Compare NCLEX pass rates, tuition, program outcomes, and more across ranked MA nursing programs.
Sticker price and clinical access pull students at best nursing schools in Massachusetts in opposite directions. Boston College lists tuition and fees of $70,702 a year. Worcester State charges in-state students $11,786 and still places them in clinical settings at UMass Memorial Health.
Outcomes hold up at both ends of the price range. Massachusetts RNs earn a mean $100,260 a year, or $111,930 in metro Boston. Boston College reports a 98% licensure pass rate, and UMass Lowell reports a 94.6% first-time NCLEX pass rate. The schools ranked here span traditional four-year BSNs and accelerated BSN programs such as MCPHS's 16-month program.
Admission is often the real bottleneck. UMass Amherst admits nursing students directly from high school and accepts no transfers into the major.
Massachusetts is home to a deep roster of respected nursing schools, from private Jesuit universities in Boston to public UMass campuses stretching from Amherst to Dartmouth. The programs below stand out for strong NCLEX outcomes, hands-on clinical partnerships, and paths that range from traditional four-year BSNs to accelerated direct-entry master's tracks. Use these snapshots to compare fit, not just rank.
| Rank | School | Location | Net price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA | ~$38,000/yr (est.) | Traditional four-year students seeking Jesuit mentoring | |
Boston College's Connell School of Nursing blends Jesuit values of ethical, compassionate care with a rigorous BSN curriculum and a direct-entry MSN for career changers. Students train at major Boston teaching hospitals, participate in Seacole Scholars or research fellowships, and benefit from a 98% first-time NCLEX pass rate on the BSN. The campus-based programs emphasize whole-person formation and one-on-one faculty mentorship. CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
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| #2 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | ~$29,000/yr (est.) | Career changers leveraging paid co-op experience | |
Northeastern University's nursing programs are built around the signature co-op model, with two six-month paid placements that give BSN students over a year of real-world experience in Boston hospitals. The campus-based BSN and direct-entry MSN serve both traditional students and non-nursing bachelor's graduates, with specialties spanning adult health, pediatrics, mental health, and public health. Strong clinical partnerships and a vibrant NUSNA community round out the experience. CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
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| #3 | University of Massachusetts-Amherst | Amherst, MA | $20,000 – $25,000/yr (est.) | Massachusetts residents seeking affordable public BSN | |
UMass Amherst offers a direct-admission BSN exclusively for high school graduates, with no transfer pathway, keeping cohorts small and focused. The public flagship pairs in-state tuition value with state-of-the-art simulation labs, clinical placements at leading facilities, built-in study abroad, and community service like the Boston Marathon. Graduates are well prepared for NCLEX-RN and careers across Massachusetts. CCNE accredited
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| #4 | Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences | Boston, MA | ~$40,000/yr (est.) | ||
MCPHS University's accelerated BSN in Boston's Longwood Medical Area condenses nursing preparation into 16 months while maintaining a 93% NCLEX pass rate. Students learn in simulation labs and rotate through leading New England hospitals, with interdisciplinary exposure to pharmacy and allied health peers. Merit scholarships up to $32,000 help offset private tuition. CCNE accredited
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| #5 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Lowell, MA | ~$17,000/yr (est.) | ||
UMass Lowell's BSN combines public in-state value with 250+ clinical agency partnerships across Massachusetts. Students progress through simulation labs to a senior-year immersion in a chosen specialty, and high achievers can fast-track to a master's or DNP. The program reports a 94.6% first-time NCLEX pass rate and interprofessional learning with other health disciplines. CCNE accredited
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| #6 | Assumption University | Worcester, MA | ~$29,000/yr (est.) | ||
Assumption University's Froelich School of Nursing offers a private, faith-based BSN in Worcester with direct admission and a 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate for the Class of 2025. Clinical rotations at UMass Memorial and Saint Vincent's Hospital, high-fidelity simulation, and an annual hands blessing ceremony reflect the program's Catholic healthcare ethics. The three-year aggregate NCLEX pass rate is 97.8%. CCNE accredited
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| #7 | Simmons University | Boston, MA | $25,000 – $30,000/yr (est.) | ||
Simmons University, one of the nation's first university-based nursing programs, offers a traditional BSN plus three direct-entry MSN tracks (RN, FNP, PMHNP) in Boston. Students train at 850+ clinical sites including Massachusetts General and Boston Children's, and the Dotson Bridge program supports students of color and first-generation learners. Campus-based and online post-licensure options provide flexibility. CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
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| #8 | Worcester State University | Worcester, MA | ~$13,000/yr (est.) | ||
Worcester State University delivers an affordable public BSN in Worcester with clinical placements at UMass Memorial Health and community health centers. The curriculum spans medical-surgical, pediatric, mental health, and community nursing, with simulation labs and active student organizations. CCNE accreditation and Massachusetts Board approval support licensure and employment. CCNE accredited
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| #9 | University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth | North Dartmouth, MA | ~$21,000/yr (est.) | ||
UMass Dartmouth's BSN serves the South Coast region with public in-state tuition and clinical rotations at Massachusetts General and Beth Israel Deaconess. Students work with a faculty advisor from day one, complete a capstone mentorship with an RN, and can pursue a 4+1 accelerated master's. The program holds full approval from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. CCNE accredited
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| #10 | Regis College | Weston, MA | $25,000 – $30,000/yr (est.) | ||
Regis College in Weston offers a values-based, person-centered BSN plus an associate degree in nursing for entry-level professionals. Clinical placements at top Boston hospitals and state-of-the-art simulation labs support both tracks. The BSN emphasizes compassionate care, critical thinking, and NCLEX readiness, while the ASN provides a two-year pathway into nursing.
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We sort nursing programs using a composite score that balances affordability, student success, and early-career earnings. The goal is to highlight schools where graduates tend to finish on time, earn a solid income, and carry manageable debt.
The ranking draws on four core metrics, each contributing a specific weight to the final score:
All metrics come from two public sources: the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, which provides institution-level and program-level data, and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We rely on the most recent years available, typically a three-year average to reduce year-to-year noise. For Massachusetts-specific nursing programs, we pull program-level earnings and debt where available, though this data is still being phased in across all schools.
No single ranking can tell you everything. Our approach does not measure clinical placement quality, faculty-to-student ratios, NCLEX preparation support, or campus culture. These factors heavily shape your day-to-day experience, so we encourage you to weigh them alongside the numbers.
For a deeper dive into how we weight each metric and handle missing data, visit the full methodology page. It’s updated annually and includes notes on data limitations so you can evaluate the numbers with confidence.
Understanding the financial and career return of a BSN program is crucial. The table below compares key metrics for seven bachelor's programs across Massachusetts, including net price after aid, graduation rates, and median earnings a decade after enrollment. All data is from the College Scorecard and IPEDS, reflecting the most recent available figures.
| School | In-State Tuition | Net Price | Graduation Rate | Retention Rate | Median Debt | Median Earnings (10yr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Worcester State University | $11,786 | $13,381 | 61.5% | 78% | $19,500 | $60,624 |
| Fitchburg State University | $11,346 | $14,262 | 55.1% | 69% | $24,239 | $53,874 |
| Bay Path University | $38,302 | $14,271 | 43.9% | 73% | $24,901 | $55,383 |
| Westfield State University | $12,179 | $16,721 | 54.4% | 74% | $22,457 | $57,346 |
| University of Massachusetts-Lowell | $16,966 | $17,163 | 64.8% | 84% | $23,704 | $64,874 |
| College of Our Lady of the Elms | $43,325 | $17,545 | 68.1% | 76% | $25,000 | $51,540 |
| University of Massachusetts-Boston | $15,898 | $17,707 | 49.4% | 70% | $21,974 | $65,865 |
First-time NCLEX-RN pass rates are the single most transparent measure of how well a nursing program prepares its graduates for licensure. In Massachusetts, these rates are publicly reported by the Board of Registration in Nursing, allowing prospective students to compare outcomes across BSN and ADN programs. A consistently high pass rate signals strong curriculum alignment with the NCLEX test plan, effective clinical training, and robust student support. When a program's rate dips below the national average or shows wide year-over-year swings, it warrants a closer look.
The NCLEX-RN is not just a graduation requirement; it is the gateway to your nursing license. Programs with high first-time pass rates demonstrate that their graduates enter the exam with the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to succeed on the first attempt. This matters because retaking the exam adds cost, delays employment, and can be emotionally draining. For employers, a school's pass rate can signal the readiness of new graduates. In Massachusetts, where healthcare employers compete for top talent, coming from a program with an outstanding NCLEX track record gives you an edge.
Several BSN programs in the state post pass rates well above the national average. For example, Elms College’s BSN program achieved a 97.33% first-time pass rate in 20231, with 75 test-takers. This near-perfect performance reflects the program’s intensive clinical placements and faculty mentoring. Similarly, UMass Lowell’s BSN program recorded a 95% pass rate in 20242, underscoring the strength of its curriculum and simulation labs. These figures are not outliers; BSN programs in Massachusetts collectively outperform many other states, and a majority of schools report first-time pass rates above 90%. This consistency gives students a strong foundation for licensure and early career placement.
When evaluating programs, look beyond a single year’s pass rate. Trends over two or three years reveal stability. A program that maintains pass rates above 90% with a sizable cohort is a safer bet. The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing website posts annual reports, making it easy to verify claims. Pay attention to the number of test-takers: a 95% rate based on 200 students carries more weight than the same rate from a group of 20. Accreditation status also matters; all Massachusetts nursing programs with strong pass rates hold ACEN or CCNE accreditation. If a school lacks this, the pass rate alone cannot compensate for potential credit transfer or graduate program admission issues. Finally, compare pass rates to the program’s admission standards and support services. A high pass rate paired with accessible tutoring and remediation resources is a strong indicator that the school will invest in your success.
Massachusetts registered nurses earn a mean annual wage of $100,260 statewide, but earnings for BSN-prepared RNs can be significantly higher, especially in metro Boston where RNs average $111,930. The following programs stand out for their graduates' strong earnings, as reported by the College Scorecard.
Massachusetts is home to a wide spectrum of nursing education options, from entry-level certificates to doctoral degrees. Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance, understanding the landscape helps you make an informed decision about the various nursing career paths. The state’s mix of community colleges, state universities, and private institutions means you can find a program that fits your timeline, budget, and career goals.
Nursing programs in Massachusetts range from practical nursing diplomas, which satisfy LPN education requirements for licensure, to associate and bachelor’s degrees that lead to RN licensure. Many students pursue a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) as a four-year degree, while those with a prior bachelor’s in another field often choose an accelerated BSN (ABSN) or second-degree BSN. These intensive programs can take 12 to 24 months to complete. For working LPNs or RNs with an associate degree, RN-to-BSN and bridge programs offer a flexible route to a bachelor’s degree. At the graduate level, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and PhD programs prepare nurses for advanced practice, leadership, and research roles. While many schools offer these paths, specifics like clinical requirements, start dates, and transfer policies differ. Always check each school’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date details.
Accreditation is a critical factor when evaluating any nursing program. Graduating from an accredited program is required for licensure in Massachusetts and often for future employment or graduate education. Two recognized agencies for nursing programs are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). You can search their online directories to find accredited BSN, graduate, and residency programs in the state. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) also maintains a database of member schools and provides information on program offerings. Relying on these authoritative sources helps you avoid unapproved programs that may not meet state board requirements.
The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing is the official state agency that oversees nursing licensure and approves nursing education programs. Its website includes a list of approved pre-licensure programs, an essential reference when researching schools. Additionally, the Massachusetts Action Coalition, part of the national Future of Nursing campaign, works to advance nursing education and practice in the state. Its resources can include updates on new programs, funding opportunities, and educational partnerships. Consulting these state-specific directories and reports can give you a broader view of what’s available and how programs align with workforce needs.
Program details, such as prerequisites, tuition, clinical placement policies, and application deadlines, can change from year to year. While directories and third-party sites offer a helpful starting point, they may not reflect the latest updates. For the most accurate information, contact the admissions office of each school directly. Admissions counselors can clarify eligibility requirements, discuss program changes, and often connect you with current students or faculty. For example, if you are considering an accelerated BSN at MGH Institute of Health Professions, Regis College, Simmons University, a UMass campus, or Northeastern University, a short phone call or email can confirm prerequisites and current cohort timelines. This step is especially important for competitive programs with rolling admissions or limited seats.
Massachusetts offers several routes to become a registered nurse, each with different time commitments and entry requirements. The path you choose depends on your prior education, career goals, and how quickly you want to enter the field.
How do you tell a Massachusetts nursing program that will actually launch your career from one that could leave you unprepared for the NCLEX or without clinical connections? The right school does more than just check boxes, it gives you a direct line to the hospitals where you want to work and a support system that carries you through exam day.
The first filter is accreditation. Nursing programs typically hold either CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) or ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) status. Both are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, but they serve slightly different purposes. CCNE accredits baccalaureate, graduate, and residency programs, making it the preferred standard for BSN and advanced-practice tracks. ACEN accredits all levels, from practical nursing to doctorate, and is common in hospital-based and community college programs. For a BSN path, CCNE is often the stronger signal, but either is acceptable for licensure, so long as the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing also approves the program.
Massachusetts is packed with world-class clinical sites, and geography is a huge asset here. Look for programs that have established, transparent partnerships with major health systems rather than vague promises of placements. For example, students at the MGH Institute of Health Professions complete rotations throughout the Mass General Brigham system, including Massachusetts General Hospital, with all students gaining direct access to that network. UMass Boston’s Manning College of Nursing leverages a $20 million Clinical Leadership Collaborative for Diversity in Nursing with Mass General Brigham, creating a pipeline that places students directly into MGB hospitals. Beth Israel Lahey Health, Tufts Medical Center, UMass Memorial, and Baystate Health also host thousands of nursing students each year, but not all schools have equal access. Ask admissions how clinical sites are assigned: is there a lottery? Are you guaranteed a slot in an acute-care setting? Does the program have a centralized affiliation office, or do you compete for spots? The answers reveal how seamless your transition from classroom to bedside will be.
A program's structure either amplifies or dilutes your clinical hours. Cohort size matters: smaller groups mean more one-on-one feedback during rotations. Ask about faculty-to-student ratios in clinical settings, some programs cap at 1:8, while others push to 1:12 or more. Simulation lab quality is another proxy for preparation. High-fidelity manikins, standardized patient encounters, and dedicated simulation faculty signal that a school invests in low-stakes practice before you touch a real patient.
Finally, NCLEX preparation shouldn't be a last-minute test-prep book tossed in your last semester. Strong programs weave NCLEX-style clinical judgment questions into every course and offer structured remediation for students who fall behind. While licensure exam pass rates are a public metric, the support behind those numbers, free live review sessions, one-on-one coaching, practice-exam benchmarks, is what gets you across the finish line.
Before you commit, confirm your chosen program appears on the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing's list of approved prelicensure programs. This is non-negotiable: graduating from an unapproved program will block your RN license application, regardless of accreditation. The board’s website also lists any programs on warning or probation, red flags you'll want to know about early. Taking an hour to verify this now can save months of headaches later.
Choosing the right nursing school in Massachusetts involves weighing program types, costs, and admission requirements. Here are answers to common questions from aspiring nurses to help you navigate your options.
The programs below sit beyond the ranked list above and spread across the state, from Boston and the North Shore to the Pioneer Valley and Cape Cod. Each entry gives the city, degree level, program format, and the reported average net price so you can weigh options quickly and follow a link to the school's own program page.
