The nursing profession is not limited to dispensing medication and performing procedures. Many nurses are interested in going beyond the bedside to pursue related fields, such as nursing administration, nursing education, and family practice nursing. Others seek employment in advanced patient care roles like nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, and nurse practitioner. Nurses interested in these specialized careers will find that a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree positions them well.

A master of science in nursing (MSN) is the best degree option for professional nurses on the management, research, administration, or teaching path. While a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree can open the door to some advancement opportunities, an MSN degree is highly desired by hospitals, universities, and research institutes seeking skilled administrators, educators, and managers. MSN programs, which typically take 18-24 months to complete, are usually offered at top-tier colleges and universities.

Depending on the type of school (public vs. private), the type of program (certificate vs. associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree), and whether or not you are a local resident, the costs of nursing school tuition can vary dramatically. Housing costs are also an important consideration: students living on campus can expect to pay more than those commuting from home. While there is no set amount for the expenses of nursing school, we can provide a range that may be useful during your search.

The state of Texas is home to some of the nation’s most respected private colleges. Baylor University, Houston Baptist University, and Texas Christian University are just a few prestigious examples. The state’s private colleges are also home to some of America’s best nursing schools. Besides their excellent academic reputations and renowned programs in specialized fields, many of these private schools offer more personalized attention than public schools thanks to smaller class sizes.

The primary difference between private and public schools lies in their sources of funding. While public colleges or universities receive the bulk of their funding from the state government, private schools depend on tuition, endowment, and donations from family, friends, corporations, and other outside sources. Although this generally translates into higher tuition costs, private schools tend to be more generous with financial aid to help bridge the gap.