MA nursing

BlondieRN0531 · Aug 7, 2016

I'm a MA RN and have my initial school nurse license through the MA DESE. You are right, you have to take three classes: Intro to School Nursing in MA (which is a 2 day course), Med Administration and Delegation in MA Schools (1 day) and Mandated Screening Training (1 day). Those were all offered through the Northeastern University School Health Institute, which received funding from the MA DPH; however, their contract is up, and I believe BU is going to take over the contract. Northeastern still has their own program now called Northeastern U School Health Academy. Check out that website and see if there is info there. If that doesn't bring you luck, definitely contact MA DESE and ask them who now offers those courses. That's probably why you're having a hard time finding the class schedule because they are in between who offers them! You also have to pass the MTEL Communication and Literacy test (kind of like the SATs, not too hard), have two full time years of RN experience, possess an RN license (obviously), and possess a Bachelor's degree. All of these things need to be documented and submitted to DESE in order for them to review and issue you an initial license. Most schools in MA now require a minimum of an initial license for them to even consider interviewing you. At least in my area of the state. I hope this is somewhat helpful! It's confusing right now because of the change over of the DPH from Northeastern to BU. Definitely call the MA DESE for direction! Good luck!

Emily82 · Aug 7, 2016

Awesome, thank you so much! And one more question- can I take the mtel prior to courses?