MSN Programs in Tennessee (2026)

Compare 90 accredited MSN programs for Tennessee RNs — partner matches first, then our directory.

90

MSN Programs Listed

44

Fully Online

18 mo

Fastest Option

$68K

Avg RN Salary

MSN Programs Available in Tennessee

90 accredited programs 44 fully online, 7 hybrid.

Free info packetsNo obligationAccredited programs only

More programs
Liberty University logo

Liberty University

Liberty University's MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) program is designed for nurses looking to advance their careers with a master's degree. This 100% online program consists of 36 credits and can…

MSNOnlineACENEst. $19,980 total
Duke University logo

Duke University

The MSN in Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at Duke University offers a hybrid delivery format that combines online coursework with on-campus clinical training. Over 30 months, you will complete 46 cred…

MSNOnline + CampusCCNEEst. $72,000 total
University of Texas at Arlington logo

University of Texas at Arlington

The MSN in Administration program offers a comprehensive curriculum aimed at preparing nurses for leadership roles in healthcare settings. Delivered entirely online, this 36-credit program can be com…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $24,120 total
University of Texas at Arlington logo

University of Texas at Arlington

The MSN in Education program prepares you to become a nursing educator in academic or clinical settings. This fully online program requires 36 credits and can be completed in 24 months, offering flex…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $24,120 total
Simmons University logo

Simmons University

The MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner program is a 100% online degree consisting of 48 credits, designed to be completed in 36 months. This program is ideal for registered nurses looking to advance the…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $67,200 total
West Coast University logo

West Coast University

MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $42,000 total
Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences logo

Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences

MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $36,000 total
Vanderbilt University logo

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt's MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program that combines online learning with on-campus experiences. Over 30 months, you will earn 47 credits and be prepared for advanced pract…

MSNOnline + CampusCCNEEst. $54,000 total
University of Tennessee at Knoxville logo

University of Tennessee at Knoxville

The MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program combines online learning with campus experiences to equip you with advanced nursing skills. Spanning 30 months and requiring 46 credits, this hybrid progra…

MSNOnline + CampusCCNEEst. $24,000 total
Michigan State University logo

Michigan State University

The MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program at Michigan State University is a fully online course designed for registered nurses looking to specialize in family healthcare. This 45-credit program can…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $27,000 total
Liberty University logo

Liberty University

MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner. Online format.

MSNOnlineACENEst. $26,640 total
University of Phoenix logo

University of Phoenix

MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $46,080 total
Grand Canyon University logo

Grand Canyon University

MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $30,625 total
University of Pennsylvania logo

University of Pennsylvania

The MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a 100% online format, allowing you to earn your degree in just 24 months. With 43 credits, this program is tailored for registered nurses seeking to…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $86,000 total

George Washington University

The MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program at George Washington University prepares you for advanced practice in family-focused healthcare. This 100% online program consists of 50 credits and can be…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $72,500 total
Keiser University logo

Keiser University

MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $32,000 total
Sacred Heart University logo

Sacred Heart University

The online MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program is designed for registered nurses aiming for advanced practice roles. Over 30 months, you'll complete 46 credits, gaining the skills necessary to pr…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $46,000 total
National University logo

National University

The MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program at National University equips you with advanced clinical skills and knowledge. This 48-credit program is delivered 100% online and can be completed in 30 m…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $18,000 total

Drexel University

Drexel's MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares you for advanced practice nursing with a focus on family care. This 100% online program consists of 45 credits and can be finished in 30 months, per…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $31,275 total
Maryville University logo

Maryville University

Maryville University's MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares you for an advanced role in healthcare with a comprehensive 100% online curriculum. This 48-credit program can be completed in 30 mont…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $25,440 total
Regis College logo

Regis College

The MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares you for advanced practice nursing roles with a focus on family care. Offered 100% online, this 48-credit program can be completed in 30 months, pr…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $46,800 total
Duke University logo

Duke University

Duke's MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program that blends online learning with on-campus experiences. This 30-month program requires 46 credits and prepares you to provide comprehensive…

MSNOnline + CampusCCNEEst. $72,000 total
University of Cincinnati logo

University of Cincinnati

The MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner at UC is designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles. Offered 100% online, this program requires 48 credits and can be completed in 36 months,…

MSNOnline + CampusCCNEEst. $22,560 total
Gonzaga University logo

Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University's MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares you for advanced practice nursing roles. This fully online program consists of 45 credits and can be completed in 30 months, maki…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $24,300 total
Johns Hopkins University logo

Johns Hopkins University

The MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program at Johns Hopkins University offers a fully online curriculum that prepares you to provide comprehensive healthcare. This 24-month program requires 43 credi…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $58,000 total
Indiana State University logo

Indiana State University

The MSN — Family Nurse Practitioner program at Indiana State University is an online degree that prepares you for advanced practice nursing. Over 36 months, you will earn 46 credits, gaining the know…

MSNOnline + CampusCCNEEst. $23,000 total
Walden University logo

Walden University

Walden University's MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares you for advanced practice in primary care. This 50-credit program is delivered 100% online, allowing you to complete your degree i…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $48,150 total
Grand Canyon University logo

Grand Canyon University

The MSN in Health Care Quality & Patient Safety at GCU is delivered entirely online and focuses on improving healthcare outcomes. This 36-credit program can be completed in 24 months, making it a gre…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $22,050 total
Arizona State University logo

Arizona State University

The MSN in Health Systems Administration program at Arizona State University prepares you for leadership roles in nursing and healthcare management. This fully online program spans 30 credits and can…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $18,480 total
University of Texas at Arlington logo

University of Texas at Arlington

The MSN in Informatics program focuses on the integration of technology in nursing practice, preparing you for a vital role in healthcare data management. This 36-credit program is offered online and…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $24,120 total
Western Governors University logo

Western Governors University

WGU's MSN in Leadership & Management prepares you to take on leadership roles in healthcare settings. Offered entirely online, this program requires 36 credits and can be completed in 24 months, prov…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $18,000 total
Capella University logo

Capella University

The MSN — Nurse Educator program prepares you to become an effective nursing educator. Offered entirely online, this 45-credit program can be completed in 30 months, equipping you with the skills to…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $27,000 total
University of Michigan — Flint logo

University of Michigan — Flint

The MSN — Nurse Educator program prepares you for a vital role in nursing education. This 100% online program consists of 36 credits and can be completed in 24 months, making it an ideal choice for t…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $20,736 total
Chamberlain University logo

Chamberlain University

Chamberlain’s MSN — Nurse Educator program is a 100% online pathway for nurses aiming to teach the next generation. This 36-credit program can be completed in 24 months, equipping you with the skills…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $30,780 total
Walden University logo

Walden University

The MSN - Nurse Educator program at Walden University equips you with the skills to teach future generations of nurses. This 42-credit degree can be completed in 30 months, entirely online, making it…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $40,488 total
Grand Canyon University logo

Grand Canyon University

GCU’s MSN in Nurse Educator program is a 100% online degree designed for nurses who aspire to teach and mentor future healthcare professionals. This 36-credit program can be completed in 24 months, o…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $22,050 total
University of Cincinnati logo

University of Cincinnati

If you aspire to shape the future of nursing, the MSN in Nurse Educator program at the University of Cincinnati is perfect for you. This fully online program requires 36 credits and can be completed…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $16,920 total
Chamberlain University logo

Chamberlain University

The MSN — Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program is fully online and designed for registered nurses looking to specialize. With 47 credits and a duration of 36 months, this program prepares you to provide…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $40,020 total
Vanderbilt University logo

Vanderbilt University

The MSN in Nurse-Midwifery at Vanderbilt University is a hybrid program designed for those interested in women's health and midwifery. Spanning 36 months and 55 credits, this program prepares you for…

MSNOnline + CampusCCNEEst. $63,000 total
Florida State University logo

Florida State University

MSN — Nursing Administration. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $18,000 total
Regis College logo

Regis College

The MSN — Nursing Administration program equips you with the leadership skills needed for administrative roles in healthcare settings. This 36-credit, fully online program can be completed in 24 mont…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $35,100 total
Maryville University logo

Maryville University

The MSN in Nursing Administration at Maryville University is designed for nurses looking to step into leadership roles. Offered entirely online, this 36-credit program can be completed in 24 months,…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $19,080 total
Chamberlain University logo

Chamberlain University

MSN — Nursing Administration. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $30,780 total
University of Pennsylvania logo

University of Pennsylvania

The MSN - Nursing Administration program is a 100% online degree that can be completed in 24 months with 36 credits. This program is ideal for nurses looking to take on leadership roles in healthcare…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $72,000 total
University of Cincinnati logo

University of Cincinnati

MSN — Nursing Administration. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $16,920 total

Drexel University

Drexel's MSN in Nursing Administration prepares you for leadership roles within healthcare organizations. This 100% online program includes 36 credits and can be completed in 24 months, making it ide…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $25,020 total
Gonzaga University logo

Gonzaga University

The MSN — Nursing Administration program at Gonzaga University equips you with essential skills for leadership roles in healthcare. This 100% online program requires 36 credits and can be completed i…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $19,440 total
Indiana State University logo

Indiana State University

MSN — Nursing Administration. Online format.

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $18,000 total
National University logo

National University

The MSN — Nursing Administration program at National University is designed for RNs looking to move into leadership positions. This 36-credit online program can be completed in 24 months, providing t…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $13,500 total
University of Tennessee at Knoxville logo

University of Tennessee at Knoxville

The MSN — Nursing Administration program is designed for nurses looking to take on leadership roles. This fully online program can be completed in 24 months, requiring 36 credits, making it a conveni…

MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $18,000 total
Capella University logo

Capella University

The RN to MSN program serves as a bridge for RNs seeking to advance directly to a Master of Science in Nursing. This 60-credit, 100% online program can be completed in 36 months, allowing you to elev…

RN-MSNOnlineCCNEEst. $32,400 total

Showing 51 of 90 programs. See all Tennessee programs →

Compare 90 MSN Programs in Tennessee

44 fully online MSN options listed — designed for working RNs. Tell us your specialty interest and we'll match you with cohorts accepting applications.

Why an MSN Is the Next Step for Tennessee BSN Nurses

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is the gateway credential for advanced-practice nursing roles. In Tennessee, MSN-prepared nurses fill roles that BSN-only nurses cannot — nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nursing administration, nursing educator, and informatics positions — and earn meaningful salary premiums for doing so.

Tennessee RNs earn an average of $68,020 per year. Nurse practitioners nationally earn an average of $124,000+; nursing directors and CNOs earn $130,000–$200,000+. Even non-clinical MSN tracks (education, informatics, leadership) typically command 15–30% premiums over the average BSN-RN salary in comparable settings.

MSN programs are typically structured around the working nurse — asynchronous online didactic content, weekend or evening live sessions, and clinical practicums arranged at the student's workplace or a partner facility. Most full-time RNs complete an MSN in 24–36 months while continuing to work.

Common MSN Specialty Tracks

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Primary care across the lifespan; the largest NP specialty by enrollment. Strong demand in both urban and rural settings.

Adult-Gerontology NP (AGNP)

Acute or primary care for adolescents, adults, and older adults. Splits into Acute Care (AGACNP) and Primary Care (AGPCNP) tracks.

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Diagnose and prescribe for mental health conditions across the lifespan. One of the fastest-growing and best-compensated NP specialties.

Pediatric NP

Acute or primary care for infants through adolescents. Concentrated demand in urban metro areas with large pediatric populations.

Nurse Educator

Teach in nursing schools or hospital staff-development roles. Critical to addressing the nursing shortage by training future RNs.

Nursing Administration / Leadership

Prepares nurses for charge, manager, director, and CNO roles. Often combined with an MBA or MHA depending on career goals.

Nursing Informatics

Bridges clinical practice and health IT — EHR optimization, data analytics, decision support. Growing demand as hospitals expand digital infrastructure.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

Expert clinician role focused on a specific population, setting, or disease. Less common than NP but valued in specialty units.

How to Choose an MSN Program in Tennessee

Specialty Track Alignment

Decide on a specialty before choosing a program. NP tracks have specific accreditation and certification requirements; non-clinical tracks (education, informatics) have different prerequisite paths. Switching tracks mid-program adds time and cost.

Accreditation

Verify CCNE or ACEN accreditation. NP tracks must also meet criteria recognized by ANCC and AANP for board certification eligibility. Non-accredited programs will block Tennessee licensure for advanced practice.

Clinical Placement Support

For NP and CNS tracks, ask whether the program guarantees clinical placement or makes you find your own preceptors. Tennessee students choosing online programs from out-of-state schools should confirm placement support is available locally.

State Authorization & APRN Licensure

Confirm the program is authorized to enroll Tennessee students and that its NP curriculum meets Tennessee APRN licensure requirements. SARA covers most states for didactic content; APRN scope rules are state-specific.

Total Cost & Employer Support

MSN tuition varies dramatically — public in-state can be $20K total; private accelerated programs run $60K+. Many Tennessee hospital systems offer tuition reimbursement for MSN coursework, especially in shortage specialties (PMHNP, FNP, educator).

Cohort Format & Schedule

Compare asynchronous online vs. cohort-paced vs. hybrid weekend formats. Working RNs benefit most from asynchronous coursework with predictable workloads; cohort formats build peer networks valuable for career-long mentorship.

Get Matched with MSN Programs in Tennessee

RNs in Tennessee average $68,020/year — NPs and nursing leaders typically earn 30–60% more. Tell us your specialty interest and we'll match you with accredited MSN cohorts. Takes 30 seconds.

How long does an MSN program take in Tennessee?
Most MSN programs available to Tennessee nurses run 18 to 36 months depending on specialty and enrollment intensity. Part-time online MSN programs designed for working nurses typically take 24 to 36 months; full-time on-campus programs can finish in 18 to 24. The fastest MSN option currently listed for Tennessee is 18 months. Nurse practitioner specialties (FNP, AGNP, PMHNP) tend to run longer than non-clinical tracks like nursing education or informatics.
How much does an MSN cost in Tennessee?
Among MSN programs listed for Tennessee, total tuition ranges from $13,500 to $86,000. Public university MSN tuition is generally lower for in-state Tennessee residents; private and accelerated programs cost more. Many Tennessee hospital systems offer tuition reimbursement for MSN coursework, especially for tracks aligned to staffing needs (educator, leadership, NP).
What MSN specialties can I pursue in Tennessee?
MSN programs available to Tennessee nurses commonly include: Nurse Practitioner tracks (Family NP, Adult-Gerontology NP, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Acute Care NP, Women's Health NP), Nurse Educator, Nursing Administration / Leadership, Nursing Informatics, Public Health Nursing, Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Nurse Midwifery (in select programs). NP tracks dominate enrollment because the credential expands scope of practice and significantly raises earning potential.
Can I do an MSN online in Tennessee?
Yes. 44 fully online MSN programs are listed for Tennessee, with 7 additional hybrid options. Coursework is typically asynchronous, so working RNs can study around 12-hour shifts. Clinical practicum hours (required for NP and CNS tracks) are usually arranged at approved sites near the student's home, often within Tennessee.
Is an MSN worth it for nurses in Tennessee?
For most Tennessee RNs, the answer is yes. Average RN compensation in Tennessee is $68,020/year (BLS May 2023); BSN-prepared NPs and CNSs typically earn $115,000–$140,000+ nationally, and nursing leadership and educator roles also command significant premiums. With 6.9% RN job growth projected through 2032 and faster growth in advanced-practice roles, the ROI on an MSN is favorable for most working nurses — especially when employers cover part of tuition.
Do I need a BSN before applying to an MSN program in Tennessee?
Most traditional MSN programs in Tennessee require a BSN as a prerequisite. However, RN-to-MSN bridge programs accept ADN-prepared RNs and roll BSN-completion coursework into the MSN curriculum, saving 6–12 months versus completing them sequentially. 1 RN-to-MSN bridge option is listed for Tennessee. Direct-entry MSN programs (a separate category) are designed for career changers without a nursing background and lead to RN licensure plus an MSN.
How does Tennessee regulate Nurse Practitioner practice?
Tennessee regulates NP scope through its Board of Nursing. Practice authority varies by state — full practice authority states allow NPs to evaluate, diagnose, prescribe, and manage treatment independently; reduced or restricted practice states require physician collaboration or supervision. Tennessee's policies determine what NP roles you can practice in after graduation; check the Tennessee Board of Nursing for current scope rules. Tennessee is a Nurse Licensure Compact state for RN licensure (separate from APRN licensure).

Tennessee Nursing License Information

RN Renewal Cycle

2 years

RN CE Hours Required

None specified

RN NLC Compact

Yes — multi-state license

APRN (NP, CNS) licensure is separate from RN licensure and not currently part of the NLC compact. Source: Tennessee Board of Nursing

Free Program Matching

Get Matched with Accredited Nursing Programs

Tell us your zip code and program preference, and we’ll connect you with top nursing schools that match your goals — tuition budget, schedule, and location.

Takes 30 seconds — completely freeCompare tuition, accreditation, and program lengthNo spam — only programs that fit your criteria

Find Programs Near You

Enter your details to see matching programs.

Free. No obligation. No spam.

We collect anonymous, aggregate analytics by default to help us improve the site — no cookies are set and you are not personally identified. Click Accept All to enable cookie-based analytics for more accurate measurement. See our Privacy Policy for details. You can change your choice anytime via Cookie Preferences in the footer.