Best Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in Massachusetts | 2025

Massachusetts is known for its healthcare innovation and academic excellence, making it a smart choice for nurses pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The state's programs reflect its strong clinical standards and emphasis on leadership in practice, policy, and patient care.

From institutions like UMass Chan Medical School to private colleges such as Regis and Elms, DNP students in Massachusetts benefit from programs that align with the region's healthcare needs. Many offer specialized tracks, competitive pass rates, and access to clinical sites within the state's robust hospital systems.

Best DNP Programs in Massachusetts — Online & On-Campus

What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree for clinical nurses, focused on leadership in care delivery, health systems, and policy. In Massachusetts, DNP programs are shaped by the state's national leadership in healthcare reform, academic medicine, and nurse-driven policy initiatives.

Massachusetts was the first state to mandate near-universal health coverage and remains a pioneer in integrating advanced practice nurses into primary care teams. With access to top institutions like Mass General Brigham, Dana-Farber, and UMass Memorial, DNP students gain exposure to cutting-edge practice environments and healthcare systems that often serve as national models. Programs here prepare nurses to work in roles that directly support the state's goals in expanding access, advancing equity, and modernizing care delivery.

DNP Program Curriculum 

DNP coursework in Massachusetts reflects the state's advanced healthcare infrastructure and policy-driven environment. Students often engage with content focused on state-specific regulations, including scope of practice laws, collaborative agreements, and prescriptive authority for APRNs. Many programs include focused study on Massachusetts' healthcare payment models, such as global budgets and the role of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) under MassHealth.

Courses also cover healthcare leadership, clinical decision-making, and analysis of Massachusetts health policy. Some programs integrate assignments based on real-time developments in the state's healthcare legislation or require students to assess how proposed policies could affect advanced nursing practice across hospital systems and community clinics.

Clinical training is an integral part of the DNP program, requiring 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. This training includes a capstone project that addresses a real-world clinical problem through evidence-based solutions. The project not only hones clinical skills but also contributes to advancing nursing practice by sharing findings with the broader nursing community.

DNP Program Pathways

The two main pathways to achieving a doctor of nursing practice degree are:

• BSN to DNP: For RNs with a bachelor's in nursing. 
• MSN to DNP: For RNs with a master's in nursing.

An alternative and less traditional pathway is the Direct Entry DNP Program, designed for non-nurses. 

DNP Program Specialty Concentrations

Nurses pursuing a DNP degree open doors to diverse career options. The specific roles available will be contingent upon the chosen DNP pathway. For example, opting for an administrative pathway may preclude the possibility of working as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) NP. However, selecting an APRN pathway with leadership course components can pave the way for fulfilling leadership roles in addition to the ability to work as an advanced practiced RN. 

Nursing Leadership Roles for DNP Graduates 

• Healthcare and Nursing Administration
• Chief Nursing Officer
• Patient Care Director
• Healthcare Informatics
• Professor of Nursing Clinical Education
• Healthcare Lobbyist
• Healthcare Policy (state and national)

APRN Roles for DNP Graduates

• Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
• Nurse Midwife (CNM)
• Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP)
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner

Where Do DNP-Prepared Nurses Work?

Depending on your chosen specialization, DNP-prepared nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Primary Care Clinics
• Specialty Clinics
• Universities or Academic Institutions
• Public and Community Health
• Policy and Advocacy Organizations
• Private Practice
• Research Facilities

Can DNP Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Yes, several Massachusetts schools offer fully or mostly online DNP programs.

• UMass Amherst offers a 100% online DNP with no required campus visits.
• UMass Dartmouth provides an online MSN to DNP program with only one on-campus day per semester.
• UMass Lowell uses a hybrid format with four brief campus visits per year.

Clinical hours are arranged separately and must meet Massachusetts licensure standards.

DNP Program Admission Requirements

DNP programs typically require the following for admission: 

• Required degrees (BSN, MSN, or equivalent)
• At least one year of RN experience
• Active and unrestricted RN license
• Compliance with state licensure guidelines (varies with program clinical requirements)
• Completion of prerequisite courses (varies by program)
• Minimum GPA from previous nursing programs (varies by program)
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) (requirement varies on program and previous education)

Beyond nursing education and experience, additional admission requirements for DNP programs typically include: 

• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement or Essay
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Background check and drug screening
• Physical health exam and up-to-date immunizations

It is prudent for prospective DNP students to confirm the admission requirements for each DNP program before submitting an application. 

DNP Graduate Salary Expectations in Massachusetts

DNP graduates in Massachusetts can expect salaries that vary based on the chosen specialty concentration and role upon graduation. To give you a clearer understanding, we've compared the salaries of top DNP roles in Massachusetts with the national averages, highlighting how they compare.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner Salary in Massachusetts

• Mean Hourly Wage: $69.24
• Mean Annual Wage: $144,010

National Nurse Practitioner Wage

• Low: $94,530 or $45.45 per hour
• Mean: $128,490 or $61.78 per hour
• High: $168.030 or $80.79 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Practitioners

• California: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

Nurse Anesthetist

Nurse Anesthetist Salary in Massachusetts

• Mean Hourly Wage: $131.01
• Mean Annual Wage: $272,510

National Nurse Anesthetist Wage

• Low: $139,980 or $67.30 per hour
• Mean: $214,200 or $102.98 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Anesthetists

• Illinois: $281,240
• Massachusetts: $272,510
• Montana: $256,460
• New York: $256,160
• Vermont: $254,790

Nurse Midwife

Nurse Midwife Salary in Massachusetts

• Mean Hourly Wage: $74.08
• Mean Annual Wage: $154,080

National Nurse Midwife Wage

• Low: $87,320 or $41.98 per hour
• Mean: $131,570 or $63.26 per hour
• High: $177,530 or $85.35 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Midwives

• California: $183,740
• Hawaii: $161,820
• Massachusetts: $154,080
• Maine: $140,440
• Oregon: $139,490

Nurse Administrator

Nurse Administrator Salary in Massachusetts

• Mean Hourly Wage: $76.22
• Mean Annual Wage: $158,540

National Nurse Administrator Wage

• Low: $67,900 or $32.65 per hour
• Mean: $134,440 or $64,64 per hour
• High: $216,750 or $104.21 per hour

Top Paying States for Nurse Administrators 

• New York: $179,160
• District of Columbia: $170,710
• Delaware: $164,190
• New Jersey: $162,430
• Massachusetts: $158,540

Nurse Educator

Nurse Educator Salary in Massachusetts

• Mean Annual Wage: $87,140

National Nurse Educator Wage

• Low: $49,120
• Mean: $86,530
• High: $130,320

Top Paying States for Nurse Educators

• District of Columbia: $111,130
• Oregon: $109,110
• New York: $102,980
• New Jersey: $101,540
• Nevada: $99,320

As a prospective DNP student, it's important to recognize that salaries can vary widely due to the evolving nature of these roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn't differentiate between MSN and DNP salaries, reporting only by job title. This makes it essential for DNP graduates to proactively advocate for higher salaries by highlighting the advanced expertise and leadership skills their degree provides.

Employers may not always recognize the unique skills DNPs bring. To ensure fair compensation, be prepared to negotiate by highlighting how your expertise is improving patient outcomes, leading initiatives, and enhancing efficiency adds value. Demonstrating these skills can justify higher salary demands and secure compensation that reflects your advanced training.

While the salary of the roles we covered are some of the main ones DNPs can fulfill, there are many other opportunities available. For a deeper dive into salaries across different degrees and positions, check out the Nursing Salary Guide.

Tips to Choose the Best DNP Program

Selecting the right DNP program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High Pass Rates 
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10.  Nursing Clinicals Location
11.  Availability of Online Course

For prospective DNP students, additional considerations include:

• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
• Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
• Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support.
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated DNP program might be the better choice.

DNP Programs Near Me

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FAQ and Additional Readings

What's the highest-paying job you can do with a DNP in Massachusetts?

DNP graduates have many job opportunities, with the highest-paying typically being the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). In Massachusetts, CRNAs earn an average annual salary of $272,510, making it the most lucrative position for DNP graduates in the state and the second highest paying nationally for CRNAs.

Additionally, Nurse Midwives and Nurse Administrators also rank highly, placing third and fifth in the nation for their respective salaries. While advanced practice nurses command significant salaries in Massachusetts, it's important to consider the state's cost of living in relation to earning potential. Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Administrators, depending on their experience and specialty, can earn salaries comparable to CRNAs.

Is a DNP worth it in Massachusetts?

Yes, a DNP can be a strong investment in Massachusetts, especially given the state's healthcare landscape. Advanced practice nurses here often work in top-tier hospitals, research institutions, and policy roles that value doctoral-level education.

Massachusetts is one of the highest-paying states for nurse anesthetists, nurse administrators, and nurse midwives, with average salaries well above national averages. A DNP can also improve job mobility and give nurses a competitive edge for leadership roles in systems like Mass General Brigham, Beth Israel Lahey, and UMass Memorial.

Is it better to have an MSN or DNP?

Choosing between an MSN and a DNP depends largely on your career aspirations. If your goal is direct patient care as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), an MSN might meet your needs—unless you aim to specialize as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), which requires a DNP. For those drawn to leadership, influencing healthcare policy, or advancing evidence-based practices at an organizational level, or even pursuing academic roles, a DNP could be the better fit.

Ultimately, while an MSN degree prepares you for many of the same roles as a DNP, the DNP degree offers a more comprehensive education, akin to how both an ADN and a BSN prepare you for an RN role but with different depths of preparation.

How competitive is UMass Chan Medical School's DNP program?

UMass Chan's DNP program had an 83.2% acceptance rate in its most recent cycle, admitting 112 students from 150 applicants and enrolling 74. The average GPA for admitted students was 3.49, and the minimum required GPA is 3.0. BSN-to-DNP applicants must also submit a transcript showing completion of a statistics course and a short video essay.

The program enrolls 218 students and has 25 full-time nursing faculty, offering a strong student-to-faculty ratio. With its affiliation to UMass Memorial Health and emphasis on leadership and policy, it remains one of the more well-regarded options in Massachusetts for nurses pursuing advanced roles.

Is a capstone project required in all Massachusetts DNP programs?

Yes, all DNP programs in the state include a final scholarly project. This project involves identifying a real clinical or systems issue and implementing a solution within a healthcare setting. For example, a student at UMass Dartmouth might evaluate a new care protocol in a local clinic. Projects are usually presented at the end of the program and reviewed by faculty or professional panels.

Are international students accepted into Massachusetts DNP programs?

Some programs, like those at Boston College or UMass Amherst, do admit international students. These students must meet additional admission criteria, such as TOEFL scores and credential evaluations. Visa sponsorship and on-campus requirements vary, so it's important to verify eligibility directly with each program. Clinical placements can also present extra challenges due to licensure restrictions.

Do I need to secure my own clinical preceptor in Massachusetts?

Many schools assist with clinical placements but expect students to be proactive. UMass Lowell and Elms College provide placement coordinators to help students secure preceptors and approved sites. In competitive areas, students may need to reach out to clinics directly. Building relationships early can make the placement process smoother.

How do DNP programs prepare students for leadership roles in Massachusetts?

Programs include coursework in healthcare finance, strategic planning, quality improvement, and policy analysis. UMass Lowell and Elms College offer leadership tracks with a focus on running departments or managing teams. Students also complete capstone projects that address real administrative challenges in Massachusetts health systems. These experiences directly support leadership readiness.

Is public transportation available for commuting DNP students?

In cities like Worcester and Boston, students at UMass Chan Medical School and Boston College can use local transit options like the WRTA and MBTA. UMass Boston is also accessible by train and bus, making it manageable for students who commute from surrounding areas. In contrast, UMass Dartmouth, UMass Amherst, and Elms College are located in regions where public transportation is more limited. Students in these areas often rely on a personal vehicle for getting to clinical sites and classes.

Is it possible to pursue a DNP in Massachusetts right after a BSN?

Yes, several schools offer BSN-to-DNP pathways, including UMass Amherst, UMass Lowell, and Regis College. These programs combine advanced practice coursework with doctoral-level training in policy and systems improvement. They typically take three to four years full-time, depending on the specialty and clinical hours. This direct route saves time for students with clear long-term goals.