Massachusetts Nursing Colleges & Licenses
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Massachusetts is rich in historical landmarks, lobster rolls, and nursing opportunities. With over 150 hospitals across the state, Massachusetts provides a wealth of employment options for nurses, ranging from prestigious academic medical centers to community hospitals. In fact, the U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Massachusetts General Hospital on its list of best hospitals worldwide. For a state that is the sixth smallest in land mass, the diverse healthcare environments in Massachusetts allow aspiring nurses to find their niche and pursue their passions.
Massachusetts is also home to several nursing colleges providing a wide range of nursing specialties that cater to the diverse healthcare needs of its population. Whether an RN’s interest lies in critical care, pediatrics, mental health, or gerontology, the state offers specialized nursing programs to nurture and develop these interests. Degree programs range from diplomas to doctoral degrees. Renowned institutions like Boston College, Simmons College, and University of Massachusetts campuses provide top-notch nursing education to help students excel in their chosen fields, many of which are featured below.
Regarding financial compensation, nursing in Massachusetts offers promising prospects. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses in Massachusetts earn average annual salaries of over $100,000. This is double the national average for all occupations of $61,900 and 35 percent higher than the national average for RNs (BLS May 2022). These figures reflect the high demand for skilled nursing professionals in an area with a high cost of living, but also demonstrate the state’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding the vital contributions of nurses to the healthcare system.
Nurses in Massachusetts play a crucial role in providing quality patient care and promoting well-being in their communities as the healthcare landscape continues to evolve. Read on for a detailed guide to accredited nursing programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels and side-by-side comparisons of nursing salaries in the United States and Massachusetts.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
Lawrence Memorial/Regis College (On-campus)
Lawrence Memorial/Regis College offers a two-year RN program that allows students to earn an associate of science in nursing degree. This program, in collaboration with Regis College, prepares students for entry-level nursing positions. The Lawrence Memorial/Regis College nursing program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience to ensure students develop the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in nursing.
With a strong emphasis on practical training and flexible scheduling options, this program aims to meet the needs of aspiring nurses in the Greater Boston Area. Experienced professionals teach courses in the RN program and provide a unique blend of theoretical education and real-world application.
- Location: Medford, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: Contact the college for tuition information
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences (On-campus)
The bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) accelerated program at MCPHS University is a rigorous, immersive 32-month program that provides students with a comprehensive education in one of the world’s most advanced and respected healthcare ecosystems. The program builds a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, including studies and labs in chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and psychology.
Students learn about the culture and identity of patient and healthcare communities and the human development life cycle. As part of their studies, students apply classroom knowledge in lab and clinical settings and participate in interprofessional education activities that support their transition into professional nursing practice. MCPHS University also offers degree options for aspiring nurses with an associate’s degree in nursing and those with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Duration: 32 months
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition: $1,380 per credit
Northeastern University (Online)
Northeastern University offers an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program that allows students to earn their degree in as little as 16 months. This innovative program is designed for individuals who already hold a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing. By leveraging their previous education and experience, students can fast-track their journey into the nursing profession.
Northeastern University’s accelerated BSN program provides top-caliber education and clinical training to prepare students for success in the healthcare industry. With Boston, Massachusetts, and Charlotte, North Carolina campuses, Northeastern University offers a flexible and comprehensive program that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their nursing careers.
- Location: Burlington, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,263 per credit
UMass Boston (On-campus & Online)
UMass Boston’s accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program offers a fast-track pathway for individuals who already hold an RN license and want to advance their career in nursing. This program allows students to become baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses in as little as 12 months. The program combines high-quality clinical experiences with online didactic learning, providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for the demands of the nursing profession.
UMass Boston’s RN-BS program is designed to provide flexibility and convenience for students, allowing them to study at their own pace while receiving instruction from experienced and specially trained instructors. With its student-centered approach and emphasis on practical training, UMass Boston’s accelerated BSN program provides a solid foundation for individuals looking to transform their nursing careers.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Duration: One to two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $370 per credit
Wheaton College Massachusetts (On-campus)
The bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program at Wheaton College in Massachusetts is a four-year nursing degree program that aims to prepare future nurses for the demands of modern healthcare. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in nursing principles and practices.
Through classroom instruction, hands-on clinical experiences, and practical training, students develop the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their nursing careers. Wheaton College’s BSN program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and compassionate patient care.
This program was launched in 2022 and has received initial accreditation through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
- Location: Norton, MA
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition: $77,510 per year
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
Boston University (On-campus)
Boston University offers a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) in nurse anesthesia program, which provides advanced education and training for aspiring certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). This 30-course program is designed for individuals who have completed a bachelor’s degree from a nationally accredited nursing program and have at least one year of critical care experience.
Boston College’s DNP in nurse anesthesia program is a three-year, full-time program that equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide anesthesia care in various medical settings. With a strong emphasis on clinical experiences and rigorous coursework, this program prepares students to excel as CRNAs.
- Location: Chestnut Hill, MA
- Duration: 36 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,726 per credit
Curry College (On-campus)
Curry College offers an MSN accelerated entry program that allows individuals to become nurses with a master’s degree in just 20 months. Known for its excellence in nursing education for over 40 years, Curry College’s School of Nursing provides a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum.
The program is designed for non-nursing college graduates interested in pursuing a master’s in nursing. With fixed tuition for the duration of the program, Curry College offers a cost-effective and efficient pathway to a rewarding nursing career. Students can gain the necessary knowledge and skills through this accelerated entry program to excel in advanced practice nursing.
- Location: Milton & Plymouth, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $34,020 total
Fitchburg State University (Online)
Fitchburg State University offers an online master of science (MS) program in forensic nursing, allowing registered nurses to advance their careers in leadership positions within the community and beyond. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for dealing with the prevention, scientific investigation, and treatment of forensic cases.
As a fully online program, it offers flexibility and convenience for working professionals. Fitchburg State University’s online forensic nursing MS program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring the quality and credibility of the education provided. With a focus on advanced nursing practice and forensic science, this program prepares students to make a meaningful impact in forensic nursing.
- Location: Fitchburg, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $815 per credit
MGH Institute of Health Professions (Hybrid)
MGH Institute of Health Professions offers a hybrid doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program designed for advanced practice nurses, including Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse Practitioners, and Nurse Anesthetists. This intensive 34-credit program provides a comprehensive education for experienced nurses looking to advance their careers.
The program offers a hybrid format, allowing students to choose between online coursework and on-site classes. With a focus on advanced nursing practice, the MGH Institute of Health Professions’ hybrid DNP program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their roles as leaders in the field of advanced practice nursing, including specializations in clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, and nurse midwives.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $19,930 per semester
Northeastern University (On-campus)
The neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP) program at Northeastern University’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences offers comprehensive advanced degrees and certificate programs for nurses looking to specialize in several areas, such as neonatal care. This NNP post-master’s certificate program equips graduates with the knowledge and clinical practice necessary to make informed decisions based on their advanced nursing skills.
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Northeastern University’s program provides a rigorous curriculum that prepares students to become competent and compassionate neonatal nurse practitioners. The program offers flexibility through online learning options, allowing nurses to pursue their education while balancing their professional commitments. With a focus on evidence-based practice and hands-on clinical experiences, Northeastern University’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences prepares graduates to excel in their careers and provide exceptional care to newborns in need.
- Location: Boston & Burlington, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,752 per credit
Regis College (Online)
Regis College offers an online BSN to DNP program that allows nurses to advance their education and career in the field of nursing. With this program, students can earn their Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in as few as 40 months, positioning themselves for high-level roles in healthcare. The program aims to guide the future of healthcare policy and practice by equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to impact the field significantly.
Regis College offers various tracks within the BSN to DNP program, including Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner with specializations such as AGNP, FNP, PMHNP, PNP, and WHNP. The flexibility of the online format allows nurses to pursue their DNP degrees while balancing their professional and personal commitments. Accredited by the appropriate governing bodies, Regis College’s online BSN to DNP program provides a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum, ensuring that graduates are prepared to excel in their nursing careers.
- Location: Weston, MA
- Duration: 40 months
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $955 per credit
Salem State University (Online)
Salem State University offers a post-baccalaureate certificate in nursing education for individuals seeking to advance their careers in nursing education. This certificate program is designed to provide academic credit upon completing all four courses. With a focus on nursing education, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in teaching roles within the field. The program is intended for those who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing and want to specialize in nursing education.
By completing this post-baccalaureate certificate, individuals can enhance their expertise in teaching/learning theories and develop the skills needed to plan and implement effective teaching strategies in clinical or health settings. Salem State University’s post-baccalaureate certificate in nursing education offers a valuable opportunity for nurses to expand their career options and make a meaningful impact in the field of nursing education.
- Location: Salem, MA
- Duration: One year
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $8,985.60 per year (residents); $10,648.80 per year (non-residents)
Simmons University (Online)
Simmons University offers a comprehensive BSN to MSN program that prepares students for advanced nursing practice. This program consists of foundational courses, primary care, and research. Over two years, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver primary care and conduct research in nursing. The program is designed for licensed RNs with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree or those who have earned an associate’s degree in nursing and are looking to further their education.
Simmons University provides online and on-campus options for the BSN to MSN program, allowing flexibility and accessibility. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to raise the standard of patient care and make a positive impact in advanced practice nursing roles.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,235 per credit
University of Massachusetts Amherst (Online)
The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers an online doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program that allows students to advance their education and career in the field of nursing. This program is designed for both BSN and MSN nurses and offers flexibility through its online format. Students can choose from various specializations and concentrations, including family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner.
The program emphasizes experiential learning through clinical internships, allowing students to gain practical skills and apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The University of Massachusetts Amherst online DNP program graduates are prepared to take on leadership roles in advanced practice nursing and significantly impact healthcare for specialized patient populations.
- Location: Amherst, MA
- Duration: Two to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $825 per credit
UMass Dartmouth (Online)
UMass Dartmouth offers an online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certificate of advanced graduate study (CAGS) program, designed to expand the scope of practice and role opportunities in mental health/psychiatric care for nurses.
This certificate program equips nurses with the necessary coursework and clinical experiences to pursue psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certification. Through this program, students gain in-depth knowledge and competence in diagnosing and treating acute and chronic mental health conditions. The online format allows working professionals to pursue advanced education while balancing their busy schedules.
The UMass Dartmouth online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner CAGS program graduates are prepared with clinical experiences and coursework that prepare them for certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
- Location: Dartmouth, MA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $15,208 per year (residents); $20,616 per year (regional); $31,750 per year (non-residents)
Nursing School Accreditation
The accreditation of nursing schools is a crucial process that ensures nurses are equipped with the latest knowledge, skills, and competence required by the industry. It offers assurance and peace of mind to various stakeholders, including aspiring nurses, training institutions, employers, support staff, and patients.
To legally practice nursing, students must graduate from a nursing program accredited by institutional or programmatic accrediting bodies.
The top programmatic accrediting bodies for nursing schools are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). While these organizations provide general nursing accreditation, specialized accrediting bodies focus on specific nursing programs, such as the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.
By contrast, institutional accreditation is a prestigious indication of a college or university’s excellence. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), an authority recognized by the US Department of Education, has established seven regional organizations responsible for evaluating and granting institutional accreditation status. These esteemed organizations conduct rigorous assessments of factors such as academic integrity, financial stability, faculty expertise, and degrees awarded to set high standards for universities.
When exploring online and hybrid nursing programs, it is important to consider the state authorization status, particularly for degrees that mandate state licensing. The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) oversees this to assist prospective students in guaranteeing that their educational institution meets the requirements of state nursing boards for online or hybrid nursing programs. Verifying the state authorization status is crucial to prevent costly obstacles during state licensing exams and potential difficulties in obtaining RN and APRN credentials.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Massachusetts?
Nurses in Massachusetts earn higher than the national average income, regardless of their level of education. This is likely due to the state’s high cost of living, ranking as the 3rd most expensive state according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center’s (MERIC) cost of living index.
Check out the tables below for a detailed comparison of Massachusetts’ national nurse salaries and salaries. The data is based on the latest information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2022) as of September 2023.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 632,020 | 15,630 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $55,860 | $68,170 |
| 10th percentile | $40,490 | $58,710 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $54,620 | $64,680 |
| 90th percentile | $72,650 | $79,000 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,072,700 | 94,100 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $89,010 | $104,150 |
| 10th percentile | $61,250 | $67,480 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $81,220 | $98,520 |
| 90th percentile | $129,400 | $154,160 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 46,540 | 530 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $205,770 | $204,690 |
| 10th percentile | $143,870 | $96,500 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $203,090 | $214,240 |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 per year | >$239,200 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,950 | 290 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $122,450 | $143,870 |
| 10th percentile | $77,510 | $108,640 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,880 | $136,180 |
| 90th percentile | $171,230 | $188,590 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 258,230 | 7,190 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $124,680 | $138,700 |
| 10th percentile | $87,340 | $105,410 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $121,610 | $133,030 |
| 90th percentile | $165,240 | $178,690 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Massachusetts
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing | Candidates for an LPN license in Massachusetts must:
|
Every two years on their birthday, LPNs in Massachusetts are required to renew their license. To do so, they must:
|
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in Massachusetts
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth of Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing |
In order to earn a license in the state of Massachusetts as an RN, a candidate must:
|
RNs in massachusetts must renew their license every two years on their birthdays. To do so, they must:
|
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in Massachusetts
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In order to be eligible to be licensed as a CNS in the state of Massachusetts, applicants must provide the following:
|
CNS licenses in Massachusetts expire at 11:59 pm on the applicant’s birthday in even-numbered years. Both the CNS license and RN licenses should be renewed at the same time, online, up to 90 days before expiration. The renewal fee is $180 for an RN with APRN. Candidates must complete 15 hours of continuing education. |
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Licenses in Massachusetts
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| To be eligible to be licensed as a CNM in the state of Massachusetts, applicants must provide the following:
|
RN and APRN license authorizations in Massachusetts expire at 11:59 pm on the applicant’s birthday in even-numbered years in Massachusetts. Both licenses should be renewed at the same time, online, up to 90 days before expiration. The renewal fee is $180 for an APRN. Candidates must complete 15 hours of continuing education. |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Massachusetts
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In order to be eligible to be licensed as a Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP) in the state of Massachusetts, applicants must provide the following:
|
APRN licenses in Massachusetts expire at 11:59 pm on the applicant’s birthday in even-numbered years. Both licenses should be renewed at the same time, online, up to 90 days before expiration. The renewal fee is $180 for an RN with APRN. Candidates must complete 15 hours of continuing education. |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CNRA) Licensure in Massachusetts
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| In order to be eligible to be licensed as a CRNA in the state of Massachusetts, applicants must provide the following:
|
RN and CRNA license authorizations expire at 11:59 pm on the applicant’s birthday in even-numbered years. Both licenses should be renewed at the same time, online, up to 90 days before expiration. The renewal fee is $180 for a RN with APRN. Candidates must complete 15 hours of continuing education. |
Rachel Drummond, MEd
WriterAt NursingColleges.com, Rachel Drummond has applied her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to elucidate the importance of self-care for nursing students since 2022. Through her writings, she underscores the role of mental and physical well-being in fostering resilient and compassionate healthcare professionals.
Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.