2026 Best BSN to MSN Programs in North Carolina: Online & Campus

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Navigating the choice of BSN to MSN programs in North Carolina can overwhelm nurses seeking career advancement. With the state expecting a 15% growth in advanced nursing roles by 2030, identifying the right program is crucial.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, evaluates top online and campus-based MSN programs in North Carolina. It provides clear, reliable guidance to help nurses select programs that align with their professional goals and meet evolving healthcare demands.

Key Benefits of BSN to MSN Programs in North Carolina

• Online and campus BSN to MSN programs in North Carolina offer flexible learning formats, allowing nurses to balance work and study amid a growing state nursing workforce projected to increase by 15% through 2030.
• These programs emphasize advanced clinical skills and leadership, crucial as North Carolina hospitals increasingly seek MSN-prepared nurses to meet evolving patient care demands.
• Graduates often access higher-paying roles, with MSN nurses in North Carolina earning up to 25% more on average, reflecting the state's investment in advanced nursing education.

Table of Contents

1. What is a BSN to MSN program in North Carolina?
2. How do campus-based programs compare to online BSN to MSN programs?
3. What are the admission requirements for BSN to MSN programs in North Carolina?
4. What specializations are available in BSN to MSN programs in North Carolina?
5. What courses are included in a BSN to MSN program in North Carolina?
6. How long does it take to complete a BSN to MSN program in North Carolina?
7. How much do BSN to MSN programs cost in North Carolina?
8. What financial aid options are available to BSN to MSN students in North Carolina?
9. What jobs can BSN to MSN graduates pursue in North Carolina?
10. What is the average salary of BSN to MSN graduates in North Carolina?

What is a BSN to MSN program in North Carolina?

A BSN to MSN pathway in North Carolina offers registered nurses a focused route to elevate their expertise beyond the foundational BSN education. These programs carefully build upon prior nursing knowledge, integrating graduate-level coursework and clinical experience to prepare nurses for advanced practice, leadership, or specialized roles. Whether through online or campus options, the curriculum addresses critical areas like evidence-based practice and nursing theories, supporting diverse career goals. Such programs are vital for nurses aiming to assume roles that require enhanced clinical skills, administrative responsibilities, or educational leadership within the state's healthcare system.

The growing demand for advanced nursing roles underscores the importance of these pathways, especially as healthcare continues evolving. Nurses exploring the best BSN to MSN nursing programs North Carolina can expect flexible formats designed to accommodate working professionals, including hybrid and fully online programs. These pathways open doors to careers such as Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), nurse educator, healthcare administrator, and nursing informatics specialist.

Earning an MSN through these programs not only broadens clinical and leadership skills but also aligns with market needs, as certain roles fall within the highest paid DNP specialties. By leveraging these accelerated BSN to MSN pathways, nurses position themselves strategically for professional growth and expanded opportunities across North Carolina's healthcare landscape.

How do campus-based programs compare to online BSN to MSN programs?

Enrollment in online nursing programs has risen by about 10% annually in recent years, demonstrating a clear shift toward more flexible education models that accommodate the demanding schedules of working nurses. This trend reflects the growing workforce need for advanced nursing roles requiring specialized education. Considering these shifts, a campus vs online BSN to MSN programs North Carolina comparison reveals crucial distinctions that can guide nurses choosing their next educational step.

Key differences between campus-based and online BSN to MSN program format comparison in North Carolina include:

• Learning Format and Structure: Campus-based programs rely on face-to-face lectures and real-time discussions, fostering immediate interaction with faculty and peers. Online programs provide asynchronous digital content, allowing self-paced study though sometimes at the expense of spontaneous engagement.
• Schedule Flexibility: Online formats offer significant flexibility, enabling nurses to balance studies with work and personal life by permitting coursework during evenings or weekends. Campus programs typically have fixed schedules that require physical attendance, which can be challenging for those with full-time commitments.
• Clinical and Practicum Experiences: On-campus students participate in supervised clinicals arranged near the institution, ensuring structured oversight. Online students must coordinate local practicum placements independently, often with guidance from program staff.
• Faculty Interaction and Peer Collaboration: Campus programs foster direct, real-time communication and networking through study groups and campus events. Online learners engage through video conferencing and forums, which support interaction but may lack immediacy and personal connection.
• Technology Requirements and Learning Tools: Online students need reliable internet, devices, and proficiency with digital platforms, while campus learners can leverage campus resources like computer labs to ease technical demands.
• Cost Considerations: Campus programs often include additional expenses such as commuting and housing costs. Online programs can reduce these but sometimes charge similar or higher tuition rates.
• Ideal Student Profiles: Campus programs suit those preferring structured environments with in-person support, whereas online formats appeal to self-motivated students comfortable managing their education independently through technology.

For nurses exploring advanced practice roles, especially those interested in how to start as a adult gerontology nurse practitioner, understanding these distinctions in North Carolina BSN to MSN program format comparison is essential to making an informed choice.

What are the admission requirements for BSN to MSN programs in North Carolina?

North Carolina has seen a steady increase in enrollment for advanced nursing degrees, reflecting the growing need for skilled nurse leaders and educators in the region. This rising demand highlights the importance of meeting admission standards to secure a spot in competitive BSN to MSN programs.

Below are common requirements to prepare for admission in this evolving landscape.

• Educational Prerequisites: Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution, often maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of around 3.0 to demonstrate strong academic performance.
• Licensure: An active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in North Carolina is essential, confirming legal eligibility to practice and foundational clinical knowledge.
• Work Experience: Many programs prefer or require one to two years of professional nursing experience, helping bridge practical skills with advanced academic study.
• Standardized Tests: While many programs do not mandate the GRE, some may request scores depending on selectivity and competitive admissions criteria.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two or more recommendations from supervisors or academic mentors are needed to validate clinical competence and potential for graduate study.
• Personal Statement: Applicants submit an essay articulating career goals, motivation for advanced education, and alignment with the MSN program.
• Interviews or Assessments: Some programs include interviews or additional evaluations to gauge communication skills and specialty fit.

What specializations are available in BSN to MSN programs in North Carolina?

North Carolina's BSN to MSN programs offer a rich variety of specializations that cater to nurses aiming to elevate their expertise and impact within healthcare. These options not only develop advanced clinical skills but also expand leadership and educational capabilities, making it crucial to understand what each path entails before deciding.

Consider these prominent specializations available in many North Carolina programs:

• Nurse Practitioner (NP) Tracks: This popular pathway includes family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care, pediatrics, and psychiatric-mental health specialties. It focuses on advanced clinical training, diagnostic proficiency, and evidence-based care tailored to diverse patient populations.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Designed for nurses who want to become skilled clinical experts, this specialization emphasizes consultation, improving patient outcomes, and leading healthcare innovations through the integration of research and practice.
• Nurse Educator: Focused on curriculum development, teaching strategies, and evaluation, this track readies nurses to educate future professionals or provide ongoing learning for practicing nurses, blending theory with practical teaching methods.
• Nurse Administrator or Nurse Leader: This specialization develops skills in healthcare policy, organizational management, financial planning, and quality improvement, preparing nurses for executive roles where they can influence healthcare systems.
• Emerging Specializations: Programs increasingly offer fields like nursing informatics, which utilizes data and technology to improve care systems, and population health, highlighting community health and preventive strategies to tackle larger health disparities.

When I spoke with a nurse who completed a BSN to MSN program in North Carolina, she shared how navigating these specializations felt both exhilarating and overwhelming. She vividly recalled the challenge of balancing rigorous coursework with clinical placements and family commitments, especially when she chose the nurse educator track.

The process deepened her appreciation for the educational role, as she learned not only to teach but to adapt content to diverse learner needs. Her journey reflected not just professional growth but personal transformation, underscoring how these programs shape nurses into versatile leaders ready to meet evolving healthcare demands.

What courses are included in a BSN to MSN program in North Carolina?

BSN to MSN programs in North Carolina typically require between 36 to 48 credit hours and take about two to three years to complete, depending on whether students attend full- or part-time. These programs are carefully structured to enhance clinical expertise, leadership skills, and research capabilities.

Exploring the key courses reveals how the curriculum equips nurses for advanced practice and leadership roles.

• Advanced Pathophysiology: This course delves into complex disease processes, enabling nurses to understand how illnesses impact patient health. Mastery here is essential for accurate diagnosis and tailored care planning in advanced nursing roles.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Focused on medication management and safe prescribing practices, this course sharpens skills in therapeutic decision-making and patient safety, critical for nurse practitioners and clinical specialists.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Students refine physical and psychosocial examination techniques, essential for comprehensive patient evaluations and effective clinical decision-making.
• Nursing Research: This course emphasizes critical evaluation of evidence-based practices and strategies to improve healthcare outcomes, preparing nurses to contribute meaningfully to nursing science and quality improvement.
• Leadership and Management: Covering topics like healthcare policy, team coordination, and organizational dynamics, this course equips nurses for administrative and leadership responsibilities within healthcare settings.
• Elective or Specialization Courses: Depending on the chosen track-such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator-students engage in specialized courses like diagnostic reasoning and patient treatment planning, curriculum development and teaching strategies, or healthcare finance and quality improvement. These electives ensure readiness for specific advanced practice roles.

Overall, the BSN to MSN curriculum in North Carolina blends clinical knowledge, leadership development, and research studies to support nurses aiming for dynamic roles in advanced nursing. For those considering options beyond traditional pathways, exploring what are the best accelerated nurse practitioner online programs can provide additional insights into efficient routes toward advanced practice.

How long does it take to complete a BSN to MSN program in North Carolina?

National statistics indicate that most full-time students in North Carolina complete their BSN to MSN programs in around two years, reflecting a common timeframe for advanced nursing education. This average duration offers a useful benchmark while recognizing that individual experiences can vary significantly based on several important factors.

Examining the elements that influence program length helps prospective students make informed decisions about their education paths and career progression.

• Enrollment Status: Full-time students typically complete the program in 18 to 24 months due to a heavier, continuous course load, while part-time students often need closer to three years, balancing their studies with work or family commitments.
• Specialization Choice: Nursing specializations vary widely in clinical hour requirements and coursework complexity; some advanced practice roles demand more extensive hands-on experience, which can extend the time needed to finish.
• Clinical and Research Components: Programs with rigorous clinical placements or research projects may lengthen completion time as students devote additional hours to experiential learning and scholarly inquiry.
• Transfer Credits: Prior graduate coursework or certifications often reduce the time to degree completion, whereas limited acceptance of transfer credits can necessitate extra classes, prolonging the program.
• Course Scheduling and Delivery: Availability of required courses, particularly in online versus campus-based formats, influences how quickly students progress, with some session scheduling constraints slowing advancement.

One graduate of a North Carolina BSN to MSN program shared a reflective perspective on his journey: balancing his full-time nursing role with graduate studies was a steady challenge, especially managing intense clinical rotations alongside a demanding work schedule. Juggling night shifts in a busy hospital while completing coursework often meant late nights and early mornings, requiring rigorous time management and personal sacrifices.

However, the structure of the program allowed some flexibility, which made persistence possible. He noted that despite occasional moments of burnout, the support from faculty and peers was crucial in maintaining motivation. Looking back, he emphasizes that the journey was more than just about academic milestones-it was a transformative experience enhancing both professional competence and personal resilience.

How much do BSN to MSN programs cost in North Carolina?

Tuition for BSN to MSN programs in North Carolina typically ranges from $20,000 to $45,000 for the entire course, depending heavily on residency status and program format. In-state students generally pay 25-40% less than out-of-state peers, reflecting common public university tuition policies.

When considering the full cost of these programs, several factors beyond tuition come into play.

• Tuition (In-State vs. Out-of-State): Residents benefit from significantly reduced rates, often saving thousands over the duration of the program. Out-of-state tuition can be substantially higher due to non-resident policies, so residency status is a key consideration when evaluating costs.
• Mandatory Fees: Registration fees, technology charges, and clinical practice expenses add to the base tuition cost. These are necessary for maintaining educational resources and supporting hands-on learning components.
• Additional Costs: Textbooks, specialized clinical supplies, and software or equipment requirements may increase total expenses by several hundred to a few thousand dollars. Planning for these helps avoid unexpected financial burdens.
• Program Format Differences: Online programs often reduce or eliminate charges associated with campus fees and commuting, potentially offering a more cost-efficient pathway. However, some online options levy technology fees or require investments in remote learning tools.
• Financial Aid Opportunities: Federal loans, nursing-specific scholarships, employer tuition reimbursement, and grants are commonly available to qualified students. Exploring all aid options and consulting advisors can substantially lessen out-of-pocket costs and make graduate study more accessible.

What financial aid options are available to BSN to MSN students in North Carolina?

Financial support plays a crucial role in enabling registered nurses to advance their careers through graduate education. Exploring various financial aid options can make the path from BSN to MSN in North Carolina more manageable and less stressful.

Here are several key forms of assistance to consider:

• Federal and State Grants: While federal grants like the Pell Grant typically target undergraduates, some graduate students may qualify based on financial need. North Carolina's Nursing Scholarship Program offers grants specifically to students willing to serve in underserved areas, helping to reduce costs while addressing community healthcare needs.
• Scholarships: North Carolina nursing scholarships for graduate students come from nursing schools, professional organizations, and healthcare employers. These awards often reward academic excellence, leadership qualities, and dedication to nursing specialties, providing vital support without repayment obligations.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Many healthcare facilities in North Carolina encourage professional growth by reimbursing tuition for employees pursuing advanced nursing degrees. This option often involves a service commitment, but it offers a valuable way to balance work and education costs.
• Student Loans: Graduate nursing students can access federal loan programs such as the Federal Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS Loans. These options tend to have lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms, though it's wise to borrow conservatively and understand future responsibilities.
• Loan Forgiveness Programs: Programs like the Nurse Faculty Loan Program and Public Service Loan Forgiveness help alleviate debt for nurses working in high-need North Carolina communities. These incentives are particularly relevant for those ready to serve in rural or medically underserved areas.
• Assistantships and Work-Study: Graduate assistantships or work-study positions offered by some MSN programs provide stipends or tuition credits in exchange for teaching or research duties. Besides financial relief, these roles enrich professional experience.

Registered nurses seeking the best pathways can also learn more about the best MSN to FNP online programs available today, which often include options aligned with these financial supports.

What jobs can BSN to MSN graduates pursue in North Carolina?

Pursuing a BSN to MSN degree opens the door to a variety of advanced nursing careers across North Carolina's dynamic healthcare landscape. These opportunities not only elevate clinical expertise but also enable nurses to shape the future of healthcare delivery through leadership, education, and innovation.

Below are some key roles that graduates often pursue, each offering distinct responsibilities and work environments suitable for diverse professional goals.

• Nurse Practitioner (NP): NPs provide direct patient care, diagnose illnesses, and prescribe treatments primarily in hospitals, outpatient centers, or community clinics. Their role is vital in enhancing access to quality care, especially in primary or specialized care settings.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): CNSs focus on improving healthcare outcomes within particular patient populations or specialties. They typically work in hospital units or specialized care environments, leading quality improvements and mentoring clinical staff.
• Nurse Educator: These professionals dedicate themselves to teaching and mentoring future nurses, often employed by academic institutions or healthcare training programs. They develop curricula, deliver instruction, and support professional growth and research initiatives.
• Nurse Administrator/Nurse Leader: Leaders in nursing management handle staffing, budgeting, and policy to ensure smooth operation of nursing departments. Their work spans hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, focusing on administrative efficiency and quality care delivery.
• Emerging Roles: With healthcare technology evolving rapidly, roles such as nurse informaticists are growing, blending nursing science with information systems to optimize patient care. Other emerging positions include case managers, healthcare policy advisors, and advanced public health nurses addressing wide-ranging community health needs.

For those exploring the best BSN to MSN nursing careers in North Carolina, finding the right program is a crucial first step. You may want to explore options including the most affordable online RN to MSN degree program offerings, which can provide flexibility while preparing you for these advanced roles.

What is the average salary of BSN to MSN graduates in North Carolina?

Registered nurses in North Carolina who earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can expect to significantly boost their annual earnings, with the average salary around $94,000. This reflects the added expertise and responsibilities these advanced roles carry. Understanding the various factors that influence pay can help guide your career decisions and expectations.

Here is a breakdown of typical salary ranges and key influences for MSN-prepared nurses in North Carolina:

• Nurse Practitioners: These professionals usually earn between $90,000 and $110,000 annually. Their advanced clinical skills and ability to practice autonomously drive this higher compensation.
• Clinical Nurse Specialists: With specialized knowledge in patient care, these nurses earn from $85,000 to $100,000. Their focus on particular patient populations or care methods is highly valued.
• Nurse Educators: Often earning between $75,000 and $90,000, they play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of nurses and thus command competitive salaries.
• Nurse Administrators/Leaders: Due to the managerial and organizational responsibilities they bear, salaries range from $95,000 up to $120,000. Leadership roles generally come with greater financial rewards.
• Factors Affecting Salary: Experience, location, and specialization significantly impact pay. Metropolitan areas like Charlotte and Raleigh tend to offer higher salaries, and nurses focusing on in-demand specialties, such as acute care or psychiatry, often see better compensation.
• Salary Growth Over Time: Extended experience in advanced nursing positions can lead to salary increases of 10% or more, rewarding commitment and skill development in the field.

What Graduates of BSN to MSN Programs in North Carolina Say About Their Degree

• Completing my BSN to MSN program online while living in Raleigh allowed me to balance family commitments and study at my own pace. The curriculum was tailored to North Carolina's diverse healthcare environment, which prepared me to start teaching health education at Green Valley Elementary. I truly feel empowered knowing that my work directly impacts the future health habits of our local youth. This program not only enhanced my clinical skills but also deepened my passion for community wellness. The flexibility and support made all the difference in reaching my goals. Nyelle
• The on-campus BSN to MSN program at UNC Chapel Hill provided a rigorous academic experience, combining both theory and practical leadership skills. After graduation, I accepted a role as a registered nurse educator at Blue Ridge High School, where I advocate for innovative nursing practices and mentor the next generation of nurses. The faculty's dedication and the program's connection to North Carolina's healthcare systems gave me the confidence to advance professionally. This degree truly opened doors to leadership opportunities in education within my state. I am proud to contribute to healthier communities from the classroom out. Rylan
• Participating in a hybrid BSN to MSN program while working in Charlotte expanded my professional development far beyond clinical nursing. The program emphasized cultural competence and the unique health challenges facing North Carolina's rural and urban populations. My role now at Pine Grove Middle School allows me to combine my passion for nursing with advocacy for student well-being in a diverse community. Reflecting on my journey, the growth I experienced both personally and professionally underscores the value of accessible advanced education. It's fulfilling to see how my efforts foster positive change and inspire young people around me. Saphira

References:

• How Much Nurses Make in NC: Salary Guide https://www.carerev.com/blog/how-much-nurses-make-in-north-carolina
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Salary: Highest Paying MSN Jobs and States in 2025 https://nightingale.edu/blog/msn-salary.html
• How to Become a Community Health Nurse https://www.allnursingschools.com/specialties/north-carolina-programs/
• Nursing - MSN https://catalog.wssu.edu/preview_program.php
• Nursing: Nurse Educator, M. S. N. https://academics.charlotte.edu/program/nursing-nurse-educator-m-s-n-online/
• 5 Top MSN Programs in North Carolina https://betternurse.org/top-msn-programs-in-nc/
• Salary in North Carolina - NC for MSN-Educated Nurse Practitioners and More https://www.msnedu.org/north-carolina/north-carolina-salary/
• 2026 Best MSN and RN-to-MSN Programs in North Carolina https://www.registerednursing.org/degree/msn/north-carolina/
• Nursing Salary by State https://teach.com/online-ed/healthcare-degrees/online-msn-programs/nursing-salary-by-state/
• Nursing Programs Financial Aid https://school.wakehealth.edu/education-and-training/nursing-programs/financial-aid

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