How Long Does It Take to Earn an MSN Degree?

Graduate nursing programs—like a master of science in nursing (MSN)—can be your ticket to clinical leadership roles and higher earning potential as a nurse. But before you enroll in graduate school for nursing, you might be wondering: How long does it take to get an MSN degree?

While the specific answer depends on multiple factors (like your chosen program and your educational background), MSN programs typically take between one and three years to complete.¹

In the guide below, we will explore the factors that can impact your MSN degree timeline: program types, entry pathways, and more. We will also offer tips for prospective MSN students trying to pick the best program for their career goals.

Factors Influencing MSN Program Duration

How long is an MSN program?

While MSN programs take between one and three years to complete, there are two key factors that will influence your unique timeline: your chosen program type and your educational background.

Program Type and Structure

Graduate nursing programs are available in both full-time and part-time formats. Full-time programs will typically take less time to complete since students are taking on more coursework each semester or trimester.

However, today’s programs are also available:

• Online
• In-person
• Via hybrid models combining both in-person and online courses

While this is not the case for every program, some online and hybrid programs offer faster timelines than exclusively in-person programs. The Master of Science in Nursing, Nurse Executive program at Alliant International University, for instance, is an all-online program that takes only two years to complete. You will still need to complete your clinical rotations at a healthcare facility.

Entry Pathways into MSN Programs

There are a few different possible pathways to an MSN program:

• BSN to MSN – Current nurses with BSN degrees can enroll in MSN programs while working or after accruing experience.
• Bachelor’s to MSN – Non-nurses with bachelor of science degrees in another discipline can enroll in master of science in nursing, direct entry programs. This is one possible pathway for people looking to pivot to nursing.
• RN to MSN – Some programs accept applications from licensed RNs who earned an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in another discipline before becoming an RN.

Each pathway features a different timeline, but programs can be faster for nurses with prior experience or BSN degrees. If you’re considering your options, exploring the types of masters in nursing programs available can help you find the best fit for your career goals.

How Long Does it Take to Earn an MSN Degree?

Below, we zoom in on the three most common formats for MSN degree programs and explore their average timelines.

Full-Time Enrollment

Students enrolled in full-time MSN programs usually complete their coursework in 18 months to two years.

Your specific timeline as a full-time student will depend on your:

• Prior credits – If you have already completed a BSN program or some graduate coursework, you may progress through the MSN program faster than an MSN student without any past experience.
• Schedule – In some cases, students may be able to customize their degree track to take extra credit hours during each semester or trimester, speeding up their coursework.

Part-Time Enrollment

Enrolling in any graduate program (including an MSN program) part-time will increase your timeline; you will be taking fewer classes each semester or trimester, making the part-time route longer than the full-time route.

Part-time programs can extend the MSN course of study to three years or more. However, students may be able to speed up their degree program by devoting some semesters to full-time coursework (if possible).

Part-time enrollment is typically best suited to working professionals. In the case of the MSN degree, part-time coursework can accommodate an existing nurse’s work schedule.

Accelerated MSN Programs

Depending on your chosen institution and your background, you may be eligible for an accelerated MSN program: a degree track that can take as little as 12 to 18 months to complete.

This option is best for:

• Existing nurses with significant educational backgrounds (potentially including another master’s degree in healthcare)
• Nurses who can afford to put their careers on hold to enroll in full-time coursework

However, we recommend opting for a longer-term program to make the most of your experience in graduate school. While efficiency is important, taking the time to absorb coursework, make professional connections, and hone your skills may better support your career goals long-term. If you're wondering, can you get an MSN without a BSN, some programs do offer direct-entry options for students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree.

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Tips for Prospective MSN Students

Not sure which MSN program to choose? Here are a few tips for would-be MSN students:

• Assess your obligations – Evaluate your work, family, and lifestyle obligations before committing to a full-time program. If you do not have time to put these on hold for multiple days each week, a part-time program may be a better fit for you.
• Consider online MSN programs – Online or hybrid MSN programs are often a better fit for working professionals or students with significant in-person obligations during daytime hours.
• Evaluate program features – Timeline is not the only factor to consider when choosing an MSN program. Clinical hours requirements, faculty expertise, and hands-on training elements can all impact your long-term career success—choose a program that aligns with your goals.

Financial Aid and Tuition Considerations

Cost is a major factor when selecting an MSN program. Tuition varies widely, with some programs costing $20,000 to $100,000 or more. To manage costs, consider:

• Employer tuition reimbursement – Many hospitals and healthcare facilities offer tuition assistance for employees advancing their education.
• Scholarships and grants – Nursing associations, universities, and state programs provide financial aid opportunities.
• Loan forgiveness programs – Nurses working in underserved areas may qualify for federal loan forgiveness after completing their degree.

Before enrolling, research financial aid options to make your MSN education more affordable.

Take the Next Step in Your MSN Journey

While an MSN can take multiple years to complete, your career growth and professional expertise are worth the time investment. As the healthcare landscape evolves, staying updated on nursing trends can help you make informed decisions about your education and career path.

Ready to explore nursing programs in Phoenix? Turn to Alliant International University. Our nursing programs offer fast degree tracks for Arizona nurses and working professionals looking to pivot to the nursing profession.

Request more information about our programs to get started.

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Sources: 

1. Deering, Maura. “BSN vs. MSN Degree: Which Is Best?” NurseJournal. September 20, 2023. https://nursejournal.org/resources/bsn-vs-msn/. Accessed February 28, 2025.