2024 Most Affordable Online Masters in Nursing

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In an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, the need for advanced nursing professionals has become increasingly vital. As the demand for skilled nurses grows, so does the pursuit of higher education in the field. Online Masters in Nursing programs have emerged as a viable solution, offering flexibility and access to top-tier education for nurses regardless of location. Yet, as with many aspects of higher education, the cost remains a significant barrier for many aspiring candidates. In light of this, we present a comprehensive review of the most affordable online Masters in Nursing degrees available.

CollegeRanker is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Methodology

Data Collection and Sources

To provide an unbiased and accurate ranking of the most affordable online Masters in Nursing programs, our team undertook rigorous research spanning numerous accredited institutions. We utilized a combination of institutional databases, academic publications, national ranking platforms, and official university websites. In particular, we gave priority to:

  1. Accreditation: Only programs that are recognized and accredited by relevant national and regional bodies were considered. Accreditation ensures that the program meets or exceeds minimum standards of quality.
  2. Tuition Fees: We focused exclusively on tuition rates, excluding additional costs such as books, housing, and other miscellaneous fees.
  3. Program Length: The duration of the program can directly influence the total cost. Programs that offer accelerated tracks or flexible scheduling were noted.
  4. Financial Aid Opportunities: While our primary focus was on base tuition, the availability of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities can significantly offset costs for students.

Ranking Criteria

Programs were then ranked based on a weighted scoring system:

  • Tuition Fees (60%): Affordability was our primary criterion. Programs were ranked from least to most expensive, with cheaper programs receiving higher scores.
  • Program Features and Flexibility (20%): Programs that offered unique features, specializations, or increased flexibility were awarded additional points.
  • Student Reviews and Satisfaction (10%): Feedback from current and former students was taken into account, with higher satisfaction rates earning programs more points.
  • Financial Aid Opportunities (10%): Programs offering extensive financial aid options received additional points.

About Our Ranking

Our ranking serves as an informed guide for aspiring nursing professionals seeking an affordable, yet quality, Masters in Nursing degree online. Given the myriad of options available, our aim was to simplify the selection process by highlighting programs that offer the best balance of cost, quality, and flexibility.

It’s essential to note that while affordability was a dominant factor in our ranking, the quality of education was never compromised. Each program listed is accredited, ensuring that students receive an education that adheres to the highest standards. Furthermore, we believe that cost should not impede one’s educational journey, which is why we also highlighted programs that go above and beyond in offering financial aid opportunities.

Lastly, in an age where personal experiences play a crucial role in decision-making, the inclusion of student reviews offers a holistic view of each program. These reviews, combined with the objective data on costs and program features, paint a comprehensive picture of what students can expect.

1

Northeastern State University

Graduate Tuition

$4,048

Location

Tahlequah, Oklahoma

2

Tennessee State University

Graduate Tuition

$4,294

Location

Nashville, Tennessee

3

Drexel University

Graduate Tuition

$4,428

Location

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

4

Fitchburg State University

Graduate Tuition

$4,700

Location

Fitchburg, Massachusetts

5

American Public University System

Graduate Tuition

$4,900

Location

Charles Town, West Virginia

6

Georgia Southern University

Graduate Tuition

$4,986

Location

Statesboro, Georgia

7

University of Southern Indiana

Graduate Tuition

$5,105

Location

Evansville, Indiana

8

Fort Hays State University

Graduate Tuition

$5,179

Location

Hays, Kansas

9

Middle Georgia State University

Graduate Tuition

$5,610

Location

Macon, Georgia

10

Wichita State University

Graduate Tuition

$5,736

Location

Wichita, Kansas

11

Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville

Graduate Tuition

$5,776

Location

Edwardsville, Illinois

12

Lamar University

Graduate Tuition

$5,806

Location

Beaumont, Texas

13

South Dakota State University

Graduate Tuition

$6,055

Location

Brookings, South Dakota

14

Stephen F. Austin State University

Graduate Tuition

$6,060

Location

Nacogdoches, Texas

15

University of Central Missouri

Graduate Tuition

$6,220

Location

Warrensburg, Missouri

16

West Texas A & M University

Graduate Tuition

$6,297

Location

Canyon, Texas

17

Grantham University

Graduate Tuition

$6,300

Location

Lenexa, Kansas

17

Purdue University Global

Graduate Tuition

$6,300

Location

Chicago, Illinois

19

University of Missouri

Graduate Tuition

$6,438

Location

Columbia, Missouri

20

Central Methodist University

Graduate Tuition

$6,460

Location

Fayette, Missouri

21

The University of Texas at Arlington

Graduate Tuition

$6,500

Location

Arlington, Texas

22

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus

Graduate Tuition

$6,600

Location

Teaneck, New Jersey

22

William Carey University

Graduate Tuition

$6,600

Location

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

24

Pittsburg State University

Graduate Tuition

$6,630

Location

Pittsburg, Kansas

25

American Sentinel University

Graduate Tuition

$6,755

Location

Denver, Colorado

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