Maria Delgado, RN
June 4, 2025
The Massachusetts healthcare system depends on Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who deliver direct patient care throughout nursing homes, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. The state needs LPNs most because it has a big elderly population that depends on extended care services. The work duties of LPNs throughout the United States include vital sign monitoring, medication administration, and daily care assistance but Massachusetts LPNs tend to work in elder care and community health settings. The LPN profession in Massachusetts provides an excellent entry into healthcare through a practical and respected career path which does not require the extended education needed for RN or BSN degrees.
Pittsfield, MA - Public 2-Year - berkshirecc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Berkshire Community College's Practical Nurse Certificate program provides a comprehensive pathway to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in just one year. Students gain scientific knowledge and technical skills to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings. The program combines rigorous lecture, laboratory, and clinical courses, preparing graduates to excel in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and physicians' offices. Admission requires prerequisite courses in biology, English, and psychology, with competitive entry based on academic performance. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licensing examination and can expect strong job prospects in a growing healthcare field.
Worcester, MA - Public 2-Year - qcc.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Quinsigamond Community College's Healthcare - Practical Nursing program offers a strategic pathway for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to advance their careers. This hybrid program provides comprehensive preparation for nursing education and potential transfer to bachelor's degree programs. Students gain critical skills in patient-centered care, therapeutic communication, and healthcare technology across diverse clinical settings. With in-state tuition at $223 per credit and a flexible 4-semester curriculum, the program equips nurses to excel in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Admission requires a current LPN certification and high school diploma or equivalent.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Quinsigamond Community College's Practical Nursing Evening program is designed for certified LPNs aiming to advance their careers. This hybrid program prepares students for QCC's nursing programs and transfer to bachelor institutions in science-based nursing. It focuses on patient-centered care, therapeutic communication, and the biological sciences. With in-state tuition at $223/credit and out-of-state/international at $429/credit, the program spans 4 semesters, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes biology, English, mathematics, and psychology. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED/HiSET and a current LPN credential. This program is ideal for those seeking to enhance their nursing skills and knowledge in a flexible learning environment.
Greenfield, MA - Public 2-Year - gcc.mass.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing Certificate at Greenfield Community College offers an intensive 10-month program preparing students to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). In just 40 weeks, students gain comprehensive skills to provide direct patient care across various healthcare settings. The rigorous 43-credit curriculum combines liberal arts, sciences, and clinical nursing courses, equipping graduates with holistic healthcare expertise. Students learn patient-centered care, professional communication, and critical clinical skills through classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences. With excellent employment projections and a 20-25% job growth rate, graduates can expect competitive pay and flexible work schedules in doctor's offices, nursing homes, and community health settings.
Holyoke, MA - Public 2-Year - hcc.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Holyoke Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate provides a comprehensive pathway to becoming a licensed practical nurse. This intensive 45-credit program equips students with essential healthcare skills, combining rigorous science coursework with hands-on clinical training. Students learn anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and specialized nursing techniques, preparing them to take the NCLEX-PN licensing exam. The program emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based practices, and professional development. Graduates gain the knowledge to provide safe, compassionate nursing care across diverse healthcare settings, with strong employment prospects in a growing healthcare industry.
Quincy, MA - Public 4-Year - quincycollege.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Quincy College's Practical Nursing Certificate prepares dedicated students for a rewarding healthcare career as licensed practical nurses. The comprehensive program blends rigorous classroom instruction with extensive clinical training at top Massachusetts healthcare facilities. Students learn critical nursing skills, patient care techniques, and professional responsibilities through a concept-based curriculum. Graduates are well-positioned to take the NCLEX-PN licensing exam, with the program boasting impressive first-time pass rates consistently above 85%. Admission requires completing specific prerequisites, including College Algebra, Anatomy & Physiology, and passing the TEAS exam.
The state of Massachusetts does not offer LPN programs through full online delivery because students need to complete clinical and hands-on training. Hybrid models have become more prevalent in recent times. Students in these programs study academic subjects online but must attend physical sessions for laboratory work and clinical practice. Traditional in-person programs maintain their widespread presence throughout day cohorts. Students who need to balance education with work or family duties can choose from evening and weekend programs. The fastest completion time for accelerated programs reaches under one year yet part-time extended options provide students with more scheduling flexibility. LPN programs throughout Massachusetts require students to complete their clinical training through in-person sessions despite their delivery methods.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Holyoke Community College |
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| Quinsigamond Community College |
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| Mount Wachusett Community College |
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| Certifying Board | Board of Registration in Nursing, Massachusetts Department of Public Health |
|---|---|
| Certification | National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from a Board-approved practical nursing program with official transcript and program verification |
| Application & Background Check | $230 application fee, submit Social Security Number, complete CORI Acknowledgement Form and state criminal history & sex offender registry checks, application remains active for one year, and NCLEX must be passed within this period |
| Temporary Permit & Compact | Massachusetts does not issue temporary LPN permits and does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact |
| License Renewal Period | LPN licenses expire at 11:59 PM on the licensee’s birthday in odd-numbered years, renew online starting 90 days before expiration with a $120 renewal fee |
| Continuing Education | Completion of 15 contact hours of Board-approved continuing education during each renewal cycle |
| Licensure by Endorsement | $275 endorsement application fee and $30 license verification fee per license, submit Nursys verification of a current unrestricted license, CORI & sex offender registry checks, and proof of recent practice or board-approved refresher if required. |
The average salary for a LPN in Massachusetts is 16 percent higher than the national average, and can range from $60,000 to $75,000 per year. Rates of pay for nurses in this area are determined by the state’s high cost of living and demand for highly skilled nursing professionals. The demand for LPN jobs is always strong, since LPN’s are employed in both long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics and home health agencies. While Boston has the most LPN job openings, the aging rural and suburban population ensures constant work for nursing professionals. The job outlook for LPNs in Massachusetts is higher than the rest of the country where the population is aging and the healthcare industry is growing. Employment New graduates have a number of career options available to them, such as advancing specializations or careers. Massachusetts’s strong job market combined with competitive pay make it one of the best states for LPN careers.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Massachusetts | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $62,507 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $30.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$69,856 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $62,507 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$56,346 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~8% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~410 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Essex Community College |
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| Quinsigamond Community College |
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| North Shore Community College |
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Massachusetts LPNs are able to gain a few different career opportunities. LPN-to-RN Bridge Programs The bridge programs allow LPNs to achieve associate or bachelor degrees with preferential admission. These schools prepare nurses for more complicated work that results in higher wages. LPNs may earn certificates in IV and wound care to supplement their clinical skills. As part of the career trajectory for LPNs, or charge nurses and team leaders within long-term care facilities. Further education can progress nurses into more advanced clinical or non-clinical careers such as nurse practitioner or healthcare administrator. In Massachusetts, becoming an LPN offers long term employment opportunities as individuals who wish to further their careers can use this as a stepping stone to become an RN or obtain specialized skills in different areas.
Additional Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
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