Are you looking for the best accelerated nursing programs in Massachusetts? We’ve researched & listed these programs for you.
Depending on your goals & budget, you can choose to either go for the accelerated BSN programs or for the direct-entry MSN programs.
Read: Guide to Accelerated Nursing Programs: What are they?
To be eligible for accelerated nursing programs in Massachesetts, you must not have any prior nursing degree, including an associate’s one.
The time to completion for accelerated BSN programs in Massachusetts range from 12 to 20 months. On the other hand, direct-entry MSN programs in Massachusetts take 20 to 36 months.
All the programs are CCNE-accredited. Here is the list of 9 accelerated BSN programs in Massachusetts.
9 Accelerated BSN Programs in Massachusetts
1. MGH Institute Of Health Professions Accelerated BSN
Program Overview
The MGH Institute of Health Professions offers a rigorous, 12-month Accelerated BSN program designed to transform you into a professional RN. As a graduate, you’ll be ready to offer direct care to diverse populations across various healthcare settings, including acute, long-term, and community environments.
Duration: 12 months
Format: In-campus
Location: Boston, MA
Small Class Sizes
This MGH ABSN program ensures personal student attention with its 1:6 clinical faculty-to-student ratio. This structure provides a supportive environment to maximize personalized guidance and mentorship, an important factor in navigating such an intense program.
State-of-the-art Simulation Lab
As an ABSN student, you will access a high-tech simulation lab that mirrors actual healthcare environments to enhance your clinical learning. It includes acute-care rooms and a functional living lab, along with interactive high- and low-fidelity simulators.
Here, you’ll respond to a myriad of health scenarios, preparing you for real-world challenges you might encounter as an RN.
Also, the program includes direct-care practice, where you’ll work one-on-one with a bachelor’s prepared RN for 180 hours.
Clinical Placements
You’ll start clinical placements early – in your first semester. You’ll access placements at numerous Boston-area healthcare facilities, including Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Boston Children’s Hospital, and other sites throughout the state.
MGH Accelerated BSN Prerequisites
Before enrolling, you’ll need to complete the following prereqs:
- Chemistry (no lab required)
- Human Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2 (no lab) OR Human Anatomy and Human Physiology (no lab)
- Human Growth & Development (covering physical, cognitive, and emotional development across lifespan)
- Microbiology (no lab required)
- Human Nutrition (not exercise, sport, or weight control courses)
- Statistics (including inferential statistics)
Tuition and Fees
The total cost for tuition and fees is approximately $96,410. Check the most up-to-date fees here.
2. University of Massachusetts Amherst Accelerated BSN
Program Overview
The UMass Amherst Accelerated BSN is a full-time program that allows you to earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing in just 16 months. The course starts each Fall semester and consists of 58 credit hours.
Duration: 16 months
Format: In-campus
Location: Amherst, MA
UMass Amherst Accelerated BSN Prerequisites
They are:
- Human Nutrition (3 credits)
- Medical Microbiology or General Microbiology (3 credits – No lab required for admission, though some states, including California, may require a microbiology lab for licensure)
- Anatomy and Physiology I with lab (4 credits)
- Anatomy and Physiology II with lab (4 credits)
- Statistics (3 credits)
- Human Growth and Development throughout the Lifespan (3 credits)
Tuition
For the UMass Amherst Accelerated BSN program, the cost per credit is $695, effectively amounting to $40,310 tuition. For the most current rates, visit the UMass Amherst tuition page.
3. University of Massachusetts Boston Accelerated BSN
Program Overview
The UMass Boston Accelerated BSN is an online program that allows you to become a BSN registered nurse in just 12 months, making it one of the shortest accelerated nursing programs in Massachusetts.
Duration: 12 months
Format: Online Coursework (primarily via the Blackboard platform)
Location: Boston, MA
The UMass Boston Accelerated BSN program consists of 12 courses, totaling 52 credits. To ensure flexibility and accessibility, there are three admission periods – Summer, Fall, and Spring, with approximately 42 seats available for accelerated students in each cohort.
Key Program Outcomes
This program teaches you how to use proven nursing methods to help people with long-term and short-term illnesses. You’ll learn how to handle complicated health problems for individuals and families of all ages.
The UMass Boston Accelerated BSN Prerequisites
They are:
- Anatomy and Physiology I (4 credits)
- Anatomy and Physiology II (4 credits)
- Microbiology (4 credits)
- Lifespan Growth and Development (3 credits)
- Nutrition (3 credits)
- Social Behavioral Science Elective (3 credits)
- Statistics (3 credits)
Tuition
Tuition for the UMass Boston Accelerated BSN program is $577 per credit. For the most current rates, visit the program’s website below.
Related: Pros and Cons of Accelerated Nursing Programs
4. MCPHS University Accelerated BSN
Program Overview
If you’re ready to plunge into an intense, enriching journey into the world of nursing, the MCPHS Accelerated BSN program is another great alternative for you.
This 64-credit hours program will transform you into a professional nurse in just 16 months- running over 4 semesters. You have the flexibility to begin the program in either the Fall or Spring semester.
Duration: 16 months
Format: In-campus
Location: Boston, MA
Hands-on Clinical Experience
As part of the MCPHS Accelerated BSN program, you’ll gain invaluable hands-on experience, working alongside seasoned experts during clinical rotations.
These rotations take place at top-rated facilities located in Boston, Worcester, or Manchester, NH. Also, you’ll hone your nursing skills in the school’s on-site simulation and patient assessment labs.
Prerequisites
They are:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II with lab (8 credits)
- Microbiology with lab (4 credits)
- General Chemistry I with lab (4 credits)
- Nutrition (3 credits) or General Chemistry II with lab (4 credits)
- Human Development (3 credits)
- Statistics (3 credits)
Tuition Fees
The tuition for the MCPHS University Accelerated BSN program is $1,380 per credit, amounting to an estimated total tuition of $74,098. Check the university’s website for the latest rates.
5. Simmons University Accelerated BSN
Program Overview
To qualify for the Simmons 16-month Accelerated BSN program, you need to be a Dix Scholar with a previous Bachelor’s degree in another field or be at least 24 years old at the time of enrollment at Simmons.
Duration: 16 months
Format: In-campus
Location: Boston, MA
One of the perks of being a Dix Scholar is the Dix scholarship worth up to $5,000 that you get. It gets split between the first two consecutive semesters you attend.
Simmon’s NCLEX Pass Rate
With students consistently achieving above a 90% NCLEX pass rate, it shows that the program is effective at preparing competent nurses.
Prerequisites
They are:
- Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM 110 or CHEM 111) OR Organic Chemistry (CHEM 110 or CHEM 112)
- Anatomy and Physiology I (BIO 231)
- Psychology (PSYC 101)
- Microbiology (BIOL 123 or BIOL 221)
- Anatomy and Physiology II (BIO 232)
- Lifespan Psychology (PSYC 235 or PSYC 237N)
- Statistics (MATH 118)
Tuition
The tuition for the Simmons University Accelerated BSN program is $1,514 per credit. Check the university’s website for the latest rates.
6. Northeastern University Accelerated BSN, Boston
Program Overview
The Northeastern Boston Accelerated BSN program is designed to be completed in just 16 months. It’s a comprehensive, full-time program comprising 67 credits, spread across 4 semesters.
Duration: 16 months
Format: Online Coursework
Location: Boston, MA
The Blended Learning Experience
Unlike most ABSN programs, Northeastern’s Accelerated BSN is one of the few online accelerated nursing programs in Massachusetts.
This model combines online didactic coursework, allowing you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, with valuable hands-on learning experiences that help bring theory into practice.
The program begins three times a year, in January, May, and September.
Clinicals
Northeastern ABSN Boston has an extensive network of clinical affiliations with diverse nursing specialties, including, adult health, obstetrics and women’s health, pediatrics, behavioral and mental health, public health, and management and leadership.
These partnerships span health centers, major teaching hospitals, community hospitals, and clinics- giving you a breadth of opportunities to explore different areas of nursing and identify your areas of interest.
Northeastern Boston Accelerated BSN Prerequisites
Prereqs include microbiology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, statistics, developmental psychology, nutrition, and a social science course.
Tuition
The Northeastern University ABSN Boston tuition is $1,222 per credit hour. Check the university’s website for the most up-to-date rates.
7. Curry College Accelerated Entry Level Baccalaureate Nursing Program (ACCEL)
Program Overview
The Accelerated Entry Level Baccalaureate Nursing Program (ACCEL) at Curry College is a comprehensive yet intense program that paves the way to earn your Bachelor’s in Nursing (BS) in just 16 months.
Duration: 16 months
Format: In-campus
Location: Milton, MA or Plymouth, MA
The Curry ACCEL program has 2 cohorts, each with a max of 30 students: One starts in January in Milton and the other starts in both Fall & Spring in Plymouth.
After completing the ACCEL program, you’ll be ready to sit for the NCLEX-RN, after which you’ll be equipped to practice nursing in diverse healthcare settings.
This includes acute care, ambulatory care, community health, and mental health, granting you the flexibility to pursue a nursing path that most resonates with you.
Curry College Accelerated BSN Prerequisites
They include Anatomy & Physiology I and II, Chemistry, Microbiology (including lab sections), Statistics, and Human Growth and Development.
Tuition and Fees
The tuition for the Curry ACCEL program is $1,107 per credit, amounting to a total estimated tuition of $55,350. For the most current rates, check below.
8. Elms College Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing
Program Overview
The Elms College Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing is for individuals who already possess a non-nursing associate’s, baccalaureate, or higher degree. This program allows you to earn a baccalaureate in nursing in 20 months.
Duration: 20 months
Format: In-campus
Location: Chicopee, MA
The Elms College accelerated nursing program is intense and full-time, with 63 credits. Each cohort is limited to 24 students for an intimate learning experience.
With a rolling admission policy, you can apply at any time that suits you best.
A Unique Experience in Intercultural Nursing
Apart from the rigorous curriculum, Elms College offers a rare opportunity for you to gain experience in intercultural nursing by volunteering on mission trips to Jamaica.
Here, you can broaden your understanding of global health issues and challenges, and develop a deeper sensitivity to cultural diversity in healthcare.
Elms College Accelerated BSN Prerequisites
These include Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Microbiology, Chemistry, Human Growth and Development, Introduction to Psychology, Statistics, Nutrition, English, Art, and History. English, Art, and History are only required for applicants with an associate degree.
Tuition
For current tuition rates, please visit Elms College’s Tuition webpage.
What We Like
It’s great to see an accelerated nursing program accepting an associate’s degree! Most ABSN programs will only accept a baccalaureate degree and above.
9. Regis College Accelerated BSN
Program Overview
The Regis College ABSN is a full-time, fast-track program offered at the Weston, Massachusetts campus. With a total of 60 credit hours, it allows you to complete your BSN in just 16 months.
Duration: 16 months
Format: In-campus
Location: Weston, MA
It’s an accelerated path designed for those who want to earn a second bachelor’s degree and shift into a nursing career- perfect for career changers, recent graduates, and many others- as long as you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree already.
Clinical Placements
The program boasts of clinical placements in some of Boston’s most prestigious hospitals, including Massachusetts General, Brigham and Women’s, and Boston Children’s Hospital.
This not only gives you practical hands-on experience but also the opportunity to learn from some of the best professionals in the field.
Regis College Accelerated BSN Prerequisites
They include Anatomy and Physiology I and II (both with labs), Microbiology with Lab, Chemistry I and II, Statistics, and Human Development (or equivalent).
Tuition
The cost per credit is $1,250, bringing the total tuition to an estimated $75,000. For the most updated rates, please check the program’s tuition webpage.
What We Like
If you prefer a slower-paced, more flexible program, you can opt for the 24-month BS in Nursing degree at Regis College. This program mirrors the ABSN in every respect, including tuition, except that it’s slower-paced and entirely online.
Here is the list of 4 accelerated/entry-level/direct-entry MSN programs in Massachusetts.
4 Accelerated/Direct-Entry MSN Programs in Massachusetts
1. Regis College Accelerated Direct-Entry MSN
Program Overview
Regis College’s Accelerated Direct-Entry MSN program is designed to fast-track your nursing career. It allows you to earn both your BSN and MSN in a unified, intensive 3-year process.
Duration: 3 years
Format: In-campus
Location: Weston, MA
Just 16 months after starting the program, you can be eligible for the NCLEX RN examination, paving your way to becoming a registered nurse.
Real-World Clinical Experience
One of the many highlights of this program is the clinical placements. You’ll have the opportunity to train at well-established medical institutions such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Franciscan Hospital, and Rosie’s Place.
Career Outcomes
The majority of the program’s graduates have gone on to find rewarding careers at top medical institutions in New England, such as Mass General Hospital, Tufts Medical Center, and the Veterans Administration.
Prerequisites
They include Anatomy and Physiology I and II (each with a lab), Microbiology with Lab, Chemistry I and II, Statistics, and Human Development (or its equivalent).
Tuition
The program has a cost of $1,595 per credit, totaling $149,930 for the 94 credit hours required to complete the program.
2. Curry College Accelerated Entry MSN
Program Overview
The Curry Accelerated MSN program is Curry College’s new program, designed to be completed in just 20 months. This makes it the quickest/shortest direct-entry MSN program in Massachusetts.
This accelerated program is open to all individuals holding a non-nursing degree from any discipline. The only condition is that you must have achieved a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Duration: 20 months
Format: In-campus
Location: Milton, MA
This program is full-time. Throughout the program, expect to be engaged with classes and clinical experiences up to five days a week, depending on the semester.
Prerequisites
They include Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2, Chemistry, Microbiology, Statistics, and Human Development. All 4 science courses must include a lab component.
Tuition
The total tuition fee for the program is $64,152, which equates to $972 per credit for the 66 credits required.
3. Simmons University Direct Entry MSN
Program Overview
If you’re thinking of diving into the field of nursing with a focus on family care to become an Advanced Practice Family Nurse Practitioner, then Simmons University Direct Entry MSN is your ticket.
Duration: 3 years
Format: In-campus
Location: Boston, MA
The Simmons University Direct Entry MSN program has 96 credits. Your learning journey is divided into two distinct phases: pre-licensure and post-licensure.
For the initial 4 semesters, you’ll dive into a full-time pre-licensure nursing curriculum to prepare you for the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you pass, you’ll continue to the post-licensure phase of the program, which focuses on foundational courses, primary care, and research.
Clinicals
You’ll gain hands-on experience by completing clinical practicums, attending enlightening lectures, and making the most of research opportunities at globally renowned teaching hospitals and research facilities.
They include Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Prerequisites
You’ll need to complete prerequisites in Statistics, Developmental Psychology, Microbiology (w/Lab), Human Anatomy and Physiology (w/Lab), Inorganic Chemistry (w/Lab), and Organic chemistry (w/Lab).
Tuition
As for the tuition, the pre-licensure phase costs $1,514 per credit hour, while the post-licensure phase is $1,235 per credit hour. For the most up-to-date rates, check here.
4. MGH Institute Direct-Entry MS in Nursing
Program Overview
The MGH Institute’s Direct-Entry MSN program takes 3 years. In your initial 3 semesters, you’ll focus on pre-licensure nursing courses. This foundation will set you up to do the NCLEX-RN.
Once you’ve obtained your license, you’ll work part-time as an RN while you complete the rest of the master’s program.
Duration: 3 years
Format: In-campus
Location: Boston, MA
Advanced Specialization Options
One of the unique features of this program is the chance to choose from one of the following 7 advanced specialty nursing tracks:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (93 credits)
- Pediatrics Nurse Practitioner (91 credits)
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Lifespan Nurse Practitioner (91 credits)
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (90 credits)
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (91 credits)
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (94 credits)
- Dual Adult-Gerontology/Women’s Health (104 credits)
Clinical Experiences
You’ll complete clinical experiences at prominent Boston-area healthcare facilities like Massachusetts General, Brigham & Women’s, and Boston Children’s Hospital.
Beyond these, you’ll also gain exposure at community hospitals, health centers, skilled nursing facilities, and community health sites throughout the state.
Prerequisites
You’ll need to complete prerequisites in Chemistry, Human Anatomy & Physiology, Human Growth & Development, Microbiology, Human Nutrition, and Statistics.
Tuition
The cost of the program varies based on the specialty you choose, ranging from $162,735 to $187,067. For the most current rates, check here.
Wrapping Up
The Massachusetts Nurses Association released a survey taken by over 50 RNs in 2022. 40% of these nurses expressed their intention to retire from the field in the next two years.
Also, according to a report by the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission (HPC), the proportion of nurses older than 50 was higher than the national average. The HPC report further mentioned that RN vacancy rates had doubled to 13.6% in 2022, from 6.4% in 2019.
It goes without saying that demand for nurses will continue to soar in Massachusetts. Fortunately, with the state’s RNs earning a median annual income of $104,150, a nursing career is still going to remain attractive.
And even without a non-nursing degree, all you need is to pick one of the accelerated nursing programs in Massachusetts to start a fulfilling nursing career.
- What is the 12-month nursing program at Umass?
That is the UMass Boston Accelerated BSN. It is an online program that enables you to earn a BSN in 12 months.
Disclaimer:
- Information on these programs may change without notice. So, we cannot guarantee their authenticity and accuracy. You’d have to check with the school and do further research. Our review list is simply for guidance and cannot be relied upon exclusively without research on your part.
- Before enrollment, check with your state regarding licensing rules or whether your desired program meets your home state’s certification requirements and licensure.
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