MSN Programs in Maryland

Maryland MSN Programs

Nursing is a field that offers exciting opportunities and challenges, and is also fast growing. While one can work as a registered nurse with an associate's or bachelor's degree, earning a master's degree in nursing drastically increases one's job possibilities. MSN programs in Maryland offer the education nurses need in order to take their careers to the next level.

Maryland residents can enroll in MSN programs either online or in a classroom. These programs have both similarities and differences. Applicants have to determine their areas of specialty while looking into programs so that they can pick one that will best accommodate their career goals. Graduates typically go on to become certified in an advanced practice specialty, or to become educations or managers. The first step in earning an MSN is to choose a program.

Online vs. Traditional Programs

Traditional, on-campus MSN programs available in Maryland allow students to learn in lectures taught by live professors. This program format gives students an opportunity to network with fellow students. Many also value the face-to-face contact with an instructor which makes him or her appear to be more accessible. The downsides to these programs are that there is a small number of students admitted each year and students are required to travel to campus at specified times in order to attend classes.

Online programs don't always enable students to have face-to-face contact with instructors and fellow students. This program format attempts to mimic traditional programs in order to be as effective as possible, and many people have great experiences with distance learning. Online programs provide greater flexibility, as students can complete classes and coursework at any time around the clock, and anywhere in the country. For some, these programs are much easier to balance with a busy schedule.

One accredited online MSN program is that Maryland residents can take advantage of is that offered by Georgetown University. This program allows students to choose from the following areas of study: AG-Acute Care NP/CNS, Family NP, Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Midwife/Women's Health NP. Students are required to complete 35-49 credits over 12-24 months full-time or 24-26 months part-time, depending on the chosen specialty.

Capella University's online MSN program also offers many specializations, including care coordination, nursing education, nursing informatics and nursing leadership and administration. This MSN curriculum ranges from 54-66 credits, and most specialty tracks also include a clinical component.

Admission Requirements

The following admission requirements are common for both online and on-site MSN programs:

  • BSN from an accredited program with 3.0 GPA or higher
  • 'C' or better in an undergraduate statistics course
  • Official transcripts
  • Current resume/CV
  • Goal statement or essay
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Non-native English speakers: TOEFL

Tuition

Tuition varies by program. Current cost information can only be used as an estimate, as this information is subject to change annually.

Additional Resources

MSN Schools Near You & Online in Maryland

Bowie State University

  • 14000 Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD 20715
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (301) 860-4000

Towson University

  • 8000 York Road Towson, MD 21252
    Programs: BSN, MSN, Physician Assistant, RN, RN to BSN
    (410) 704-2000