The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Massachusetts
Nurse practitioner programs in Massachusetts graduate highly skilled nursing professionals, ready to pursue board certification in a specialized field and attain advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) licensure. These programs, typically at the master’s or doctoral level, equip advanced registered nurses (RNs) with the necessary skills for a career marked by high projected employment growth and lucrative salaries.
This comprehensive guide provides essential information about the best nurse practitioner (NP) programs in Massachusetts, covering key aspects such as school selection criteria, application procedures, and avenues for financial assistance. Explore the list of top Massachusetts nurse practitioner programs to gain insights into post-graduation opportunities and potential salary ranges.
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We employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best nurse practitioner programs in Massachusetts, simplifying the process of finding a program that aligns with individual preferences. Our methodology focuses on crucial metrics, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings, all of which we believe are paramount to students.
Top NP Programs in Massachusetts at a Glance:
- Northeastern University
- University of Massachusetts-Lowell
- University of Massachusetts-Boston
- MGH Institute of Health Professions
- Endicott College
- MCPHS University
- American International College
- Salem State University
Factors to Consider in a Massachusetts Nurse Practitioner Program:
Initiating the quest for your ideal nurse practitioner (NP) program commences with the delineation of your objectives, inclinations, and available resources. Key indicators, including the array of specializations offered, clinical structure, and program durations, shed light on the most fitting choices for you. Factors like accreditation status and the rate of board certification success serve as crucial data points, guiding you toward programs that will effectively equip you for your forthcoming professional journey.
It’s crucial to note that master of science in nursing (MSN) programs nationwide are gradually phasing out. By the year 2025, employers are anticipated to mandate a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) for nurse practitioners. The approach to this shift may vary from state to state, with individual states having the autonomy to decide on their course of action. Delve deeper into understanding the distinctions between MSN and DNP degrees to make informed decisions about your educational path.
1. Define Your Goals and Interests:
– Identify your career goals, interests, and available resources to narrow down your program options.
2. Specializations:
– Confirm that the programs of interest offer specializations aligning with your career aspirations, whether in family, gerontology, neonatal, pediatrics, psychiatric, or women’s health.
3. Clinical Experience:
– Evaluate the availability of clinical rotations within NP programs and assess whether assistance is provided in securing relevant positions.
4. Accreditation:
– Attend an accredited school and program, as accreditation not only signifies academic quality but is also a requirement for certification boards and many employers.
5. Program Length:
– Consider the duration of NP programs, keeping in mind that most take around two years for completion. Accelerated or bridge programs may offer faster completion options.
6. Board Certification Rate:
– Assess the program’s track record in preparing students for board certification exams, a crucial factor for obtaining APRN licensing.
Importance of Nurse Practitioner Program Accreditation:
All programs listed in this guide hold accreditation from reputable organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Key reasons to prioritize programmatic accreditation include:
– Rigorous academic reviews ensuring NPs are well-prepared for success.
– Potential limitations on transfer credits for doctoral nursing programs from non-accredited master’s programs.
– Certification board requirements for graduation from accredited programs.
– Eligibility for federal financial aid often depends on enrollment in an accredited program.
– Enhanced resume credibility, as some employers and state licensure boards may mandate degrees from accredited programs.
The Best Massachusetts Nurse Practitioner Programs & Schools
We rely on openly accessible provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the information presented about these educational institutions. It’s essential to note that all the data provided is accurate as of the publication date of this article, and program-specific details may exhibit variations.
The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Massachusetts
1. Northeastern University
– Location: Boston, MA
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
Northeastern University’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences stands out as a provider of high-quality accredited graduate nursing education, offering various specialty concentrations. The flexibility of several online programs and a certificate of advanced graduate study caters to diverse preferences. Students delve into nursing leadership, emerging ready to deliver comprehensive care across all age groups.
– Programs: Adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner; adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner; neonatal nurse practitioner; psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner; family nurse practitioner; pediatric nurse practitioner; online nurse practitioner master of science
– Campus: Boston, Massachusetts
– Type: Private
– Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation; New England Commission on Higher Education; Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
– Tuition: $1,752 per credit hour
– Admission Requirements: Varies by clinical concentration, including successful completion of a course in applied statistics within the previous five years, acute care nursing experience, minimum 3.5 GPA, resume, personal statement, letters of recommendation, current U.S. RN licensure, interview, and official transcripts
– Minimum Time Commitment: 16-48 months
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 88%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $110,878 for master’s graduates
Additional Institutional Information:
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $54,360, Out-of-state: $54,360
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $25,264, Out-of-state: $25,264
– Retention Rate: 97%
– Admission Rate: 20%
– Students Enrolled: 22,905
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 48%
– Accreditation: Yes, New England Commission on Higher Education
2. University of Massachusetts-Lowell
– Location: Lowell, MA
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
The University of Massachusetts-Lowell provides a family health nurse practitioner program and an adult-gerontological primary care nurse practitioner program. These programs feature objective structured clinical examination sessions, utilizing trained actors portraying standardized patients with diverse profiles. Part-time and full-time study options offer flexibility.
– Program: Bachelor of science in nursing
– Campus: Lowell, Massachusetts
– Type: Public
– Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
– Admission Requirements: Baccalaureate degree with a major in nursing, GPA of 3.0 or better, introductory course in statistics, unencumbered, current Massachusetts RN license, resume, two letters of recommendation, a goal statement, computer literacy, official transcripts, and completed application and fees
– Minimum Time Commitment: 42 credit hours
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 97%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $84,653 for master’s graduates
Additional Institutional Information:
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $15,078, Out-of-state: $33,004
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $14,590, Out-of-state: $26,370
– Retention Rate: 84%
– Admission Rate: 75%
– Students Enrolled: 18,150
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 99%
– Accreditation: Yes, New England Commission on Higher Education
3. University of Massachusetts-Boston
– Location: Boston, MA
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
The University of Massachusetts-Boston Manning College of Nursing and Health Sciences offers master’s-level educational tracks, focusing on nurse practitioner careers. Both clinical concentrations entail a minimum of 500 hours of clinical time working with preceptors. Part- and full-time options accommodate working nurses, with a curriculum blending classroom and online courses.
– Programs: Adult-gerontological primary care nurse practitioner; family nurse practitioner primary care
– Campus: Boston, Massachusetts
– Type: Public
– Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
– Tuition: $7,271 per semester for in-state residents; $17,758 per semester for out-of-state students
– Admission Requirements: Completed application form, personal statement, official transcripts from all schools attended, two professional references, a resume, and a copy of RN license
– Minimum Time Commitment: 3-4 years
– On-campus requirements: No
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 93%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $99,439 for master’s graduates
Additional Institutional Information:
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $14,187, Out-of-state: $34,649
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $18,433, Out-of-state: $35,980
– Retention Rate: 76%
– Admission Rate: 80%
– Students Enrolled: 16,259
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
– Accreditation: Yes, New England Commission on Higher Education
4. MGH Institute of Health Professions
– Location: Boston, MA
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
The Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions is a non-profit, graduate-level educational institution with cutting-edge facilities. Boasting over 450 clinical affiliations, the school ensures comprehensive practical exposure. With 70% of the faculty holding doctoral or terminal degrees, it maintains a remarkable 95% graduation rate.
– Programs: Family nurse practitioner; pediatric nurse practitioner; psychiatric mental health lifespan nurse practitioner; women’s health nurse practitioner; adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner; adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner; dual adult-gerontology/women’s health
– Campus: Boston, Massachusetts
– Type: Not-for-profit
– Accreditations: New England Commission of Higher Education; Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
– Tuition: $1,397 per credit
– Admission Requirements: BSN degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university, successful completion of a course in statistics, official transcripts, statement of intent, personal statement, diversity statement, a resume or CV, and letters of recommendation.
– On-campus requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 94%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $97,786 for master’s graduates
Additional Institutional Information:
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $73,200, Out-of-state: $73,200
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $65,070, Out-of-state: $65,070
– Retention Rate: Not provided
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 1,269
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
– Accreditation: Yes, New England Commission on Higher Education
5. Endicott College
– Location: Beverly, MA
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus
Endicott College, situated by the seaside, offers a family nurse practitioner (FNP) program emphasizing advanced practice nursing education. The FNP track encompasses a 45-credit-hour hybrid program, blending online and evening courses for the convenience of working students. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, the program ensures practical experience through highly skilled faculty, involving a minimum of 600 clinical hours.
– Program: Family nurse practitioner
– Campus: Beverly, Massachusetts
– Type: Private
– Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
– Tuition: $18,463 per semester
– Admission Requirements: Completed application, a letter of recommendation, official transcripts, a personal statement, a resume or CV, and verification of unrestricted RN license
– Minimum Time Commitment: Two years
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 96%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $69,079 for bachelor’s graduates
Additional Institutional Information:
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $34,470, Out-of-state: $34,470
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $12,666, Out-of-state: $12,666
– Retention Rate: 83%
– Admission Rate: 70%
– Students Enrolled: 4,287
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 44%
– Accreditation: Yes, New England Commission on Higher Education
The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Massachusetts
#6 MCPHS University
Situated in Boston, MA, the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers a comprehensive range of nurse practitioner programs that can be pursued either online or on campus, spanning a duration of four years. The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences extends fully online nurse practitioner programs in Massachusetts, catering to both family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner tracks for RNs possessing an MSN but not yet certified as nurse practitioners. This option is also advantageous for nurse practitioners aiming to diversify their expertise by adding a new specialty certification.
They provide traditional Master of Science in Nursing programs for family nurse practitioners and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, along with an RN-to-MSN track specifically designed for the family nurse practitioner concentration.
Programs Offered:
– Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
– RN-to-MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies
– Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Locations: Boston, Massachusetts; Worcester, Massachusetts
Institution Type: Private, not-for-profit
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
Tuition: $1,325 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: Applicants should hold a BSN from an accredited university, submit official transcripts, a letter of recommendation, a completed application, official AP or CLEP scores, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher in nursing coursework, possess an unencumbered RN license, and provide a resume.
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months (part-time)
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 85%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $103,449 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $33,600
– Out-of-state: $33,600
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $22,230
– Out-of-state: $22,230
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 91%
Students Enrolled: 7,501
Percent Online Enrollment: 44%
Accreditation: Yes, New England Commission on Higher Education
The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Massachusetts
#7 American International College
Based in Springfield, MA, American International College is a distinguished institution offering a variety of educational programs in healthcare professions, encompassing undergraduate and graduate nursing, physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, exercise science, and public health.
The online family nurse practitioner program in Massachusetts, spanning four years, consists of 46 credits distributed across three years. The curriculum encompasses training in primary care clinical management, pharmacology, and advanced health assessment and diagnosis, culminating in a capstone experience.
Programs Offered:
– Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Post-master’s Certificate Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
Campus Location: Springfield, Massachusetts
Institution Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
Tuition: $800 per credit (year 1); $980 per credit (year 2+)
Admission Requirements: Applicants need a baccalaureate GPA of 3.0 or better, a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, an active RN license, official transcripts, and two letters of recommendation, along with a personal statement.
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 77%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $67,602 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $38,220
– Out-of-state: $38,220
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $12,657
– Out-of-state: $12,657
Retention Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 69%
Students Enrolled: 2,612
Percent Online Enrollment: 7%
Accreditation: Yes, New England Commission on Higher Education
#8 Salem State University
Nestled in Salem, Massachusetts, Salem State University offers a specialized clinical track for nurses aspiring to become nurse practitioners: the adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner.
The university also provides an MSN for those seeking to advance their practice without specializing. Students can opt for a post-master’s certificate at another institution in the future if they decide to specialize their education.
Program Offered:
– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Location: Salem, Massachusetts
Institution Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
Tuition: $8,986 for in-state residents; $10,649 for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Applicants must hold a BSN from an accredited school, provide official transcripts, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, submit GRE scores if GPA is lower than 3.0, present a resume, complete a course in statistics, offer a personal/goal statement, provide three letters of recommendation, possess an active Massachusetts RN license, demonstrate one year of relevant clinical professional experience, and undergo an interview with program faculty.
Minimum Time Commitment: 30 total credits
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020): 89%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $71,854 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $910
– Out-of-state: $7,050
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $2,520
– Out-of-state: $4,140
Retention Rate: 74%
Admission Rate: 87%
Students Enrolled: 7,242
Percent Online Enrollment: 98%
Accreditation: Yes, New England Commission on Higher Education
Applying to a Massachusetts Nurse Practitioner Program
When delving into the realm of Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs in Massachusetts, it’s imperative to meticulously consider the admission requirements, encompassing minimum GPAs, standardized test scores, and prerequisites.
Additionally, prospective applicants may find that certain programs demand specific levels of work experience, often tailored to the specialty. For instance, aspiring certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) may need a minimum of two years of critical-care experience.
To streamline the application process, it is advisable to initiate the compilation of admission materials early on. This includes ordering transcripts, writing personal essays, and seeking recommendations from professionals who can vouch for your capabilities.
While the specific criteria for applications may vary among schools, a general overview of typical requirements is outlined below:
Admission Requirements:
– Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program
– 3.0 GPA
– RN license
– Prerequisite courses: Anatomy and physiology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Human growth and development, Statistics, Basic life support
Admission Materials:
– Official transcripts
– Personal statements
– Two professional references
– Resume
– Academic writing sample
– Admissions interview
Financial Considerations for Nurse Practitioner Programs
Just as admission requirements differ, the costs associated with NP programs can vary significantly. Factors influencing these costs encompass program duration, enrollment status (full- or part-time), residency status, institutional classification (public or private), and the feasibility of working concurrently.
Recognizing the financial strain that NP programs can pose, many students explore various financial aid options. Institutions in Massachusetts may provide their scholarships, and private scholarships and grants, often listed on school websites, are accessible. Federal and private loans also constitute viable sources of funding.
Moreover, loan forgiveness programs offer avenues for debt repayment. Graduates may find additional relief through tuition reimbursement from post-graduation employers or by exploring federal loan repayment options tied to service in underserved areas, the military, or rural communities.
What Can You Do With a Degree from a Nurse Practitioner Program?
Embarking on a two-year Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) journey opens doors to career advancement, expanded job prospects, and increased earning potential. Notably, many NP programs in Massachusetts confer Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, anticipating future changes to educational standards from MSN to DNP.
While MSN currently fulfills the minimum requirements for NP roles, specialization in DNPs is becoming increasingly common. This shift does not necessarily extend the program duration, as RNs can opt for accelerated RN-to-DNP bridge programs.
NPs specialize in diverse areas, such as acute care, adult-gerontology, family, neonatal, pediatrics, psychiatric, and women’s health. In Massachusetts, the nursing board licenses NPs as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), with average annual salaries reaching $129,540, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state anticipates a significant 55.7% growth in NP employment from 2020 to 2030.
Addressing Frequently Asked Questions about Massachusetts Nurse Practitioner Programs
1. How to become an NP in Massachusetts?
– Earn a nursing diploma, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree.
– Pass the NCLEX for RN licensure.
– Gain work experience before entering a graduate nursing program (MSN or DNP).
– Pass the board certification exam in your specialty area.
– Obtain your APRN license.
2. How long does it take to become a nurse practitioner in Massachusetts?
– Duration varies based on starting point and degree choices.
– Without an RN license or BSN, spend four years in nursing school and at least two additional years for MSN or DNP.
– With an existing RN license, allocate 2-4 years in a graduate nursing program.
3. What can nurse practitioners do in Massachusetts?
– NPs specialize in patient populations, providing primary care services akin to physicians.
– Specialization options include care for older adults, children, families, women’s health, neonatal care, and psychiatric-mental health.
4. Can an NP have their own practice in Massachusetts?
– Yes, Massachusetts grants nurse practitioners full practice authority, enabling independent practice, comprehensive primary and acute care services, and prescription authority without physician oversight, a privilege not universally extended by all states.
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