RN to MSN Bridge Programs in Massachusetts

The RN to MSN bridge program has gained popularity throughout the country due to the streamlined approach to earning a master’s in nursing. Registered nurses with a diploma in nursing or an associate degree in nursing from an accredited nursing schools can complete their MSN in about three years, which often is much less time than the BSN then MSN route. There are 8 RN to MSN programs offered at schools based in Massachusetts and some online RN to MSN options. There are quite an assortment of specializations to choose from, so finding a program listed below that fits your strengths and goals should be rather simple.

RN to MSN Online Programs Offered in Massachusetts

RN to MSN programs are intense. They will focus on the BSN curriculum and clinical requirements and then proceed or bridge to the core MSN curriculum and specialization courses and clinical requirements. Most programs will incorporate and expand on the students knowledge of nursing theory, research and their application to evidenced based practice with the ultimate goal of graduating nurses prepared for advanced nursing roles in many different areas of nursing as well as entry to doctorate level programs.

Many nurses considering an MSN program do not have a clear picture of what they will specialize in and it creates some anxiety and concern. The truth is that you do not have to commit to becoming an advanced practice nurse or nurse faculty member. Many registered nurses select a nursing administration or dual MSN/MBA program which offers a more broad range of opportunities. Post-master’s certificate programs can be completed later once a field has been decided on, for example nursing education or advanced practice.

Salary and career opportunities often increase with higher education.The Advance for Nurses 2008 Salary Survey took a look at some positions commonly held by nurses with a master’s degree in Massachusetts. According to the 2008 salary survey, Directors of Nursing made an annual salary of $78,240, Nurse Educators made $74,274, Chief Nursing Officers made $98,000, Clinical Nurse Specialists made $73,667, Nurse Managers (MSN is not required, but useful) made $75,709, Case Managers (MSN not required, but useful) made $63,228, Legal Nurse Consultants (MSN not Required, but training is recommended) made $129,384. According to the Advance for Nurse Practitioners 2007 Salary Survey, Nurse Practitioners in Massachusetts made an average annual salary of $85,433. These salary numbers will vary significantly based on location, experience, facility and other factors, but they offer a picture of potential earnings.

A 3 year commitment to an RN to MSN program may be too much to take on at this point for some registered nurses, so an RN to BSN program in Massachusetts may be a good alternative. RN to BSN online programs can often be completed in as little as 1 year. Other nursing career mobility options are certificate programs designed for registered nurses with a diploma or associate degree in nursing, like a Legal Nurse Consultant program or a Nursing Case Management program. Certificate programs can be completed in a short amount of time as well and have potential to open some lucrative career opportunities.

Explore your RN to MSN program options in Massachusetts listed below. Use the provided contact methods to learn more about the programs and schools.

Colleges and Universities Based in Massachusetts Offering RN to MSN Programs

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