Best Massachusetts RN to BSN Programs

Massachusetts is a state that's embracing the trend of higher education for their nursing workforce. With an aging population, registered nurses (RNs) are more in-demand than ever, and hospitals are raising the bar for patient care. RNs who have previously completed an Associate's Degree in Nursing are eligible to complete their baccalaureate education via one of the state's RN to BSN programs, poising themselves for better nursing jobs and higher pay.

2019 - Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts

As healthcare employers move toward hiring BSN-educated RNs, many registered nurses with ADN degrees and diplomas are looking to upgrade their education. RN to BSN completion programs are an efficient way to earn a bachelor's degree, and online options give prospective students the flexibility to fit the programs into their busy lives. Choosing the perfect program is made even easier by perusing our top Massachusetts online RN to BSN program rankings below.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, visit our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/).

^#1

University of Massachusetts-Boston

Boston, MA

Those looking for a 100% online RN to BSN program can enroll in the University of Massachusetts-Boston's highly renowned offering. This 42-credit program can be completed in just 3 semesters, and instead of a clinical requirement, students complete a service learning project within their community. The curriculum includes courses such as Nursing Care of Children, Mental Health Nursing, Life Span Growth and Development, and others to give students the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in leadership roles.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts

• Public 4-Year
• A few grad programs offered online
• Up to 90 transfer credits accepted

^#2

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Lowell, MA

Registered nurses who hold an active RN license are eligible for the University of Massachusetts-Lowell's excellent RN to BSN completion program. In just 15 months, students gain a quality BSN education delivered in a flexible blended format combining online coursework and face-to-face meetings. Required nursing courses include Research in Nursing and Health Care, Health Promotion in Nursing, and others.

• RN to BSN Online Campus

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Public 4-Year
• Some grad programs offered online
• 39 credits are automatically awarded for holding an MA RN license

^#3

Anna Maria College

Paxton, MA

Anna Maria College offers a convenient and flexible RN to BSN bridge program that expands upon the knowledge and experiences of ADN and diploma-educated nurses. The program is offered in 8-week terms (2 nursing courses are taken per term) and can be completed in 12 months. Clinical learning experiences are able to be arranged in the student's local area (and sometimes even in their place of employment).

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Tuition & Fees:

• $$$$$

Quick Facts:

• Private Non-Profit 4-Year
• A few grad programs offered online
• Tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students

Admissions Requirements for Massachusetts RN to BSN Programs

To be admitted to your school of choice's RN to BSN program, you'll need to carefully follow the application instructions and be sure you meet the requirements. Some schools have limited enrollment, so it's important to ensure you are well qualified. Common entrance requirements for schools in the state include:

• Completion of an accredited associate degree in nursing program or a hospital school diploma program
• Current, valid license to practice as a Registered Nurse within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
• Minimum GPA of 2.5
• Current citizen or permanent resident of the United States of America with work authorization and residency in the United States

RN to BSN Classes & Courses

Students enrolled in an RN to BSN program take a mix of general education courses, advanced nursing courses, and electives or required support courses. As part of their RN to BSN program, Salem State University offers the following nursing course titles:

• Explorations of the Professional Nursing Role
• Health Assessment Across the Life Span
• Nursing Research
• Healthcare Issues, Policy, and Economics
• Nursing Informatics

Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts

The rise of technology has brought a plethora of interest in online RN to BSN programs. Many schools are now adopting an online option to accommodate working RNs who wish to study in their spare time. This is good news for RNs who want to finish their baccalaureate degree but don't think they have the time; online programs tend to be the most flexible option.

Featured Online School

Northeastern University School of Nursing, based in Burlington, MA, offers an online RN to BSN program that promotes educational and professional excellence through the use of problem-based learning. Activities, including simulated decision-making, are at the forefront of this innovative program. Participation the program can be on a part-time or full-time basis, and is typically finished in 3 to 6 semesters.

Admissions and Program Length

An RN to BSN program's length can vary due to a variety of factors, including how quickly a student moves through the courses. In general, 1-2 years is the average length it takes to complete the program. While students need a total of around 120 credits to graduate with the BSN degree, many of these are transferrable based on the completion of an ADN. Classroom-based programs typically start at the beginning of each semester, while online programs tend to have multiple start times throughout the year.

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

The cost of an RN to BSN degree has a few components, namely tuition, school fees, and supplies. The annualized tuition rate for the RN to BSN program at Labouré College in Milton, MA is comparable to $11,638, or $475 per credit. This does not include additional mandatory fees like admissions application fees, registration fees, or graduation fees.

Does an RN to BSN Increase My Salary?

Advanced education is the most direct route to a higher paycheck for registered nurses. Many high-level nursing careers in oncology, emergency room care, and more require a BSN or higher, so any RN thinking of a specialty career should consider an RN to BSN program. Luckily, this upward mobility tends to come with increased earning potential.

RN to BSN Salary Comparison in Massachusetts

According to Payscale, registered nurses in the city of Boston, MA, earn between $50,015 and $107,312 annually. What can RNs do to edge their way over to the top of the range? Education is a main factor, with nearly every hospital and care facility in the state placing greater importance on advanced degrees.

2020 List of RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts

There are 20 listed colleges in the state of Massachusetts that offer the opportunity of earning higher salaries, career advancement opportunities and highly sought after skills for the nursing community. These programs are promoted as RN to BSN bridge degree programs put individuals at a financial advantage compared to their counterparts that are ADN nurses. Hourly wages for BSN nurses in the state are approximately $48 per hour and equates to making about $100,000 per year. Become one of the graduating BSN nurses that are earning more and advancing in their career more quickly.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

• Boston RN to BSN Programs

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