8 Highest Paying MSN Jobs

Salaries, roles, and how they help you advance your nursing career

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a pivotal degree for nurses looking to advance their careers, take on leadership roles, and specialize in high-demand areas of healthcare. This graduate-level education opens doors to positions that offer greater autonomy, expanded clinical responsibilities, and opportunities in administration, education, and advanced practice nursing. For those seeking career growth and financial reward, an MSN is often the key to unlocking higher salaries and greater job security in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

MSN-prepared nurses consistently earn more than their counterparts with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Specializing in fields like nurse anesthesia, nurse practitioner roles, and healthcare administration can lead to six-figure salaries, significantly increasing earning potential. In this article, we’ll explore the highest-paying careers for MSN graduates, detailing their average salaries, job responsibilities, and the necessary steps to enter each field. Whether you’re considering an MSN or already pursuing one, understanding these opportunities can help you maximize your investment in your education and career.

What is an MSN Degree?

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate-level degree designed for registered nurses (RNs) seeking to advance their careers through specialization, leadership, and higher earning potential. This degree builds upon the clinical and theoretical foundations of nursing, equipping nurses with advanced knowledge in patient care, healthcare policy, and management. MSN programs typically offer concentrations that allow nurses to develop expertise in a specific area of practice, making them valuable assets in today’s evolving healthcare industry.

Earning an MSN opens the door to various high-paying career paths, including advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs). Nurses can also pursue leadership positions in healthcare administration, guiding policies, and managing healthcare facilities. Additionally, MSN-prepared nurses can transition into education, training the next generation of nurses as faculty members or clinical instructors. These specialized roles not only increase job satisfaction and professional autonomy but also significantly enhance earning potential compared to BSN- or ADN-level nursing positions.

8 Highest-Paying MSN Jobs

Advancing your nursing career with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) can lead to specialized roles that offer both increased responsibilities and higher salaries. Below are eight of the highest-paying MSN careers, along with their average salaries, job descriptions, key responsibilities, required education and certifications, and job outlooks. However, the salary* can vary significantly based on factors like experience, geographic location, and the specific healthcare setting.

1. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
2. Nurse Practitioner
3. Clinical Nurse Specialist
4. Nurse Midwife
5. Nurse Educator
6. Nurse Administrator/Executive
7. Informatics Nurse Specialist
8. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

1. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Job Description: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice nurses who specialize in administering anesthesia to patients undergoing surgical, diagnostic, therapeutic, or obstetrical procedures. They play a critical role in pain management and are integral members of surgical teams, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout medical procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Preoperative Assessment: Evaluating patients’ medical histories, medications, and allergies to determine appropriate anesthesia plans.
• Anesthesia Administration: Safely administer various types of anesthesia, including general, regional, and local, tailored to the specific procedure and patient needs.
• Monitoring: Continuously observing patients’ vital signs and adjusting anesthesia levels as necessary during procedures to maintain optimal conditions.
• Postoperative Care: Managing patients’ recovery from anesthesia, addressing any complications, and ensuring effective pain management post-procedure.
• Collaboration: Work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement anesthesia care plans.

Required Education/Certification: A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in anesthesia is required. Certification as a CRNA is obtained through the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).

Average Salary: According to the BLS, the mean annual wage for nurse anesthetists was $214,200 as of May 2023.  However, the salary* can vary significantly based on factors like experience, geographic location, and the specific healthcare setting.

Job Outlook: As of August 2024, employment of nurse anesthetists is projected to grow 40% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the BLS. Growth will occur because of an increase in the demand for healthcare services. Several factors will contribute to this demand, including an increased emphasis on preventive care and demand for healthcare services from the aging population.

2. Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Job Description: Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who provide primary and specialty healthcare services. They assess, diagnose, and manage acute and chronic illnesses, often serving as patients’ primary healthcare providers. NPs focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and health education, emphasizing a holistic approach to patient care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Patient Assessment: Conducting comprehensive physical exams and obtaining detailed medical histories.
• Diagnosis: Identifying and diagnosing various health conditions based on clinical evaluations and diagnostic tests.
• Treatment Planning: Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans, which may include prescribing medications and recommending lifestyle modifications.
• Patient Education: Providing patients and their families with information on disease prevention, healthy lifestyles, and management of medical conditions.
• Collaboration: Working with physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate comprehensive patient care.

Required Education/Certification A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a nurse practitioner focus is required. Certification is obtained through organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

Average Salary: According to the BLS, the mean annual wage for nurse practitioners was $128,490 in May 2023. However, the salary* can vary significantly based on factors like experience, geographic location, and the specific healthcare setting.

Job Outlook: As of August 2024, employment of nurse practitioners is expected to grow 40% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to BLS data. APRNs will also be needed to care for the large baby-boom population. As baby boomers age, they will experience ailments and complex conditions that require medical care. APRNs will be needed to keep these patients healthy and to treat the growing number of patients with chronic and acute conditions.

3. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

Job Description: Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who provide expert advice related to specific patient populations, healthcare settings, or specialized areas of nursing practice, such as Adult Gerontology. They focus on improving patient outcomes and nursing practices through evidence-based care, education, and system improvements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Expert Consultation: Offering specialized knowledge and guidance to nursing staff and other healthcare professionals to enhance patient care.
• Education: Developing and delivering educational programs for staff to ensure the implementation of best practices.
• Research: Conducting and applying research to improve clinical practices and patient outcomes.
• Quality Improvement: Identifying areas for improvement within healthcare systems and implementing strategies to enhance care delivery.
• Direct Patient Care: Providing specialized care to complex cases, serving as a role model for other nurses.

Required Education/Certification: A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on clinical nurse specialization is required. Certification is available through organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Average Salary: The BLS does not provide specific data for clinical nurse specialists, but data for NPs provides the closest comparison. According to the BLS, the mean annual wage for nurse practitioners was $128,490 in May 2023. However, the salary* can vary significantly based on factors like experience, geographic location, and the specific healthcare setting.

Job Outlook: As of August 2024, employment of nurse practitioners is expected to grow 40% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to BLS data. APRNs will also be needed to care for the large baby-boom population. As baby boomers age, they will experience ailments and complex conditions that require medical care. APRNs will be needed to keep these patients healthy and to treat the growing number of patients with chronic and acute conditions.

4. Nurse Midwife

Job Description: Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in women’s reproductive health and childbirth. They provide comprehensive care to women, including prenatal, labor and delivery, postpartum, and gynecological services, emphasizing a holistic and patient-centered approach.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prenatal Care: Monitoring the health of pregnant women and their developing babies, providing education and support throughout the pregnancy.
• Labor and Delivery: Assisting and managing the childbirth process, ensuring the safety and well-being of both mother and baby.
• Postpartum Care: Providing care and support to new mothers, including breastfeeding assistance and recovery monitoring.
• Gynecological Services: Performing routine exams, family planning consultations, and addressing women’s health issues.
• Education: Educating women and families about reproductive health, childbirth options, and newborn care.

Required Education/Certification: A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in midwifery is required. Certification as a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) or Certified Midwife (CM) is obtained through the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).

Average Salary:  According to the BLS, the mean annual wage for Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) was $122,450 in May 2022. However, the salary* can vary significantly based on factors like experience, geographic location, and the specific healthcare setting.

Job Outlook: As of August 2024, employment of CNMs is expected to grow 40% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to BLS data. APRNs will also be needed to care for the large baby-boom population. As baby boomers age, they will experience ailments and complex conditions that require medical care.

5. Nurse Educator

Job Description: The BLS categorizes Nurse Educators as Postsecondary Nursing Instructors and Teachers, depending on their workplace. Nurse Educators specialize in teaching and training the next generation of nurses. They work in academic settings such as universities, nursing schools, and teaching hospitals, as well as in clinical environments where they provide continuing education to practicing nurses. Their role is essential in ensuring that nurses receive high-quality education and stay up to date with the latest medical advancements and best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Curriculum Development: Designing and updating nursing education programs to reflect current healthcare trends, evidence-based practices, and regulatory standards.
• Classroom and Clinical Instruction: Teaching nursing students through lectures, hands-on clinical training, and simulation exercises.
• Student Mentorship: Advising and guiding nursing students, helping them navigate their education and career paths.
• Assessment and Evaluation: Developing exams, assignments, and clinical evaluations to assess student competency and knowledge.
• Continuing Education: Providing professional development and continuing education programs for practicing nurses to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Research and Scholarship: Engaging in research projects, publishing academic papers, and contributing to advancements in nursing education.
• Collaboration: Working with healthcare facilities and other educators to ensure nursing programs align with industry needs and accreditation standards.

Required Education/Certification: An MSN degree with a focus on nursing education is typically required. Certification as a Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) is also beneficial.

Average Salary: According to the BLS, as of May 2023, Nurse Educators earn an average salary* of $86,530. Salaries can vary based on factors such as geographic location, level of education, and years of experience.

Job Outlook: The demand for Nurse Educators is expected to grow due to the ongoing nursing shortage and the need for qualified instructors. As of August 2024, BLS data suggests that the overall employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. Students will continue to seek higher education to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to meet their career goals. As more people enter colleges and universities, more postsecondary teachers will be needed to serve these additional students.

6. Nurse Administrator/Executive

Job Description: Nurse Administrators are experienced Registered Nurses (RNs) who focus on the administrative aspects of nursing services rather than direct patient care. They are responsible for overseeing nursing staff, managing budgets, developing policies, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. Their role is essential in bridging the gap between nursing staff and upper management, advocating for nurses’ needs, and ensuring that the nursing departments operate efficiently and effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaboration: Working with healthcare facilities and other educators to ensure nursing programs align with industry needs and accreditation standards.
• Developing and Implementing Policies and Procedures: Creating evidence-based policies and procedures to streamline operations, improve patient outcomes, and integrate best practices and clinical guidelines.
• Coordinating Between Nursing Departments: Facilitating communication and collaboration between nursing units, managing staff schedules, and promoting teamwork across departments.
• Planning and Managing Budgets: Allocating funds for staffing, equipment, and facility improvements, conducting cost analyses, and identifying areas for savings without compromising care quality.
• Ensuring Compliance with Regulations: Overseeing adherence to healthcare regulations, conducting audits, and fostering a culture of compliance to meet regulatory requirements and maintain accreditation status.
• Leading and Mentoring Nursing Staff: Inspiring, mentoring, and providing professional development opportunities for nursing staff to improve job satisfaction, reduce turnover, and promote career growth.
• Driving Strategic Initiatives: Leading initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery, adopting new technologies, and ensuring that nursing practices align with organizational goals and patient care improvements.

Required Education/Certification: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required, and many positions prefer or require a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on healthcare administration. Nurse administrators can pursue these certifications from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE):

• Nurse Executive
• Nurse Executive-Advanced
• Executive Nursing Practice

Average Salary: According to the BLS, Nurse Administrators are categorized as Medical and Health Services Managers and earn an annual mean wage of $134,440 per year as of May 2023. However, the salary* can vary significantly based on factors like experience, education level, geographic location, and the specific healthcare setting.

Job Outlook: The demand for Nurse Administrators is expected to grow due to the increasing complexity of healthcare delivery and the need for effective management within healthcare organizations. As of August 2024, BLS data suggests that employment is projected to grow 29 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

7. Informatics Nurse Specialist

Job Description: Informatics Nurse Specialists are Registered Nurses (RNs), who integrate nursing science with information management to manage and communicate data in nursing practice. In other words, they focus on improving patient care and nursing workflows through health informatics and digital solutions. While Health Technologists focus on the technical of healthcare IT like managing and securing patient health data, an Informatics Nurse plays a crucial role in ensuring that these systems enhance clinical nursing workflows and improve patient outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Managing the Transition from Paper to Digital Records: Overseeing the implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR) by training staff, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring a smooth transition from traditional paper-based documentation.
• Developing Information Systems: Designing and optimizing healthcare information systems that align with current evidence-based standards of care, ensuring they support clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.
• Ensuring System Updates and Compliance: Regularly updating health information systems to stay compliant with regulatory requirements, security protocols, and technological advancements in healthcare IT.
• Designing User-Friendly EHR Interfaces: Collaborating with IT teams and clinical staff to develop EHR systems that are intuitive, efficient, and conducive to high-quality patient care, reducing administrative burdens on nurses and physicians.
• Analyzing EHR Data for Quality Improvement: Using healthcare analytics to track trends, assess patient outcomes, and identify opportunities to enhance care quality, reduce errors, and improve workflow efficiency.
• Enhancing Data Security and Privacy: Implementing and enforcing cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive patient information, ensuring compliance with HIPAA and other healthcare data protection regulations.

Required Education/Certification: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is typically required, along with experience in nursing informatics. Certifications include the Nursing Informatics-Board Certified (NI-BC) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Average Salary: According to NurseJournal.org the average salary* for an Informatics Nurse is approximately $79,790 per year as of April 2022. The salary* of a nursing informatics specialist will vary based on several factors, such as location, education level, facility of employment, scope of the job, and experience level.

Job Outlook: The job outlook, according to the NurseJournal.org, ensures that the demand for Informatics Nurses will remain strong, at 9% growth just as it is for RNs, in direct patient care roles.

8. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Job Description: Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, also known as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs), are advanced practice registered nurses who provide comprehensive mental health care to individuals, families, and groups. They assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders, often working in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to deliver holistic care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Managing the Transition from Paper to Digital Records: Overseeing the implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR) by training staff, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring a smooth transition from traditional paper-based documentation.
• Assessing, Diagnosing, and Treating Psychiatric Disorders: Conducting comprehensive mental health evaluations, identifying psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, and formulating appropriate treatment plans.
• Prescribing Medications and Managing Treatment: Evaluating the need for psychotropic medications, prescribing appropriate treatments, monitoring for side effects, and adjusting dosages as needed to ensure patient safety and efficacy.
• Providing Psychotherapy and Counseling: Offering evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care to help patients manage mental health conditions.
• Developing Individualized Treatment Plans: Creating tailored care plans that address each patient’s unique mental health needs, lifestyle, and medical history, ensuring a holistic approach to psychiatric care.
• Collaborating with Healthcare Teams: Work closely with psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and primary care providers to develop comprehensive and coordinated care strategies for patients.
• Educating Patients and Families: Providing guidance on mental health conditions, medication adherence, coping strategies, and lifestyle modifications to enhance well-being and reduce relapse risks.

Required Education/Certification: A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in psychiatric-mental health is required. Certification as a PMHNP-BC is obtained through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Average Salary: According to Indeed.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, also known as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs), earn an average annual salary* of approximately $158,078 as of March 2025. However, the salary* can vary significantly based on factors like experience, geographic location, and the specific healthcare setting.

Job Outlook: Since Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are specialized NPs, BLS data suggests that the job outlook reflects that of Nurse Practitioners. With increasing awareness and emphasis on mental health, the demand for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners is projected to grow 40 percent from 2023 to 2033 as of August 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations, providing ample opportunities in various healthcare settings

How to Get Started with an MSN Degree

Earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a crucial step for nurses looking to specialize, increase their earning potential, and take on leadership roles in healthcare. Whether you’re advancing from a BSN or transitioning from an ADN, the MSN pathway offers various opportunities to tailor your education to your career goals.

Step 1—Meet the Prerequisites

Before applying to an MSN program, nurses must meet specific prerequisites, which typically include:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) (though some programs offer RN-to-MSN pathways for ADN holders).
• An active and unencumbered RN license.
• Clinical experience requirements (varies by program).
• Completion of foundational courses in areas like anatomy, physiology, and statistics.

Step 2—Choose the Right MSN Program and Specialization

MSN programs offer various specialization tracks, allowing nurses to focus on areas such as:

• Advanced Practice Nursing (APRN) – Includes Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Nurse Midwife (CNM) roles.
• Leadership and Administration – Prepares nurses for executive positions like Nurse Administrator or Chief Nursing Officer (CNO).
• Nursing Education – Focuses on training the next generation of nurses as a Nurse Educator.
• Informatics and Healthcare Technology – Equips nurses with skills to integrate data, technology, and patient care effectively.

Step 3—Complete the MSN Program

MSN programs typically take 1.5 to 3 years to complete, depending on factors such as:

• Full-time vs. part-time enrollment.
• Online vs. in-person format – Many schools, including Eagle Gate College, offer flexible online MSN programs that allow working nurses to advance their education without disrupting their careers.
• Accelerated MSN options – Some programs fast-track coursework for highly motivated students.

Step 4—Obtain Certification and Licensure:

After earning an MSN, nurses pursuing Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles must obtain certification and state licensure in their chosen specialty. Here are a few certifications that are accredited and recognized by their respective credentialing organizations, ensuring they meet industry standards and enhance professional credibility.

• Family Nurse Practitioner – Board Certified (FNP-BC): Offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), this certification validates expertise in family practice.
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Board Certified (PMHNP-BC): Also provided by the ANCC, this certification focuses on mental health care across the lifespan.
• Certified Nurse Educator (CNE): Administered by the National League for Nursing (NLN), this certification recognizes excellence in the academic nurse educator role.
• Nurse Executive Advanced – Board Certified (NEA-BC): This ANCC certification is designed for nurses in executive leadership positions.

Step 5—Advance Your Career

With an MSN, nurses can step into higher-paying and leadership roles, improve patient care, and contribute to healthcare advancements. Eagle Gate College’s MSN programs are designed to provide the skills and credentials needed to succeed in specialized nursing careers.

Job Outlook for MSN Careers

According to the NIH, the nursing workforce is the largest among all the health care professions and is nearly four times the size of the physician workforce. The shift in nursing education from hospital-based diploma programs to degrees from colleges and universities has prepared RNs for more highly skilled roles that have expanded their reach and impact, benefiting both nurses and their employers. The emergence and growth of nurse practitioners (NPs) in the mid-1960s, together with other advanced practice nursing roles (certified nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists), represent a significant advancement.

The demand for Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)-prepared nurses continues to grow as healthcare systems expand and evolve. Advanced practice nurses play a critical role in filling gaps in care, particularly in primary care, anesthesia, mental health, and leadership. As described earlier in this article, MSN-level roles such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are experiencing rapid job growth and increasing salaries due to rising healthcare demands.

Why MSN Nurses Are in High Demand

Several factors contribute to the growing need for MSN-prepared nurses, including:

• An Aging Population: The increasing number of elderly patients requires more specialized and chronic disease management, which MSN-level nurses are trained to provide.
• Healthcare Advancements: The rise of telemedicine, electronic health records (EHRs), and personalized medicine has created new opportunities for nurses in informatics, technology integration, and research.
• Physician Shortages: As the demand for primary and specialized care grows, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are stepping in to fill critical healthcare gaps.
• A Need for Nursing Leadership: With ongoing nursing shortages, there is an increasing emphasis on strong leadership and policymaking, making Nurse Administrators and Educators vital in shaping the future of healthcare.

Earning an MSN degree not only opens doors to higher salaries and career advancement but also ensures that nurses can make a meaningful impact in healthcare delivery. With significant job growth projections and expanding career opportunities, now is an excellent time to pursue an MSN.

Start your journey today!

Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Eagle Gate College can open the door to some of the highest-paying and most rewarding careers in nursing. Whether you’re interested in administration and leadership or nursing education, Eagle Gate’s online MSN Program can significantly boost your earning potential and expand your career opportunities.

If you’re considering advancing your nursing career, a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) is specifically tailored for anyone with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, offering a seamless pathway for switching careers to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). To explore which path is right for you, learn more about the MEPN program or read our in-depth comparison on MEPN vs. MSN to make an informed decision.