Rasmussen University Online MSN Program

Rasmussen University’s School of Nursing offers an online master of science in nursing (MSN) designed for busy, working nurses who need flexibility and control over how they work through their courses.

This affordable MSN program costs less than $13,000 and students can complete it in as little as 18 months of full-time study (completion time is dependent on the number of courses completed each term). No campus visits are required and students complete clinicals locally at approved sites. Course delivery occurs through live or recorded lectures.

MSN students choose from one of three specializations:

  • Nursing Leadership and Administration
  • Nursing Education
  • Healthcare Technology, Simulation, and Informatics

The Rasmussen MSN is a Competency-Based Education (CBE) program, meaning classes are fully online and accessible anytime, from anywhere. Students may attend class whenever scheduling permits. The flexible format also allows students to move more quickly through previously learned material while spending more time on new concepts. Quarters are 11 weeks in length and CBE modules may include real-world case studies, exercises, simulations, and applied projects.

The online MSN curriculum aligns with:

  • The National League for Nursing (NLN) Outcomes and Competencies for Graduates of Nursing Programs
  • Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) Competencies
  • Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing as designed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)

Understanding and meeting these competencies creates healthcare leaders who are well-rounded and able to address the challenges of today’s healthcare organizations in administrative, education, and technology positions.

Rasmussen University is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the MSN program is accredited through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Rasmussen University is headquartered in Bloomington, Minnesota.

Please note that the MSN program is not available to students in all states. See restrictions below in the “Admission Requirements” section.

What to Expect from the Rasmussen University Online MSN Program

Admission Requirements: Prospective online MSN students must hold a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. An RN license in the state where practicums will be completed and a criminal background check are required. No GMAT, GRE, or application fee is required. Application materials include an application, a writing sample, official transcripts, proof of RN licensure, and two letters of reference (one professional and one personal).

Drug screening, proof of up-to-date immunizations, and current CPR certification may be requirements at some practicum sites. Note that the Rasmussen MSN is not available to students from the following states: Alabama, Alaska, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Louisiana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, Washington DC, and Wyoming.

Study Plan: The online Rasmussen online MSN program can be completed in as little as 18 months of full-time study. Nurses are able to work part-time or full-time during the program as it is designed to meet the needs of busy, working professionals.
Start dates land in the fall, winter, spring, and summer. Quarters run for 11 weeks. Students can complete the courses at their own pace throughout each term. Clinicals are completed at approved sites local to the student under masters or doctorally prepared preceptors.

MSN Curriculum: The Rasmussen University online MSN program comprises 48 credits over 12 courses. All specializations complete the following courses: foundations of advanced nursing practice; research and evidence-based practice; advanced health assessment across the lifespan; advanced pathophysiology across the lifespan; advanced pharmacology across the lifespan; leading healthcare transformation; and MSN Capstone.

Nursing Leadership and Administration Courses: The business side of nursing; leadership and management in advanced nursing practice; meaningful communication and collaboration; advanced nursing practice; and advanced nursing leadership.

Nursing Education Courses: Nursing education in the classroom; nursing education in the clinical setting; curriculum design and program evaluation; the role of the nurse educator; and advanced nursing practice.

Healthcare Technology, Simulation, and Informatics Courses: Advanced nursing practice; simulation in healthcare; healthcare technology; integrating technology; and informatics in advanced nursing practice.

Online Experience: The online MSN is delivered through Blackboard where nursing students may participate in live lectures or watch recorded lectures. The CBE courses are skills-based, with simulations, real-world case studies, and hands-on, action-oriented exercises and concepts. Learned skills may be immediately applicable to current work situations.

In addition to live lectures, Rasmussen University offers live online sessions where students can ask questions and connect with faculty and fellow students. Faculty provide personal feedback on completed coursework and students have access to a dedicated School of Nursing librarian, student success coaches, graduate services advisors, career counselors, tutoring, and 24/7 technical support through the Personal Support Center (PSC).

On-Site Requirements: The Rasmussen University MSN courses are all online. Students complete an online Rasmussen orientation as well as a School of Nursing online orientation at the beginning of the program. Students complete practicums locally at approved sites.

Paying for the Rasmussen University Online MSN Program

Rasmussen University online MSN program tuition numbers are listed in the tables below. Rasmussen University MSN students can complete the program in just 18 months of full-time study. In order to reduce the time and cost further, students may transfer credits toward the program. Interested students should contact the Rasmussen University Admissions Department for further clarification.

The online MSN is eligible for federal student aid for those who qualify by applying through the FAFSA. In addition, students may wish to inquire with their employers as to the possibility of a tuition reimbursement program. Finally, MSN students may seek private loans and community and organizational scholarships and grants.

Rasmussen University MSN - Nursing Leadership and Administration

  • Study advanced nursing leadership and management, including HR and performance management
  • Learn the business side of nursing, including finance and the evaluation of healthcare economics
  • Complete an indirect-care practicum where you apply newly-developed leadership knowledge and skills to advanced nursing practice
Program Essentials
Degree Level Master's Degree
Program Start Dates Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer
Credits Needed to Graduate 48
Time to Complete? Can be completed in 18 months
100% Online? Yes, courses are online, with a clinical practicum to be completed at an approved location
Program Accreditation CCNE
Program Admissions
Level of Education Required? Bachelor's (BSN) degree or higher
GRE or GMAT Required? No GRE Required
Work Experience Required? None, but valid RN license is required
Program Tuition
Credit Hours 48
Average Cost Per Credit $260.00
Estimated Program Tuition * $12,480.00

Rasmussen University MSN - Nursing Education

  • Study nursing leadership in an educational setting, preparing for careers in nursing education
  • Become an integral player in the careers of current and future nurses
  • Complete your degree in just 18 months of full-time study for under $13,000
Program Essentials
Degree Level Master's Degree
Program Start Dates Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer
Credits Needed to Graduate 48
Time to Complete? Can be completed in 18 months
100% Online? Yes, courses are online, with a clinical practicum to be completed at an approved location
Program Accreditation CCNE
Program Admissions
Level of Education Required? Bachelor's (BSN) degree or higher
GRE or GMAT Required? No GRE Required
Work Experience Required? None, but valid RN license is required
Program Tuition
Credit Hours 48
Average Cost Per Credit $260.00
Estimated Program Tuition * $12,480.00

Rasmussen University MSN - Healthcare Technology, Simulation and Informatics

  • Focus on healthcare technology, simulation, and informatics to become a nursing leader in healthcare technology
  • Job opportunities include clinical analyst, director of clinical informatics, simulation education specialist, and more
  • Study the use of simulation in healthcare and nursing, evolving opportunities in nursing informatics, and emerging healthcare technologies
Program Essentials
Degree Level Master's Degree
Program Start Dates Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer
Credits Needed to Graduate 48
Time to Complete? Can be completed in 18 months
100% Online? Yes, courses are online, with a clinical practicum to be completed at an approved location
Program Accreditation CCNE
Program Admissions
Level of Education Required? Bachelor's (BSN) degree or higher
GRE or GMAT Required? No GRE required
Work Experience Required? None, but valid RN license is required
Program Tuition
Credit Hours 48
Average Cost Per Credit $260.00
Estimated Program Tuition * $12,480.00

Tuition is calculated based on credits, at the published tuition rate. For programs with variable tuition rates, we use the rates for part-time students. Tuition number represents the cost of tuition for the entire program, not per semester or year. Estimated total tuition does not include additional fees, unless otherwise specified. Please check here for any tuition updates.

Sara Navratil
Sara Navratil
Writer

Sara Navratil is a freelance writer and a Certified Canfield Success Principles Trainer. She's the owner of Sara Liza Life, a company dedicated to helping people rewrite their lives. She enjoys researching and writing about healthcare-related topics, including information on online MHA programs. When not working she likes to read, bake, and spend time with her family.