The Best Online MSN in Diabetes Nursing Programs

Diabetes costs the U.S. hundreds of billions of dollars each year and takes a tremendous toll on a person’s overall well-being, especially among underserved populations. Diabetes nurses help patients with diabetes to be as healthy as possible.

This guide explains how to become a diabetes nurse and describes the top diabetes nursing programs in the country. Explore more about this in-demand role that affects patient lives.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best diabetes nursing master of science in nursing (MSN) programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Diabetes nursing is not as well known as other specialties. Some MSN degrees offer a specialization or minor in diabetes management, while others offer a master’s program that leads to a master of science rather than an MSN degree. Programs cover the types of diabetes, the causes and risk factors, how to manage diabetes, and how to educate patients. These programs often prepare nurses for board certification in diabetes management or in diabetes education.

Programs vary significantly, but generally require a clinical background and experience, though not necessarily registered nurse (RN) certification, especially for diabetes education programs. Because social determinants of health are such a major factor in diabetes prevalence, students should have some background in culturally competent care.

During program accreditation, a group of independent experts reviews every aspect of a nursing program that relates to its quality, including instructor backgrounds, test scores, library collections, and curriculum. This review determines whether students who graduate will be able to practice safely.

Almost all certification boards require a degree from an accredited nursing program, and employers are unlikely to consider hiring a graduate of an unaccredited program. Credits from an unaccredited program will not transfer to an accredited program.

This guide on how to become a diabetes nurse and this entire website list only accredited programs.