Master’s in Nursing Degree Programs in Massachusetts are just some of the many graduate-level degrees available in the state. Located in the New England region of the United States, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has played a significant role in American history. In addition to being the site of the first colony founded by the Pilgrims, it is also home to the first higher learning institution in the U.S. – Harvard University. In addition, dissension in the region led to the American Revolution and ultimately, independence from Great Britain.
Leading the country in higher education, technology, financial services and health care, Massachusetts offers undergraduate, graduate and professional-level programs at 121 colleges and universities state-wide. Several members of the Adams and Kennedy families were alumni of these prestigious universities and became prominent contributors to United States politics.
Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA
William F. Connell School of Nursing
Both U.S. News & World Report and Forbes Magazine has ranked Boston College among “America’s Best Colleges”. With more than 4,000 degrees conferred annually in over 50 fields of study, it is the college of choice for undergraduates, graduate-level and professional studies. In the past ten years, Boston College has experienced a 75 percent in undergraduate applications. With skilled health care professionals in high demand, The Connell School of Nursing has contributed to that influx of students.
Master of Science in Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing degree program at Connell School of Nursing offers multiple routes for completing advanced nursing practice. The traditional route is designed for registered nurses with a BSN; the Master’s entry is for candidates with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree; the RN-MS path assists registered nurses without a BSN; or additional specialty certificate for MSN nurses who desire a second specialty. Clinical specialties available include:
Adult Health NP/CNS – Primary care specialist for adolescents through adulthood across a lifespan.
Family Health NP/CNS – Advanced practice nurse delivering care to all races, ethnicities, economic standing, geographic locale and age.
Forensic Nursing CNS – Nurse specialists who provide care for victims of violence, crime, and traumatic injury and advocate for abuse prevention.
MS/MA in Pastoral Ministry Option – Dual degree program providing skills to work with religious congregations.
MS/MBA Option – This dual graduate option prepares students for leadership roles in advanced nursing practice or executive positions.
MS/PhD Option – Professional expertise in nursing and research through earning both a master’s and doctorate-level degrees simultaneously.
Nurse Anesthesia Specialty – Experts in physiologic and pharmacologic principles earned through collaboration between the William F. Connell School of Nursing and Anesthesia Associates of Massachusetts.
Palliative Care Specialty – APRNs skilled in health care for patients suffering chronic, life-threatening illness. Also prepared in supporting family members for final outcomes.
Pediatric Health NP/CNS – Primary care specialists for infant through adolescent age groups.
Psychiatric/Mental Health NP/CNS – Provide skilled care for all patients with psychiatric mental health issues in various settings.
Women’s Health NP/CNS – Specialist in women’s health for treatment from adolescence through normal pregnancies and old age.
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
Contact Information
Cushing Hall, Room 202
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
(617) 552-4928
http://www.bc.edu/content/bc/schools/son/programs/masters.html
Curry College, Milton, MA
Located seven miles from the City of Boston, Curry College has provided private, liberal-arts based majors for over 135 years. The mission of the college is to motivate students to achieve these goals for success: critical thinking, effective communication, context comprehension, experience appreciation, define a personal identity, establish a value system, adapt to situations and innovate in all areas.
Master of Science in Nursing (CNL)
The Master of Science in Nursing degree program with concentration as a Certified Nurse Leader provides competencies in risk assessment, patient safety, improvement of quality health care and outcome measurements. The curriculum is based on standards established by the American Association of Colleges and Nursing. Cohort-based learning provides better collaboration skills with team members, co-workers and other health care professionals. The graduate program is designed for working nurses and can be completed in five semesters. Classes are conveniently scheduled one day a week. Graduates are eligible to take the certification examination.
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
American Association of Colleges and Nursing (AACN)
Contact Information
1071 Blue Hill Avenue
Milton, MA 02186
(617) 333-0500
http://www.curry.edu/programs-and-courses/graduate-programs.html
Elms College, Chicopee, MA
School of Nursing
Established in 1928, Elms College was founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield Massachusetts. It is currently a liberal arts college offering degrees for associates, bachelor’s and master’s programs. Elms College has earned the prestigious honor of Best Regional Colleges in the North and among the best Catholic colleges in 2014. The School of Nursing has multiple options for nursing degrees with day, evening, weekend, on campus and online programs for customized scheduling.
Master of Science in Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing degree curriculum is organized with a skilled faculty for training experienced nurses to function in today’s fast-paced health care environment. Students can choose from two specialties: Nursing and Health Services Management or Nursing Education.
Nursing and Health Services Management – Providing skills needed for leadership roles in various health care settings. In addition to academic coursework, there are two unique field experiences available for students to gain management and leadership practice.
Nursing Education – This track gives academic skills needed for advanced practice nurses to train future nurses in colleges, universities, community education and staff development programs.
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Massachusetts Board of Registration for Nursing
Contact Information
291 Springfield Street
Chicopee, MA 01013-2839
(413) 594-2761
http://www.elms.edu/academics/graduate-studies/master-of-science-in-nursing/index
Emmanuel College, Boston, MA
Graduate Studies + Nursing
Emmanuel College was founded in 1919 as New England’s first Catholic college for women. Today’s students are both men and women interested in over 50 majors, minors and specialization tracks. Both degree and certificate options are available with flexible course scheduling, small class sizes, and supportive career center for job placement opportunities.
Master of Science in Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing program at Emmanuel College assists registered nurses in following their passion to help others and do more in the field of health care. Two education tracks are available and provide skills such as nursing theory, research, information technology, ethics and health care policies for advanced practice in various clinical and academic settings.
Education Track – Prepares students as a nurse educator, staff development coordinator, faculty member or patient educator in academic or clinical setting. Graduates are eligible to apply for national certification.
Management Track – This track trains registered nurses for a career as a nurse administrator, nurse manager, nursing director or project director. Upon completion of the program, students can seek national certification.
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Contact Information
400 The Fenway,
Boston, MA. 02115
(617) 735-9715
http://www.emmanuel.edu/graduate-studies-nursing/academics/nursing/master-of-science-in-nursing.html
Endicott College, Beverly, MA
Van Loan School of Graduate and Professional Studies
Founded in 1939 as an all-women’s college, Endicott College is a seaside private college dedicated to guiding students to positive growth through education. The campus consists of 235 acres with student enrollment totaling approximately 2,600. In addition, online and satellite campuses across Massachusetts assist students in balancing family and work obligations with educational advancement.
Master of Science in Nursing
Registered nurses entering the Master of Science in Nursing learn the skills needed to advance their career as a nurse educator, nurse administrator, global health nurse or family nurse practitioner. Building on previous experience and education, students achieve competencies in various leadership roles. Two courses of study are available – a traditional master’s program for registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree and a pre-master’s program for registered nurses with an associate’s degree or nursing or bachelor’s degree in another field.
Accreditations
National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission
Contact Information
376 Hale Street
Beverly, MA 01915
(978) 232-2332
[email protected]
https://www.endicott.edu/VanLoan/Graduate-Studies/Master-Science/Nursing.aspx
Fitchburg State College, Fitchburg, MA
Department of Nursing
What began as a women’s two-year teaching school in 1894, Fitchburg State College has evolved into a co-educational, four-year institution with thousands of students. The average class size is manageable at 21 students. The Department of Nursing provides contemporary nursing education with undergraduate and graduate programs in traditional classroom and online formats.
Master of Science in Nursing – Forensic Nursing CNS
The Master of Science in Nursing degree with concentration in Forensic Nursing CNS allows registered nurses to pursue advanced management positions in health care. This 100 percent online series can be completed in the student’s own timeline in as few as three years or at a slower six-year pace. Learning outcomes for the forensic nurse include: nursing theory, research, criminal law, forensic technology and science, scientific intervention skills, care of victims and perpetrators. A practicum is required in forensic nursing and a total of 420 credit hours for graduation.
Career opportunities for advanced practice nurses in this program include: Legal nurse consultant, death investigator, risk management specialist, sexual assault nurse examiner and a forensic mental health consultant to name a few.
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Contact Information
160 Pearl St.
Fitchburg, MA 01420
(978) 665-3182
[email protected]
http://www.fitchburgstate.edu/academics/graduate-programs/
Framingham State College, Framingham, MA
Department of Nursing
Framingham State University is a private, traditional New England campus dedicated to quality programs at an affordable price. The Department of Nursing offers small class sizes for personalized attention. Master’s programs are a continuation of the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and can be completed as a full-time or part-time student.
Master of Science in Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing degree curriculum is available in two specialization tracks – Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership. Both concentrations utilize a blended learning process with online and on-campus classes. Core competencies include a similar foundation with a few variations for education vs. leadership programs:
-Nursing theory.
-Analyze and refine health care trends..
-Analyze and apply research.
-Deliver comprehensive nursing care to all people.
-Follow ethical decision-making to achieve quality outcomes.
-Demonstrate leadership skills by communicating and collaborating with team members.
-Use technology to enhance health care.
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC)
Contact Information
100 State Street
PO Box 9101
Framingham, MA 01701-9101
(508) 620-1220
http://www.framingham.edu/nursing/index.html
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Worcester, MA
School of Nursing
The School of Nursing at MCPHS University offers state-of-the-art instruction across three campuses and online programs. To meet the growing demand for nurses at all levels. the SOC is committed to training professionals to excel in the health care industry. The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences was founded in 1823 and is the oldest college in Boston and the second oldest pharmacy institution of higher learning in the nation.
Master of Science in Nursing with concentration in Teaching and Learning
The MSN with Teaching and Learning specialization degree provides advanced knowledge to registered nurses for leadership in nursing and education. The curriculum is designed for adult learners with multiple responsibilities. Students can complete most coursework online with only three campus visits required. Proficiency in the following areas will complete the program: leadership in health care delivery, measurement of outcomes, risk assessment, communication and quality improvement. Graduation requires completion of coursework, a practicum (to be completed in student’s community) and portfolio.
Master of Science in Nursing with Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)(online)
The online Master of Science in Nursing degree with concentration in FNP is for nurses holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The blended format allows busy professionals to advance their education with minimal campus visits. The family nurse practitioner will be the primary care specialist to all ages across a lifespan. Students must demonstrate leadership skills, organization, health care policy, research competency, ethics and nursing theory. A total of 42 credits including coursework, field experience and portfolio are required for graduation.
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Contact Information
19 Foster Street
Worcester, MA 01608-1715
(508) 890-8855
http://www.mcphs.edu/academics/schools/school-of-nursing
MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA
School of Nursing
The MGH Institute of Health Professions is a graduate school founded in 1866. It is located in historic Charlestown Navy Yard and its original building is still in use as a daycare center to staff, students and the community. Massachusetts General Hospital established the school to allow interaction between students and health care experts in clinical, hospital and community settings. The School of Nursing grants master’s degrees, doctoral degrees and professional certifications to train highly educated health care experts to meet the rising industry demand. Remodeled simulation labs prepare students by providing state-of-the-art equipment and real-life experiences.
Master of Science in Nursing (Direct Entry and Post-Professional Degrees)
The Master of Science in Nursing degree program is available with direct entry for individuals with non-nursing degrees and post-professional for registered nurses who already hold a master’s degree in nursing. Both program curricula offer specializations with some variation based on entry method.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner/CNS – Treatment for acute, chronic and episodic illness; patient-centered care for young adults, adults and elderly adults.
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC NP)/CNS – Advanced practice nurse providing comprehensive care to all adults – young to frail elderly adults.
Adult-Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner/CNS – Provide wide-ranging health care for adult women (adolescent to older adult); well care plus treatment for illness and injury.
Family Nurse Practitioner/CNS – Family advanced practice nurse providing complete health care to families across their life spans.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/CNS – The principal provider for children (birth through 21) for wellness, plus acute, episodic and chronic care, health promotion and disease prevention.
Psychiatric/Mental Health Lifespan Nurse Practitioner/CNS – Lifespan care for individuals with mental health and psychiatric problems in accordance with ANA standards.
Dual Adult-Gerontology/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner/CNS – Providing comprehensive health care for all adults (adolescents, adults, older frail adults and women of reproductive age).
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Board of Registration in Nursing
Contact Information
Charlestown Navy Yard
36 First Avenue
Boston, MA 02129-4557
(617) 726-2947
http://www.mghihp.edu/academics/nursing/degree-options/master-of-science-direct-entry/default.aspx
Northeastern University, Boston, MA
Bouvé College of Health Sciences/School of Nursing
Northeastern University was established iin1898 and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate-level degree programs. Through a collaboration between the Bouve College of Health Sciences and the School of Nursing, students have an opportunity to become leaders in their field through evidence-based, innovative health care programs. The U.S. Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing has been ranked #1 as “Best” by US News & World Report.
Master of Science in Nursing
A wide range of specializations are available through the Master of Science in Nursing degree program. All tracks can be completed in a full-time or part-time timeframe with many utilizing on campus or online coursework for flexible scheduling options.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner – Clinical experts, educators, consultants and managers for adults of all ages; treatment of acute illness.
Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist – Providing primary care to adults (adolescents through elderly adults) across the life span.
Adult or Child Psychiatric/Mental Health CNS – Advanced practice nurse providing mental health services to all ages (children through adults) in various settings.
Family Nurse Practitioner – Primary care practitioner for individuals and families of all ages.
Nursing Administration (online) – Prepared for leadership role in nurse-managed businesses and clinics. Coursework is delivered in an online format.
MS/MBA – In conjunction with the Graduate School of Business Administration, students earn both a Master of Science in Nursing and Master of Business Administration and learn skills relevant to nurse managers.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (online) – Two years of NICU experience required for entry. Graduates obtain advanced diagnostic skills, provide expert care for high-risk infants and provide proficiencies for delivery room management. Coursework is completed online.
Nurse Anesthesia – Provide high-quality anesthesia services in hospitals, clinics and other community health care facilities.
Nurse Anesthesia (US Army Graduate Program) – Active duty clinician prepared to be deployed in war time, natural disaster, civil disorder and humanitarian missions.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary and Acute Care – Specialist in caring for at-risk children in urban environments.
Psychiatric/Mental Health NP – Provide broad spectrum of mental health services to individuals and families of all ages throughout the lifespan.
Accreditations
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.
Contact Information
360 Huntington Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts 02115
(617) 373-2000
http://www.northeastern.edu/bouve/nursing/index.html
Regis College, Weston, MA
School of Nursing, Science & Health Professions
Regis College’s School of Nursing, Science & Health Professions is a Catholic college guided by the ethical values of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston. Various undergraduate and graduate health care programs are available in full-time and part-time formats. All provide cutting-edge industry-based curricula geared to satisfy today’s high-demand health care careers.
Master of Science in Nursing
The Master of Science in Nursing graduate program is designed for specialized training in various fields of study. Each program awards a MSN degree upon completion plus eligibility to sit for the licensure exam.
Acute/Critical Care Clinical Specialist – Providing acute and critical care to patients of all ages in a hospital or other health care setting.
Family Nurse Practitioner – Registered nurses provide primary care to individuals and families – adult, geriatric, women and pediatric – throughout their life cycle.
Nursing Leadership/Business Management – Nurse leaders or managers in a hospital or clinical setting.
Nursing Leadership/Health Product Regulation – Prepares RNs for leadership roles in politics and health policy impacting nursing and health care.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Health management for children through young adult (birth to age 21).
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Post-Master’s Certificate program designed to prepare nurse practitioners for specialization in psychiatric mental health.
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner – This program provides a Post-Master’s Certificate in Women’s Health to nurse practitioners.
Accreditations
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Contact Information
235 Wellesley Street
Weston, MA 02493
(781) 768-7000
[email protected]
http://www.regiscollege.edu/about_regis/school_of_nursing.cfm
Master’s in Nursing Degree Programs in Massachusetts offer a wide variety of opportunities for advanced degrees in the high-demand field of health care.