Best Online MSN Programs in Georgia (GA)
Whether you’re already working as an RN or looking to switch careers, an MSN can open the right doors. This guide covers the best MSN programs in Georgia and looks at admissions, curriculum, and career potential.
Are you working in healthcare or want to switch to another field? If so, obtaining an MSN degree can be a lucrative and rewarding move since Georgia, ranked 49th in the U.S. for access to care, desperately needs providers. This pretty much guarantees a strong job market for years to come.
There are many types of MSN pathways, including BSN to MSN, direct entry programs for those with bachelor’s degrees in other areas, and less common options like RN to MSN bridge programs, dual master’s programs, and accelerated MSN programs. This guide dives into the many MSN programs available in Georgia, including on-campus, online, and hybrid options. Get started by taking a look at who topped our list of top online MSN programs in Florida.
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, Georgia
Public
Clayton State University
Morrow, Georgia
Public
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, Georgia
Public
Albany State University
Albany, Georgia
Public
University of North Georgia
Dahlonega, Georgia
Public
Columbus State University
Columbus, Georgia
Public
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, Georgia
Public
Key Benefits of Getting an MSN Degree in Georgia
If you already hold an RN or bachelor’s degree in another field, you might be on the fence about enrolling in additional schooling. Will it be worth your time and money? While no one can do the exact calculations for you, in general, MSNs degrees have a great return on investment. From a strong career outlook to increased earning potential, an MSN degree is a big professional asset. Below are the top reasons to consider enrolling in an online MSN program in Georgia.
Career Advancement Opportunities
One of the biggest benefits of earning an MSN degree is the opportunity for professional gain. Many MSN graduates serve in hospital administration leadership roles or specialize in areas like oncology or pediatrics. Additionally, you need an MSN degree as a minimum to work as a nurse practitioner or nurse midwife. Whether you want to further your knowledge, earn more money, or both, an MSN degree is a great way to expand your nursing career.
High Demand for Nurses in Georgia
Nationwide, healthcare systems are struggling to find enough workers. A 2022 report by Definitive Healthcare showed that 20% of hospitals in Georgia are experiencing staffing shortages. As the U.S. population ages, that demand will only grow. This means job security for nurses, especially those with advanced degrees and specialized training. In addition to job security, high demand means nurses have a lot of bargaining power and the ability to earn higher salaries.
Higher Salary Potential
Nurses typically earn well above the national median salary, with the average RN making $77,600 a year. Comparatively, a nurse with an MSN degree and advanced training (e.g., nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, nurse practitioner) can earn $123,780 per year. Because this profession is in such high demand in Georgia, nurses also may be able to ask for benefits like flexible schedules and tuition reimbursement.
What Should I Look for in an MSN Degree Program in Georgia?
As you research MSN programs, the options can feel overwhelming. How do you know what a good school versus a diploma mill is? The right program always depends a bit on personal preferences, but there are also some key characteristics to look out for. As you weigh your options, find programs that are nationally accredited and approved by the state of Georgia, have flexible offerings, and have a reputation for excellent student support.
Types of MSN Programs in Georgia
Traditional MSN
The most traditional path is a BSN to MSN program. This route makes the most sense for students who already have BSNs and practical experience, such as RN licensure. Programs vary, but it usually takes about two years to earn an MSN this way.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
Direct Entry MSN
Direct entry MSN programs are geared toward students with bachelor’s degrees in areas other than nursing. They also assume students have no prior nursing experience. To begin an MSN this way, you’ll likely need to fulfill certain perquisites (e.g., biology, anatomy, etc.) first, so keep that in mind if your undergrad degree didn’t include science classes.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
Accelerated MSN
If you plan on enrolling in school full-time and want to finish as soon as possible, an accelerated program may meet your needs. These programs often run year-round with no summer breaks and may waive courses if you have related experience or can transfer credits.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
RN to MSN
For nurses with ADNs and an active RN license, an RN to MSN path might make the most sense. You’ll first earn a BSN, followed by an MSN. This pathway is quicker than earning each degree separately but can take longer than a BSN to MSN program.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
Dual Master’s
For motivated students, some schools offer dual master’s degrees. If you’re interested in obtaining your MSN and your MPH or MBA at the same time, for example, you can enroll in both courses of study. Some programs have overlapping requirements that allow you to save time and money. In general, this type takes longer and requires more work than other pathways.
Examples of Georgia Nursing Schools with This Program
Emory University – MA in Bioethics/MSN
Emory University – MSN-MPH
Online MSN Programs in Georgia
Online learning has become more common, including for MSN programs in Georgia. This type of learning is ideal for anyone who needs flexibility, whether fully online or hybrid (i.e., a mix of online and in-person). Whether you have a young family to care for or plan to work while you study, online programs allow you to study on your schedule wherever is convenient.
FAQs About MSN Programs in Georgia
What Jobs Can You Get with an MSN from a Georgia School?
An MSN degree prepares graduates for an array of careers. The most common roles include patient-centric roles like nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and nurse anesthetists. On the management side, MSN graduates also work in nursing administration, nursing education, forensic nursing, and nursing informatics. This up-and-coming field uses data to improve the healthcare experience. For nurses looking to obtain the highest post-graduate degree, an MSN can also lead to a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (DNP). Georgia has several schools offering specialized tracks, including Kennesaw State University’s Leadership in Nursing MSN and the Post-MSN Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Georgia Southern University.
How Long is an MSN Program in GA?
It takes about two years to earn an MSN in Georgia, but that timeline varies depending on several factors. If you enroll part-time, it takes four to five years, while an accelerated program might take 18-20 months. The type of program you choose also plays a role. A BSN to MSN program, for example, will generally be quicker than an RN to MSN program. In Brenau University’s MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program, for example, full-time students can finish in 20 months, while part-time hybrid students finish in about three years.
How Much Does an MSN program in Georgia Cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of school (public vs. private), the type of MSN program (direct entry vs. standard MSN vs. accelerated), where you live (in-state vs. out-of-state), how long it takes you, and how much financial aid you’ve secured. Online programs are generally less expensive since they often have fewer and sometimes no fees compared to their on-campus counterparts. You might also save money by attending a public university and/or applying for scholarships. Below are examples from three programs to give you an idea of the cost of earning an MSN in Georgia.
In Georgia, What are the Admissions Requirements for MSN Programs?
Admission requirements vary depending on the school and the type of program. Some, like the dual degree MA in Bioethics from Emory University, are quite competitive, while others, like the Nursing MS program at Georgia State University, are less so. Programs that assume prior nursing experience (e.g., BSN to MSN and RN to MSN) may also require evidence of an active nursing license.
In general, expect the following admissions requirements for MSN programs:
- A GPA of about 3.0 or above
- College transcripts
- GRE or MAT test scores
- A BSN for a BSN to MSN program
- An ADN for an RN to MSN program
- A bachelor’s degree in an area other than nursing direct entry MSN programs
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose and/or writing samples
- Résumé
- Application fee
Is There Financial Aid Available to Georgia MSN Students?
Students attending an accredited nursing school are eligible for numerous sources of aid that, include federal and state grants and loans. They also may be eligible for scholarships specific to nursing students. State-specific nursing scholarships include those from Georgia Southern University and the Annie Lou Overton scholarship administered by the Georgia Nurses Association. You can also find potential funding through the resources in this nursing scholarship guide. If you’re ready to begin searching for funding, head to this financial aid guide.
Inside Look at Online MSN Programs in Georgia
In an online or hybrid program, MSN students can expect to take their classes remotely. Classes may be asynchronous with recorded lectures or synchronous, where you attend live lectures. Online MSN programs are common in Georgia, and almost all MSN programs offer some online components. Online learning allows for flexibility, which is especially important if you’re planning on working while earning your MSN.
Online MSN students in Georgia can take most required classes remotely, but clinical hours are completed in person. Additionally, some programs have in-person orientations or special labs that require students to be on campus. For more information on what to expect from remote learning, head to this main page for online MSN programs.
Do Employers Accept Graduates from Online MSN Programs in GA?
Yes, regardless of whether your program is fully online, hybrid, or on campus, you’ll receive the same type of degree. The most important thing to look for is an accredited program. Depending on your program and desired career outcome (e.g., nurse midwife), you may also want to make sure you’ll graduate with the right courses and clinical hours.
Georgia MSN Salary and Employment Trends
As healthcare needs continue to grow nationally and in Georgia, expanding your nursing career will pay dividends for decades to come. Nurses of all types, but especially those with advanced degrees and specialty training, are expected to see increased job demand over the next decade. Because of this demand, salaries are also expected to rise.
Are MSN Nurses in High Demand in Georgia?
Georgia has one of the highest levels of healthcare staffing shortages nationwide. Additionally, many colleges are struggling to find nursing faculty for their programs. Whether you’re looking to work with patients as a nurse practitioner or nurse midwife or you’d like to specialize in nursing education or administration, there will be plenty of job opportunities upon graduation. For example, there’s an expected 78% increase in demand (that’s 1,250 job openings) in Georgia through 2030, with nurse practitioner openings annually topping 26,000.
How Much Do Georgia RN to MSN Graduates Earn?
The Atlanta metro area ranks in the top 10 nationally for the highest employment level for nurse practitioners, with an average annual wage of $122,910. This is compared to $80,760 for RNs. Nationwide, nurse practitioners can expect to earn an average of $118,040, while registered nurses earn an average of $86,070 per year. An MSN degree is key to increasing your salary, and most MSN nurses can expect to earn well into the six figures.