Ultimate Guide to Direct-Entry Online MSN Degree Programs

School Spotlights: Explore Direct-Entry Online MSN Programs

Direct-entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs prepare students without a nursing degree to become RNs and earn an MSN. While traditional MSN programs are designed for students who already earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, direct-entry programs accept students from other fields.

Online direct-entry programs might offer most or all of their coursework online. But, there are generally some in-person components because hands-on and in-person training is a required and vital part of most nursing programs.

Earning an MSN through an online or hybrid direct-entry program is a great way to launch your nursing career, but finding the right school isn’t always easy. To help you get started, we’ve researched online direct-entry MSN programs throughout the U.S. and evaluated them based on a variety of factors, including accreditation, affordability, and curriculum. Here’s a closer look at three top direct-entry MSN programs.

Pros and Cons of Direct-Entry Nursing Programs

As you decide whether a direct-entry MSN program is the right choice for you, it makes sense to weigh the pros and cons. While there are many benefits to this type of program, especially for non-nursing students, there are some drawbacks as well. We’ll address some of the pros and cons below.

Pro: Save Time and Money

A direct-entry MSN program works well if you’re looking for an efficient and affordable program that allows you to earn an MSN without starting from scratch. This program lets you apply a non-nursing bachelor’s degree toward a master’s program, which will save time and money for you.

The purpose of a direct-entry MSN program is to allow you to start master’s-level coursework without needing to earn a BSN first.

Pro: Receive Hands-On Training Immediately

Some nursing programs require that you complete a list of prerequisite courses before starting hands-on training. Since direct-entry MSN programs allow you to transfer your current degree, you can jump into your core nursing courses and clinical experiences as soon as you start.

Although there is a difference between accelerated programs and direct-entry programs, direct-entry MSN programs are often considered accelerated because they offer a quicker path toward earning a master’s degree.

Pro: Graduate and Start Working Sooner

Direct-entry MSN programs are often shorter than other nursing and master’s programs. This is a bonus if you’re a student who is changing careers, especially if you’re ready to start working in the nursing field as soon as possible.

After graduation, you can take other necessary steps to earn a nursing license and start working in the healthcare field. You can work in a variety of facilities after you obtain your RN license.

Con: Competitive Entry Requirements

Since these programs offer a direct way for non-nursing majors to earn a master’s-level degree, they can be competitive. Admission requirements vary by school, but many require high GPAs and exam scores.

If you don’t meet the GPA requirements, some schools allow you to submit test scores instead. Before applying to any program, be sure you understand the requirements and speak with an advisor if you need assistance.

Con: Less Time to Explore Other Interests

When you first start an educational program, you generally have some time in the beginning to see what classes you enjoy most and find out what path suits you best. Since you’ll take core classes and start training right away in a direct-entry program, you won’t have time to explore other options.

These programs work best for students who definitely want to pursue a nursing career and obtain a license as soon as possible.

Con: Rigorous Coursework

The fast-paced nature of direct-entry MSN programs means the coursework is often more intense and rigorous. This means you might have a heavier courseload or spend more hours studying and training. Specific requirements will vary by program, but many programs require full-time attendance.

Before applying to a direct-entry program, consider whether you’re ready for the commitment it takes to attend school full-time while managing your other responsibilities.

FAQs About Direct-Entry Online MSN Programs

As a non-nursing major who is considering pursuing a nursing career, you’ll likely have many questions about direct-entry MSN programs. Below, we answer some of the most common questions that aspiring nurses have to help you feel confident in your decision to pursue a nursing degree.

How long will it take to earn an MSN degree in a direct-entry program?

The length of direct-entry MSN programs varies, but most can be completed in two to three years. Some full-time programs can be completed in as little as 19 months, but part-time programs can take up to four years to complete. Schools that offer part-time options are less common since direct-entry programs are designed to be more intense.

The number of credits required to graduate also varies and depends on how many undergraduate-level courses are required. Most programs usually require between 70 and 80 total credit hours.

How much does a direct-entry online MSN program cost?

The total cost of a direct-entry MSN program can range from $20,000 to $100,000 or more. Costs vary significantly from program to program, but they’re usually more expensive than other nursing programs because they’re accelerated. Programs offered by private institutions tend to be more expensive than those offered by public schools.

Options for getting help paying for your nursing program are available; most schools offer financial aid opportunities for students in need. It’s a good idea to consider the many scholarships and resources designed specifically for MSN students.

Will I earn both a BSN and MSN degree as part of this program?

Whether you earn both a BSN and MSN degree depends on the program you choose. Most programs award students only an MSN since they build upon the student’s non-nursing bachelor’s degree. However, some programs allow you to work on a BSN and MSN simultaneously.

It’s important to note that you’ll be able to obtain an RN license at the end of an MSN-only program, and you don’t need a BSN to get a job as a nurse. Unlike RN to MSN programs, direct-entry programs are designed to prepare non-nursing students to obtain an RN license.

When will I earn my nursing license in a direct-entry MSN program?

To earn a nursing license, you have to pass the NCLEX-RN and apply through your state’s nursing board. You don’t earn an RN license by completing a direct-entry MSN program. Instead, properly accredited programs qualify you to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam after completing the pre-licensure component of the program. Students who pass the NCLEX-RN can then apply for an RN license.

Keep in mind that most direct-entry MSN programs don’t qualify students to take nurse practitioner (NP) certification exams. However, some programs do offer a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization option that qualifies graduates to obtain FNP certification.

Does my bachelor’s degree need to be in a healthcare-related field?

You don’t need a bachelor’s degree in a healthcare-related field to apply for a direct-entry MSN program. One of the primary characteristics and selling points of direct-entry programs is that they accept students with bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing and non-healthcare-related fields. These programs are designed specifically for students who want to change changers.

If you earned a bachelor’s degree in the nursing field and want to obtain a master’s degree, you might consider a traditional MSN program or a RN to MSN bridge degree program instead.

Do I need to complete other prerequisites before enrolling in a direct-entry MSN program?

Most online direct-entry MSN programs require applicants to complete a set of prerequisite courses prior to admission – typically, five to nine courses. They cover medical and science subjects like anatomy, biology, physiology, chemistry, and psychology. Some programs also require general education courses such as English composition.

If you have not completed the required prerequisites, you can usually take them at the school where you’re applying for a direct-entry MSN program. However, many students choose to take the prerequisite courses at a community college or another university before they apply to a nursing program.

Steps to Take After Earning a Direct-Entry Online MSN Degree

If you plan on applying to an MSN program, you need to know what steps to take after graduation. Completing nursing school is just one of the steps in the process of becoming an RN. To help you start your career, we outlined the next steps you need to take after you earn your degree.

Passing the NCLEX-RN and Getting Your Nursing License

After you complete an MSN program, you’re qualified to take the NCLEX-RN. In some cases, you can take the exam after you complete the pre-licensure component of a direct-entry MSN program.

After passing the exam, your next step will be to apply for RN licensure in the state where you intend to practice. While passing the NCLEX-RN is a requirement for RN licensure in all U.S. states, it’s not the only requirement. Most states have additional licensure requirements, such as submitting your fingerprints and medical history and undergoing a background check.

Choosing a Career in Nursing

Most direct-entry MSN graduates become RNs, but other career opportunities exist, as well. Although some of these options might require additional education, the most common career paths include:

• Registered nurses (RN): Registered nurses coordinate and carry out patient care under the direction of physicians as part of a larger team.
• Nurse practitioners (NP): Nurse practitioners provide a variety of advanced primary, acute, and specialized services to their patients. NPs often work autonomously and manage the patient’s overall care themselves.
• Nurse educators: Nurse educators teach patient care to nursing students in classrooms and clinical settings. Many nurse educator careers combine teaching with academic research and/or clinical practice.

Pursuing Advanced Education

For many individuals, earning an MSN degree will mark the end of their academic journey in the nursing profession. However, three options are available for students who choose to continue their academic studies:

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A DNP degree is designed for nurses who want to participate in the highest levels of clinical practice.
• Doctor of Education (EdD) in Nursing: An EdD in Nursing degree is designed for professionals who are specifically interested in advanced teaching and/or administrative and leadership positions.
• PhD in Nursing: A PhD in Nursing degree prepares graduates for careers as researchers and policy-makers.