Herzing Launches First Dual Master's Degree for Nursing and Business

Can I earn an MSN and MBA at the same time at Herzing University?

Herzing University now offers a Dual MSN-NLA/MBA program that allows registered nurses to earn both a Master of Science in Nursing — Nursing Leadership and Administration (MSN-NLA) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 24 months fully online, launching May 21, 2026.

Quick Facts

Who this program is for

• Registered nurses (RNs) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) who want to advance into healthcare leadership or executive roles
• Nurses who would otherwise pursue an MSN and MBA separately — and want to earn both more efficiently
• RNs interested in roles such as Chief Nursing Officer, healthcare administrator or program director
• Working nurses who need full- and part-time enrollment options to maintain professional responsibilities while earning two degrees

What you'll learn and what you can do

The Dual MSN-NLA/MBA integrates nursing leadership coursework with core business principles in a single program. Coursework spans healthcare systems, evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, finance, strategy, business analytics and organizational leadership.

The program's efficiency comes from 12 waived MBA credits. MSN-NLA courses covering technology and informatics, healthcare economics, complex organization leadership and a leadership practicum satisfy equivalent MBA requirements. This reduces 69 total credits (if earned separately) to 57 credits earned together in 24 months instead of 28.

The MSN-NLA component includes 135 clinical practicum hours completed with a mentor in an approved nursing leadership or administration setting.

Graduates may prepare for the Nurse Executive — Board Certified (NE-BC) credentialing exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), in addition to business certifications aligned with MBA coursework.

Common job titles graduates may pursue:

• Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)
• Healthcare Administrator
• Director of Nursing
• Nurse Manager
• Program Director
• Healthcare Consultant

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Dual MSN-NLA/MBA take?

The program takes 24 months to complete. If earned separately, the MSN-NLA takes 16 months (36 credits) and the MBA takes 12 months (33 credits) — a combined 28 months and 69 credits.

Is the program available online?

Yes. All coursework is delivered 100% online. The MSN-NLA component requires 135 clinical practicum hours completed with an approved mentor.

What are the admission requirements?

Applicants must hold a current, active and unrestricted RN license, a BSN from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA and complete an interview with the graduate program chair or an admissions representative. The GMAT and GRE are not required.

Is the program accredited?

Yes. The MSN-NLA is accredited by CCNE. The MBA is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). Herzing University is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

What can I do with a dual MSN/MBA?

Graduates are prepared for executive leadership roles in healthcare including Chief Nursing Officer, healthcare administrator, program director and consulting. The dual degree equips nurses to lead at the intersection of clinical practice and organizational strategy.

The bottom line

Herzing's Dual MSN-NLA/MBA is the right fit for RNs who want to accelerate their path to healthcare leadership — earning two accredited master's degrees in 24 months with 12 MBA credits waived, all online and without leaving practice.

Related Herzing programs and resources

- Dual MSN-NLA/MBA program at Herzing

- Nursing programs at Herzing

- MBA at Herzing