Program overview

Rider’s online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is designed to help you develop the skills, experience and confidence to excel as a nurse practitioner. You will learn to practice across various health care environments and make autonomous decisions in patient care. Courses for this part-time program are offered 100% online with only one in-person residency to fit the needs of working nurses. Specialize your degree with our selection of high-demand concentrations in adult-gerontology primary care, family nurse practitioner or psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner — so you can follow your passion, wherever it may lead.

Growing demand for nurses

Enhance your nursing education with a degree that meets the demands of the rapidly evolving health care industry to provide you with the elevated scope of practice necessary for career autonomy.

114,900

projected job openings for nurse practitioners in the next decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021)

52%

expected employment growth for nurse practitioners by 2030 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021)

$121.6K+

median annual salary for a nurse practitioner (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022)

Lead new and innovative approaches to care

With advanced clinical expertise in primary care settings, expanded experience and demonstrated clinical competence, you’ll be well-trained to establish yourself as a transformational leader in a high-growth field and having the ability to practice to your full scope of practice.

You’ll be prepared to think critically and work collaboratively to promote quality and equitable care and improve health outcomes for clients, families and diverse communities. If you’re ready to guide new and innovative approaches to care, we can help you become a true difference-maker.

Graduates may also choose to explore nonclinical nursing roles in administration, education, government, public policy, or research.

group of nurses
A nurse with an old couple.

Program requirements

Our flexible and convenient online curriculum provides diverse approaches to teaching and engaged faculty that encourage self-directed learning and critical reasoning. Build on your bachelor’s-level nursing education to expand the scope of practice.

The program offers three nurse practitioner concentrations. The family nurse practitioner (FNP) concentration requires 48 credits and 700 clinical hours for degree completion. The adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (AGPCNP) requires 42 credits and 580 clinical hours for degree completion. The psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) requires 49 credits and 640 clinical hours. You will complete clinicals locally in your preferred setting.

What sets Rider's Online MSN program apart?

When you graduate with your online M.S. in Nursing from Rider, you have the opportunity to establish yourself in a high-growth field. 

Features of the program include:

  • Part-time, standalone program with flexible 100% online courses to accommodate students who work full-time
  • Multiple application deadlines: Fall - August 15, Spring - December 15, Summer - May 1
  • Three convenient start dates
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • Highly skilled and dedicated faculty
  • Flexibility to complete your clinical hours in a timeframe that works best for you
  • Preparation to sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) exams
  • Faculty support in locating optimal clinical experiences

CCNE accredited

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing and the post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Rider University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791. 

CCNE Accredited

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Nurse discusses a patient with colleagues

Nursing licensure requirements by state

Prior to enrolling in Rider's MSN program, prospective or current students should review state licensure requirements as a nurse. Completion from a Rider University program does not necessarily guarantee eligibility for state licensure; or receipt of a license.

University partnerships

Rider University is proud to partner with Capital Health and give back to healthcare workers by offering a tuition discount and additional benefits to eligible employees. Other partners include The State of New Jersey, Penn Medicine Princeton Health (through the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber) and Pyramid Healthcare, Inc.

Contact

Lori Prol

Assistant Professor

Bierenbaum Fisher Hall

lprol [at] rider.edu

609-896-5348

Academic Focus: Nursing

Department of Health Sciences and Nursing

Science and Technology Center