Best Nursing Schools in Boston: Programs, Tuition & Rankings for 2026
GradeToGrad Editorial Team
February 8, 2026
Compare 12 Boston nursing programs with real tuition and graduate earnings data.
Why Study Nursing in Boston?
Boston is a growing healthcare market with strong demand for nurses across hospitals, clinics, and specialty care facilities. The metro area has 12 institutions offering nursing programs at various levels, from affordable ADN degrees to doctoral programs.
Top University Nursing Programs
Northeastern University (Boston) — 5.7% acceptance rate. In-state tuition: $63,141/year. Nursing graduates earn $165,932/year (First Professional Degree).
University of Massachusetts-Boston (Boston) — 83.0% acceptance rate. In-state tuition: $15,496/year. Nursing graduates earn $113,564/year (Graduate Certificate).
University of Massachusetts-Lowell (Lowell) — 85.2% acceptance rate. In-state tuition: $16,570/year. Nursing graduates earn $107,250/year (Master's Degree).
Salem State University (Salem) — 95.6% acceptance rate. In-state tuition: $11,978/year. Nursing graduates earn $64,195/year (Master's Degree).
Worcester State University (Worcester) — 89.9% acceptance rate. In-state tuition: $11,286/year. Nursing graduates earn $76,249/year (Bachelor's Degree).
MCPHS University (Boston) — 85.2% acceptance rate. In-state tuition: $38,850/year. Nursing graduates earn $106,325/year (Master's Degree).
Community College & Affordable Nursing Programs
- Bunker Hill Community College (Boston): $5,520/year, nursing graduates earn $72,858/year
- Quinsigamond Community College (Worcester): $5,974/year, nursing graduates earn $66,294/year
- Massasoit Community College (Brockton): $5,376/year, nursing graduates earn $70,289/year
How to Choose
Consider your budget, career goals, and timeline. Community college ADN programs offer the fastest and cheapest path to an RN license. University BSN and graduate programs lead to higher earnings and more career options. Many nurses start with an ADN and bridge to BSN while working.
Financial Aid
Check your state's grant programs, federal Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year), and HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarships for nursing-specific aid. Many hospitals also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing nursing degrees.
Next Steps
Compare Boston nursing programs on GradeToGrad.
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