Top RN to MSN Programs in New Mexico
RN-to-MSN programs provide an expedited pathway for students to attain both a bachelor’s and master’s degree, equipping them for specialized and supervisory roles in the field of nursing.
Depending on the individual’s prior educational background and the chosen learning format, it is possible to obtain an MSN in as few as three years.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses (RNs) in New Mexico earn an average annual salary just under $70,000.
However, those with an advanced degree garner significantly higher earnings.
This page offers a comprehensive overview of RN-to-MSN programs in New Mexico, encompassing details on admission and licensure requirements, the employment outlook for advanced practice nurses, and resources tailored for nursing professionals working within the state. Additionally, our guide includes a ranking of the top RN-to-MSN programs in New Mexico.
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Top MSN Programs in New Mexico
1. University of New Mexico College of Nursing
- Location: Albuquerque, NM
- Website: https://nursing.unm.edu
- Description: The University of New Mexico College of Nursing offers an exceptional RN-to-MSN program designed for registered nurses who wish to advance their careers by obtaining a Master of Science in Nursing. This program provides a seamless path from the RN to MSN level, allowing nurses to build on their clinical experience and gain advanced knowledge in nursing practice. The curriculum covers a variety of topics, including nursing leadership, healthcare policy, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical skills. Students can specialize in areas such as family nurse practitioner (FNP), nurse educator, and nurse leader. The program is designed to be flexible, with both online and on-campus options, allowing working nurses to balance their education with their professional careers. UNM’s nursing program is known for its strong ties to healthcare organizations across New Mexico, providing students with valuable clinical experiences.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: Approx. $8,500 per year (in-state graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
2. New Mexico State University College of Health and Social Services
- Location: Las Cruces, NM
- Website: https://chss.nmsu.edu/nursing
- Description: New Mexico State University’s College of Health and Social Services offers a well-respected RN-to-MSN program that prepares registered nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. The program is designed to be completed online, providing maximum flexibility for working nurses. The curriculum covers advanced nursing practice, research, leadership, and healthcare policy. NMSU’s RN-to-MSN program allows students to specialize in areas such as family nurse practitioner (FNP) or nurse educator, providing a solid foundation for advanced practice roles. The program also includes clinical components where students can apply their knowledge in real-world healthcare settings, allowing them to gain practical experience in the field. NMSU is committed to serving the needs of rural and underserved populations, and the program reflects that focus by preparing graduates to work in diverse healthcare environments.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: Approx. $7,500 per year (in-state graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
3. Western New Mexico University School of Nursing
- Location: Silver City, NM
- Website: https://www.wnmu.edu/academics/college-of-health-and-human-services/nursing/
- Description: Western New Mexico University offers a flexible RN-to-MSN program that allows registered nurses to progress directly from their RN to a Master’s of Science in Nursing. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals, with most coursework available online. Students can choose from several tracks, including nurse educator, nursing leadership, and family nurse practitioner. The curriculum is designed to provide nurses with advanced clinical skills, leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of healthcare systems and policy. WNMU’s program is focused on preparing nurses to address the unique healthcare needs of rural and underserved populations in New Mexico. Students have access to clinical placements that allow them to apply their learning in real-world settings, ensuring they are well-prepared for advanced practice roles in the nursing field.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: Approx. $5,000 per year (in-state graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
4. Eastern New Mexico University Department of Nursing
- Location: Portales, NM
- Website: https://www.enmu.edu/academics/colleges/college-of-education-and-technology/nursing
Description: Eastern New Mexico University offers a comprehensive RN-to-MSN program that enables registered nurses to earn a Master’s degree in Nursing while continuing to work in their professional roles. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, with both online coursework and in-person clinical components, providing flexibility for working nurses. ENMU offers several specialization tracks, including nursing leadership and nurse educator, equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in leadership roles and contribute to the advancement of nursing practice. The program emphasizes community health, rural healthcare, and evidence-based practice, which are essential for addressing the needs of underserved populations in New Mexico. Graduates are prepared for advanced practice roles in nursing and leadership positions in healthcare organizations. 
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: Approx. $5,000 per year (in-state graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
5. San Juan College School of Nursing
- Location: Farmington, NM
- Website: https://www.sanjuancollege.edu
- Description: San Juan College offers an RN-to-MSN program that is designed to help registered nurses advance their education and career without disrupting their professional schedules. The program is available entirely online, offering flexibility for students to complete coursework at their own pace. The curriculum includes advanced nursing courses in leadership, healthcare policy, and clinical practice, preparing students for higher-level roles in healthcare. San Juan College’s program focuses on the needs of rural and underserved populations, aligning with the region’s healthcare priorities. Students also participate in clinical placements that provide hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings, ensuring they are well-prepared for leadership and advanced practice roles.
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Tuition: Approx. $3,500 per year (in-state graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
6. University of Phoenix – New Mexico Campus
- Location: Albuquerque, NM
- Website: https://www.phoenix.edu
- Description: The University of Phoenix offers an RN-to-MSN program designed to provide registered nurses with an efficient pathway to earning their Master of Science in Nursing. The program is fully online, allowing students to continue working while pursuing their advanced degrees. It offers concentrations in areas like nursing leadership and healthcare informatics. Students will build on their clinical experience and acquire knowledge in critical areas such as healthcare systems, nursing theory, and evidence-based practice. The University of Phoenix focuses on providing a flexible and accessible education for nurses, enabling them to prepare for leadership roles and enhance their professional skills while managing their work-life balance.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: Approx. $9,000 per year (graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
7. University of Phoenix – Albuquerque Campus
- Location: Albuquerque, NM
- Website: https://www.phoenix.edu/campus-locations/nm/albuquerque.html
- Description: The University of Phoenix – Albuquerque Campus offers an RN-to-MSN program designed for nurses looking to advance into leadership positions. The program is available online and emphasizes the development of leadership, nursing theory, and healthcare delivery systems. Nurses enrolled in the program have access to experienced faculty and are encouraged to participate in real-world clinical placements, where they can apply what they’ve learned in practice. The University of Phoenix provides a supportive learning environment, offering resources like career services and mentorship to help students succeed. The program also focuses on areas such as nursing informatics and health policy, which are essential for modern nursing practice.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: Approx. $10,000 per year (graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
8. New Mexico Highlands University
- Location: Las Vegas, NM
- Website: https://www.nmhu.edu
- Description: New Mexico Highlands University offers an RN-to-MSN program that combines online courses with in-person clinical experiences, giving registered nurses a flexible and comprehensive path to earning their MSN. The program is tailored to the unique healthcare needs of New Mexico’s diverse populations, focusing on rural healthcare, community nursing, and public health. Students can specialize in areas such as nursing leadership, education, and advanced practice nursing. The curriculum is designed to enhance nurses’ clinical, leadership, and research skills, preparing them for advanced roles in the healthcare system. NMHU’s program emphasizes a commitment to service and social justice, making it an excellent option for those dedicated to improving healthcare for underserved communities.
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Tuition: Approx. $5,500 per year (in-state graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
9. Pima Medical Institute – Albuquerque Campus
- Location: Albuquerque, NM
- Website: https://www.pmi.edu
- Description: Pima Medical Institute offers a fast-track RN-to-MSN program for registered nurses who want to pursue their Master’s in Nursing in a shorter timeframe. The program is designed with the working nurse in mind and offers a flexible online format. Pima Medical focuses on providing students with a strong foundation in leadership, nursing theory, clinical practice, and healthcare systems. The RN-to-MSN pathway is an ideal choice for those interested in advancing to roles like nurse manager, educator, or family nurse practitioner. The program incorporates evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and clinical reasoning to ensure graduates are prepared for the complexities of modern healthcare.
- Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $8,000 per year (graduate) 
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
10. Santa Fe Community College School of Nursing
- Location: Santa Fe, NM
- Website: https://www.sfcc.edu
- Description: Santa Fe Community College offers a supportive RN-to-MSN program that is designed for registered nurses seeking to further their education and career in the nursing field. The program is structured to allow students to complete much of their coursework online while participating in clinical practice in local healthcare facilities. The program is tailored to those who wish to advance in nursing leadership, nurse education, or advanced clinical practice. Santa Fe Community College provides a close-knit community of learners, faculty, and staff, ensuring that students receive the support and resources they need to succeed in this advanced program.
- Accreditation: ACEN
- Tuition: Approx. $5,000 per year (in-state graduate)
- Programs: RN-to-MSN
- Online Options: Yes
Requirements for RN-to-MSN Programs in New Mexico
To enroll in an RN-to-MSN program, possessing an RN license is a prerequisite. Becoming an RN in New Mexico necessitates completion of a state-approved diploma or associate program in nursing, undergoing a criminal background check, and successfully passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). RNs are required to renew their license every two years and fulfill a minimum of 30 hours of professional development to qualify for renewal.
Educational prerequisites vary among programs. While some RN-to-MSN programs admit students with only a nursing diploma, others may specifically require an associate degree. Furthermore, some programs may mandate prospective students to hold a bachelor’s degree, although it doesn’t necessarily need to be in nursing. It is advisable to contact the admissions office of individual schools for precise information. Generally, online programs do not mandate an entrance exam for admission.
Apart from postsecondary training, certain schools may stipulate a specific amount of professional or clinical experience from applicants. Students often fulfill these requirements while working toward earning their RN license, although some programs may prefer candidates with at least two years of experience as a licensed practical nurse or RN.
Once enrolled in an RN-to-MSN program, maintaining a minimum GPA in bachelor’s-level courses may be necessary to gain approval for taking graduate-level classes. Many programs stipulate a 3.5 GPA as a requirement to stay on an accelerated track.
Nursing Licensure Requirements in New Mexico
As previously mentioned, obtaining an RN license in New Mexico involves completing a diploma or associate program in nursing, passing a criminal background check, and successfully passing the NCLEX-RN. Advanced levels of nursing licensure come with additional requirements.
For instance, in addition to being a licensed RN, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) candidates in the state must complete a graduate-level nursing program. These programs must be accredited by either the Accreditation Commission For Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Alternatively, APRN education requirements can be met through training and experience in the armed forces instead of earning a graduate degree.
APRN candidates need national certification. To attain national certification as a nurse practitioner, passing an exam administered by either the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners is required. Aspiring nurse anesthetists, on the other hand, must pass an exam offered by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists. While the content and nature of these tests vary by specialization, significant preparation is essential.
Out-of-state applicants can apply for an APRN license in New Mexico if they can demonstrate at least two years of previous experience as a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife in another jurisdiction. All APRNs are required to renew their license every two years and complete at least 50 hours of professional development before renewal. APRNs seeking prescriptive authority must meet additional clinical experience requirements and submit a separate application for prescriptive authority. 
Employment Outlook For MSN Graduates in New Mexico
Upon completing an RN-to-MSN program in New Mexico, graduates can pursue licensure as a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife. The growing demand for healthcare services and the increasingly central role played by APRNs in providing primary care result in exceptional job prospects for program graduates.
The BLS forecasts a 36% growth in national employment for nurse practitioners through 2026, surpassing the overall economy’s growth rate by more than five times. In New Mexico, approximately 960 nurse practitioners earn an average salary of around $109,000, notably higher than the state’s annual mean wage for all occupations, which is approximately $45,000.
While the BLS projects a more moderate growth rate of 16% for nurse anesthetists through 2026, these positions offer significantly higher salaries. In 2017, about 40 nurse anesthetists in New Mexico earned salaries exceeding $150,000.
Finally, the BLS predicts a 21% increase in employment for nurse midwives in the coming years, with New Mexico having the second-highest concentration of nurse midwife jobs in the country. On average, nurse midwives in the state earn $99,870 per year, slightly below the national median salary for these roles.
The Largest Healthcare Facilities in New Mexico
University of New Mexico Hospital
Functioning as the sole academic medical center in the state, the University of New Mexico Hospital boasts a workforce of approximately 900 physicians and over 2,700 registered nurses. The facility encompasses 13 specialized pediatric departments, emphasizing its commitment to comprehensive healthcare.
Presbyterian Hospital
Situated in Albuquerque, Presbyterian Hospital employs nearly 600 physicians and just over 1,800 registered nurses. As a nonprofit institution, the hospital offers an array of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and radiology, catering to diverse healthcare needs in the community.
Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center
A pivotal part of the New Mexico VA Health Care System, the Raymond G. Murphy Medical Center operates not only in Albuquerque but also through community-based outpatient clinics across the state. With a total staff of around 2,700 full-time members, the center plays a crucial role in delivering healthcare services to the veteran population.
Nursing Resources in New Mexico
New Mexico Nurses Association (NMNA):
NMNA serves as the voice for nurses in the state, working towards advancing nursing practice. The association facilitates networking events, job postings, scholarships for continuing education, and degree programs.
American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA):
The New Mexico branch of APNA focuses on mental health nursing. It connects members through regional events, online affinity groups, and provides career listings.
New Mexico Nurse Practitioner Council (NMNPC):
NMNPC offers resources to its members, including a career center, continuing education workshops, and policy briefs on relevant legislation in the state. Guidance on becoming a nurse practitioner in New Mexico is also provided.
New Mexico School Nurses Association (NMSNA):
NMSNA caters specifically to school nurses in New Mexico, hosting an annual conference and advocating for improved school health services. The association recognizes exemplary school nursing professionals through awards.
New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence (NMCNE):
NMCNE aims to promote excellence among New Mexico’s nursing community by providing scholarships, hosting conferences for nursing educators, organizing lecture series, and offering resources for prospective students on choosing the right nursing program.
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