MSN Programs in West Virginia

By EveryNurse Staff on January 16, 2023

Seeking an MSN allows nurses to specialize in fields they’re interested in as well as earn more money and take on more responsibility. There are a variety of careers available for those holding an MSN, including those in administration and education. This degree also enables nurses to become nurse practitioners, certified nurse-midwives and clinical nurse specialists. The state of West Virginia offers up a few different MSN programs for those who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Schools With MSN Programs in West Virginia

Huntington, West Virginia offers up Marshall University and their MSN program. This program prepares graduates for advanced practice nursing and careers in nursing-related administration or education. There are several areas of emphasis, including family nurse practitioner (41 credit hours required), nursing administration (36 credit hours), nursing education (36 credit hours), nurse midwifery (44 credit hours) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (46 hours). The programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

The West Virginia University School of Nursing boasts an excellent RN to MSN program that is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The program is designed to be finished in 8 full-time semesters, with students earning a BSN and then progressing to an MSN. Individuals have the option of studying online, but will have to attend some campus classes to earn the MSN. The school also has a regular MSN program which is a 44-credit program designed to be finished in 4 semesters. Specialty areas include family nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner and neonatal nurse practitioner. Tuition is $1,280 per credit hour for graduate non-resident and $450 per credit hour for graduate resident.

The MSN program at West Virginia Wesleyan College features two areas of concentration: nursing administration and education. Both programs are 36-credit programs designed to be finished in 16 months of rigorous study or over a period of several years with part-time study. With the new program, individuals can earn MSNs with advanced practice certificates, including nurse-midwifery and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

West Virginia MSN Salary & Job Outlook

Those who pursue their MSN will typically choose a specialization or track to study, meaning that the salary for an MSN holder can vary greatly depending upon their specialization. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in West Virginia, the annual median salary for family nurse practitioners was $78,590 in May of 2012. The salary for nurse midwives was $76,000 and for nurse anesthetists, the salary was $173,990. Your salary will also reflect numerous other things, such as your location within the state (those in Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington and other big cities will likely make more money), and your experience in the field.