Nursing MSN (Online)

Real-World Impact, Real Student Voices

Hear how Montclair’s Online MSN program helped working nurses like Elsie advance their careers while balancing real-life responsibilities.

“I liked the practicality and flexibility. As a working nurse, I was able to incorporate my work into my studies and my studies into my work. It wasn’t just reading content from a book — it was about how that content applied to what I was already doing.”

Elsie Alabi-Gonzalez, MSN, RN ‘18 & ‘21
Program: MSN in Nursing Education

Cost & Financial Aid

As a public institution, Montclair offers one of the most affordable nursing programs in New Jersey.

The School of Nursing proudly partners with Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center, Atlantic Health System, and St. Joseph’s University Medical Center to provide a 20% tuition discount for eligible employees enrolled in the Online MSN program.

Admission Requirements

To apply to Montclair’s MSN program, you’ll need to submit:

• A completed online application
  
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
• A minimum 3.0 GPA in your undergraduate studies
• A current resume
  
• RN licensure in good standing or eligibility for RN licensure if you’re a new graduate
  • New graduate nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN within 6 months of matriculation.
• Two letters of recommendation from faculty members or employers
• A one-page personal statement outlining:
  • Your reason for applying
  • Your learning goals
  • Relevant professional experience

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

RN to MSN Bridge

Already a licensed RN with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field? You can apply directly to the Online MSN program through the RN to MSN Bridge.

Upon acceptance into the program, you’ll complete the following four undergraduate-level nursing courses before beginning in master’s-level coursework:

• NURS 340 – Information Technology and Nursing Practice (3 credits)
• NURS 350 – Evidence-based Practice in Nursing (3 credits)
• NURS 410 – Leadership in Nursing (3 credits)
• NURS 432 – Population and Global Health: Didactic and Practicum (4 credits)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Online MSN at Montclair accredited?

Yes. The master’s degree program in nursing at Montclair State University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

How does an MSN increase my earning potential?

Earning an MSN degree can substantially increase a registered nurse’s earning potential. Advanced practice roles in administration and education often carry higher salaries compared to those with a BSN degree.

How long does the Online MSN program take to complete?

The Online MSN program can be completed in just two-to-three years of part-time study.

Is a BSN required for admission to this program?

The Online MSN program is able to accept registered nurses that have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline. Accepted students who do not hold a BSN degree must complete additional undergraduate-level nursing coursework prior to beginning their master’s-level coursework.

If I move out of New Jersey during the program, can I still complete my clinical hours?

Clinical experiences are arranged and supervised in New Jersey. If you relocate, you must still be able to return to the state to complete your required hours. Students must hold a New Jersey RN license or compact license that grants practice privileges in the state.