What Massachusetts Schools Offer Accelerated BSN Programs: Second Degree BSN

Massachusetts is experiencing a critical shortage of registered nurses, with healthcare systems across the Commonwealth reporting escalating staff deficits. Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs have emerged as a powerful solution designed to fast‑track career changers and degree-holders into the nursing workforce. These intensive, high-quality programs are responding to the mounting demand for skilled care, driven by an aging population and increasing complexity in patient needs. Our guide delivers an in‑depth overview of Massachusetts's ABSN landscape, profiling program formats, clinical opportunities, and state licensure pathways. By illuminating the educational routes that effectively bridge the gap between qualified graduates and urgent labor market needs, this resource empowers aspiring nurses to take decisive, informed steps toward meeting today's healthcare challenges.
2025 Best ABSN Programs in Massachusetts
Looking for the best Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in Massachusetts? RegisteredNursing.org has done the research to help you find top-ranked programs that fit your needs. Our rankings highlight schools that offer quality education, strong clinical experiences, and support to help you succeed in your nursing career. Whether you're changing careers or advancing in healthcare, these programs are designed to get you ready fast. Check out our list to see which Massachusetts ABSN programs stand out this year. Learn more about how we rank programs here.
Regis College
Weston, MA - Private 4-year - regiscollege.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated 16-Month BS in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis College offers an Accelerated 16-Month BS in Nursing program, ideal for non-nurse college graduates aiming for a fast-paced transition into nursing. This hybrid program combines online learning with clinical experiences in prestigious Boston hospitals, boasting a 94% NCLEX pass rate. Students must complete seven prerequisite courses with a B- or above. The program's tuition is $1,285 per credit, totaling $77,100, with start dates in September. Early action and regular deadlines are in December and March, respectively. This program is perfect for career changers seeking a comprehensive nursing education in a condensed timeframe.
- 16-month duration
- Hybrid program format
- 94% NCLEX pass rate
- Clinical placements in Boston
- $1,285 per credit
- Total tuition $77,100
- September start date
- Early action deadline December
- Regular deadline March
- Seven prerequisite courses
Bachelor's - Accelerated 24-Month BS in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated 24-Month BS in Nursing at Regis College is designed for non-nurse graduates looking to enter the nursing field quickly. This hybrid program merges online coursework with clinical rotations in Boston's leading healthcare facilities, preparing students for the NCLEX. With tuition at $1,285 per credit ($77,100 total), the program offers 12-week semesters for a balanced pace. Admission requires a prior bachelor's degree, with fall starts and rolling admissions after March 1. It's an excellent choice for career changers seeking a flexible yet rigorous path to nursing.
- 24 months to complete
- Hybrid program format
- $1,285 per credit
- Total tuition $77,100
- Fall start date
- Rolling admissions
- NCLEX preparation
- Clinical placements in Boston
- Online coursework
- Hands-on simulation labs
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern University offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program tailored for those holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree or 62 non-nursing credits. This 16-month hybrid program blends online learning with in-person labs and clinical rotations, ensuring students gain comprehensive nursing skills. With start dates in January, May, and September, it provides a swift pathway into nursing without requiring ACT or SAT scores. The program stands out for its rigorous curriculum, including hands-on labs and clinical experiences at leading healthcare institutions, preparing graduates for immediate practice. Scholarships are available, enhancing accessibility to this fast-track nursing education.
- 16-month program duration
- Hybrid online and onsite learning
- Three start dates annually
- Scholarships available
- Non-nursing degree or 62 credits required
- Hands-on nursing labs
- Clinical rotations at top facilities
- Fast track to nursing career
- Rigorous academic path
- Practice-ready nurse preparation
MCPHS University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - mcphs.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing—Accelerated
Campus Based - Visit Website
MCPHS University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Boston, MA, is a 32-month intensive pathway for aspiring nurses. With a focus on blending liberal arts with professional nursing studies, students engage in comprehensive clinical rotations at top-tier medical facilities. The program prides itself on a 96% NCLEX-RN pass rate for 2024, underscoring its effectiveness in preparing students for the nursing field. Admission is competitive, emphasizing academic excellence, though specific entrance exam requirements like ACT or SAT are not mentioned. This program is ideal for those seeking a fast-paced, immersive nursing education in a vibrant city setting.
- 32-month accelerated program.
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Foundational liberal arts focus.
- Located in Boston, MA.
Simmons University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - simmons.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor in Nursing (ABSN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Simmons University's Accelerated Bachelor in Nursing (ABSN) program in Boston, MA, is a 16-month, campus-based intensive program tailored for individuals aiming to quickly transition into nursing. It combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical experiences across various specialties such as medical-surgical, psychiatric, and pediatric nursing. The program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills for leadership, research, and clinical decision-making in today's dynamic healthcare environment. Prospective students must meet specific academic prerequisites, particularly in the sciences, making it a perfect fit for career changers or those looking to advance in the healthcare field. No entrance exam is required for admission.
- 16-month duration
- Campus-based learning
- Extensive clinical hours
- Diverse nursing specialties
- Leadership and research focus
- Science prerequisites required
- Ideal for career changers
Endicott College
Beverly, MA - Private 4-year - endicott.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Endicott College offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program tailored for career changers holding a bachelor's degree in another field. This intensive 16-month, 62-credit program combines rigorous coursework, hands-on lab sessions, and comprehensive clinical rotations to prepare students for diverse healthcare environments. Emphasizing personalized education, the program features small class sizes and dedicated advising to support student success. Admission requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and completion of prerequisite courses, with no ACT or SAT needed. Priced at $1,160 per credit, the CCNE-accredited program equips graduates with the skills for immediate entry into the nursing profession, backed by strong employment growth in the field.
- 62-credit program.
- 16 months completion.
- $1,160 per credit.
- Small class sizes.
- Personalized advising.
- Cohort model.
- Networking opportunities.
- 1:1 internship experience.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- 3.0 GPA requirement.
List of Massachusetts Accelerated BSN Programs
If you're looking to fast-track your nursing career in Massachusetts, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program could be your best bet. These programs are designed for those who already have a bachelor's degree in another field and want to switch to nursing. Below, you'll find a list of schools across Massachusetts offering ABSN programs, including where they're located, what makes each program stand out, and links to learn more.
Amherst, MA
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month duration
- Full-time, in-person
- For non-nursing bachelor's holders
- Prepares for RN licensure
- World-class faculty
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Potential for advanced education
- Supportive learning environment
Beverly, MA
Endicott College
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Campus Based - Website
- 62-credit program.
- 16 months completion.
- $1,160 per credit.
- Small class sizes.
- Personalized advising.
- Cohort model.
- Networking opportunities.
- 1:1 internship experience.
Boston, MA
MCPHS University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing—Accelerated
Campus Based - Website
- 32-month accelerated program.
- High NCLEX-RN pass rate.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- Foundational liberal arts focus.
- Located in Boston, MA.
Northeastern University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program duration
- Hybrid online and onsite learning
- Three start dates annually
- Scholarships available
- Non-nursing degree or 62 credits required
- Hands-on nursing labs
- Clinical rotations at top facilities
- Fast track to nursing career
Northeastern University Professional Programs
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program length
- Hybrid online and onsite curriculum
- Three start dates annually
- Scholarships available
- Non-nursing bachelor’s degree required
- 62 non-nursing credits minimum
- Practice-ready nurse preparation
- Online coursework convenience
Simmons University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor in Nursing (ABSN)
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month duration
- Campus-based learning
- Extensive clinical hours
- Diverse nursing specialties
- Leadership and research focus
- Science prerequisites required
- Ideal for career changers
University of Massachusetts-Boston
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 12-month program.
- Hybrid online and campus.
- 54 credits total.
- 3.0 GPA required.
- $37,300-$40,541 cost.
- Clinical placements in Boston.
- NCLEX prep included.
- Full-time commitment needed.
Chicopee, MA
College of Our Lady of the Elms
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 20-month program duration
- Cohort model, capped at 24
- Full-time, rigorous curriculum
- Includes NCLEX preparation
- Personalized instruction
- Clinical experience included
- Rolling admission policy
- Competitive admission
Fitchburg, MA
Fitchburg State University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, BS
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by CCNE.
- High NCLEX pass rates.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Study abroad opportunities.
- Focus on holistic nursing.
Longmeadow, MA
Bay Path University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- For Registered Nurses (RNs).
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on holistic care.
- Integrates liberal arts and sciences.
- Emphasizes diversity and inclusion.
- Real-world case studies.
- Best practice simulations.
- Aligned with AACN standards.
Lowell, MA
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- On Campus program
- High NCLEX pass rate
- Hands-on simulation labs
- Interprofessional education opportunities
- Clinical rotations in diverse settings
- Strong employment outcomes
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Partnerships with 250+ agencies
Milton, MA
Curry College
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program duration
- Full-time, campus-based
- Small cohorts of up to 30
- High NCLEX-RN pass rates
- Affordable tuition with no hidden fees
- Clinical experience in top hospitals
- Prerequisites include science courses
- Designed for career changers
North Dartmouth, MA
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
- Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated BS in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 17-month program length.
- Hybrid online and in-person.
- 94% NCLEX pass rate.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Full-time study required.
- 3.2 GPA prerequisite courses.
- TEAS test scores required.
- 3.0 GPA from first degree.
Norton, MA
Wheaton College (Massachusetts)
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Concentration: Health, Global Health, Healthcare Administration - Campus Based - Website
- Four-year Bachelor of Science Nursing
- State-of-art clinical simulation center
- Concentrations in Health Justice/Global Health
- Social justice healthcare approach
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Multiple Population Health courses
- Summer global/domestic health experience
- Pursuing CCNE accreditation
Salem, MA
Salem State University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 15-month full-time program
- Starts in May
- Hands-on clinical training
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Competitive admissions
- Prerequisite coursework required
- Financial aid available
- Day, evening, weekend courses
Weston, MA
Regis College
- Bachelor's - Accelerated 16-Month BS in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month duration
- Hybrid program format
- 94% NCLEX pass rate
- Clinical placements in Boston
- $1,285 per credit
- Total tuition $77,100
- September start date
- Early action deadline December
- Bachelor's - Accelerated 24-Month BS in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 24 months to complete
- Hybrid program format
- $1,285 per credit
- Total tuition $77,100
- Fall start date
- Rolling admissions
- NCLEX preparation
- Clinical placements in Boston
Worcester, MA
Assumption University
- Bachelor's - Post-Bachelor's Accelerated Nursing Track
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 16-month accelerated program
- Hybrid online and on-campus learning
- Competitive bundled tuition $59,000
- Small faculty-to-student ratios
- Includes iPad and clinical resources
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Prerequisite courses within last 10 years
- Clinical placements in top agencies
Worcester State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accredited by CCNE
- Three specialized tracks
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Focus on evidence-based practice
- Requires CPR certification
- Health insurance mandatory
- Immunizations required
- CORI checks for all students
2025 Affordable ABSN Programs in Massachusetts
Finding affordable ABSN programs in Massachusetts is key for students looking to advance their nursing careers without breaking the bank. The table highlights 10 schools across MA, offering Bachelor's level programs with various highlights to fit different needs. With tuition ranges that are cost-effective, these programs provide a great opportunity for those aiming to enter the nursing field in 2025. Whether you're in Boston, Worcester, or elsewhere in the state, there are options that balance quality education with economical tuition, making it easier to pursue your goals.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Regis College |
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Salem State University |
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University of Massachusetts-Boston |
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Endicott College |
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Curry College |
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Assumption University |
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Worcester State University |
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MCPHS University |
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Simmons University |
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University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth |
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Exploring nursing schools in Massachusetts? Be sure to visit our comprehensive Massachusetts nursing guide; your trusted resource for navigating the full range of nursing education pathways across the state. Whether you’re beginning your journey or advancing your nursing career, this guide offers essential insights to help you make informed decisions every step of the way.
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