Looking for an advanced practice nursing degree? Explore our Adult-Gerontology Primary Care or Family Nurse Practitioner specializations.

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MSN in Nursing Leadership and Administration
Master of Science in Nursing

Want to inspire and lead others as you implement the goals of a healthcare organization? Develop your operational skills and prepare to lead with an online MSN in Nursing Leadership and Administration. You’ll be equipped with the knowledge and best practices to effectively communicate with other members of a healthcare team as a well-rounded nurse executive.

This specialization is CCNE accredited* and available in both FlexPath and GuidedPath learning formats. 

*The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Capella University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Professional relevance

This program incorporates AACN principles for nurse executives and AACN Essentials for professional nursing education.

Practicum experience

Our integrated capstone and practicum allows you to work with an organization to solve real-world challenges. Learn more about the practicum

Employer partnerships

Capella University partners with more than 600 healthcare employers, including leading hospital systems and insurance providers.

Classes start December 1

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

  • Online
  • FlexPath available
  • CCNE accredited
  • 7 Core courses
  • 4 Specialization courses
  • 2 Practicum courses
  • 54 Total credits (8 max transfer)

With FlexPath, you can earn your MSN in 14 months and under $15,000.*

*Based on fastest 25% of students. Your program length and cost will vary by transfer credits, the per-session cost, and how quickly you complete courses. Books, supplies, and other fees apply.

What can you do with an MSN in Nursing Leadership and Administration degree?

Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome, such as a job title, promotion, or salary increase, we encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here are some ideas and examples for a graduate with an MSN in Nursing Leadership & Administration.

Job titles to explore

  • Assistant director of nursing
  • Assistant nurse manager
  • Chief nursing officer
  • Clinical director
  • Clinical manager
  • Clinical supervisor
  • Director of ambulatory services
  • Director of behavioral health
  • Director of case management
  • Director of clinical operations
  • Director of clinical services
  • Director of emergency services
  • Director of nursing
  • Director of rehabilitation
  • Director of surgical services
  • Executive director
  • Nurse manager
  • Nursing manager
  • Program director

Employment settings to explore

  • Administration of Veterans Affairs
  • Administrative management and general management consulting services
  • Colleges, universities and professional schools
  • Direct health and medical insurance carriers
  • General medical and surgical hospitals
  • Home healthcare services
  • Kidney dialysis centers
  • Miscellaneous ambulatory healthcare services
  • Nursing care facilities (skilled nursing facilities)
  • Offices of physicians (except mental health specialists)
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers
  • Specialty (except psychiatric and substance abuse) hospitals

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.