Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts | 2025

The demand for registered nurses (RNs) in the United States is growing, with job opportunities expected to increase by 6% by 2032. BSN-prepared nurses enjoy higher salaries and better job prospects, with 41% of hospitals and healthcare facilities now requiring a BSN. As a result, many ADN-prepared nurses are choosing to return to school to earn their BSN.

For those seeking to advance your nursing education in Massachusetts, we've ranked the top RN-to-BSN programs to help you advance your nursing career.

Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts

Learn More About Massachusetts' Top Online RN to BSN Programs

For those exploring the best RN to BSN programs in the Bay State, this section highlights what sets these schools apart. From flexible program designs and personalized faculty support to unique features and institutional excellence, discover why these programs are leaders in advancing nursing education.

^{Refer to the section above for information on tuition, accreditation, program formats, and ranking methodology.}

1. Simmons University

Simmons University's RN to BSN program empowers nurses to become compassionate patient advocates and leaders in their field. Through synchronous, face-to-face online classes and 80 hours immersive clinical experiences, students develop advanced skills in evidence-based decision-making, patient care planning, and ethical analysis to drive better outcomes. Designed for working professionals, this program can be completed in as few as 15 months, equipping nurses with the confidence and expertise to advance their careers.

• BSN Credit Hours: 34
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: 97%

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Official Trancripts with a minimum of 17 college credits
• Proof of Highschool completion or equivalent
• Personal Statement
• Letter of Recommendation 
• Resume - recommended, not required

Transfer up to 94 credits, 72 credits for associate level coursework and 22 credits for an active RN license. 

Application Deadlines: For May 2025 start the priority deadline is February 17 and the final deadline is March 10. 

Financial Aid: Simmons University's online undergraduate programs offer accessible tuition, reduced to $500 per credit hour, and a range of financial aid options, including federal aid, scholarships, employer support, payment plans, and tax benefits. Adult learners and transfer students can also maximize affordability through transfer credits and credit for life experience.

2. Elms College

The Elms College School of Nursing RN to BSN Online program offers exceptional value for working nurses, earning recognition as a top-ranked RN-BSN program in Massachusetts. With highly dedicated faculty, students receive personalized study plans tailored to their needs. This affordable program features both synchronous and asynchronous online options and can be completed in just 12-15 months.

• BSN Credit Hours: 30
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: 97%

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Completion of prerequisite courses; English, Life-Span Human Development, Intro to Psychology, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology, Literature, History, Fine/Performing Arts
• Professional Resume
• Official College Transcripts from associate coursework
• Proof of active, unrestricted RN license
• One Page Goal Statement

Transfer up to 90 credits for associate level coursework and RN Licensure.  Elms also has a pathwat for ADN-RNs to brdige from BSN to MSN with their RN-BSN-MSN pathway.

Application Deadlines: Apply anytime with rolling admissions for fall and Spring start dates.

3. University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth

UMass Dartmouth's Online RN to BSN program is tailored to each student, ensuring a personalized and enriching educational experience. The diverse curriculum includes courses in physical and social sciences, nursing leadership, management, community and public health, research, and the humanities. With strong support from dedicated faculty and advisors, this program stands out as one of the top-ranked RN to BSN programs in the nation.. 

• BSN Credit Hours: 28 + 3 elective credits
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: 96%
• Graduate Employment Rate: 95%

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Completion of ADN/ASN/AAS
• Valid, unencumbered RN license 

^{More information on application requirements and deadlines can be found by contacting UMD.} 

 4. Regis College

The Regis College Young School of Nursing RN to BSN Degree Completion program is tailored for registered nurses committed to excellence in patient care. This program fosters both professional and personal growth, equipping nurses with the expertise, skills, and credentials to deliver top-quality care. With highly flexible options, including online and part-time study, the program can be completed synchronously or asynchronously in 12 to 16 months, with no clinical component required. Faculty provide personalized course plans to meet each nurse's unique needs.

• BSN Credit Hours: 30
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: Nearly 100%
• 6-Month Graduate Employment Rate: 97%

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: =

• Associate Degree in Nursing 
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7
• Official Transcripts
• Current Resume
• One Letter of Reccomendation 
• Prerequisite Courses; Statistics and Religion Course

Up to 90 credits can be transferred in, 45 of which are awarded for having an associate's degree and RN license. 

Application Deadlines: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, typically closing one month before classes begin.

5. University of Massachusetts, Boston

UMass Boston's Online RN to BSN program empowers working nurses to expand their career opportunities. Graduates are prepared to advance into senior nursing roles or explore new pathways in research, education, or administration. The program is fully online, offering optional synchronous components, with no clinical requirements, and can be completed in just 15 semesters.

• BSN Credit Hours: 30
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: Nearly 95%

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• Completion of an accredited associate degree in nursing or diploma program
• Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency

Application Deadlines: 

• Fall admissions priority deadline - March 1st
• Fall admission regular deadline - July 1st.
• Spring admission priority deadline - December 1st
• Spring admissions considered ongoing bases following 12/1

6. University of Massachusetts, Lowell

UMass Lowell's Online RN to BSN program is recognized as one of the best in New England. Designed for working professionals, it enhances critical thinking, knowledge, and understanding of the American healthcare system. While primarily online, the program includes opportunities for face-to-face interactions with instructors and classmates at convenient times and can be completed in just 15 months.

• BSN Credit Hours: 27 
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: 91%

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

•  Current Massachusetts RN license
• ADN/ADN/AAS Degree Completion 
• Minimum 2.7 in any transferred courses

You can transfer up to 60 credits from a community college or two-year school, up to 90 credit hours from a four-year institution, and an additional 39 credit hours for holding a Massachusetts RN license. However, a maximum of 90 credits, or 75% of the degree, can be transferred in total..

Application Deadlines: Admissions are on a rolling basis, and students can apply online at any time when ready

Financial Aid: UMass Lowell offers extensive financial aid opportunities, including need-based grants, scholarships, and tuition credits, making higher education more accessible and affordable. With over $1.5 million in annual scholarship aid and some of the lowest tuition rates in New England, students can achieve their educational goals with minimal financial burden.

7. Endicott College

Endicott College offers an affordable and effective pathway for working nurses to earn their BSN. The program combines a strong liberal education with core nursing competencies, delivered in a 100% online, flexible format. Designed for collaboration and communication among students, the program can be completed in approximately 16 months.

• Credit Hours: 41 
• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: Nearly 100%

RN-BSN Admission Requirements: 

• 250-500 word essay on career goals
• Official highschool transcript or GED certificate
• Official transcripts of associate level coursework 
• Cumulative GPA 2.5 or better from ACEN accredited associate degree in nursing or diploma
• Active, unrestricted RN license
• Non-Native Speakers are required to take the TOEFL 

Up to 85 transferrable credit hours from ADN/ASN/AAS coursework and prerequisites. 

Application Deadlines: Fall and Spring applications open enrollment starts August 1 with no deadline mentioned. Contact the university for more details.

8. Curry College

Curry College School of Nursing's RN to BSN program is designed to open doors, offering new opportunities for career advancement and expanding career options for nursing professionals. The program emphasizes core nursing skills, critical thinking, and modern healthcare policy, equipping graduates to excel in patient care and navigate complex healthcare systems. With competitively priced tuition, the program offers flexible options, including fully online or hybrid formats, and features convenient 8-week course sections to accommodate busy schedules.

• NCLEX RN-Pass Rate: 91%

The program accepts up to 90 transfer credit hours, including prerequisite science courses, associate-level coursework, and  34 credits for an RN license. 

^{For details on application requirements, deadlines, and financial aid, please contact the college directly.}

What Is an Online RN to BSN Program?

An RN to BSN Program is a nursing program in which an associate-prepared RN returns to school to obtain a BSN degree. This involves experienced RNs and new graduates with a diploma or an associate degree in nursing (ADN/ASN). Compared to associate programs, a bachelor of science in nursing program provides a more comprehensive education in social and physical sciences, nursing management, research, informatics, and public health. It enhances knowledge and understanding of community health, healthcare management, leadership, and policy for a broader scope of practice.

Nurses with a BSN have diverse career opportunities and can work in a wider range of settings compared to ADN-prepared nurses. While both can work in hospitals and nursing homes, BSN-prepared nurses often qualify for roles in educational services, leadership roles, government agencies, schools, community centers, hospices, dialysis centers, and virtual care settings.

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Related: 10 Best RN to BSN Programs in 2025

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RN to BSN Curriculum

Typical RN to BSN Coursework includes:

• Advanced Nursing Practice: Expanding on basic nursing skills with a focus on complex clinical scenarios.
• Leadership and Management: Training in leadership skills, healthcare management, and administrative roles.
• Health Assessment: Advanced techniques in patient assessment and diagnosis.
• Pathophysiology: In-depth study of disease processes and their impact on the body.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Focus on research methods and applying research findings to clinical practice.
• Community and Public Health: Understanding the role of nursing in community health and public health initiatives.
• Healthcare Policy: Study of healthcare systems, policies, and their impact on patient care.
• Informatics: Training in healthcare technology, data management, and information systems.
• Ethics in Nursing: Exploring ethical dilemmas and decision-making in healthcare.
• Capstone Project: A final project that often involves research or a practical application of learned skills in a real-world setting.

Online RN to BSN Clinical Training

RN to BSN online programs differ from ADN clinical training, focusing on leadership, public health, and system-wide care rather than hands-on bedside skills. While not all RN to BSN programs require clinicals, those that do often include:

• Community Health Experiences: Work with public health departments, schools, or home health agencies to address population health and disease prevention.
• Leadership Practicum: Shadow nurse leaders, participate in quality improvement projects, or manage healthcare initiatives.
• Capstone Projects: Apply knowledge to real-world challenges, such as developing patient education programs or improving care processes.
• Simulation & Case Studies: Use online simulations and case-based learning to enhance clinical decision-making and problem-solving.

Many RN to BSN online programs with no clinical requirements replace traditional clinicals with coursework, projects, and case-based learning, recognizing that licensed RNs already have bedside experience.

Why Earn Your BSN?

Earning a BSN provides numerous benefits beyond higher employment rates and pay. BSN-prepared nurses are shown to improve patient outcomes and healthcare system revenue, leading many organizations to require or encourage this qualification. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), "the Bachelor of Science degree in nursing is the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice."

Studies have found that hospitals with a higher percentage of BSN-prepared nurses experience lower rates of heart failure, pressure ulcers, failure to rescue, medication and procedural errors, as well as a 24.6% decrease in inpatient deaths and an 8% reduction in hospital stay length, averaging around five days.

Hospitals seeking AACN Magnet recognition for nursing excellence often require nurse managers and senior staff to hold a BSN, reflecting their dedication to quality care, professional development, and improved patient outcomes. Therefore, advancing your education with a BSN enhances your career prospects while aligning you with the highest standards of the nursing profession.

Online RN to BSN Admission Requirements in Massachusetts

When applying to an RN to BSN program, students must meet the school and the nursing program's admission requirements. RN to BSN admission requirements and prerequisite classes will vary by institution, but typical Massachusetts RN to BSN  program requirements include the following criteria:

• Completion of an ADN, ASN, or AAS program through an accredited institution.
• Passed your NCLEX-RN exam and have an unrestricted NJ RN license
• Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
• Proof of transcripts from all prior schools
• Proof of clinical and practicum hours
• Background check and drug screen
• Up-to-date on immunizations and a current physical examination
• Many programs require a minimum grade point average (GPA) of B (3.0) in previous coursework

Prerequisite courses may include:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• General Chemistry with lab
• Microbiology with lab
• Anatomy and Physiology with lab
• College Algebra
• Statistics
• Human Nutrition
• Speech or Interpersonal Communication

Always check the specific admission requirements for each RN to BSN program to ensure you meet all criteria, as they can vary by program.

Massachusetts RN to BSN Program Costs

The costs of RN to BSN programs can vary based on numerous factors, including:

• Tuition Fees: The cost per credit hour varies by institution, factors affecting this variation include: 
  • State schools are generally cheaper than private or out-of-state.
  • Public universities often charge lower rates for residents. 
  • Online programs can reduce costs, though clinical hours may still be required.
• Standard Fees: Application, technology, and graduation fees.
• Textbooks and Supplies: Costs for textbooks, uniforms, and other necessary nursing supplies can add up.
• Lab and Clinical Fees: For programs with hands-on or practical components, lab fees may be applicable.
• Transportation and Accommodation: If any on-campus attendance is required, consider the cost of transportation and potential accommodation.
• Background Check and Drug Screening: Most programs require a background check and drug screening, which can incur additional costs.
• Immunizations and Health Insurance: Up-to-date immunizations and health insurance may be required, especially for clinical training.
• Licensing Exam Fees: Post-graduation, there are fees associated with taking the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
• Living Expenses: Significant for those not working while studying or relocating.
• Opportunity Costs: Financial impact of reduced work hours while in school.
• Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
• Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or the need to maintain employment may affect choice.

These factors collectively contribute to the total investment required for a BSN RN program, making thorough financial planning essential for prospective students. To lower the overall cost of nursing school, explore the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.

BSN RN Salary Expectations in Massachusetts 2025 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 data, RNs in Massachusetts earned:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $52.33
• Mean Annual Wage: $108,850.00

RN salary in Massachusetts is roughly 13% higher than the national estimates for 2023, as the BLS reports RNs across the U.S. earning:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

The top five paying states for registered nurses are as follows:

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

The BLS collected wage data from 87,320 registered nurses in Massachusetts, placing the state in the 75th percentile for RN employment. The states with the highest employment levels of RNs and their average annual earnings for 2023 were:

• California (332,560) $137,690.00
• Texas (251,840) $90,210.00
• FLorida (207,910) $84,760.00
• New York (188,060) $106,620.00
• Pennsylvania (144,100) $87,530.00

Other factors influencing salary include years of experience, nursing specialty, the healthcare system, and your location. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer higher salaries for RNs with a Bachelor's degree. Although the BLS does not distinguish between ADN RN and BSN RN salaries, ZipRecruiter offers valuable insights into the pay differences for ADN and BSN registered nurses.

Average ADN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $39.00
• Annual Wage: $80,321.00

U.S states with the highest ADN RN salaries are:

• Washington: $90,972.00
• Washington, D.C.: $90,765.00
• New York: $87,874.00
• Massachusetts: $87,721.00
• Alaska: $86,502.00

Average BSN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $49.00
• Annual Wage: $102,263.00

U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are: 

• Washington: $115,823.00
• Washington D.C.: $115,560.00
• New York: $111,879.00
• Massachusetts: $111,684.00
• Alaska: $110,132.00

According to ZipRecruiter, BSN prepared RNs in Massachusetts earn an average of $99,348 annually, with the top-paying cities in the state as follows: 

• Cambridge, MA: $99,560.00
• Barnstable Town, MA: $99,253.00
• Boston, MA: $99,010.00
• Marion Center, MA: $96,888.00
• Quincy, MA: $95,171.00

RN to BSN Salary by State

Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide, or learn more about nursing salaries in Massachusetts.

Are Online RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts Worth It?

Deciding whether an RN to BSN program in Massachusetts is worth it requires considering their various advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts

1. Career Advancement: Completing a BSN can open doors to more advanced nursing positions, which may not be accessible to those with only an RN qualification.
2. Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses often have the potential to earn higher salaries compared to their RN counterparts.
3. Educational Foundation for Further Studies: A BSN is a stepping stone for nurses who wish to pursue higher education, such as a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing.
4. Increased Competitiveness: In a state like Massachusetts, which has a high concentration of healthcare facilities, a BSN can make a nurse more competitive in the job market.
5. Broader Scope of Practice: BSN programs typically offer more in-depth training in areas such as research, leadership, and public health, which can broaden a nurse's scope of practice.

Cons of RN to BSN Programs in Massachusetts

1. Cost and Time Investment: Pursuing a BSN requires a significant investment of time and money, which can be challenging for working nurses.
2. Balancing Work and Study: For RNs who are working, balancing job responsibilities with coursework can be stressful.
3. Variable Return on Investment: The financial benefits of a BSN may vary depending on the healthcare facility and location within Massachusetts.
4. Potential for Burnout: The added pressure of studying on top of work responsibilities can lead to burnout.
5. Technology Requirements for Online Programs: Online BSN programs require a certain level of technological proficiency and access, which might be a barrier for some.

While RN to BSN programs in Massachusetts present both opportunities and challenges, they are generally considered a worthwhile investment for career advancement in nursing. The decision to pursue a BSN should be based on individual career goals, financial considerations, and personal circumstances.

Tips to Choose the Best Online RN to BSN Program

Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.

Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
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 Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.

RN to BSN Program Accreditation

Another critical consideration is accreditation. Though its importance may not be immediately apparent, accreditation is crucial, especially for RN to BSN programs. Here's why you should choose an accredited RN to BSN program:

• Guaranteed Standards for Nursing Education
• Ensures Compliance with State Regulations
• Guarantees Minimum Clinical Hour Requirement
• Supports RN Licensure Eligibility
• Facilitates Credit Transfers
• Enhances Professional Credibility
• Improves Employment Prospects
• Enables Access to Financial Aid
• Promotes Long-Term Career Success

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

Top RN to BSN Programs Near Me

Discover the best RN to BSN programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

Can RN to BSN Programs be taken entirely online?

RN to BSN programs can be taken entirely online. These programs are designed for working RNs who have already completed an ADN or nursing diploma program and obtained licensure, meaning they've gained significant hands-on experience in their initial programs and through work.

It's important to note that some online RN to BSN programs may have in-person requirements such as exams or capstone projects, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.

Will I need additional clinical hours?

Most RN to BSN programs are offered online, providing flexibility for working nurses. The clinical hours required will depend on those you've already completed in your associate nursing program. As an ADN, ASN, or AAS holder, you have likely completed most, if not all, of the necessary practicum hours.

Some programs may require additional clinical hours to ensure a well-rounded nursing experience, which would need to be completed in person, either close to home or near the campus. Others may only require you to fulfill any missing hours, and some may have no additional clinical requirements at all, especially for those already working in a clinical setting as an ADN RN.

How long is an RN to BSN program?

Typical programs are anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on whether you choose to go full-time or part-time. Also, most classes are online, and many are self-paced or allow for asynchronous learners.

How do I transfer my nursing license to Massachusetts?

Massachusetts currently has pending legislation for the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Until it is approved, all licensed nurses must visit the MA Board of Nursing's (BON) website to review the requirements and apply for licensure by endorsement.

Is it better to have an ADN or a BSN?

The choice between an ADN and a BSN depends on your career goals. An ADN is sufficient for entry-level nursing and bedside roles, but a BSN provides greater career opportunities in leadership, specialized nursing, and advanced practice pathways.

BSN programs emphasize research, leadership, evidence-based practice, and patient safety, while ADN programs focus primarily on nursing fundamentals and clinical skills. Many healthcare organizations now prefer or require BSN-prepared RNs to meet accreditation standards, Joint Commission requirements, and ANCC Magnet status.

If you're considering long-term growth in nursing, earning a BSN can enhance job security, salary potential, and advancement opportunities.

 

Are there specialization programs for nurses in Massachusetts?

BSN-level nurses are typically trained as generalists and may specialize after graduation. If you are interested in a particular specialty, consider additional courses and undergraduate nursing certifications to prepare for your desired field.

However, many graduate-level, RN-MSN, programs in Massachusetts offer advanced degrees that allow RNs to specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

What if I am an LPN who wants to get my BSN?

The RN to BSN programs require an active RN license. Many schools offer LPN to BSN programs. These programs take longer than the RN to BSN programs but will get you to your career goal of a baccalaureate degree in nursing.