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

Explore the leading Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs in Massachusetts, featuring key curriculum highlights, admission criteria, salary projections, and tips for selecting the program that aligns with your career goals.

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Earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) signifies reaching the highest level of nursing education. Selecting the right program requires thoughtful consideration of available concentrations, admission standards, career prospects, and salary outcomes. We've compiled a comprehensive guide to Massachusetts' leading dnp programs, offering insights into the top choices and their specialized tracks across the state.

Best DNP Programs in Massachusetts — Online & On-Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School

    allnurses College Ranking: A+
    3 reviews

    University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    • 55 Lake Avenue, North Worcester, Massachusetts 01655, US
    • 1-508-856-5801

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Research Institution
    • 86% Acceptance Rate
    • 97% Graduation Rate
    • 1,352 Graduate Students Enrolled

    Student Demographics

    • 25 Average Age
    • 86% Men
    • 14% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  2. #2 Boston College

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Boston College is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and on-campus programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, MSN, Masters, RN to MSN, DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    • 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts 02467, US
    • 1-617-552-4250

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 17% Acceptance Rate
    • 92% Graduation Rate
    • 9,751 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,305 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 19 Average Age
    • 47% Men
    • 53% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 82% White
    • 8% Hispanic
    • 8% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  3. #3 University of Massachusetts, Amherst

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    University of Massachusetts, Amherst is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNL, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 64% Acceptance Rate
    • 81% Graduation Rate
    • 24,111 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 7,838 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 49% Men
    • 51% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 88% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 4% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 Elms College

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Elms College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    • 291 Springfield Street, Chicopee, Massachusetts 01013, US
    • 1-413-594-2761

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 91% Acceptance Rate
    • 76% Graduation Rate
    • 915 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 295 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 26% Men
    • 74% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 10% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  5. #5 University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    • 285 Old Westport Road, Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747-2300, US
    • 1-508-999-8586

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 6% Acceptance Rate
    • 54% Graduation Rate
    • 5,331 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,940 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 49% Men
    • 51% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 89% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 4% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  6. #6 Regis College

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Regis College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 89% Acceptance Rate
    • 68% Graduation Rate
    • 1,095 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,109 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 21% Men
    • 79% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 73% White
    • 9% Hispanic
    • 15% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 University of Massachusetts, Boston

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of Massachusetts, Boston is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    • 100 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, Massachusetts 2125, US
    • 1-617-287-7500

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 81% Acceptance Rate
    • 57% Graduation Rate
    • 11,749 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 3,365 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 73% White
    • 9% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 6% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  8. #8 University of Massachusetts, Lowell

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University of Massachusetts, Lowell is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    • 220 Pawtucket St., Suite 420, Lowell, Massachusetts 01854-2874, US
    • 978-934-4000

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 62% Graduation Rate
    • 11,985 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 4,764 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 58% Men
    • 42% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 8% Hispanic
    • 4% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  9. #9 Endicott College

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Endicott College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.

    • 376 Hale Street, Beverly, Massachusetts 01915, US
    • 978-927-0585

    School Overview

    • Located in Massachusetts
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 75% Graduation Rate
    • 2,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 944 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 36% Men
    • 64% Women
    • 15% Veterans
    • 92% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 2% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated
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What Is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a highly regarded terminal degree in nursing that equips graduates with high-level skills and knowledge. DNP graduates can significantly impact healthcare outcomes through: 

  • Organizational Leadership
  • Program Management
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Health Policy Implementation
  • Advanced Practice Nursing
Related: Best DNP Programs | 2025

DNP Program Curriculum 

The DNP program curriculum equips nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership, focusing on areas such as advanced practice nursing, healthcare policy, leadership, evidence-based practice, informatics, and quality improvement. Coursework is designed to build expertise in these areas, with specific courses varying based on the nurse's chosen pathway and specialty.

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:

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 

APRN Roles for DNP Graduates

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?

Many DNP programs can be taken online. However, it's important to note that these programs may have in-person requirements such as exams, hands-on training, and more, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.

DNP programs typically require significant clinical hours that must be completed in person under the supervision of licensed professionals, and all DNP programs culminate in a final project that demonstrates the ability to apply research to practice, which might involve in-person involvement.

Before selecting a program, it's important to research to ensure that it fits your needs, whether entirely online, hybrid, or in-person.

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

U.S. NP Programs

Discover DNP programs in a state near you:

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?

Deciding whether or not a DNP is worth it will vary depending on the goals of each individual. Many MSNs find their careers as NPs and APRNs personally fulfilling and financially rewarding.

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.

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 13 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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