The Top Nursing Schools in Massachusetts
Massachusetts 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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Find Nursing Programs in Other States
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Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.
