Masters of Science in Nursing
Average graduate student tuition: $9,639/year
Northwest Nazarene University is a Christian university. The affordable online MSN in nursing leadership and education prepares RN's for an advanced career in leadership or nursing education. Faculty are professionals with over 160 years of combined experience. This CCNE accredited program is delivered entirely online. This gives students the flexibility needed to continue working while going to school. Courses are each five weeks, allowing students to move through the program quickly and with intense focus.
29. Wheeling Jesuit University-Wheeling, West Virginia
Online Master of Science in Nursing – Nursing Administration Track
Average graduate student tuition: $9,450/year
The affordable online MSN in nursing administration at Wheeling Jesuit University is a rigorous program. It's designed for nurses seeking leadership or advanced practice roles in nursing. All courses are offered online and cover areas like:
-administration
-finance
-communications
-health care policy and politics
-health assessment.
A capstone seminar and practicum experience are required, allowing students to showcase their skills.
28. Old Dominion University-Norfolk, Virginia
Nurse Administrator MSN Online
Average graduate student tuition: $9,168/year in-state and $26,820/year out-of-state
Old Dominion University features an affordable MSN in nursing administration. It's delivered through an integrated online learning environment. This 36 credit hour program includes a clinical practicum that can be completed at a location close to the student's home. Considered one of the top 60 online graduate nursing programs in the country by U.S. News and World Report, ODU offers a program big on quality. Coursework is relevant and designed to address the complex healthcare issues facing both the public and private sector.
27. Minnesota State University Moorhead-Moorhead, Minnesota
Master of Science in Nursing Online-Nursing Administration and Organization Systems Leadership
Average graduate student tuition: $8,976/year in-state and $17,952/year out-of-state
The innovative MSN in Nursing Administration and Organization Systems Leadership (NAOSL) is a flexible online program. It includes monthly synchronous meetings and a practicum experience. The NAOSL concentration area is designed to prepare students for system wide leadership opportunities. It also helps them gain a better understanding of the complex issues in healthcare administration. This CCNE accredited online master's in nursing administration boasts a 100% job placement rate.
26. Saint Joseph's College of Maine-Standish, Maine
Master of Science in Nursing Administration Track
Average graduate student tuition: $8,720/year
Saint Joseph's College of Maine offers a 45 credit hour online affordable MSN in nursing administration. It's designed to prepare nurses for chief nursing officer roles and other supervision/leadership positions. Students with an interest in business or overall health administration can combine this degree with an MHA or MBA degree, saving both time and money. There are no on-campus residency requirements.
25. Ball State University-Muncie, Indiana
Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Administrator Concentration)
Average graduate student tuition: $8,554/year in-state and $21,172/year out-of-state
Ball State University has several program options for students wanting to earn their online MSN in nursing administration. Students can complete the nurse administrator concentration over the course of seven semesters entirely online. Students interested in the Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate can earn their Nurse Administrator + FNP Certificate in just 10 semesters of part-time study. Students complete a 180 hour practicum experience to develop a better understanding of their role in administration.
24. Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Master of Science in Nursing-Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Track
Average graduate student tuition: $8,448/year in-state and $23,208/year out-of-state
The School of Nursing at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis features the #1 MSN program in the state according to U.S. News and World Report. Students can choose to complete a two year full-time program, or a three year part-time program. The Nursing Leadership in Health Systems track is online with courses taught by nationally recognized faculty. Courses are 16 weeks. Students have the can engage with peers and instructors through videoconferencing during synchronous sessions.
23. Liberty University-Lynchburg, Virginia
Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN) Online-Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $8,217/year
The affordable CCNE accredited online MSN in nursing administration program at Liberty University has the flexibility working professionals need. The program is offered entirely online with no on-campus residency requirements. Liberty University is well known for its academic quality and accessibility. Tuition at Liberty has not increased in several years, keeping the cost low for students who might otherwise not be able to afford an online education. The dynamic online learning environment allows nursing leaders from around the country to network and learn from one another. Most students can earn their degree in about two years.
22. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Wisconsin
Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Management in Health Systems
Average graduate student tuition: $7,793/year in-state and $17,106/year out-of-state
The University of Wisconsin Green Bay features an affordable online master's in nursing leadership and management. It's for RNs who have earned their BSN and want to advance into leadership and management positions. The program consists of 13 courses. Most students can earn their degree in two to four years taking one course at a time. There is no thesis requirement, but students do complete a final project at a health care setting close to their home.
21. Illinois State University-Normal, Illinois
Online Master's in Nursing Systems Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $7,765/year in-state and $15,445/year out-of-state
This part-time program is considered one of the best online nursing programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. The affordable online master's in nursing administration prepares nurses for leadership opportunities in a variety of healthcare environments. The 36 credit hour program includes 480 practice hours. Class size is small to allow for individualized attention. Graduates have the skills and abilities needed to positively influence patient outcomes in a healthcare environment. Students will also be well prepared to continue their studies in a DNP or Ph.D. program after graduation.
20. University of South Alabama-Mobile, Alabama
Online MSN-Executive Nurse Administrator
Average graduate student tuition: $7,578/year in-state and $15,156/year out-of-state
Seeking a career as a Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing, or Chief Nurse Executive? The University of South Alabama features an affordable online master's in nursing administration designed to meet your goals. There is a program option for those who have earned their BSN. There is also one for those with an RN and RN's with a BA/BS degree from a non-nursing discipline. Students do not need to travel to campus and clinical components can usually be completed in the student's own town.
19. The University of Texas at Arlington-Arlington, Texas
Online Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $7,360/year in-state and $17,110/year out-of-state
The 12 course affordable online master's in nursing administration program at the University of Texas at Arlington can be completed in just 18 months. Students follow a set sequence of courses that vary in length between five and 10 weeks. The program is rigorous. Students are encouraged to limit work schedules in order to keep up with the demands of the program. Students can also earn their Advanced Nursing Educator Certificate with an additional 12 credit hours of coursework.
18. Winona State University-Rochester, Minnesota
Master of Science in Nursing and Organizational Leadership
Average graduate student tuition: $6,980/year in-state and $10,520/year out-of-state
Winona State University has been educating students for over 100 years, offering specialized nursing programs with a hands-on curriculum. The affordable online MSN in nursing and organizational leadership is a 43 credit hour program that can be completed in three years of part-time study. Courses are offered in:
-finance
-health care policy
-project management
-human resource management.
A practicum experience is required during the final semester. This provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate and enhance their professional skills. Courses are offered in a hybrid format through online content and synchronous web-based meetings throughout the semester.
17. Aspen University-Denver, Colorado
Master of Science in Nursing-Nursing Administration and Management
Average graduate student tuition: $6,975/year
Aspen University offers an affordable online MSN in nursing administration and management program. It features both a traditional program for RNs with a bachelor's degree and an RN to MSN Bridge Program for RNs who do not yet have a bachelor's degree. Students benefit from a diverse curriculum with courses in:
-policy
-finance
-management
-leadership.
A two-part practicum course provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field.
16. University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus-Denver, Colorado
Master of Science in Nursing i-LEAD Nursing Leadership Program
Average graduate student tuition: $6,714/year in-state and $22,374/year out-of-state
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center College of Nursing features the I-LEAD Nursing Leadership and Health Systems program. It's designed to develop leaders in nursing and reduce health disparities. Students can earn their online master's in nursing leadership and health care systems. They can seamlessly transfer to a Ph.D. program or complete an additional 12 credit hours for a specialization in Health Care Informatics. Online students can take advantage of low in-state tuition rates, regardless of their state of residency.
15. Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, Illinois
Master of Science, Health Care & Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $6,652/year in-state and $11,282/year out-of-state
Southern Illinois University offers an affordable online MSN in nursing administration that prepares students to become credentialed nurse executives. Students complete coursework that prepares them to sit for exams sponsored by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Organization of Nurse Executives Credentialing Center. The program is offered in a fully online format. It includes a 315 hour practicum experience. Graduates are prepared for positions in management and leadership in a variety of health care settings.
14. The University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston, Texas
Master of Science in Nursing – Clinical Nurse Leader Track
Average graduate student tuition: $6,630/year in-state and $16,867/year out-of-state
The University of Texas Medical Branch is considered by U.S. News and World Report to have one of the best online nursing programs in the country. The affordable online MSN-Clinical Nurse Leader is designed to develop ethical leaders, train nurses in health care planning and delivery, and use the latest organizational, workforce, and technology resources in health care. This 39 credit hour program can usually be completed in two years of part-time study. It's an ideal choice for working professionals.
13. Western Governors University-Salt Lake City, Utah
Master of Science Nursing Leadership and Management
Average graduate student tuition: $6,500/year
The affordable online CCNE accredited MSN in nursing leadership and management is a flexible program with a cutting-edge curriculum. Almost 89% of graduates finish in one to four years since students can move through the material at the pace best for them. Students will prepare for leadership positions in:
-hospitals
-long-term care facilities
-corporations
-government agencies.
97% of graduates report being satisfied with the program and over 40% of new students found WGU through the recommendation of a friend or colleague.
12. American Sentinel University-Aurora, Colorado
MSN Nursing Leadership and Management Program
Average graduate student tuition: $6,180/year
American Sentinel University is dedicated to student success through one-on-one support and individualized student attention. The affordable online CCNE accredited MSN in nursing management and organization has monthly start dates and eight week courses. The curriculum consists of 12 courses that students complete at their own pace without any set log in times. The curriculum is totally online curriculum with no on-campus residency requirements. Students have maximum flexibility to earn this affordable MSN degree while keeping up with the demands of a busy nursing career.
11. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-Lubbock, Texas
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Administration Online
Average graduate student tuition: $5,832/year in-state and $15,792/year out-of-state
The affordable online MSN in nursing administration at Texas Tech University is a 39 credit hour program accredited by the CCNE. The program is a great choice for nurses who want to learn high level management and leadership skills. Students will learn to deliver positive results by implementing evidence-based leadership practices in their organizations. Applicants need to have their BSN to be eligible for program admission.
10. McNeese State University-Lake Charles, Louisiana
Master of Science in Nursing–Nursing Leadership/Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $5,703/year in-state and $13,741/year out-of-state
McNeese State University features an affordable online MSN in nursing administration program. It's through a consortium agreement with Southeastern Louisiana University, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Nicholls State University. The program is accredited by the CCNE and can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis. McNeese State University features an online MSN with a rigorous curriculum and state-of-the-art technology. This 35-38 credit hour program includes the completion of a scholarly project or thesis.
9. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley-Edinburg, Texas
Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Administration Online
Average graduate student tuition: $5,550/year in-state and $13,020/year out of state
The School of Nursing at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley features an online affordable MSN in nursing administration. It's for nursing professionals planning to work in leadership or administration. Courses are designed to develop and enhance skills in:
-research
-leadership
-organization
-policy
-health care management.
There are no on-campus residency requirements and part-time students can earn their degree in about two years.
8. The University of Texas at Tyler-Tyler, Texas
Master's in Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $5,220/year in-state and $12,690/year out-of-state
The affordable online MSN in nursing administration program at The University of Texas at Tyler is designed to create nursing leaders who can bridge the gap between direct patient care and the healthcare organization. The program is available entirely online and most students continue working while they earn their degree. Students gain hands-on experience in the field working with nursing leaders and executives. Many students continue on to doctoral study so the program gives them the opportunity to complete either a thesis or a scholarly project to complete their degree program.
7. Kennesaw State University-Kennesaw, Georgia
MSN in Advanced Care Management & Leadership Program-Nursing Administration & Health Policy
Average graduate student tuition: $4,851/year in-state and $17,541/year out-of-state
Kennesaw State University features an innovative online affordable MSN in nursing administration and health policy program. It's offered through its Advanced Care Management and Leadership Program. The program track is available entirely online and students can earn their degree in about 15 months. Coursework focuses on:
-conflict management
-leadership strategies
-healthcare policy
-ethical decision making
-transformational leadership skills.
The program is grounded in evidence based practice and the curriculum is relevant to the current challenges facing healthcare environment.
6. Texas Woman's University-Denton, Texas
Online Master's Degree in Nursing Health Systems Management
Average graduate student tuition: $4,672/year in-state and $12,142/year out-of-state
Have a passion for nursing and an interest in business? The online affordable MSN in nursing health systems management program at Texas Woman's University is the perfect choice. Nurses will learn how to utilize their nursing and business skills to improve patient outcomes and promote positive health. Coursework is offered online and the program's flexibility is ideal for those with full time work commitments. Students gain hands-on experience by completing a 90 hour practicum in three different areas including:
-Organizational Assessment
-Fiscal Assessment
-Outcomes Assessment
5. The University of Texas at El Paso-El Paso, Texas
MSN in Nursing Systems Management
Average graduate student tuition: $4,665/year in-state and $12,958/year out-of-state
The School of Nursing at the University of Texas at El Paso features an affordable online MSN in nurse systems management. It's delivered through an integrated online learning platform. Students are engaged with each other and their instructor throughout the program. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Full-time students can earn their degree in about two years without having wait on a lengthy application process. Faculty are considered experts in their field and are dedicated to student success.
4. New Mexico State University-Las Cruces, New Mexico
Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)-Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $4,390/year in-state and $15,309/year out-of-state
New Mexico State University offers the online affordable CCNE accredited MSN in nursing administration program. It has a strong curriculum that prepares graduates for administrative leadership positions or for doctoral study. Courses are online but students are expected to come to campus once a year for a three to four day orientation. Applicants should have earned their BSN and hold a current RN license to be accepted into the program.
3. University of West Georgia-Carrollton, Georgia
Master of Science in Nursing-Health Systems Leadership
Average graduate student tuition: $4,086/year in-state and $15,876/year out-of-state
The Tanner Health System School of Nursing at the University of West Georgia is considered one of the best graduate schools in the country according to U.S. News and World Report. The 100% online affordable MSN in health systems leadership does not disappoint. The rigorous curriculum to helps students develop their skills and expertise in the management of care and the healthcare environment. The program is accredited by the CCNE. It offers coursework in a number of areas such as:
-patient care
-evidence-based practices
-assessment
-leadership and management
-public/community health.
2. Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi, Texas
Leadership in Nursing Systems, MSN
Average graduate student tuition: $3,744/year in-state and $11,214/year out-of-state
Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi offers the affordable online MSN in leadership in nursing systems program. It's designed for part-time students who can complete coursework online and continue their current employment. The curriculum includes coursework in:
-health economics
-organizational design
-leadership
-nursing informatics.
Clinical experiences can be completed in the student's own community. Graduates are well positioned for administrative positions that include project and leadership skills.
1. Fort Hays State University-Hays, Kansas
Online Masters in Nursing Administration
Average graduate student tuition: $3,497/year in-state and $9,961/year out-of-state
Our most affordable online MSN in nursing administration is offered by Fort Hays State University. This 36 credit hour program is perfect for RNs who want a career in administration. The class size is intentionally kept small to allow for more individualized attention. Coursework is offered 100% online. The program includes an apprenticeship experience and the creation, implementation and evaluation of an evidence-based practice project.
Nurses continue to be a scarce resource for many health care facilities. Effective management of a nursing staff can help these organizations make the most of their nurses. These programs blend proven human resource management strategies and fiscal governance from the business world with the knowledge and experience of skilled nurses. Nurse administrators provide a valuable skill to the health care industry. Completing an affordable online nursing administration degree can prepare you to compete in this rewarding and in-demand career.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics
CCNE
College Navigator
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