MSN Degrees Online in TN: Navigating Top Programs
Earning an online Master of Science in Nursing degree — commonly called an MSN — is one of the best ways for you to advance your career as a nurse. This graduate degree opens doors to leadership and hands-on roles that are in high demand, commands high salaries, and offers excellent work-life balance.
If you’re specifically looking to learn in Tennessee, the state’s MSN programs are top-quality, specialized, and affordable. In this guide, you’ll dive into Tennessee’s best MSN programs, explore program highlights, and get answers to your top-of-mind questions.
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Program Profiles: Popular MSN Programs in Tennessee
Online learning programs are an excellent option for students in rural areas or if you’re trying to earn your degree while balancing other demands. Not all online MSN programs in Tennessee operate the same way, though, so it’s important to understand the differences.
You’ll typically learn either online, where courses and tests are completed through an online learning platform, or in a hybrid program, which is a blend of courses taught on campus and online.
In an MSN program, you’ll also need to consider your clinicals. Many online programs work with providers in your area, so you can earn your practicum hours close to home. Others require you to work within specific health systems on or near campus, so consider this before committing to a program.
Tennessee Wesleyan University
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Tennessee Wesleyan University is a 35-credit program that can be completed fully online.
You’ll choose either the education track that prepares you to work as a nurse educator, or the administration track, which offers knowledge and skills for leadership roles as a hospital administrator or executive.
If you already hold an MSN degree, TWU also offers each track as a post-master’s certification (totaling 13 credit hours).
TWU’s Master of Science in Nursing program is accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Duration: 2-3 years
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $700/credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Conferred BSN from an accredited institution of higher education
- 3.0 or better cumulative GPA
- CV/Resume
- Proof of active, good-standing RN licensure
- Documentation proving experience of direct-patient care experience
Curriculum:
- Nursing education track: Offers coursework in general topics such as pharmacology, research, nursing theory, health informatics, as well as more specialized topics such as designing nursing curriculum; you’ll complete an internship and a capstone project.
- Nursing administration track: Offers similar coursework in the same general topics above, as well as more specialized topics such as health policy and leadership, financial management, and human resource management; you’ll also complete an internship and a capstone project.
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
South College
The Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nursing Informatics at South College is an online program combining virtual coursework with hands-on clinical practice experiences. You’ll gain real-world experience by exploring and completing healthcare data and technology projects.
Core coursework offers advanced study in pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, research methods, and evidence-based practice.
Student support is a focal area at South College Online, as you’ll have access to tutoring, technical support, and career services. The school also offers a number of scholarships and grants specifically for Tennessee students.
A BSN-MSN track is also available. South College is accredited by the SACSCOC.
Duration: 21 months to 3 years
Mode: Online
Cost: $5,500 quarterly tuition for 8-20 credits; $210 per credit for each credit above 20; you’ll also pay $245 per quarter for a nursing fee
Admissions Requirements:
- Completed application
- Official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate work
- Proof of a current unencumbered Registered Nurse license or in progress of becoming licensed as a Registered Nurse
- A two-page typed personal statement of professional goals and objectives
Curriculum:
You’ll take courses in nursing leadership and interprofessional collaboration, health assessment and diagnosis, evidence-based care, policy development and advocacy, and informatics system design, implementation, and evaluation.
Southern Adventist University
A unique MSN/MBA dual degree from Southern Adventist University equips students who hold a BSN with interdisciplinary expertise in nursing, business, and healthcare leadership.
You’ll be admitted to both the School of Business and School of Nursing and complete 56 credits of coursework. Most students complete classes from one degree at a time, although overlap is possible if scheduling allows. You can pursue your degree full or part time, and the dual degree is available totally online. Graduate assistantships are available.
Southern offers a Christ-centered philosophy for leadership, management, and research in the healthcare arena and is accredited by the SACSCOC.
Duration: Approximately 4 years
Mode: Online
Cost: $760 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements: This list includes requirements for both the School of Business and the School of Nursing:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
- Minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- An undergraduate or graduate course in statistics (3 credit hours)
- Current RN licensure in the state or country of practice
- A minimum of two years (4,000 hours) of current nursing experience
Curriculum:
You’ll take a combination of MSN core and capstone courses, business prerequisites, MBA core courses, and healthcare administration courses.
FAQs About Online MSN Programs in Tennessee
Ready to gain even more insight into online MSN programs in Tennessee? Here’s your chance to learn from expert perspectives on key topics. Read on to discover some of the more common questions prospective students like you have, accompanied by answers.
What Can You Do with an MSN in Tennessee?
An MSN degree opens doors to many different careers in Tennessee. If you’re interested in transitioning to leadership, you can choose a nursing administration program like the one at Tennessee Wesleyan University. If you’re looking to teach, nurse educator programs like the one at Austin Peay State University prepare you to train the next generation of nurses. Of course, there are plenty of reasons to get an MSN if you plan to stick with patient care as well. In this case, your MSN prepares you for exciting specialties like nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, nursing clinical specialization, forensic nursing, and nursing informatics. If your career ambitions include a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), earning your MSN is an essential step along the way.
How Affordable are MSN Programs in Tennessee?
Costs vary widely among schools in Tennessee. Many of the schools featured in this guide offer considerable discounts for in-state students. Course format plays a huge role as well. In-person learning often involves additional fees and a higher cost per credit, while online learning can come with a significantly lower tuition bill and reduced incidental costs of commuting, meal plans, etc.
Given the cost of an MSN, some students wonder if it’s worth it to receive this advanced degree. The answer is almost always yes. In most cases, an MSN is the credential that provides a significant salary increase and/or a better work schedule.
Can I Get Financial Aid in Tennessee to Help Pay for My MSN Program?
Most schools in Tennessee offer financial aid and scholarships, but there are fewer statewide grants available than in other states. The state government does offer some grants and scholarships that apply to nursing students, and you can also look into scholarships for minorities, veterans, first-generation students, or other groups. Don’t be afraid to expand your search, either. There are plenty of scholarships and financial aid options available on the national level.
In Tennessee, How Long Does It Take to Complete an MSN Program?
The amount of time it takes to earn an MSN degree depends on whether you attend full time or part time, your current level of education, the program, and your chosen specialty. For example, the traditional MSN at South University takes 18 months of full-time study, compared with the 30-month RN-MSN track.
A typical MSN will take between three and four years to complete; however, keep in mind that accelerated programs are often available, meaning you can receive your degree in 18 months to two years.
In Tennessee, What Should You Look for in a Quality MSN Program?
As you’ve seen, there are numerous high-quality MSN programs in Tennessee, but it’s always important to vet a potential program before you commit. Sometimes that’s easier said than done because college websites can be complicated, and determining a school’s level of excellence can be difficult. To streamline the process, look for these three qualities:
- Ensure the program is both state-approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing and accredited.
- Inquire about NCLEX pass rates.
- Look for strong student support: Consider the school’s advising program, class sizes, and opportunities for one-on-one interaction with your professors.
Types of MSN Programs in Tennessee
Depending on your education, background, and career goals, you’ll have diverse options as you consider the type of MSN program you’d like to pursue in Tennessee. You can review the most popular options below and explore schools that offer these specific types of master’s degrees.
Traditional MSN
Traditional MSN programs are for licensed nurses who already have a BSN. These programs build upon existing knowledge and work experience and have many opportunities to transfer credits.
Direct-Entry MSN
If you have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing subject but want to pursue an MSN, direct-entry programs are the way to go. These programs cover all the information you need for nursing certification at the MSN level without requiring a second undergraduate degree.
Accelerated MSN
As you can guess by the name, these programs are for students who want to get their degrees quickly. Accelerated options work best for students who can devote their full attention to school by taking a break from work or by working part time.
RN to MSN Bridge
These programs are designed for RNs who want to pursue MSN degrees. Because RN to MSN programs are typically planned with working nurses in mind, you can expect a lot of flexibility when it comes to course loads and scheduling.
Dual Master’s
Dual master’s programs are helpful if you have very specific goals. Many dual master’s students pursue an MBA alongside their MSN for a career in high-level management, while others might pursue two nursing specialties for a broader skill set.
Salary & Career Outlook for Nurse Practitioners in Tennessee
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $94,530 | $126,260 | $168,030 |
| Tennessee | $53,450 | $105,420 | $132,190 |
| Chattanooga, TN-GA | $53,450 | $107,490 | $134,930 |
| Clarksville, TN-KY | $50,730 | $103,480 | $132,470 |
| Cleveland, TN | $45,240 | $94,180 | $117,540 |
| Jackson, TN | $58,330 | $106,230 | $126,350 |
| Johnson City, TN | $40,340 | $102,300 | $125,960 |
| Kingsport-Bristol-Bristol, TN-VA | $50,040 | $104,930 | $135,440 |
| Knoxville, TN | $46,460 | $102,890 | $132,190 |
| Memphis, TN-MS-AR | $53,970 | $108,470 | $144,590 |
| Morristown, TN | $47,220 | $96,930 | $125,800 |
| Nashville-Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin, TN | $59,240 | $108,690 | $131,840 |
Source: Nurse Practitioners, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 266,300 | 384,900 | 118,600 | 44.50% | 26,300 |
| Tennessee | 13,620 | 21,500 | 7,880 | 57.90% | 1,570 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Ranking the Best Online MSN Degrees in Tennessee
EduMed rankings use the latest data from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Our data scientists first create a list of schools and programs that meet specific eligibility requirements, then assign weightings based on factors including:
- Number of online programs
- Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class
- Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full time
- Student/faculty ratio
The results are then tabulated, producing the following rankings:
Union University
Jackson, Tennessee
Why We Selected Union University:
- The University of Utah's MSN program offers specialized career tracks in areas like Nursing Informatics and Gerontology.
- The program features faculty who are nationally recognized leaders in nursing informatics, providing valuable mentorship.
- Students benefit from practicum placements with major healthcare partners like Intermountain Healthcare and the VA.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$11,618
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course75%
- Student/Faculty Ratio9/1
King University
Bristol, Tennessee
Why We Selected King University:
- The program offers a low student-to-faculty ratio for personalized guidance.
- King University provides a Tennessee Behavioral Pathways scholarship for up to $30,000 in tuition aid.
- The MSN program includes required clinical hours and service-learning projects for practical experience.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$14,207
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course77%
- Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville, Tennessee
Why We Selected Tennessee Technological University:
- The program offers an Accelerated 2nd-Degree option for non-nursing graduates.
- The online RN-BSN track provides flexibility and cost-effectiveness for working nurses.
- Tennessee Tech's nursing program boasts a joint DNP degree with East Tennessee State University.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$10,480
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
University of Memphis
Memphis, Tennessee
Why We Selected University of Memphis:
- The program offers flexible online learning with on-campus intensives for practical experience.
- The University of Memphis FNP program is ranked #17 nationally by U.S. News and World Report.
- The program emphasizes a holistic approach to healthcare, preparing students for comprehensive patient care.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,378
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course61%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Why We Selected Middle Tennessee State University:
- The program offers flexible online coursework with optional campus visits, enhancing accessibility for working professionals.
- Clinical rotations are arranged locally, allowing students to gain practical experience in their preferred geographic area.
- Experienced faculty provide mentorship, ensuring students receive high-quality guidance throughout their academic journey.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,396
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course60%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Tennessee State University
Nashville, Tennessee
Why We Selected Tennessee State University:
- The program offers flexible scheduling with online options for part-time and full-time study.
- Tennessee State University's MSN program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
- Graduates of the FNP concentration achieve a high certification pass rate of 96%.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,524
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course49%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
Cumberland University
Lebanon, Tennessee
Why We Selected Cumberland University:
- The program offers asynchronous online classes, allowing flexible study schedules.
- Networking opportunities are provided with nurses from various hospitals and medical facilities.
- The program is completed in just five semesters, offering an accelerated path to graduation.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$7,500
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course13%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Lincoln Memorial University
Harrogate, Tennessee
Why We Selected Lincoln Memorial University:
- The program offers a fully online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree for flexible learning.
- Lincoln Memorial University provides specialized tracks like Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
- The online format accommodates working nurses, allowing them to balance education with professional responsibilities.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$19,654
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course17%
- Student/Faculty Ratio10/1
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, Tennessee
Why We Selected Vanderbilt University:
- Vanderbilt's MSN program offers a prestigious reputation with a #4 national ranking.
- The program provides over 600 hours of robust clinical experience in various specialties.
- Vanderbilt graduates achieve a 10% higher first-time certification pass rate than national averages.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$51,600
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course20%
- Student/Faculty Ratio8/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
