What to Know: Massachusetts Online Nursing Programs
Choose one of this year’s best nursing schools in Massachusetts to launch or advance your RN career with confidence.
The demand for licensed RNs throughout the U.S. is strong and expected to stay that way for years to come. The demand for highly educated nurses in Massachusetts is solid, too, making now a great time to earn your nursing degree or upgrade your current credential at one of the state’s many accredited nursing schools. With all the different options available, how do you find the program that’s right for you?
To help you on your search, we’ve compiled a list of this year’s best traditional and campus nursing programs in Massachusetts, along with information on financial aid, licensing, income potential, and job outlook. You’ll also discover what to look for in a quality nursing school and get answers to other questions you may have. Keep reading to find out which schools made it onto our list as the best choices for prospective students like you.
Simmons University
Boston, Massachusetts
Private
Regis College
Weston, Massachusetts
Private
Bay Path University
Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Private
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, Massachusetts
Public
Westfield State University
Westfield, Massachusetts
Public
College of Our Lady of the Elms
Chicopee, Massachusetts
Private
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
North Dartmouth, Massachusetts
Public
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, Massachusetts
Public
MCPHS University
Boston, Massachusetts
Private
American International College
Springfield, Massachusetts
Private
University of Massachusetts-Boston
Boston, Massachusetts
Public
Curry College
Milton, Massachusetts
Private
Emmanuel College
Boston, Massachusetts
Private
Common Qualities of the Best Nursing Schools in Massachusetts
Quality nursing degree and certificate programs share several characteristics. Below are three of the most important characteristics to look for when considering nursing schools in Massachusetts.
- High NCLEX Exam Pass Rates
Look for a program that prepares you to take the NCLEX-RN exam to receive your RN license. To increase your odds for success, consider those programs with high exam pass rates. Current pass rate percentages can often be found on program websites. If you can’t find them there, be sure to contact individual programs and ask. - Quality Student Support Services
Often overlooked when students search for a degree program is access to important student support services, like academic and career counseling, financial aid services, employment counseling and job search assistance, etc. Be sure to speak with your enrollment advisor about the availability of these and other student support services. If possible, contact current and former nursing students to get their take on support services quality. - Nationally Accredited and State Approved
Accreditation is the process that assures colleges and universities – and the programs they offer – meet minimum standards for academic quality. Any nursing program in Massachusetts should be accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education and Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Check a program’s current accreditation status by visiting the program website or through the ACEN and CCNE search engines. In addition, the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing approves all pre-licensure nursing programs. You can check the Board’s current list of approved programs here.
Types of Nursing Programs Available in Massachusetts
There are many degree and certificate options available from nursing schools in Massachusetts, each designed to provide specific nursing knowledge and skills. To help you decide the best program for you, here’s a look at the most common nursing programs available in Massachusetts for 2024.
Pre-Licensure Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
Associate Degrees in Nursing
The associate degree in nursing (ADN), associate of science in nursing degree (ASN), and associate in applied science in nursing (AASN) provide students with the training required, usually two years of full-time study, to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed RNs. ADN programs are commonly offered by community colleges and vocational schools but sometimes by four-year colleges and universities.
Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with this Program
Traditional BSN Programs
Traditional BSN programs are for students with little or no previous college or nursing experience who want to become RNs and earn bachelor’s degrees. Curriculums usually take four years and require approximately 120 credits of general education, foundational nursing coursework, practice simulation labs, and in-person clinical practice hours completed at area nursing facilities.
Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with this Program
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN (i.e., second degree) programs give those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees the nursing coursework and clinical practice hours required to take the NCLEX-RN. Accelerated BSN programs are usually through four-year colleges and universities. Completion times vary from 15 months to two years depending on full-time or part-time study.
Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with this Program
Nursing Bridge Programs in Massachusetts for Current Nurses
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN Bridge Programs
LPN to RN programs qualify licensed practical nurses to take the NCLEX-RN exam to receive RN licensure. Graduates are typically awarded an ADN, ASN, or AASN degree. LPN to BSN programs allow LPNs to obtain eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam while earning a four-year BSN degree.
Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN programs are for licensed RNs interested in advancing their careers by expanding their nursing knowledge and skills. They require around 120 credits, including about 30 credits of nursing coursework. Students typically receive credits for their RN license and can transfer in a substantial number of credits. RN to BSN programs are available from most four-year colleges and universities with nursing departments. Many are 100% online, including a few RN to BSN programs in Massachusetts.
Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to MSN Programs
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree helps nursing professionals seeking to advance their careers into advanced nursing practice and teaching positions. MSN programs typically offer specialization options, many of which prepare graduates for nurse practitioner (NP) certification. MSN curriculums include nursing coursework, often presented online, and in-person clinical requirements normally completed through the student’s current place of employment.
The RN to MSN option provides current RNs without a BSN degree an efficient path for obtaining their MSN. They’re typically offered in part-time formats designed to accommodate working RNs. Program lengths are 3 ½ to 4 years, and many award BSN credentials once undergraduate coursework is completed.
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Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with this Program
Advanced Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
MSN Programs
Nurses with BSN degrees interested in obtaining their nursing masters can opt for a standard MSN program. Students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees can also obtain NCLEX-RN eligibility and an MSN. Direct entry MSN programs are available in both three-year full-time and four-year part-time options..
Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with this Program
- Framingham State University (Standard MSN)
- LaSalle University (Direct Entry MSN)
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
A DNP is for students interested in top leadership positions in healthcare administration and advanced nursing practice. The PhD in Nursing is for nursing professionals interested in research and academics. DNP programs feature specialization options like AGPC-NP, Family NP, and Critical Care. Both degrees also have options like BSN to PhD and MSN to DNP programs. Program lengths vary depending on factors like degree type, specialization, and study pace, and some allow seven years or more for completion.
Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with this Program
Post-Graduate Certificates
Post-graduate nursing certificates allow nursing doctoral degree and master’s degree holders to expand their professional practice through specialization. Nurse practitioner specializations include FNP and Neonatal Care NP. Other specializations include nurse anesthesia, primary care, public health nursing, and more. Completion times vary depending on specialization.
Examples of Massachusetts Nursing Schools with This Program
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
Can I earn my nursing degree in Massachusetts completely online?
That depends on the specific degree you’re seeking and the program offering it. Programs like RN to BSN and some certificates for licensed RNs are available 100% online. Almost all nursing programs, undergraduate and graduate alike, offer some coursework online. All pre-licensure programs, however, include substantial clinical requirements that must be in-person, and some also include on-campus simulated practice labs.
Will my online Massachusetts nursing degree be considered less valuable by employers?
Most employers know that many nursing programs in Massachusetts include online components and that the quality of those programs is equal to their on-campus counterparts. It’s unlikely any employer would think less of an applicant with a degree obtained fully or partially as long as the program is accredited and state-approved. .
Are online nursing programs in Massachusetts more affordable than campus programs?
Not usually with regard to direct program costs like tuition and program fees. Some programs actually charge an additional fee for online study. Even then it’s likely the overall cost of an online nursing program will be less than an on-campus one once travel savings are factored in.
Financial Aid Opportunities for Nursing Students in Massachusetts
Financial aid includes student loans, scholarships and grants, fellowships and assistantships (primarily for grad students), the GI Bill (for active military and veterans), employer tuition assistance, and student loan repayment programs. The federal government is the biggest source for student loans and loan repayment opportunities for nursing students. Student loan repayment opportunities for nurses in some specialized practice areas are also available through the Massachusetts Loan Repayment Program for Health Professionals. For detailed information on paying for your nursing program, contact your school’s financial aid office. Also check out EduMed’s nursing scholarship guide and main financial aid guide for more information and advice on funding.
How to Become an RN in Massachusetts: Licensing Information and Requirements
Completing an accredited and state-approved pre-RN licensure program qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN examination, the main requirement for RN licensure in Massachusetts. Then, to work as a registered nurse in Massachusetts, obtain your RN license through the Massachusetts State Board of Registration in Nursing. The NCLEX isn’t the only requirement, though, as there are several steps for obtaining your Massachusetts RN license.
Complete your accredited and state-approved nursing degree program.
Completing an accredited pre-licensure education program is a requirement for NCLEX-RN exam eligibility. State-approved nursing programs in Massachusetts leading to Massachusetts RN licensure include nursing diplomas and nursing associates (ADN, ASN, and AASN), LPN to RN, and BSN programs.
Register for and take the NCLEX RN exam.
Start by registering to take the exam with Pearson VUE, the national NCLEX testing service. You must pay the exam fee at the time of registration. Next, schedule and take the exam at a Person VUE testing location. Visit this NCLEX website to find out more about preparing for, taking, and passing the exam.
Apply for your RN license with the State Board of Registration in Nursing and meet all RN licensure requirements.
You can apply for licensure here. Applicants must prove they graduated from a state-approved nursing program, passed the NCLEX-RN exam, and are of good moral character as defined by Massachusetts state law. You’ll also have to pay the application fee (currently $230).
Receive your Massachusetts RN license.
Once you’ve taken the NCLEX-RN exam, your results are automatically forwarded to the Board of Registration in Nursing. Check to see if you passed the exam at the Board’s License Verification Site. Once your license number appears on the site, print a copy of your new RN license and start working as an RN in Massachusetts.
Renew your license every two years.
Your Massachusetts RN license expires on your birthday every even-numbered year. You must meet all state license renewal requirements, including 15 contact hours of approved continuing education, and apply for renewal within the 90-days before the expiration date. Application for renewal can be done by mail or online.
Salary and Job Outlook for RNs in Massachusetts
Registered Nurses (RNs) in Massachusetts enjoy some of the highest earning potential in the country, reflecting the state’s strong demand for skilled healthcare professionals. The median salary for RNs in Massachusetts is $99,730, with top earners bringing in up to $166,100 annually. The Boston-Cambridge-Nashua metro area leads the pack, offering median salaries of $100,360 and the highest 90th-percentile wages in the state at $169,960. Even in smaller regions like Pittsfield and Worcester, RNs can earn impressive salaries, with medians exceeding $94,000 and high-end salaries surpassing $150,000.
Massachusetts’s nursing workforce is expected to grow by 8.4% through 2030, adding 2,540 new positions for a total of 32,600 jobs. With approximately 1,940 annual openings due to job growth and turnover, RNs will find ample opportunities across a range of healthcare settings. Whether you’re seeking the bustling energy of Boston or the charm of smaller towns, Massachusetts offers a thriving environment for career growth. Explore the data below to learn more.
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $74,010 | $99,730 | $166,100 |
| Barnstable Town, MA | $70,910 | $93,930 | $140,510 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | $76,170 | $100,360 | $169,960 |
| Leominster-Gardner, MA | $65,500 | $98,230 | $132,710 |
| New Bedford, MA | $68,080 | $83,210 | $134,060 |
| Pittsfield, MA | $66,900 | $94,480 | $155,070 |
| Springfield, MA-CT | $64,820 | $87,110 | $122,990 |
| Worcester, MA-CT | $71,530 | $101,180 | $146,070 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Massachusetts | 30,060 | 32,600 | 2,540 | 8.40% | 1,940 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Massachusetts Nursing Resources
The Massachusetts AANP, an association of 118,000 professional nurse practitioners and organizations, provides a range of support services for NPs and advocates for NPs and their patients. A variety of specialized membership options, including student memberships, are available.
American Nurses Association Massachusetts
The ANA in Massachusetts bills itself as the largest voluntary nursing organization and the “premier organization” representing the professional interests of more than 130,000 registered nurses and their patients.
Not to be confused with ANA Massachusetts, the MNA is a labor union and professional organization representing RN members employed in 85 healthcare facilities throughout Massachusetts. Association goals include promoting the health and safety of nurses and improving healthcare services for everyone.
The Massachusetts BON enforces state nursing laws and regulations, approves pre-RN licensure education programs, and oversees the licensing process for nurses working in the state.
This EduMed resource guides you toward finding, applying to, and winning nursing education scholarships and grants. Included are profiles of scholarship and grant programs and information and links to a variety of online professional and academic support services for nursing students.
