The Top Nursing Schools in Massachusetts
- Top Schools and Programs
- How to Choose a Program
- Why Become a Nurse
- Salary Outlook
- State Nursing Requirements
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: Shobeir Ansari | Moment | Getty ImagesMassachusetts is home to some of the most nurse-friendly healthcare centers in the country, including Massachusetts General Hospital, Winchester Hospital, and Lowell General Hospital. As one of the top five states for the highest average annual salary, Massachusetts is an ideal location for nurses to both begin and advance their careers.
This guide explores how to become a nurse in Massachusetts, the salary and job outlook, and the best nursing programs in the state.
The Best Nursing Schools in Massachusetts
Learn more about the top nursing schools in Massachusetts and which programs make the best options for prospective nurses.
Our Methodology: We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Massachusetts, 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.
Northeastern University
Boston, MA- 4 year
- Campus
- In-State$52,420
- Out-of-state$52,420
- In-State$24,793
- Out-of-state$24,793
- Retention Rate99%
- Acceptance Rate18%
- Students Enrolled22,207
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
Boston College
- Chestnut Hill, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$56,780
- Out-of-state$56,780
- In-State$30,600
- Out-of-state$30,600
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate27%
- Students Enrolled14,747
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment5%
- AccreditationYes
Endicott College
- Beverly, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$33,304
- Out-of-state$33,304
- In-State$12,555
- Out-of-state$12,555
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled4,741
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
- Amherst, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$15,791
- Out-of-state$35,112
- In-State$14,014
- Out-of-state$29,529
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled31,350
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
College of Our Lady of the Elms
- Chicopee, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$35,270
- Out-of-state$35,270
- In-State$14,814
- Out-of-state$14,814
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled1,495
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Emmanuel College
- Boston, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$41,028
- Out-of-state$41,028
- In-State$14,319
- Out-of-state$14,319
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled2,222
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment2%
- AccreditationYes
Bunker Hill Community College
- Boston, MA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$576
- Out-of-state$5,520
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,352
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
Simmons University
- Boston, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$40,850
- Out-of-state$40,850
- In-State$21,654
- Out-of-state$21,654
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled6,535
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
- Lowell, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$15,078
- Out-of-state$33,004
- In-State$14,590
- Out-of-state$26,370
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled18,352
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Westfield State University
- Westfield, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$970
- Out-of-state$7,050
- In-State$1,890
- Out-of-state$1,890
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled5,795
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Massachusetts
When choosing a nursing program, applicants should consider factors based on their academic and professional goals. To simplify the process, prospective students should research an institution’s tuition, program length, and financial aid options for nurses.
Verify that the nursing institution is accredited and review their National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) scores and graduation rates. These numbers can indicate program quality.
Why Become a Nurse in Massachusetts
Nurses in Massachusetts enjoy one of the highest average salaries in the U.S., with licensed practical nurses, registered nurses (RNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) collectively earning higher salaries than 90% of the country.
Massachusetts also has pending legislation to become a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state. As an NLC state, Massachusetts nurses can qualify for a license in another NLC state with minimal paperwork.
As part of the NLC, Massachusetts would agree to a set of rules and procedures that all licensed RNs must follow, joining 37 states already part of the compact.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Massachusetts
At $96,250, RNs in Massachusetts earn one of the highest average salaries in the country, third only to Hawaii ($104,830) and California ($120,560). Similarly, nurse practitioners in Massachusetts earn an average annual salary of $126,050, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
While nurses in the state benefit from higher salaries, the cost of living in Massachusetts is one of the highest in the country, ranking 5th as the most expensive place to live. Therefore, the higher salary partially offsets the high cost of living in the state.
Like most other states, Massachusetts also expects an increase in the demand for nurses. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Massachusetts ranks 23rd in anticipated demand, with a projected 8.2% employment growth from 2018-2028.
Projections may change due to COVID-19.
The highest-paying cities in Massachusetts are located in the more densely populated areas of the state. These areas are close to the Massachusetts Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
With the western part of the state less populated, cities from the central part of Massachusetts to the coast tend to provide the best salaries.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Average Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Boston — Cambridge — Nashua | $99,410 |
| Leominster — Gardner | $89,370 |
| Worcester | $88,470 |
| Barnstable Town | $88,210 |
| Springfield | $82,540 |
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Massachusetts
To become an RN or APRN in Massachusetts, prospective nurses need to complete a state-board approved nursing program. After fulfilling the academic requirements, nursing students must pass the NCLEX-RN exam, which allows them to apply for their license.
Both RNs and APRNs must satisfy continuing education requirements for nurses to maintain their license and continue working as a nurse in the state.
RN Requirements
Becoming an RN in Massachusetts requires nursing candidates to graduate from an accredited nursing program with either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).
Nursing students are required to participate in a one-time training and education course on the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s and dementia before receiving their RN license. Upon completion, prospective nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN and submit an application of licensure to the state.
RNs are required to complete 15 contact hours and renew their license no later than their birthday in even-numbered years. The initial application fee is $275, while the renewal fee is $120. All materials are available online through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
APRN Requirements
To become an APRN, nurses need an unencumbered RN license that allows them to practice in the state. RNs must earn a master of science in nursing or doctor of nursing practice. Graduate-level coursework includes pathophysiology, advanced physical assessment, and pharmacotherapeutics.
Graduates can then complete a national certification exam administered by national agencies recognized through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing and apply for licensure. The application fee is $150, while APRN renewal is $180.
Other Top Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
- Best Massachusetts Medical Assisting Programs + Online Options
- The Top LPN Programs in Massachusetts
- Top Massachusetts RN-to-MSN Programs + Online Requirements
- The Best Massachusetts Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Massachusetts
How long does it take to become an RN in Massachusetts?
Prospective nurses must earn an ADN or a BSN before applying for RN licensure in Massachusetts.
An associate degree takes the shortest amount of time to complete, requiring around two years of study. However, some employers prefer to hire BSN-holders. Some nursing schools in Massachusetts offer ADN-to-BSN bridge programs.
How do I become an RN in Massachusetts?
Prospective nurses in Massachusetts must complete a state-approved, accredited nursing program that prepares them for the NCLEX-RN exam. Candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN before getting licensure.
What is the salary range for nurses in Massachusetts?
According to the BLS, salaries range from $73,310 (bottom 25th percentile) to $117,310 (top 75th percentile). Compared to the rest of the country, RNs in Massachusetts rank 3rd in annual salary at $96,250, while nurse practitioners rank 5th, earning $126,050.
How much is nursing school in Massachusetts?
A nursing school’s cost depends on many factors, including location and degree type. For instance, Framingham State University represents the lower end of tuition costs at $11,380 per year, while Endicott College boasts much higher rates at $35,764 per year.
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