RN to MSN Online Nursing Bridge Program

Drexel's online MSN bridge program is designed for RNs who want to pursue an MSN but have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, or a BSN equivalent degree. The required "bridge course" is NURS 341: Using Genetics and Genomics to Inform Nursing Care Delivery (4.5 quarter credits). As a 100% online course, it is convenient and accessible for at-work nurses, and is offered in all of our 10-week, quarter term sessions.

Once you complete all the application requirements and are offered admission to the MSN program, you will begin graduate-level nursing courses. The BSN degree is not awarded in this program. Learn more about earning your BSN and MSN in a combined program.

RN to MSN Bridge Program at a Glance

Online lectures feature a highly interactive synchronous e-learning method which challenges and engages you
Drexel’s master's degree in nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
You will learn from an experienced and board-certified faculty from Drexel’s acclaimed College of Nursing and Health Professions

Questions? We're here to help!

College of Nursing and Health Professions Program Team
CNHPGraduateDivision@drexel.edu

Can You Earn an MSN without a BSN?

Yes, you can earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree without first obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Current nurses with their RN licensure but a bachelor’s degree in an alternative field may be eligible to bridge into one of Drexel’s online MSN Advanced Role tracks.

How Long is the RN to MSN Bridge Program?

Drexel’s MSN bridge program consists of one course, which can be completed in one 10-week term. Upon completion of the bridge course, you will begin your graduate-level MSN classes in the MSN Advanced Role track of your choice. While the timeframes can vary depending upon the track chosen, the average completion time is 2-3 years.

Eligible MSN Degrees for Nursing Bridge Programs

MSN: Leadership in Health Systems Management
MSN: Nursing Education
MSN: Quality, Safety, and Risk Management in Healthcare
MSN: Undeclared
Nurse Practitioner programs are not eligible

State restrictions may apply to some programs.
The RN-to-MSN Bridge program at Drexel University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Curriculum

NURS 341	Using Genetics and Genomics to Inform Nursing Care Delivery	4.5
Total Credits		4.5

This course focuses on current issues in genetics, genomics, and pharmacogenomics and healthcare. Genetic and genomic influences across the healthcare continuum (health prevention, health promotion, disease management, and personalized medicine) are addressed.

Admissions Process

To apply, please complete the admission process to the MSN program of your choice:

Once admitted, you'll be required to take a required “bridge course”, NURS 335: Genetics and Genomics: Application to Nursing Practice. After successful completion of the bridge course, you'll progress directly into graduate-level courses. The BSN is not awarded in this program.

Admissions Requirements

A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- BSN degrees must be from an institution accredited by CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education), ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing), or NLN CNEA (NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation)
Cumulative GPA of 3.0
- If your GPA is lower, you're still encouraged to apply, but should ensure that relevant professional experience is included on your resume. You must also provide two professional letters of recommendation from either previous or immediate supervisors or former faculty members who can attest to your clinical knowledge, skill, and potential aptitude for graduate study.
While specific clinical work and/or volunteer experience is not required, it may make your application more competitive.

Required Documents

With multiple ways to submit documents, Drexel makes it easy to complete your application. Learn more by visiting our Completing Your Application Guide.

A completed application
Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions attended (including trade schools)
Two professional letters of recommendation from either previous or immediate supervisors or former faculty members who can attest to your clinical knowledge, skill, and potential aptitude for graduate study
- If you have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, this requirement can be waived
Personal statement describing your interest in the program and particular specialty
Resume
Copy of your United States RN license
Additional requirements for International Students

An admissions interview may be required.

Tuition

The tuition rate for the academic year 2025-2026 is $1169 per credit. (A 10% tuition savings off Drexel's regular tuition rate of $1298 per credit)

Academic Calendar

2025-2026 Academic Year

Term

Classes Begin

Classes End

Exams Begin

Exams End

Fall 2025

September 22, 2025

December 6, 2025

December 8, 2025

December 13, 2025

Winter 2026

January 5, 2026

March 14, 2026

March 16, 2026

March 21, 2026

Spring 2026

March 30, 2026

June 6, 2026

June 8, 2026

June 13, 2026

Summer 2026

June 22, 2026

August 29, 2026

August 31, 2026

September 5, 2026

Apply for admission to Drexel University

Use the Apply Now form to get started.

Previously enrolled at Drexel? Learn more about readmission.

Any problems? Find help or contact us.