Overview of Nursing Schools in Massachusetts
- There are 40 nursing schools in Massachusetts. The CCNE accredits 21 nursing schools and the ACEN accredits 31 schools in Massachusetts.
- Typically, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) will take between 18 to 24 months to complete, and a Bachelor Degree in Nursing (BSN) will take about 4 years to complete.
- The average NCLEX passing rate range for ADN students in Massachusetts is between 69.00% and 97.11%.
- The average NCLEX passing rate range for BSN students in Massachusetts is between 80.89% and 92.67%.
- The average annual salary for registered nurses is between $52,080 to $111,220 a year.
- Registered Nurses (RN) throughout the country and in Massachusetts can expect a favorable job growth of 15 percent from 2016 to 2026 which much faster than the average for all occupations.
Recommended Nursing Schools for Massachusetts
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
About Nursing Schools in Massachusetts
The role of a professional nurse in Massachusetts is reliant on dedication of being a lifelong learner and the ability to apply what you learn to your career. The field of nursing is a distinct field that requires technical knowledge along with a comprehensive approach to nursing research. There are many traits that can be learned through experience on the job. However, this is not the only way information can be obtained. There are other ways to expand your knowledge and strengthen your skills as a nurse. The best way this can be accomplished is by obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing.
In our Massachusetts RN program guide, find rankings for both ADN and BSN Degree programs, tuition costs, NCLEX passing rates, and more. Research key Massachusetts RN Program information to help you compare program metrics and to apply to best RN program for your career in nursing.
In the State of Massachusetts, nurses are helping to change the face of healthcare. To ensure that they have the best education and preparation for future health care challenges, registered nurses need to graduate from a state-approved associate's degree in nursing program or a BSN degree program.
Nurses who graduate from an RN program can obtain certification in over 100 nursing specialties, go on to earn an RN to BSN or RN to MSN degree.
BSN degree holders have options to earn an Advance Practice Register Nursing (APRN) degree and become a Nurse Practitioner (NP), or earn an advanced degree for a career in any number of nursing leadership roles such Nurse Educator or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Massachusetts RN Program Comparisons: ADN vs BSN
Compare RN Programs | ADN | BSN |
---|---|---|
Number of Nursing Programs | 20 | 25 |
Average NCLEX Passing Rate | 85.78% | 86.59% |
NCLEX Passing Rate Range | 69.00% to 97.11% | 80.89% to 92.67% |
Best Ranked RN Programs in Massachusetts
To help nursing students in their search for a top RN program, the education experts at RNCareers.org publish their annual findings of the best nursing schools for both Massachusetts and the country. Schools ranked on our list have proven their ability to educate highly competent nurses.
To create our rankings, we evaluated 20 ADN degree programs and 19 BSN degree programs in Massachusetts. We obtained each institution’s first-time NCLEX-RN passing rates, the number of students taking the test, the program nursing accreditation and more. We then compared the results against other nursing programs in Massachusetts to provide our state rankings. View our methodology.
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Best Nursing Schools (BSN) in Massachusetts
The knowledge gained while working in the nursing field and experience with patient care can only benefit from the advancement of nursing information. Completing a BSN degree program can do this. The curriculum for most BSN programs help experienced nurses will further their knowledge in leadership, management, and professionalism can assist nurses in these demanding roles. Courses in typical BSN curriculum in Massachusetts may include:
- Nursing research, clinical studies, and theories
- Advanced studies in the management of complex systems and health issues
- Clinical experiences
- Pathophysiology for nurses
Worcester State College (WSU)
Pass Rate
- 486 Chandler St, Worcester, MA - 01602-2597
- (508) 929-8000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 99.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 203
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $10,586
Book and Supplies: $1,368
Percent Received Aid: 94%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $4,371
Percent Admitted: 81%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 25%
Graduation Rate: 59%
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Susan and Alan Solomont School of Nursing
Pass Rate
- 1 University Ave, Lowell, MA - 01854-5104
- (978) 934-4000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 97.67%
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Psychiatric - Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP
University Information
Total Faculty: 666
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $15,698
Book and Supplies: $1,200
Percent Received Aid: 91%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $9,108
Percent Admitted: 75%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 21%
Graduation Rate: 69%
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
Pass Rate
- 285 Old Westport Rd, North Dartmouth, MA - 02747-2300
- (508) 999-8000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 96.00%
- Programs: Administration, Research or Clinical Nursing, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Award Levels: Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP
University Information
Total Faculty: 399
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $14,408
Book and Supplies: $1,200
Percent Received Aid: 98%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,335
Percent Admitted: 76%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 19%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Simmons College
Pass Rate
- 300 The Fenway, Boston, MA - 02115-5898
- (617) 521-2000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 95.67%
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 224
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,280
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 100%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $28,630
Percent Admitted: 83%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 19%
Graduation Rate: 79%
Westfield State University
Pass Rate
- 577 Western Ave, Westfield, MA - 01086-1630
- (413) 572-5300
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 94.67%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor
University Information
Total Faculty: 226
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $11,139
Book and Supplies: $1,070
Percent Received Aid: 88%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,057
Percent Admitted: 92%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 22%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Fitchburg State University
Pass Rate
- 160 Pearl St, Fitchburg, MA - 01420-2697
- (978) 345-2151
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 94.33%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN
University Information
Total Faculty: 200
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $10,830
Book and Supplies: $1,200
Percent Received Aid: 90%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,516
Percent Admitted: 88%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 25%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Curry College
Pass Rate
- 1071 Blue Hill Ave, Milton, MA - 02186-2395
- (617) 333-0500
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.33%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, MSN
University Information
Total Faculty: 108
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,100
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 100%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $23,983
Percent Admitted: 93%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 10%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Endicott College
Pass Rate
- 376 Hale Street, Beverly, MA - 01915
- (978) 927-0585
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.33%
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 115
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,225
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 96%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $15,639
Percent Admitted: 70%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 21%
Graduation Rate: N/A
Boston College
William F. Connell School of Nursing
Pass Rate
- 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA - 02467
- (617) 552-8000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.33%
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
- Award Levels: Accelerated MSN, Bachelor, BSN to PhD, MSN, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to MSN
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University Information
Total Faculty: 1109
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,250
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 56%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $43,028
Percent Admitted: 26%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 31%
Graduation Rate: 92%
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Elaine Marieb College of Nursing
Pass Rate
- 374 Whitmore Building 181 Presidents Drive, Amherst, MA - 01003
- (413) 545-0111
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.33%
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, MSN, MSN to DNP
University Information
Total Faculty: 1727
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $16,439
Book and Supplies: $1,000
Percent Received Aid: 90%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $10,126
Percent Admitted: 65%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 19%
Graduation Rate: 83%
Bay State College
Pass Rate
- 31 St. James Avenue, Boston, MA - 02116
- (617) 217-9000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 90.67%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
University Information
Total Faculty: 16
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,000
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 80%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,756
Percent Admitted: 34%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 19%
Graduation Rate: 18%
Best Nursing Schools (ADN) in Massachusetts
RN programs in Massachusetts typically are offered with a variety of options; programs may be offered on-campus, online, or as a hybrid format. Some RN programs are reserved specifically for students graduating with their LPN from that college, so space is limited. Colleges and universities in Massachusetts may offer all types of nursing options, from practical nursing to BSN nursing, making it easy for students to continue their education under one institution.
Bunker Hill Community College
Pass Rate
- 250 New Rutherford Ave, Boston, MA - 02129-2925
- (617) 228-2000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 96.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 142
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,280
Book and Supplies: $2,016
Percent Received Aid: 72%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $4,148
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 15%
Bay State College
Pass Rate
- 31 St. James Avenue, Boston, MA - 02116
- (617) 217-9000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 94.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
University Information
Total Faculty: 16
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,000
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 80%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,756
Percent Admitted: 34%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 19%
Graduation Rate: 18%
North Shore Community College
Pass Rate
- 1 Ferncroft Rd, Danvers, MA - 01923-0840
- (978) 762-4000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 120
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,352
Book and Supplies: $1,200
Percent Received Aid: 72%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $4,226
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 25%
Middlesex Community College
Pass Rate
- 591 Springs Rd, Bedford, MA - 01730-9124
- (978) 656-3370
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 110
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $6,048
Book and Supplies: $1,100
Percent Received Aid: 79%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,852
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 20%
Greenfield Community College
Pass Rate
- One College Dr, Greenfield, MA - 01301-9739
- (413) 775-1000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
University Information
Total Faculty: 46
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,642
Book and Supplies: $1,650
Percent Received Aid: 68%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $4,641
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 28%
Lawrence Memorial Hospital School of Nursing
Pass Rate
- 170 Governors Ave, Medford, MA - 02155
- (781) 306-6600
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 37
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,150
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: N/A
Average Grant or Scholarship: $687,052
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: N/A
Quinsigamond Community College
Pass Rate
- 670 West Boylston Street, Worcester, MA - 01606-2092
- (508) 853-2300
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 133
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,830
Book and Supplies: $960
Percent Received Aid: 85%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,949
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 22%
Holyoke Community College
Pass Rate
- 303 Homestead Ave, Holyoke, MA - 01040
- (413) 552-2000
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 115
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,378
Book and Supplies: $1,600
Percent Received Aid: 86%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,686
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 23%
Bristol Community College
Pass Rate
- 777 Elsbree St, Fall River, MA - 02720-7395
- (774) 357-2811
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
View More
University Information
Total Faculty: 118
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,208
Book and Supplies: $2,000
Percent Received Aid: 81%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,461
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 19%
Cape Cod Community College
Pass Rate
- 2240 Iyannough Rd, West Barnstable, MA - 02668-1599
- (774) 330-4022
- NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate
University Information
Total Faculty: 65
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,352
Book and Supplies: $1,200
Percent Received Aid: 78%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,801
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 16%
Additional Listings for Massachusetts Nursing Schools
Grade
|
University
|
Massachusetts Rank
|
Degree
|
---|---|---|---|
88.30 | Springfield Technical Community College | 11 | ADN |
88.00 | Roxbury Community College | 12 | ADN |
84.70 | Becker College | 13 | ADN |
84.30 | Mount Wachusett Community College | 15 | ADN |
78.30 | Northern Essex Community College | 17 | ADN |
59.30 | Quincy College | 18 | ADN |
26.00 | Regis College | 16 | ADN |
88.33 | Becker College | 17 | BSN |
88.33 | Northeastern University - Accelerated | 14 | BSN |
88.33 | Anna Maria College | 15 | BSN |
88.00 | Regis College | 16 | BSN |
84.67 | American International College | 18 | BSN |
81.00 | Laboure College | 19 | BSN |
64.37 | Augustana University | 1 | BSN |
Become an Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Massachusetts
RNs who wish to become advanced practice registered nurses will want to pursue any number of avenues to earn Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Earning a Master of Science in Nursing consists of graduate-level coursework and clinical practice for those nurses who wish to direct patient roles such as a nurse practitioner. You can also pursue indirect patient roles such as teaching or leadership roles, or become involved in policy, state-wide health initiatives or community engagement. There are many clinical and non-clinical avenues that an RN with MSN can pursue.
Nurse Practitioner Programs in Massachusetts
Learn how to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Massachusetts and research schools in Massachusetts offering the following high paying nurse practitioner specialties:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
Learn about Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree.
Online NP Programs Liked by Massachusetts Nurses
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Massachusetts RN Licensing Requirements
Massachusetts State Board of Nursing
Board of Registration in Nursing
239 Causeway Street
Boston, MA 02114
(617) 973-0900
Fees:
Initial licensing fee, RN: $230
License renewal (every two years), RN: $120
Continuing Education Requirements:
RNs and LPNs: 15 contact hours every renewal period
RN Licensure by Exam
Candidates must submit two applications upon graduation: one to Pearson VUE (the company that administers the NCLEX-RN) and the other to the Massachusetts Board. The application itself costs $230 and the NCLEX registration costs $200. The steps should be completed simultaneously. When the applicant provides an email address to Pearson, they will receive an Authorization to Test within a few days. Exams are computer based and can be completed when it is most convenient to the applicant. If the candidate is unsuccessful in passing the NCLEX exam, there is a 45-day waiting period before retaking it.
RN Licensure by Endorsement
Nurses who have been granted licensure in one of the other 50 states may apply for licensure by endorsement. The application for licensure by endorsement is $275 and license verification must also be submitted.
RN License for Nurses Educated Abroad
International candidates should have high school education that is separate from their nursing school education. Registered nurses are eligible to apply for licensure when they have passed a Qualifying Examination Certificate or obtained a Visa Screen Certificate. Canadian candidates are able to submit evidence of graduating from a Board approved program but they will still be required to pass the NCLEX exam. There is a $50 fee for Canadians who wish to pursue this route. International candidates must demonstrate English proficiency and there are many exams available to choose from. Lastly, international graduates will submit a Certificate of Graduation to PCS.
RN Salaries in Massachusetts
There are several opportunities for nurses who have completed a BSN degree program. A majority of the specialty hospitals in the area require a BSN to qualify for the position. As a new graduate of a program nurses may find expanded opportunities such as:
- Mental Health RN who visits patients in their homes
- Wound and ostomy nursing
- Administration or executive roles in healthcare facilities
Nurses who have obtained a bachelor’s degree are preferred over a nurse who has not in most cases. There are a few hospitals in Massachusetts who are pushing to only hire nurses with a BSN.
Massachusetts Registered Nursing Salaries
Boston has, by large, the largest amount of registered nurses employed than any other metropolitan area in Massachusetts. The Cambridge-Quincy metropolitan area has the highest annual median wage along with the highest hourly mean wage. This is considering some estimates that were not released.
Source: BLS, Department of Education, State Board of Nursing, Nursing School Websites.