What type of accreditation should the school or university in Massachusetts have if it hosts a RN to BSN program?

There are twoprimary accreditation bodies for nursing education programs: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Both of these organizations are basically saying the same thing about the program you choose if they endorse it. They are telling students and the public that it is a quality education program that is meeting objectives for curriculum and also preparing graduates for meaningful work in the nursing and healthcare industries. Any RN to BSN programs that have CCNE or ACEN accreditation will be similarly endorsed by the state’s board of nursing.

Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts: Finding a School

Q: Is it easier to complete a bachelor’s degree through a RN to BSN program in Massachusetts?

Yes, since you are not only compressing the timeframe but the total cost of your education, an RN to BSN program could make things easier on you in your nursing career. Courses such as these are called bridge programs, because they are meant to fill the gap between your associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. You will have transfer credits from the start of your nursing education that apply to the final total needed to earn a bachelor’s degree, so you won’t have to take those courses again with most programs. One thing doesn’t change with the bridge program, though: you still have to be prepared to demonstrate excellent time management, self-discipline, leadership skills, and a strong work ethic.

Q: Will RN to BSN programs in Massachusetts accept my past educational credits?

It’s highly likely that the program you choose will accept at least some of your past courses at full credit, but it may change depending on the individual program. Most BSN programs require a substantial total of credits, usually in the neighborhood of 120, but close to or more than half of those will be from when you earned an associate degree in nursing, which in turn likely led to you receive a RN license. The transcripts that you turn in as part of the admission process will likely point to which courses you are able to transfer over.

For Massachusetts RNs ready to advance their careers, an online RN to BSN program offers a flexible and affordable path to earning a bachelor’s degree. This guide highlights top Massachusetts-based online RN to BSN programs and covers what to expect in terms of coursework, delivery formats, costs, timelines, and career opportunities after graduation.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Mark Earnest, BA

HealthcarePre-NursingAdv Nursing

Editor: Michael Hoffman, MA, JD

HealthcareNursingAdv Nursing

Updated: 01/09/2026

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What to Look for
FAQs
Salary Comparison
Best Schools

What to Look for in a Program

Online RN to BSN programs in Massachusetts are designed with working nurses in mind, offering flexible formats that make it easier to advance your education without putting your career on hold. In some cases, students may even apply before completing an ADN program or obtaining RN licensure.

When searching for a program, consider these key factors:

Admission timing: Some programs allow conditional admission while you finish your ADN or prepare for RN licensure.
Program format: Options range from fully online programs with no campus visits to hybrid models that include limited in-person requirements.
Course delivery: Classes may be offered synchronously (live, scheduled sessions), asynchronously (self-paced), or through a blend of both.
Fit and flexibility: The right program will align with your learning preferences, work schedule, and long-term career goals.

To help you begin your search, we highlight three online RN to BSN programs currently available in Massachusetts. These examples illustrate what you can expect in terms of structure, delivery, and overall program design as you work toward your bachelor’s degree in nursing.

RN to BS in Nursing Program — Fitchburg State University

Convenience and affordability are important to working nurses earning a BSN, and the RN to BS in Nursing program at Fitchburg State emphasizes those qualities. With just 32 credit hours needed, this bridge program prepares graduates for a variety of leadership and specialized practice roles as public health nurses, case managers, health educators, and many others.

The curriculum centers on evidence-based practice, including current research and critical thinking in managing patient care. It also features in-depth classes in communication tactics and organizational and system leadership.

All didactic coursework is completed online. Students additionally complete hands-on clinical practicum experiences. Multiple program start dates are available throughout the year.

Duration: As few as 12 months

Mode: Online and asynchronous coursework, with in-person clinical practicum experiences

Cost: $9,952

Admissions Requirements:

Valid RN license in good standing
Minimum 2.5 GPA in prior coursework
Statement of Purpose and Essay

Curriculum:

Role Transition to Baccalaureate Nursing
Health and Physical Assessment
Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
Community Based Nursing
Social Justice and Advocacy
Genomics for Nursing Practice
Health Care Policy and Finance
Nursing in a Global Community
Caring for Forensic Populations
RN to BS Capstone

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Nursing RN to BSN Program — University of Massachusetts Boston

The University of Massachusetts Boston offers a Nursing RN to BSN program that features 100% online coursework. No in-person clinical experience is required, but students will complete a service-learning project in their community.

With a total of 90 credits transferred in, students can earn their BSN in as few as three semesters.

The program’s curriculum focuses on leadership and vulnerable populations, and includes courses that utilize the latest healthcare technology. Graduates take on advanced roles in a range of healthcare settings in clinical research, nurse education, public health, and administration.

Financial aid resources can be explored through UMass Boston’s undergraduate financial aid department. The program is fully accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

Duration: As few as three semesters (minimum 30 credits earned in program)

Mode: 100% online with optional synchronized classes, plus service-learning project completed in the student’s community

Cost: $11,700 ($390/credit x 30 credits)

Admissions Requirements:

RN licensure
Complete secondary school transcripts
Minimum GPA of 2.5

Curriculum:

Professional Issues in Nursing
Health Assessment and Promotion
Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice
Community Health Nursing
Legal, Ethical, and Health Policy Capstone

Online RN to BSN Program — Bay Path University

Bay Path University offers an Online RN to BSN program that’s designed for current registered nurses seeking to advance their careers into leadership positions. Convenience and study flexibility is key with program benefits that include:

Multiple start dates annually
Accelerated 7-week courses
Access to asynchronous coursework via an interactive, virtual classroom

The curriculum emphasizes leadership, community health, and global diversity, preparing graduates for advanced roles across the healthcare spectrum. Students additionally learn technology, communication, and collaboration skills.

Program requirements include completion of:

Core Bay Path courses
Core nursing courses
Two capstone projects
Nursing electives chosen based on the student’s interests

Duration: 2 years (varies depending on number of credits transferred in)

Mode: Online and asynchronous

Cost: $560/credit (tuition only)

Admissions Requirements:

Active RN license in good standing
Associate degree from accredited institution
Minimum 2.7 GPA
Official transcripts from HS and colleges/universities
Basic Life Support certificate

Curriculum:

Course examples include:

Health Assessment
Global and Population Health
Community Health
Nursing Informatics
Leadership in Practice for Nurses

Massachusetts RN to BSN Student FAQs

Exploring the wide variety of Massachusetts RN to BSN program options will naturally bring up additional questions on the details of how programs work. To help you out in this regard, here are the answers to five questions frequently asked by prospective Massachusetts online RN to BSN students.

Who accredits online RN to BSN programs in Massachusetts?

Proper accreditation should always be a critical factor in any degree program you choose. The two primary accreditors of RN to BSN programs in the U.S. (including online programs in Massachusetts) are:

Some programs may alternatively be accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

You’ll likely be able to confirm current accreditation status on the program’s webpage. If you don’t see it there, you can use this U.S. Department of Education accreditation search engine.

Is it easier to complete a bachelor’s degree through a RN to BSN program in Massachusetts?

If you are a working registered nurse with a previously-earned nursing diploma or associate degree, then an RN to BSN program is specifically designed to make earning a BSN degree as easy and affordable as possible.

RN to BSN programs allow students to transfer in a substantial number of credits earned in their diploma or ADN program. They also award a significant number of credits simply for having an RN license.

As a result, students may be able to obtain their BSN by completing as few as 30 additional credits. That, of course, means a tremendous savings in time, effort, and cost to reaching the approximately 120 total credits required for the bachelor’s degree.

As with earning any degree, particularly through online program, you must be prepared to demonstrate strong self-discipline and time management skills to succeed.

Will RN to BSN programs in Massachusetts accept my past educational credits?

Absolutely. In fact, the whole purpose of RN to BSN programs is to provide current RNs with the ability to apply previously-earned credits to their bachelor’s degree program requirements.

The details as to the type and number of credits that may be transferred vary from program to program, however. So be sure to speak to an admissions representative at each program you consider to get a clear understanding of exactly how many credits you’ll be able to transfer in.

What type of financial aid is available to Massachusetts RN to BSN program students

Massachusetts RN to BSN programs offer a variety of financial aid opportunities to qualifying students, including:

Scholarships and grants
Student loans
Employer tuition reimbursement
Tuition discounts
Tuition deferment and installment plans

Many general scholarships are offered to students seeking a career in nursing and health-related fields, but there are also a handful that are available exclusively to students in Massachusetts, including:

There are lots of other scholarships and financial aid resources online RN to BSN students in Massachusetts can tap into. To get started on your funding search, be sure to contact the financial aid offices at each of the schools you’re considering.

How will earning a bachelor’s degree through a RN to BSN program in Massachusetts help me with my career?

An RN to BSN program builds upon your previous nursing education and helps you grow as a healthcare professional, leading to career advancement into leadership and specialized practice roles. RNs with a nursing bachelor’s degree also command higher salaries. (More on that below.)

RN to BSN programs offer students greater depth and breadth of nursing knowledge and skills that typically include:

A deeper understanding of medical terminology through anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, genetics, pathophysiology and pharmacology courses.
Increased knowledge of healthcare systems with courses in public health policy and administration.
Increased confidence in patient interaction.

Career Growth for Massachusetts RNs vs. BSNs

With nurses still in high demand due to emerging healthcare needs and the continuing shortage of nursing professionals, the career and salary outlooks for Massachusetts RNs generally and BSN-educated RNs particularly is strong and will remain that way into the foreseeable future.

As evidence, according to January 2026 figures from ZipRecruiter, the median annual salary for Massachusetts RNs is $87,700 and for RNs with a BSN degree is $94,800. In comparison, ZipRecruiter reports an annual mean salary of $67,200 for Massachusetts RNs with a nursing associate degree.

What you actually earn in your Massachusetts RN job will depend on several factors, including:

Specific employer, job title, and job responsibilities
Level of professional nursing experience
Geographic location

As for geographic location, ZipRecruiter reports that the three highest-paying cities for those with a BSN degree are:

Cambridge ($99,560)
Barnstable Town ($99,253)
Boston ($99,010)

Top Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts

To further aid you in your program search, we’ve surveyed the current offerings of online RN to BSN programs in Massachusetts and ranked what we believe to be some of the best, which you’ll find in the list below. Our choices were made based on criteria reported to Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

Learn more about our selection process by clicking the “About the ranking” button below.

Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg, MA

31% Online Enrollment

$ Tuition

73% Students w/ Aid

Fitchburg State’s CCNE-accredited RN to BSN program requires 10 courses (32 credits), including leadership, health assessment, evidence-based practice, community health nursing, and a capstone. Designed for working nurses, it offers a clinical component and can be completed in as few as 12 months by taking two courses at a time, preparing graduates for expanded roles and responsibilities in nursing practice.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$2,913 Avg. Aid Amount
57% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg State’s RN to BSN program can be completed in as few as 12 months by taking two courses at a time, offering an accelerated path to a BSN degree.
The program is CCNE-accredited and integrates leadership, management, and evidence-based nursing practice to prepare graduates for advanced responsibilities.
Students have access to various scholarships and financial aid specifically supporting nursing students, making the program more affordable.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$2,913 Avg. Aid Amount
57% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Framingham State University

Framingham, MA

35% Online Enrollment

$ Tuition

70% Students w/ Aid

The RN to BSN Bridge program at Framingham State University requires completion of eight nursing major courses plus general education to meet a 128-credit degree. It prepares RNs to apply nursing theory, leadership, ethics, and health promotion in diverse settings, incorporating research, informatics, and clinical decision-making. The program allows flexible pacing, with no time limits for completion, and grants transfer credits for prior accredited nursing education.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$3,030 Avg. Aid Amount
51% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Framingham State University

The RN to BSN program at Framingham State University features a hybrid/blended learning format, combining online courses with traditional on-campus experiences for flexible learning.
The program offers credit transfer opportunities for RN graduates from diploma, ADN, and foreign nursing programs, expediting degree completion by recognizing prior coursework and clinical experience.
Framingham State University supports RN to BSN students with a structured curriculum that integrates leadership, research, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for advanced nursing roles and higher education pathways.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$3,030 Avg. Aid Amount
51% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Westfield State University

Westfield, MA

42% Online Enrollment

$ Tuition

63% Students w/ Aid

Westfield State University’s RN to BSN program builds on RNs’ experience and knowledge to prepare them for broader healthcare roles and leadership. It includes a student-focused orientation, a capstone project addressing real healthcare challenges, and courses in nursing research, leadership, quality improvement, advanced health assessment, and community health nursing. The program supports advancement into leadership, health policy, research, and graduate studies.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$2,568 Avg. Aid Amount
60% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Westfield State University

Westfield State University’s RN to BSN program offers preferential admission and up to 90 transfer credits through the statewide Nursing Education Transfer Compact (NETC), streamlining degree completion for qualified ADN holders.
The program features a hybrid-plus format with over 50% online learning, flexible evening classes, and allows students to finish in 12 to 24 months, accommodating working adult learners.
Faculty members are current nursing practitioners and many hold or are pursuing terminal degrees, providing students with relevant, real-world expertise and mentorship.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$2,568 Avg. Aid Amount
60% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Worcester State University

Worcester, MA

34% Online Enrollment

$ Tuition

51% Students w/ Aid

The RN-to-BS program at Worcester State University requires a current Massachusetts RN license and a minimum 2.5 GPA. It spans three semesters full-time, totaling 31 credits, covering courses such as Transition to Baccalaureate Nursing, Nursing Informatics, Advanced Nursing Perspectives, and Community/Public Health Nursing. The curriculum includes leadership, research, health policy, and nursing assessment, with an emphasis on professional nursing roles and community health.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$1,916 Avg. Aid Amount
60% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Worcester State University

The RN to BSN Bridge program at Worcester State University offers a cohort-based full-time day schedule, enabling completion in just three semesters, facilitating accelerated degree completion.
The program provides specialized nursing courses such as Nursing Informatics and Professional Nursing Leadership, promoting advanced knowledge and leadership skills for career advancement.
Worcester State University's nursing programs hold Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation, ensuring high educational standards that enhance graduates' marketability and clinical competency.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$1,916 Avg. Aid Amount
60% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Regis College

Weston, MA

53% Online Enrollment

$$$$$ Tuition

100% Students w/ Aid

The Regis College RN to BSN Degree Completion program requires 45 credits, completed in 12 to 16 months, designed for registered nurses with an associate degree. It offers asynchronous and Zoom synchronous hybrid classes, with no clinical component, focusing on expanding nursing knowledge for professional growth and current healthcare demands. Admission requires an active RN license, transcripts, and a recommendation letter.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$31,032 Avg. Aid Amount
61% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Regis College

The RN to BSN Bridge program offers a tuition discount of up to 30% for students transferring from Colorado Community College System institutions, making it financially attractive.
It provides a curriculum designed specifically for working nurses that awards 45 credits for prior associate degree nursing courses and active RN licensure, allowing accelerated degree completion.
The program includes dedicated academic advising and emphasizes practical clinical education with strong faculty support to enhance students' career advancement opportunities.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$31,032 Avg. Aid Amount
61% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

University of Massachusetts-Boston

Boston, MA

23% Online Enrollment

$$ Tuition

86% Students w/ Aid

The University of Massachusetts Boston’s RN to BSN Bridge program is an accredited degree completion track for registered nurses with 42 transfer credits accepted. It requires completion of five six-credit nursing courses focused on professional issues, health assessment, research, community health, and legal-ethical-health policy topics. The program can be completed in as little as one year and requires 120 total credits for graduation.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$8,288 Avg. Aid Amount
49% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected University of Massachusetts-Boston

The UMass Boston RN to BSN Bridge program offers a tuition discount for Massachusetts residents, making it more affordable compared to many other programs.
It provides a flexible online learning format with optional synchronous classes to connect students with faculty and peers, enhancing engagement while accommodating working nurses.
The program accepts up to 84 transfer credits, allowing students to complete their BSN in as few as three semesters, accelerating degree completion.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$8,288 Avg. Aid Amount
49% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA

30% Online Enrollment

$$$$ Tuition

86% Students w/ Aid

Bay Path University’s RN to BSN program delivers a CCNE-accredited curriculum designed for registered nurses advancing toward leadership roles. It requires 120 credits, including core courses, nursing courses, two capstone projects, and elective options tailored to individual interests. The program emphasizes leadership, research, communication, collaboration, and technology skills applicable across diverse healthcare settings, guided by expert faculty and evidence-based practice standards.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$25,496 Avg. Aid Amount
50% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Bay Path University

Bay Path University’s RN to BSN program offers a discounted tuition rate of $300 per credit specifically for Baystate Health-affiliated registered nurses, making it financially attractive for those employees.
The program provides extensive personalized support including free on-demand tutoring, one-on-one technology assistance, and mentorship from practicing nurses and health professionals, enhancing student success and practical learning.
Students complete two career-focused capstone projects, offering hands-on experience and the opportunity to develop leadership and research skills required for advanced nursing roles.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$25,496 Avg. Aid Amount
50% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

North Dartmouth, MA

7% Online Enrollment

$$ Tuition

92% Students w/ Aid

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth RN to BSN Bridge program requires 31 credits, including 28 nursing and 3 elective credits, all completed at UMass Dartmouth. It builds on registered nurses’ experience with advanced study in physical/social sciences, leadership, community/public health, research, and humanities. It is tailored individually, accrediting RN licenses and accepts transfer credits, focusing on professional nursing skills and development.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$6,446 Avg. Aid Amount
53% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

The UMass Dartmouth RN to BSN Bridge program offers a tuition funding partnership with Southcoast Health, covering core course tuition and fees for eligible cohort students starting Fall 2025.
Students complete nursing courses online in accelerated 7-week terms, enabling degree completion in only five semesters for efficient progression.
The program features personalized academic planning with faculty advisors, fostering strong peer networking and collaborative learning within dedicated cohort groups.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$6,446 Avg. Aid Amount
53% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Lowell, MA

12% Online Enrollment

$$$ Tuition

78% Students w/ Aid

UMass Lowell’s RN to BSN program is fully online, designed for licensed RNs in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. It offers 120 credits with 39 credits granted for current RN licensure. The curriculum focuses on advanced patient care, leadership, and healthcare policy, preparing nurses for expanded roles and graduate studies without a clinical component. Students complete four additional courses and must fulfill core curriculum requirements.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$8,469 Avg. Aid Amount
69% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected University of Massachusetts-Lowell

UMass Lowell’s online RN to BS program awards 39 transfer credits for an active RN license, significantly accelerating degree completion for practicing nurses.
The program offers fully online courses with a flexible schedule and no clinical component, accommodating working nurses in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
UMass Lowell benefits from strong healthcare partnerships with over 100 clinical sites and a high NCLEX pass rate, ensuring quality education and practical preparedness.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$8,469 Avg. Aid Amount
69% Graduation Rate
Public School Type
17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Anna Maria College

Paxton, MA

19% Online Enrollment

$$$$ Tuition

98% Students w/ Aid

Anna Maria College’s online RN to BSN program requires 120 credits and offers up to 90 transfer credits, enabling flexible, accelerated progression through five consecutive 8-week terms. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, health assessment, evidence-based practice, and community health, preparing RNs for complex clinical roles and advanced certifications. Students can begin coursework before passing the NCLEX-RN, supporting early momentum in their nursing careers. The program is ACEN-accredited and restricted to certain states.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$28,192 Avg. Aid Amount
48% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

Why We Selected Anna Maria College

Anna Maria College’s RN to BSN program offers the flexibility of fully online, asynchronous 8-week semesters designed to fit work, school, and personal life, allowing students to complete the degree in as few as 12 months.
The program allows students to start coursework before passing the NCLEX-RN, enabling early progress toward a BSN and accelerating career advancement without delay.
Anna Maria College provides a highly affordable RN to BSN pathway with the ability to transfer up to 90 credits and a low tuition rate of $310 per credit, making it one of the most cost-effective options in New England.

Program Details

NECHE Accreditation
$28,192 Avg. Aid Amount
48% Graduation Rate
Private School Type
13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio

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Keep Learning

Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts: Finding a School

FIND THE PROGRAM FOR YOU

What to Look for in a Program

RN to BS in Nursing Program — Fitchburg State University

Nursing RN to BSN Program — University of Massachusetts Boston

Online RN to BSN Program — Bay Path University

Massachusetts RN to BSN Student FAQs

Career Growth for Massachusetts RNs vs. BSNs

Top Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts

Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online Undergraduate Bridge Program Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.

One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs

Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs

About Our Data

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Mark Earnest, BA AUTHOR

Michael Hoffman, MA, JD EDITOR