
Jake Flannigan, NP
July 14, 2025
Massachusetts NP programs prepare RNs for advanced practice in settings from major academic medical centers in Boston to community clinics in the Berkshires. CCNE‑accredited MSN and DNP tracks are available at institutions such as UMass Chan Medical School, Boston College, Northeastern University, Simmons University, and Regis College. These programs blend evidence‑based coursework with clinical rotations to equip graduates for national certification and Massachusetts APRN licensure with full prescriptive authority. Graduates emerge ready to assess, diagnose, prescribe, and manage patient care independently.
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern University's Family Nurse Practitioner MS program delivers a cutting-edge educational experience for nursing professionals seeking advanced primary healthcare training. The innovative hybrid model combines online coursework with strategic local clinical rotations, enabling students to maintain professional commitments while pursuing academic excellence. Students benefit from a curriculum emphasizing evidence-based, culturally competent care, preparing them to excel as comprehensive family healthcare providers. With no GRE requirement and flexible full-time or part-time study options, the program offers a strategic pathway for career advancement in nursing practice.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nursing Master's program provides comprehensive training for licensed nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. Over two to three years, students develop sophisticated diagnostic reasoning and nursing management skills through 600 hours of immersive clinical experience. The curriculum emphasizes advanced pathophysiology, health assessment, and technological skills necessary for managing critically ill patients. Preparing nurses for roles as clinical experts, managers, and consultants, the program offers a robust pathway to advanced acute healthcare practice.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program delivers advanced training in comprehensive mental health services across patient lifespans. Through a flexible online curriculum with on-campus clinical intensives, students develop expertise in diagnostic decision-making, psychotherapeutic interventions, and psychopharmacology. The program supports full-time and part-time study, requiring 43 credits for the Master's degree. Graduates become eligible for national certification and can work in diverse settings including community mental health centers, schools, and outpatient practices, addressing critical mental healthcare needs.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northeastern University's online Master of Science in Nursing-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses to provide holistic mental healthcare across all ages. This hybrid program combines flexible online coursework with two in-person Clinical Intensive weekends in Boston. Graduates are eligible for national certification. The program focuses on psychopharmacology, diagnostic decision-making, and therapeutic interventions. Admission requires a baccalaureate degree in nursing, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and current RN licensure. The estimated tuition is $44,505. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northeastern University's Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver critical care for high-risk infants. This 100% online master's degree equips registered nurses with specialized skills to manage complex medical challenges in neonatal intensive care units. Designed for experienced nurses with at least two years of NICU experience, the program focuses on advanced diagnostic reasoning, independent patient management, and comprehensive family-centered care. Students learn to handle intricate medical scenarios involving premature infants, low birth weight challenges, and complex health conditions. With no GRE requirement and a flexible online format, nurses can advance their careers while maintaining professional commitments.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Campus Based - Visit Website
Campus Based - Visit Website
Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - simmons.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons University's online MSN-FNP program is designed for licensed RNs with a BSN, offering three annual start dates and rolling admissions for flexibility. It prepares students for board certification and advanced clinical practice, emphasizing a virtual classroom experience without requiring an entrance exam.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The campus-based Direct Entry MSN-PMHNP program at Simmons is for non-nurses, requiring no prior nursing experience. It spans 91 credits over three years with over 850 clinical sites and a 90% NCLEX pass rate, preparing graduates for advanced mental health roles without an entrance exam.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons' online MSN-PMHNP program equips RNs with skills in psychiatric diagnosis and treatment across life stages, covering 47 credits and 672 clinical hours. It leads to board certification eligibility and potential high earnings, with flexible learning and no entrance exam needed.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Simmons' online MSN-FNP program is CCNE-accredited, offering flexible tracks and local clinical placements for RNs. It features high board certification pass rates, predictable schedules, and rolling admissions, with no entrance exam required for admission.
Online Learning - Visit Website
This CCNE-accredited online post-graduate FNP certificate at Simmons University supports working RNs with flexible scheduling and clinical placement assistance. It boasts a 97% first-time board exam pass rate and does not require the GRE, focusing on comprehensive patient care across life stages.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Weston, MA - Private 4-year - regiscollege.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis College's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program provides a specialized online pathway for nursing professionals targeting comprehensive pediatric care. The 28-36 month curriculum prepares nurses to address critical healthcare shortages, emphasizing advanced health assessments and community-based pediatric nursing. Students benefit from flexible learning, no GRE requirements, and competitive tuition assistance. With an impressive 83% NP exam pass rate and PNCB certification eligibility, graduates are strategically positioned for high-demand pediatric roles with a median annual salary around $96,300. Multiple entry points accommodate diverse educational backgrounds, making advanced pediatric specialization accessible.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis College's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program delivers comprehensive training for advanced nursing professionals specializing in critical patient care. The campus-based curriculum features 600 precepted clinical hours across urgent care, emergency departments, and intensive care settings. Students develop sophisticated skills in managing technologically dependent patients and critically ill young and older adults. Graduates receive preparation for certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center and American Association of Critical Care Nurses, ensuring comprehensive professional readiness in acute care environments.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis College's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner online program offers a transformative 28-36 month master's pathway for working nurses. Designed to provide comprehensive women's healthcare training from preadolescence through postmenopause, the curriculum prepares graduates for diverse roles in primary care, family planning, and wellness examinations. With no GRE requirements, flexible learning, and a projected job growth of 46%, students can anticipate a median salary of $98,500. Expert faculty, individualized support, and industry-relevant coursework position nurses for successful careers in women's health specialties.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regis College's Online Family Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive 28-month educational experience for registered nurses. Focusing on family care, the curriculum integrates health assessment, community-based nursing, and clinical preceptorships. With no GRE requirements and AANP & ANCC certification eligibility, students receive preparation for advanced practice. The program offers financial aid, military discounts, and a flexible learning environment. Graduates enter a field with strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities for meaningful patient care.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis College's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner hybrid program prepares nurses for comprehensive mental health services. Combining synchronous and asynchronous coursework, the 51-credit program covers advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment. Aligned with ANCC certification criteria, the curriculum equips students to provide diagnostic evaluations and medication management. With a nursing background requirement and strategic course design, graduates develop sophisticated clinical and theoretical knowledge for diverse mental health practice settings.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lowell, MA - Public 4-Year - uml.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
UMass Lowell's Family Health Nursing Practitioner Program delivers comprehensive advanced nursing education emphasizing holistic patient care. Students gain sophisticated clinical skills through innovative training, including Objective Structured Clinical Examination sessions with standardized patients. The program uniquely prepares nurses to diagnose and treat diverse populations across different life stages, developing critical communication and assessment competencies. With a focus on national certification readiness, graduates emerge as versatile healthcare professionals equipped to address complex health management challenges.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UMass Lowell's Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nursing Master's program provides comprehensive advanced practice nursing education targeting health needs of patients aged 13 and older. Designed for flexible completion in two to five years, the program requires a nursing bachelor's degree and offers no GRE requirement. Students develop advanced clinical skills, research techniques, and evidence-based practice knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes professional leadership, preparing graduates for certification exams and versatile healthcare roles with a specialized focus on adult and geriatric patient populations.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Family Health Nursing Master's concentration at UMass Lowell prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare across patient lifespans. This rigorous two-year hybrid program cultivates critical skills in family health assessment, intervention, and patient communication. With no GRE requirement and flexible part-time options, students develop leadership capabilities and evidence-based practice expertise. Graduates are positioned as versatile healthcare professionals ready to become certified family nurse practitioners with strong health promotion and patient-centered care capabilities.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Family Health Nurse Practitioner Master's program at UMass Lowell offers a comprehensive hybrid learning experience preparing advanced practice nurses. Combining online coursework with hands-on on-campus training, the 45-credit program focuses on comprehensive care across life stages. With no GRE requirement and high national certification exam pass rates, students develop skills for holistic patient care. The program provides 750 clinical hours, financial aid options, and prepares graduates for Family Nurse Practitioner certification.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UMass Lowell's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration transforms nurses into innovative healthcare leaders. This hybrid program offers multiple enrollment pathways, preparing advanced practice registered nurses to drive patient care improvements. Students develop critical skills in evidence-based practice, health policy, and organizational leadership. The curriculum emphasizes reducing healthcare disparities, advocating for policy changes, and implementing innovative care strategies across diverse settings, positioning graduates as transformative healthcare professionals.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - mcphs.edu
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MCPHS University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive 24-month pathway for healthcare professionals. This part-time degree equips students with advanced clinical skills through flexible online coursework and local clinical rotations. Featuring three strategic start terms and three comprehensive clinical rotation areas, the program emphasizes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Graduates are positioned for high-demand nursing roles with median salaries around $120,680, making it an attractive option for nurses seeking professional advancement in family healthcare.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at MCPHS University provides a comprehensive 24-month pathway for nurses specializing in mental healthcare. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum emphasizes advanced skills in diagnosing and treating complex psychiatric disorders. Students benefit from flexible learning options, community-based clinical experiences, and preparation for national certification. The program addresses critical mental health needs while offering a rewarding career trajectory with competitive compensation potential.
Online Learning - Visit Website
MCPHS University's Family Nurse Practitioner Bridge Program offers a seamless RN to MSN transition for associate degree nurses. This three-year, part-time online program combines rigorous academic preparation with practical community-based clinical experiences. Students complete four on-campus residencies while maintaining employment flexibility. The curriculum prepares nurses for the Family Nurse Practitioner Board Certification Exam, focusing on advanced primary care skills. With entirely online coursework and strategic program design, this bridge program provides an accessible pathway to expanded nursing career opportunities.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at MCPHS University offers a strategic 24-month online pathway for nurses specializing in mental health care. This part-time program combines flexible online coursework with meaningful community-based clinical experiences. Students gain comprehensive skills in psychiatric disorder diagnosis and management, preparing for professional certification. With multiple start terms and a curriculum designed to address critical mental health needs, graduates can access rewarding career opportunities with competitive compensation in an increasingly important healthcare specialty.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS-FNP) at MCPHS University offers an innovative two-year online program designed for experienced nurses. Students complete 540 clinical practicum hours across diverse care settings, preparing for national board certification. The curriculum provides comprehensive training in family healthcare, with opportunities to specialize in OB/GYN, pediatric, adult, and geriatric care. Featuring multiple start terms and advanced pharmacology training, this program strategically positions nurses for expanded professional opportunities in primary care practice.
Online Learning - Visit Website
To accommodate working nurses and geographically dispersed students, many programs use a hybrid format with online lectures and live webinars complemented by on‑campus intensives for simulation labs and skills workshops. Clinical rotations are arranged locally at approved healthcare sites, allowing students to complete patient‑care hours close to home. A few schools offer fully online didactic components with minimal in‑person requirements for skills assessments.
| Certifying Board | Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing – Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Section |
|---|---|
| Certification | Graduation from a Board-approved NP program plus current national NP credential (AANP, ANCC, NCC, PNCB, etc.) with primary-source verification and good moral character under state law |
| License Renewal Period | Expires at 11:59 PM on your birthday in even-numbered years, renew online up to 90 days before expiration |
| Continuing Education | 15 contact hours every two years, APRNs with prescriptive authority must include opioid/pain management training as required by state statute |
| License Application Fee | $150 APRN authorization fee per application |
| Clinical Hours | Official graduate transcripts documenting practicum in advanced assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacotherapeutics from an accredited NP program |
| Application Processing Time | Allow about 3–4 weeks for a complete application, PCS initial review in ~3 business days and board authorization within one week of PCS approval |
| License by Endorsement | Out-of-state APRNs must hold (or apply for) a Massachusetts RN license and submit direct verification of their APRN certification with their endorsement application |
Nurse practitioners in Massachusetts earn an average annual salary of about $136,000, with entry‑level positions starting near $100,000 and experienced practitioners, especially in the Boston metro, earning upwards of $170,000. Employers often include sign‑on bonuses, loan repayment assistance, and comprehensive benefits packages to attract qualified NPs. Advanced certifications, leadership roles, and faculty positions can further elevate compensation.
| Salary & Career Outlook | Massachusetts | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg NP Salary | $128,500 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $61.80 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$145,200 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $128,500 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$112,000 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~45% | ~3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~1,500 | ~54,000 |
Data from Salary.com and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Many practitioners pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice to deepen clinical expertise and qualify for leadership, academic, or executive positions. Post‑master’s certificate programs enable NPs to gain new specialties, such as acute care, pediatrics, or women’s health, without completing another full degree. Those interested in research or academia may enroll in PhD programs, while others transition into roles in healthcare administration, informatics, policy development, or telehealth leadership.
Learn more about Nurse Practitioner specialities.
Additional Nursing Programs in Massachusetts
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Dual Specialization (Acute and Primary Care) - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Primary Care - Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Dual Primary/Acute Care - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Primary Care - Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: For Licensed Nurse Midwives - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: For Licensed Pediatric Nurse Practitioners/Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialists - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Women's Health Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nursing - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Health Nursing - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Pediatrics (PNP) - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Adult Gerontology – Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Online & Campus Based - Website