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.

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.

RN to BSN Programs

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.