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Online Degree Overview

RN to Master of Science in Nursing in Nurse Administrator

Skilled nurse administrators can transform the care of patients and communities through evidence-based, outcome-oriented nursing leadership, and an unwavering focus on nursing excellence. At South University, the Online RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Specialization in Nurse Administrator degree program can put you on a path to joining the next generation of nursing leaders.

While earning a master’s with a Specialization in Nurse Administrator, you can develop knowledge and skills needed for designing healthcare systems, making policy and financial decisions, promoting patient safety and quality care, and incorporating contemporary technology, practice, and ethics into healthcare.

Admission Requirements

Procedure for Admission to the RN to Master of Science in Nursing Degree Program

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states.   Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The criteria to determine admission to the Master of Science in Nursing degree program include:

  • Completion of the application for admission.
  • An associate's degree in nursing from an accredited collegiate institution, or a diploma in nursing from an accredited institution.
  • A cumulative CGPA of 2.5 or better on a 4.0 scale.
  • Submission of official transcripts from every college or university attended within 5*/10 weeks after the initial start date. *Effective March 22, 2022 - Students beginning classes at the Montgomery campus or High Point Off Campus Instructional Site will have five weeks to submit acceptable documentation. ​*Effective April 1, 2022 - Students beginning classes at the Richmond and West Palm Beach campuses will have five weeks to submit acceptable documentation.  *Effective May 31, 2022 - Students beginning classes at the Tampa and Orlando campuses will have five weeks to submit acceptable documentation. *Effective July 12, 2022 - Students beginning classes at the Austin and Columbia campuses will have five weeks to submit acceptable documentation. *Effective August 16, 2022 - Students beginning classes at the Savannah and Virginia Beach campuses will have five weeks to submit acceptable documentation.
  • A valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in all US states or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program. (Note that military, federal, and foreign educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure).

Note: In order to progress into Graduate level nursing courses, a student must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA.  Students with a cumulative GPA of less than 3.0 may transition to the RN to BSN program to complete their BSN and then apply for the MSN program.

Course Requirements

RN to Master of Science in Nursing


Area I: General Education: 76 Credits


A transcript evaluation is completed for each student to transfer in up to 90 general education credits. For students to receive block transfer credit for General Education courses, they must meet the standard outlined in the General Education Transfer Credit policy.

Professional Development

Basic Communications

Mathematics and Statistics

Natural Sciences


Arts and Humanities (chose two)

Social and Behavioral Sciences

General Education Elective (Choose Two)

Area II Foundation Requirements: 14 Credits


Undergraduate Nursing (45 transfer credits + 36 credits from South University)

Graduate Nursing (Students must complete core credits and one specialization)


MSN Core: 20 Credits

Specialization in Nurse Administrator: 28 Credits for Specialization, 219 Total Credits for Program


Offered at South University, Online Programs.

For the most up to date information on course requirements, please visit the academic catalog.

Outcomes

Offered at Savannah, Online Programs, and Tampa.

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The RN to Master of Science in Nursing program allows students with strong academic backgrounds to reduce the number of courses required in the undergraduate component of the program. Students substitute certain graduate courses for undergraduate nursing courses. The program includes integrated practica experience, didactic instruction, and a summative project to assess individual student learning outcomes.

Students who successfully complete all requirements of RN to Master of Science in Nursing program will be awarded the Master of Science in Nursing degree.*

* Note: Students interested in a BSN should confer with their Academic Counselor or Program Director.

Career Outlook

This online MSN with a Specialization in Nurse Administrator program is ideal for RNs who wish to pursue leadership roles such as a Director of Nursing, or Nurse Manager.

Online Classroom

Haven’t experienced online learning before or wondering what it’s like to earn your degree online at South University? While the mode of learning is different from the traditional classroom experience with added convenience and flexibility, we hold the same high standards of academic excellence in the online classroom. 

South University’s online programs combine a curriculum designed for student outcomes and a classroom designed for flexibility and engagement. Our online classroom learning platform, Brightspace, provides you with a host of features to enhance your learning experience, including:

  • Advanced media content
  • Personalized navigation
  • Simplified online learning atmosphere
  • Access to digital books
  • Emailing and instant messaging options

We provide more than just an online classroom, bringing a range of campus experiences and services online. In addition, the online classroom is accessible on the go via mobile devices and with tools like the Pulse App. Pulse helps you stay connected and on track with your course by providing a number of features such as course calendars, readings and assignments, feedback and grades, and announcements.

Read more about online requirements here

Comments and Concerns

All Fields Are Required

The purpose of this form is to provide a process for the general public to submit comments, concerns, or complaints regarding their interaction with the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, Post Graduate Certificate, or Doctor of Nursing Practice program. A record of all complaints will be maintained and secured by campus administration. If you are a South University student, please submit your comments, concerns, or complaints according to the process outlined in the University Catalog or programmatic handbook. Please contact your Program Director or Academic Counselor if you need additional guidance.

To file an anonymous complaint, please submit the comment, concern, or complaint in a written letter or via email directly to the campus.

Authorization for South University to contact you to collect additional factual information regarding your comment, concern, or complaint

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success stories

Outstanding Education for Remarkable Careers

We're committed to helping our graduates make impact in their professional and personal lives. We applaud our nursing alumni and the difference they make. Check out what some of our graduates have to say.

Charrita Ernewein
Charrita Ernewein Grad Alumni
Class of ‘12 and ‘15
Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice-South University, Tampa

“Being a military wife, I had the opportunity to work all over as a nurse in many specialties. Now that my children are older, I am focused on helping others, training the next generation of nurses and nurse practitioners, fighting human trafficking and influencing the policies that affect my profession. Read more

Michela Mazard
Michela Lambert Mazard Grad Alumni
Class of ‘11 and ‘16
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing-South University, Online Programs

“I wanted an education that would prepare me to build relationships and treat patients and families throughout their lifespan with interaction among their physical, emotional, and mental systems. I chose South University because I was confident that I would receive a well-rounded education that ensures I am armed with the skill set I need to provide the best care possible. Read more

Shirrelle M Everett 2015
Shirrelle Everett Grad Alumni
Class of '15
Bachelor of Science in Nursing-South University, Richmond

“It took me almost ten years to realize that without an education I would be stuck working for minimum wage at dead-end jobs, I was a single mother of two children living on welfare. South University allowed me to gain the knowledge and skills needed to advance my career at my own pace. My education has enabled me to take care of my family.”

Sergio Ocampo 2010
Sergio Ocampo Grad Alumni
Class of '10
Bachelor of Science in Nursing-South University, Online Programs

“[I] considered myself a competent nurse, but after I received my BSN from South University, my confidence [went] through the roof, making me a valuable asset to my hospital [and] earning high respect from my colleagues and hospital administration.”

Lisa Godwin 2009
Lisa Godwin Grad Alumni
Class of '09
Bachelor of Science in Nursing-South University, Tampa

“When I graduated, I passed the NCLEX and quickly got a great job as an RN. I felt very prepared for my new role and within less than five months, I was a charge nurse for a 36-bed med-surg unit. I'm very glad I chose South University for the start of my nursing career. My education gave me a great foundation and has made me a better nurse and practitioner.”

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing, the Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).