9 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Massachusetts | 2024

Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking career advancement, or generally curious about the educational pathway for Nurse Practitioners (NPs), you've come to the right place. Discover the best NP programs in Massachusetts as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and more.

Best NP Programs in Massachusetts - Online & Campus

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Northeastern University

Located in Boston, MA, the Bouve College of Health Sciences at Northeastern University offers an MSN FNP program that focuses on primary healthcare for individuals and families. This hybrid program combines online classes with on-campus sessions twice per semester, catering to the evolving needs of healthcare professionals.

NU's MSN FNP Program Overview

• Mode: Hybrid format, with the majority of classes delivered in an online format. 
• Duration: 2 years (full-time), or 3 years (part-time) 
• Credit Hours: 47
• Clinical Hours: 720
• Tuition Cost: $975 per credit (online)
• Accreditation: CCNE

Program Highlights

The Family Nurse Practitioner hybrid program at Northeastern University is designed to train practitioners who excel in providing evidence-based healthcare across diverse cultural and practice environments. Emphasizing the use of information technologies for effective care delivery to individuals, families, and communities, the program encourages a collaborative approach among clinicians and institutions for comprehensive coordination of care.

A primary goal of the program is to develop leadership skills in graduates, enabling them to navigate and contribute effectively in various cultural and practice settings within primary healthcare. Personalized learning is a priority, with one-to-one preceptorships enriching the educational experience. This approach prepares graduates to excel in their roles, pass national certification exams, and expand their career opportunities in the healthcare sector.

Prospective NP students also have the option to choose from NU's Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Neonatal NP, and Pediatric NP Specialties. 

Admission Requirements

Applicants need a bachelor's degree in nursing, a minimum GPA of 3.0, current RN licensure, and at least one year of full-time nursing experience. The program also requires a personal statement, resume, and letters of recommendation.

2. University of Massachusetts-Boston

The University of Massachusetts-Boston's Nursing MS NP Program provides an opportunity for nurses with a Bachelor's degree and clinical experience to elevate their careers. Specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner tracks, the program caters to those seeking advanced roles in nursing within these vital healthcare areas

UMass Boston's MSN NP Program Overview

• Credit Hours: 48
• Tuition Cost: $7,262 per semester (MA residents) or $14,175 (non-residents)
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Specialties: FNP and AGNP

Program Highlights

The Nursing Master of Science program at UMass Boston aims to cultivate adept and compassionate Nurse Practitioners through a curriculum known for its academic rigor and immersive clinical experiences, supported by strong instruction. The program's distinguishing feature is its dedication to promoting best practices and a holistic approach to patient care, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students are trained to manage health and illness across various demographics, utilizing critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making skills.

A focal point of the MS program is the Capstone project, where students undertake a comprehensive endeavor such as a detailed paper, an evidence-based project, or a poster or paper presentation, in collaboration with their advisor. This culminating experience allows students to showcase their proficiency in achieving positive healthcare outcomes, particularly for diverse populations. Emphasizing continuous and comprehensive care, the program prepares students for effective interdisciplinary collaboration across healthcare settings, with a specific emphasis on serving diverse and urban communities to enhance societal well-being.

Admission Requirements

To apply to Northeastern's MSN FNP program, candidates need a bachelor's degree with at least a 2.75/4.0 GPA, one year of clinical experience, and a current RN license. The application requires official transcripts, a personal statement, two professional references, a resume/CV, and emphasizes a higher GPA of 3.0 for better admission prospects.

3. University of Massachusetts-Lowell

The Nursing MS NP Program at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell offers a specialized focus in Family and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner tracks, blending comprehensive education in managing health problems with robust training in research, leadership, and health promotion among diverse populations. This program is designed to develop advanced competencies in communication, health assessment, teaching, intervention, and evaluation, preparing graduates for a dynamic role in advanced practice nursing.

UMass Lowell's MSN NP Program Overview

• Mode: Hybrid, primary online with four days of on-campus learning activities 
• Credit Hours: 42
• Clinical Hours: 750
• Tuition Cost: $7,262 per semester (MA residents) or $14,175 (non-residents)
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Specialties:
  • FNP; 92.3% certification pass rate
  • AGNP; 100% certification pass rate

Program Highlights

A standout feature of the program is the incorporation of Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) sessions, where students engage with Standardized Patients (SPs) in simulated environments. This innovative approach not only enhances realistic patient interaction skills but also prepares graduates for national FNP and AGNP certification exams.

The program stands out for its commitment to diverse learning experiences. Students have the opportunity to interact with SPs from a wide range of ages, races, sexual orientations, and gender identities, fostering a deep understanding of diverse patient needs and perspectives. This aspect of the program is particularly beneficial in preparing students for versatile roles as nurse practitioners, ready to take on leadership positions in various healthcare settings and address the complexities of patient care in a culturally sensitive and informed manner.

Admission Requirements

UMass Lowell's Nursing MS NP Program requires applicants to have a Bachelor's degree in nursing with a minimum 3.000 GPA, official transcripts, and a completed statistics course. Candidates must possess a Massachusetts RN license (or obtain one before practicum courses if licensed out of state), RN work experience, a detailed resume, two professional recommendations, a goal statement aligned with the FNP or AGNP specialty tracks, and computer literacy. A completed application and associated fees are also mandatory.

4. MGH Institute of Health Professions

Located in Boston, the MGH Institute of Health Professions School of Nursing presents an exceptional opportunity for prospective students through its six different BSN to MSN Nurse Practitioner (NP) tracks. This program is designed to cater to the diverse needs and career goals of aspiring nursing professionals.

MSH's MSN NP Program Overview

• Duration: 2-3 years 
• Credit Hours: 48-51
• Tuition Cost: $1,620 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Specialties: FNP, PMHNP, PNP, WHNP, AG-ACNP, AG-PCNP

Program Highlights

The MGH Institute's MSN Advanced Practice program, available in both full-time and part-time formats, offers a flexible and rigorous educational experience. The full-time two-year program and the three-year part-time option, catering to AG-ACNP, FNP, and PMHNP specialties, feature a blend of on-campus, hybrid, and online classes. Designed to accommodate the schedules of both full-time students and working nurses, classes are typically held 1-2 days per week. Each specialty track within the program has a tailored curriculum, ensuring specialized and comprehensive training.

A key feature of this program is the emphasis on clinical experience, facilitated through the Dr. Charles A. and Ann Sanders IMPACT Practice Center. This includes the Ruth Sleeper Nursing Center for Clinical Education and Wellness, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience. Here, students from various health professions collaborate to offer integrated services, gaining real-life experience under the supervision of faculty clinicians. This interprofessional approach prepares students to address complex health issues, supported by the latest technology and state-of-the-art facilities, serving a wide range of clients, including those with chronic conditions across the lifespan.

Students who already have a master's degree have the option to choose from their MSN to DNP or Post-Graduate Certification pathways while non-nurses have the option to enter the Direct-Entry MSN program. 

5. MCPHS University

At Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) University in Boston, the specialized MSN PMHNP program is meticulously designed for nurses aiming to elevate their skills in psychiatric mental health. This program offers a detailed and in-depth curriculum that focuses on the diagnosis and management of key psychiatric disorders, such as dementia, depression, and anxiety. It equips nurses with a comprehensive understanding of various mental health challenges, preparing them for advanced roles in psychiatric care.

MCPHS's PMHNP Program Overview

• Mode: Online  
• Duration: 2 years (part-time)
• Credit Hours: 45
• Tuition Cost: $1,380 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE
• 2022 PMHNP ANCC Pass Rate: 95%

Program Highlights 

What makes this program stand out is its flexible online format, which is perfectly tailored for working professionals seeking advancement in psychiatric nursing. This program emphasizes pharmacological training, giving students a comprehensive understanding of how pharmacological agents are used in treating psychiatric conditions. Practical learning is a cornerstone of the curriculum, with clinical experiences embedded in the students' local communities. These experiences provide invaluable hands-on application of skills, bridging theory with practice. Moreover, the program culminates in making its graduates eligible for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification, a credential that significantly enhances their professional profile and opens up new avenues in their nursing careers.

6. Endicott College

Endicott College in Beverly, MA, offers an MSN with a concentration in FNP. This program prepares graduates to provide comprehensive care across the lifespan, with a focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of acute and chronic illnesses in the primary care setting.

EC's FNP Program Overview

• Mode: Hybrid, online and evening courses
• Duration: 2 years 
• Credit Hours: 45
• Clinical Hours: 600
• Tuition Cost: $896 per credit hour with an estimated total program cost of $40,300
• Accreditation: CCNE

Program Highlights

Endicott College's nursing program is distinguished by several key features. The program waives the GRE requirement for admission, making it more accessible to a broader range of students. A significant emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, ensuring that graduates are thoroughly prepared to meet contemporary healthcare challenges using the latest knowledge and methodologies. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for family nurse practitioner certification through esteemed organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), enhancing their professional qualifications. Additionally, the program adopts a hybrid learning model, offering a mix of online and in-person classes. This blend caters to various learning styles, providing a flexible and comprehensive educational experience for all students.

7. American International College

In Springfield, MA, American International College offers an online MSN-FNP program designed for working RNs to transition into primary healthcare roles. The program is structured to accommodate the schedules of practicing nurses while providing comprehensive education in family nurse practice.

AIC's FNP Program Overview

• Mode: 100% online learning
• Duration: 2.5 years (full-time) 
• Tuition Cost: $39,100
• Accreditation: CCNE

Program Highlights

This NP Program stands out for its online format tailored for working nurses, providing the flexibility to juggle professional and academic commitments. The program offers robust clinical placement support, helping students find suitable clinical rotations in their local areas. This support streamlines the process of gaining vital hands-on experience in clinical settings. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering key areas such as nursing research, health policy, advanced health assessment, and pharmacology, preparing students for a range of roles in healthcare.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

8. Salem State University

Salem State University presents a dynamic and flexible Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP). This program is thoughtfully crafted to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, offering classes in the evenings and through a hybrid online format. With its streamlined approach, the MSN program enables graduates to sit for national certification board exams, paving the way for licensure and practice in the AGNP field. The admissions process is notably accommodating, accepting applications on a rolling basis for both Spring and Fall sessions, ensuring opportunities for a diverse range of students to advance their nursing careers.

SS's AGNP Program Overview

• Mode: Hybrid courses offered online and in the evening
• Credit Hours: 45
• Tuition Cost: $8,985 per nine credit hour semester for MA residents or $10,648 for non-residents
• Accreditation: CCNE

Admission requirements

Prospective students must hold a BSN, an active RN license in Massachusetts, a GPA of 3.0 or higher, an interview with the program faculty, and completion of a basic undergraduate statistics course to be admitted. 

9. Simmons University

Simmons University's MSN-FNP is an online program designed to help nurses earn their MSN while continuing to care for patients in their communities. Full-time, part-time, and extended program options are available, along with comprehensive and consistent support from faculty and staff.

SU's FNP Program Overview

• Mode: Hybrid courses offered online and in the evening
• Credit Hours: 48
• Tuition Cost: $1,235 per credit with a total estimated tuition cost of $59,280
• Accreditation: CCNE

Program Highlights

Simmons University's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program is marked by several key features that make it an attractive choice for students. Firstly, the program offers a predictable and standardized course schedule, with live courses consistently held on designated days each week, enabling students to plan their studies effectively. In addition to this structured approach, the program provides robust support and coaching, offering each student a dedicated academic advisor and a student success specialist. This ensures personalized guidance and assistance outside the classroom, enhancing the educational experience.

Furthermore, the clinical placement aspect of the program is efficiently managed through a clinical placement team. Students are paired with a clinical placement specialist who assists in finding suitable clinical sites and preceptors in or close to their communities. This comprehensive support system is integral to providing a well-rounded and supportive educational journey for those pursuing their FNP qualification at Simmons University.

What Is an NP Program?

NP programs are graduate-level educational pathways, like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), designed for registered nurses (RNs) who wish to advance their clinical skills and knowledge to provide higher levels of patient care. In Massachusetts, NP programs are tailored to meet the state's healthcare needs and regulatory requirements, preparing nurses for advanced practice roles in various specialties.

NP Specializations

Massachusetts offers a range of specializations, catering to various patient care needs while enabling NPs to focus on specific areas of healthcare, enhancing their expertise and service delivery. Some of the most sought-after NP specializations in Massachusetts include:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Provides comprehensive care from pediatrics to geriatrics, focusing on disease prevention and chronic condition management in various healthcare settings.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Specializes in mental health care, offering services like therapy and medication management in psychiatric settings.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): Focuses on adult and elderly care, addressing both acute and chronic illnesses in diverse healthcare environments.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): Delivers specialized care in women's health, covering gynecological and reproductive health in various clinical settings.

Other specializations include areas like oncology, neonatal, emergency, and acute care.

NP Coursework

The coursework in NP programs in Massachusetts generally includes:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: Understanding of disease processes and their impact on the body.
• Advanced Pharmacology: In-depth knowledge of pharmacological agents and their therapeutic uses.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Skills in comprehensive physical and psychosocial assessment of patients across the lifespan.
• Primary Care Management: Focus on managing common health problems in primary care settings.
• Health Policy and Ethics: Study of healthcare policies, ethical principles, and their application in practice.
• Research Methods: Training in research methodologies relevant to evidence-based practice.
• Specialty-Specific Courses: Depending on the chosen specialization, courses may focus on specific population health needs, like pediatrics, gerontology, or mental health.

NP Clinical Training

Clinical training in Massachusetts NP programs typically involves:

• Supervised Clinical Hours: A significant number of direct patient care hours under the supervision of experienced NPs or physicians.
• Diverse Clinical Settings: Rotations in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and specialty practices.
• Specialty Practice: Clinical experiences tailored to the student's area of specialization.
• Capstone Projects: Some programs may include a capstone project that integrates clinical learning with research or quality improvement initiatives.

NP Prerequisites and Requirements in Massachusetts

Prospective students aiming to join an NP Program in Massachusetts must satisfy a set of prerequisites and requirements reflecting the rigor and responsibility of the role:

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): NP programs in Massachusetts typically mandate a BSN from an accredited institution.
• RN Licensure: A valid and unencumbered RN license is a prerequisite.
• Clinical Experience: Candidates usually need one to two years of clinical experience as an RN, depending on the specific program's criteria.
• Minimum GPA: A minimum undergraduate GPA, often around 3.0, is a common requirement.
• Prerequisite Undergraduate Courses: These may include subjects such as anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, and statistics.
• Letters of Recommendation: Required from both academic and professional contacts.
• Background Check: Applicants must complete a criminal background check, a standard part of the application and licensure process.

Costs of NP Programs in Massachusetts

Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program requires a thoughtful investment, with expenses varying based on the chosen educational path. Key financial aspects include:

• Tuition Costs: A major part of NP education expenses, tuition rates differ depending on whether the institution is public or private and the student's residency status, with in-state residents often benefiting from lower fees. Billing might be calculated on a per-credit or term basis.
• Educational Resources: Expenses for textbooks and medical essentials like stethoscopes and lab coats add up, contributing significantly to the overall financial commitment.
• Clinical Training Expenses: Travel costs for clinical rotations can be an additional burden if the sites are far from a student's home or university.
• Certification and Licensing Fees: Essential for starting practice, these post-graduation costs include fees for certification exams and state licensing.
• Supplementary School Charges: Students may encounter extra expenses for campus facilities, including labs, and administrative fees, impacting their overall budget.
• Living and Opportunity Costs: The full-time commitment to study might affect living expenses and limit income-generating opportunities, necessitating careful budgeting.

Exploring and applying for grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships are essential steps in alleviating the financial burden of NP programs. Early application enhances the likelihood of obtaining financial assistance. Thoughtful planning and thorough exploration of financial support avenues are vital for managing the expenses linked with NP programs, facilitating a more feasible journey toward educational objectives.

NP Career Outlook & Salary Expectations in Massachusetts

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average median salary for an NP in Massachusetts is $138,700 or $66.68 per hour, which is 9.49% higher than the national median of $126,680.

Massachusetts ranks third among the highest-paying states for NPs:

1. California: $158,130
2. New Jersey: $143,250
3. Massachusetts: $138,700
4. Oregon: $136,250
5. Nevada: $136,230

It's crucial to understand that Nurse Practitioner (NP) salary expectations can vary significantly based on factors such as education level (MSN vs DNP), years of experience, employer, and more. Prospective students should consider these factors when setting their expectations. Additionally, the cost of living and job availability for NPs are important considerations when selecting specialties and contemplating potential relocations.

NP Salary by State

Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

Are NP Programs Worth It in Massachusetts?

Deciding whether an NP Program in Massachusetts is worth it requires considering various pros and cons.

Pros of NP Programs in Massachusetts

1. High Demand: Massachusetts, like many states, has a growing demand for healthcare professionals, including nurse practitioners. This demand can lead to job security and numerous employment opportunities.
2. Competitive Salaries: NP programs in Massachusetts can lead to well-paying careers. Nurse practitioners often earn higher salaries compared to registered nurses due to their advanced skills and responsibilities.
3. Diverse Specializations: NP programs in Massachusetts offer a range of specializations, such as family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatric-mental health, allowing for career customization based on personal interests.
4. Strong Educational Institutions: Massachusetts is home to some of the country's top universities and medical schools, providing high-quality education and training for NPs.
5. Opportunities for Advanced Practice: Massachusetts allows nurse practitioners a good degree of practice autonomy. This means NPs can perform a wide range of services, sometimes independently, enhancing their professional experience.

Cons of NP Programs in Massachusetts

1. Cost of Education: NP programs can be expensive, especially in private institutions. The financial investment is significant and might require student loans.
2. Intensive Coursework and Training: NP programs are rigorous and demanding, requiring a significant time commitment and effort, which can be challenging for those balancing work or family responsibilities.
3. State Regulations: While Massachusetts offers practice autonomy, the state's specific regulatory environment may still impose certain restrictions or requirements on NPs.
4. Competitive Admission: Due to the high demand for these programs, admission can be competitive, requiring excellent academic records and sometimes relevant work experience.
5. Pressure and Responsibility: As advanced practice nurses, NPs face high levels of responsibility in patient care, which can be stressful and demanding, especially in specialized fields like acute care or psychiatry.

Ultimately, whether an NP Program is worth it depends on your circumstances and career goals. For those seeking the highest level of clinical practice, an NP Program is certainly worth it. However, for those seeking nurse administration or education roles, another program is likely better suited.

Importance of Attending an Accredited NP Program in Massachusetts

Attending an accredited NP Program in Massachusetts is crucial for several key reasons:

• Quality of Education: Accreditation ensures the program meets high educational standards, providing a comprehensive and current curriculum essential for effective practice.
• Eligibility for Certification: Graduation from an accredited program is typically required to sit for national certification exams, which are necessary for licensure as an NP.
• State Licensure: The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing mandates graduation from an accredited program for NP licensure, which is essential for legal practice in the state.
• National Certification: Attending an accredited NP Program is required for national NP certification, a requirement to practice. 
• Professional Credibility: Employers prefer candidates from accredited programs, as it signifies a high level of training and competence.
• Future Education Opportunities: Credits from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized for advanced studies or specialization, facilitating continuous professional development.

Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Massachusetts NP Scope of Practice & Certification  

It's essential for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to understand national certification requirements, which are necessary for state licensure, and to consider state-defined practice environments as they plan their careers and ensure legal compliance.

NP Certification

National certification is a fundamental requirement for NPs nationwide and is based on your NP specialty. Achieving certification demonstrates an NP's competence and fulfills a licensure requirement in all states, including Massachusetts. The primary NP certification bodies and their certifications include:

• The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) for FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNPs. 
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for nine different NP specialties. 
• The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation for Acute Care NP certification. 
• The National Certification Corporation (NCC)for Neonatal NP (NNP-BC) and WHNP (WHNP-BC) certification. 
• The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) for Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP certification. 

This national certification serves as the bedrock for practice in any state, establishing a standardized measure of competency across various NP specialties.

NP State Licensure | Massachusetts 

Massachusetts, known for its Full Practice status, grants Nurse Practitioners (NPs) the autonomy to provide complete patient care independently. This autonomy extends to evaluating and diagnosing patients, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and managing treatments, including the authority to prescribe medications.

Exploring NP Practice Authority in Different States

Massachusetts serves as a model for full practice authority, similar to many states. However, across the U.S., the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) outlines varying levels of NP practice authority:

• Full Practice: Like in Massachusetts, most states grant NPs complete practice authority.
• Reduced Practice: In fifteen states, including Ohio, NPs are required to have collaborative agreements or supervision for certain practice elements.
• Restricted Practice: In eleven states, such as California, NPs face more stringent supervisory constraints.

Understanding these variations is critical for NPs considering practice in different states or contemplating relocation.

State-Specific NP Licensure Requirements

While national certification is universally necessary for NPs, state licensure requirements can differ significantly. The APRN Compact aims to simplify these variances, offering a more streamlined licensure process for NPs in participating states. It's essential for NPs to ensure their education aligns with the licensure prerequisites of the state board of nursing in their intended area of practice.

For NPs, staying informed about state-specific regulations and national certification prerequisites is key to a successful and adaptable career. The healthcare landscape is continually evolving, and NPs are encouraged to stay vigilant and well-informed about these diverse standards to effectively navigate their professional journey.

NP Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the role of a practicum in an NP Program in Massachusetts?

A practicum is a critical component of NP programs, offering hands-on clinical experience in real-world settings. It helps students apply classroom knowledge, develop practical skills, and fulfill clinical hour requirements for licensure.

Q: Are there benefits for in-state students enrolling in NP programs in Massachusetts?

In-state students often enjoy lower tuition rates at public universities and benefit from a familiar healthcare environment, which can be advantageous for clinical placements and networking.

Q: Is the GRE required for admission to NP programs in Massachusetts?

GRE requirements vary by program. Some may require it, especially competitive ones, while others may waive it based on academic or professional experience.

Q: Can non-RNs enroll in NP programs in Massachusetts through a bridge program?

Bridge programs are available for individuals with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, allowing them to complete RN training followed by advanced NP coursework.

Q: How do part-time and full-time enrollment options differ in NP programs?

Part-time enrollment allows for a more flexible schedule, ideal for those balancing work or family commitments, but extends the program duration. Full-time enrollment is more intensive, enabling completion in a shorter timeframe.

Q: What are common prerequisites and admission requirements for NP programs in Massachusetts?

Prerequisites typically include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an active RN license, and relevant clinical experience. Admission requirements often involve academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and sometimes GRE scores.