Registered nurse-to-master of science in nursing (RN-to-MSN) programs offer RNs with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) the opportunity to complete both their bachelor's and master's nursing degrees in an accelerated timeline. Known as bridge programs, RN-to-MSNs leverage credits earned in ADN programs and experience gained as working RNs. Rather than spending four years completing a BSN and an MSN individually, RN-to-MSN enrollees can graduate in about three years.
Our Massachusetts RN-to-MSN guide can help you choose the best route for advancing your career.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best Massachusetts RN-to-MSN programs, 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.
At a Glance: The Top Massachusetts RN-to-MSN Programs
- College of Our Lady of the Elms
- Regis College
- University of Massachusetts-Lowell
- Simmons University
- Northeastern University
Featured Online RN-to-MSN Programs
How Do Massachusetts RN-to-MSN Programs Work?
RN-to-MSN programs in Massachusetts prepare RNs for advanced roles, including nurse practitioners (NP), clinical nurse specialists, nurse midwives, and nurse administrators. The upper-level curriculum is highly focused on a specialization area, such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or psychiatric-mental health NP.
Students begin with bachelor's-level general education courses in arts, sciences, and humanities, along with core nursing courses not already completed during the ADN study. Enrollees move onto MSN-level coursework in their focus area, plus advanced classes in ethics, leadership, pharmacology, and research.
To accommodate RN work schedules, many programs offer evening or online courses, with in-person labs and clinical experiences. RNs can often complete their clinical rotations in their current workplaces.
Applying to a Massachusetts RN-to-MSN Program
While acceptance rates at the top Massachusetts RN-to-MSN programs tend to exceed 70%, applicants should start assembling and preparing quality application materials well ahead of the deadline. Most programs require a personal essay or statement, professional recommendations, and college transcripts. Give yourself enough time to write and edit your essay, request reference letters, and order transcripts.
-
Admission Materials
Proof of a current and unencumbered RN license and 1-2 years of work experience; college transcripts; 2-3 letters of reference; personal statement or essay
-
GPA Requirement
3.0 GPA, with a range of 2.75-3.25
-
Other Requirement
GRE scores; criminal background check; admission interviews
Why Is Massachusetts RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?
Nursing program accreditation signifies that the training offered meets standards of academic quality and prepares graduates to practice safely. Programs undergo regular and independent reviews of their curriculums by such organizations as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
All of the schools and programs in this ranking are accredited by one of those two commissions.
Attending an unaccredited program can lead to undesirable consequences, including subpar training and academic quality, along with ineligibility for the NCLEX or other certification exams and federal student funding. In addition, other nursing schools may not accept transfer credits from unaccredited programs, and employers may prefer or require applicants to have graduated from an accredited nursing school.
Learn More About the Best Massachusetts RN-to-MSN Programs and Schools
See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.
#1 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs in Massachusetts
College of Our Lady of the Elms
- Chicopee, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With a bachelor's degree in nursing, degree-seekers can affordably earn a master's degree at College of Our Lady of the Elms. The master of science in nursing program, delivered on campus in Chicopee, Massachusetts, is well-suited for those interested in assuming higher-level positions in their field. Many financial assistance offerings are available to help make the degree even more financially accessible.
The graduate tuition for Massachusetts’s students is about $14,814 per year. According to the school, 100% of degree-seekers receive grant and scholarship awards to help make programs more affordable. Loans are another option accepted by 81% of enrollees.
A master’s degree builds on bachelor’s-level knowledge, producing more advanced professionals in the nursing field. Degree completers leave the program with a credential that can lead to managerial and leadership jobs. A terminal degree like a doctorate is one avenue that graduates may pursue.
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#2 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs in Massachusetts
Regis College
- Weston, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Regis College, degree-seekers receive an affordable top-notch education in a variety of disciplines. The Weston, Massachusetts-based college offers a master of science in nursing program that prepares students for high-level jobs in their field. Financial aid programs can help make this degree more affordable.
Students can expect to pay $38,280 per year in graduate tuition if they live in Massachusetts. According to the institution, 100% of degree-seekers receive aid awards that include scholarships that they do not pay back. Loans provide another option for 68% of enrollees.
A master’s degree builds on bachelor’s-level knowledge, producing highly skilled nursing professionals. Graduates can pursue leadership roles, and some may choose a research-related profession. Another option is a Ph.D. or other terminal degree.
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs in Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
- Lowell, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Massachusetts-Lowell, a public college, is located in Lowell, Massachusetts, and manages a comprehensive graduate school. The graduate school offers 48 master's programs that give bachelor’s degree-holders the opportunity to enhance their education and skills in various fields. These programs provide instruction from qualified faculty, all of whom dedicate their careers to student success.
For people interested in the nursing field, the school offers a top-ranked master of science in nursing program on campus. The curriculum prepares enrollees for advanced careers in areas like management and research. Studying on campus introduces degree-seekers to a much richer educational experience.
The school charges a tuition rate of $14,590 a year for enrollees who live in the state, and $26,370 if they live elsewhere. Degree-seekers can receive monetary awards to help foot their tuition bill, as the school awards loans, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to 90% of learners. Once people enroll in the college, about 66% of them complete their degrees.
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs in Massachusetts
Simmons University
- Boston, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Simmons University's MSN program attracts learners who hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing, preparing them for enhanced career opportunities. The school is well-established as a leader in graduate education, offering 41 master's degrees among programs. The master of science in nursing program enrolls BSN-holders.
Qualified professors teach the curriculum and can serve as mentors. It examines the subject from a variety of perspectives, combining practical and theoretical instruction to build a significant understanding of the field. Graduates qualify to pursue a variety of high-level positions, change careers, or pursue a terminal degree.
Graduate students can expect to pay an average $21,654 per year if they live in Massachusetts or elsewhere. School staff can help learners explore financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, and loans to help fund their degree. Degree-seekers have access to support services and a strong campus community of like-minded peers.
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#5 The Best RN-to-MSN Programs in Massachusetts
Northeastern University
- Boston, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
People with a bachelor’s degree in nursing who want to remain competitive in the job market should consider attending Northeastern University. The school counts top-ranked degrees among 47 master's programs and is considered a leader in graduate education. The direct entry nursing program is an on-campus option for nursing students with a bachelor's.
Faculty have a lot of experience teaching the program and helping students succeed. The curriculum covers high-level concepts while giving learners practical experience that might include research opportunities. This education prepares degree-seekers to pursue advanced careers in nursing or to go on to terminal degree programs.
The cost of tuition is about $24,933 per year, regardless of residency. Financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, and loans make this degree more affordable. In addition to academic support from faculty, enrollees benefit from support services like tutoring and professional development events.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts RN-to-MSN Programs
Is it worth getting an MSN degree in Massachusetts?
MSN degrees, including those obtained through an RN-to-MSN bridge program, can lead to positions in nursing leadership and advanced nursing practice. Projections Central forecasts a 55.7% increase in employment for nurse practitioners in Massachusetts during 2020-2030, which exceeds the national projection of 46%.
Can an RN go straight to an MSN?
Qualified RNs can become MSNs through RN-to-MSN bridge programs, which allow ADN-holders with 1-2 years of RN experience advanced standing to complete their BSNs and MSNs in a shorter time frame. Students typically finish in three years, as opposed to four years pursuing the degrees separately.
How long does it take to complete an RN-to-MSN program?
RN-to-MSNs take about three years to earn, on average. Many RN-to-MSN curriculums accommodate working RNs with part-time, online, or evening classes and clinical opportunities at their existing worksites or in their home communities. Timelines can vary with enrollment status, chosen specialty area, and program pacing.
How much do you earn with an MSN degree?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Massachusetts NPs earn the fifth-highest salaries among U.S. states at $129,540. Nurse midwife salaries rank fourth at $129,360. Earnings for Massachusetts medical and health services managers, which include nurse administrators, place third in the U.S. at $140,270.
