Best LPN Programs in Massachusetts 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Massachusetts with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Massachusetts.
2027 Best LPN Programs in Massachusetts
Greenfield Community College
Greenfield, MA - Public 2-Year - gcc.mass.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Greenfield Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate program in Greenfield, MA is a focused, campus-based path to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Completable in as little as 10 months and 43 credits, the curriculum blends science, liberal arts, and nursing coursework with direct clinical training. Students develop skills in general patient care, medication administration, patient treatment, diagnostic procedure assistance, and care organization. The program covers ten core learning outcomes, including patient-centered care, safety, teamwork, evidence-based practice, and informatics. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, and the 2025 class posted an 86% first-time pass rate. Employment outcomes are strong — 100% of 2025 respondents found PN work within six months. Career settings include long-term care facilities, physicians' offices, clinics, and schools. Approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration for Nursing (MABORN), the program also offers a clear pathway to an associate degree in nursing for those looking to advance further.
- Massachusetts Board of Registration for Nursing (MABORN) accredited
- No entrance exam required
- 10-Month program
- 43 total credit hours
- 86% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure exam
- CORI/SORI background check required
- Careers in long-term care and doctors' offices
Mount Wachusett Community College
Gardner, MA - Public 2-Year - mwcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mount Wachusett Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate is a 7-course program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills like administering medication, taking vital signs, and communicating patient information. Graduates work in nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, and home health care, with a strong demand in Massachusetts projected to grow 12% by 2026. The program uses selective admissions and requires the ATI TEAS exam. With a 96% first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2017, it offers a solid pathway to a rewarding career as an LPN. Accreditation by the Massachusetts Board of Nursing and ACEN ensures quality education.
- Massachusetts Board of Nursing, Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 7 total courses
- 96% licensure pass rate
- $57,800 median earnings
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- High demand in Massachusetts
- 12% job growth through 2026
- Selective admissions process
Quinsigamond Community College
Worcester, MA - Public 2-Year - qcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Quinsigamond Community College’s Practical Nursing Certificate prepares you to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in just five semesters. The 46-credit curriculum blends classroom theory, hands-on laboratory practice, and real clinical rotations at area hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, and community agencies. You’ll study anatomy, psychology, pharmacology, nutrition, medical-surgical nursing, mental health, and maternal-pediatric care, learning to apply the nursing process across the lifespan. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN and can pursue entry-level positions in doctor’s offices, clinics, home health, and acute care settings. The program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing and accredited by ACEN, with strong NCLEX pass rates. If you’re considering further education, the certificate also lays the groundwork for LPN-to-RN advancement programs. With clinical sites in Worcester County and flexible weekend and evening options, this program offers a practical, supportive path into healthcare.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $227 per credit
- 5-Semester program
- 46 total credit hours
- Starts summer
- 90% licensure pass rate
- 2.7 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
Holyoke Community College
Holyoke, MA - Public 2-Year - hcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Practical Nursing Certificate at Holyoke Community College prepares students for licensure as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Massachusetts. This 45-credit program blends classroom theory with hands-on clinical experiences. Students study human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and nursing fundamentals. Coursework covers health promotion, maintenance, and acute and complex care. The curriculum emphasizes the nursing process, evidence-based practice, and patient-centered care. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam. The program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Admission requires specific prerequisites, including science courses completed within seven years, and a background check. Students must maintain a C+ or better in all required courses.
- Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing, Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 45 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Requires C+ or better in all courses
- Science courses valid within seven years
- CORI/SORI check and drug screening
- Nurses Aid training or PCT experience
- CPR and immunization documentation required
Berkshire Community College
Pittsfield, MA - Public 2-Year - berkshirecc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse (Certificate)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Berkshire Community College's Practical Nurse Certificate program prepares students for LPN licensure through an integrated curriculum of lecture, lab, and clinical courses. Core topics include Health Maintenance of the Adult and Aging, Gerontology Practicum, Health Alterations, and Family Health Care. Graduates achieve a 95% NCLEX-PN pass rate and are ready for roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care. The program is ACEN-accredited and offers a debt-free Talent Pipeline option with Berkshire Health Systems. The Massachusetts Career Ladder Program supports CNAs in advancing. With strong local employer partnerships and competitive wages, this certificate provides a direct path to a rewarding nursing career.
- ACEN accredited
- Apply by 2026-06-01
- Starts fall
- 95% licensure pass rate
- Median hourly wage: $35.29 / Annual mean wage: $73,400
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
- Talent Pipeline: debt-free completion
- Local employers include Berkshire Health Systems
Massachusetts LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To apply to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in Massachusetts, prospective students must typically hold a high school diploma or GED. Most programs also require applicants to be at least 17 years old, though some may require 18, and to pass an entrance exam such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Additional prerequisites may include a background check, proof of immunizations, CPR certification, and submission of transcripts. Some programs may also require an interview or letters of recommendation. Meeting minimum GPA requirements and demonstrating competency in math, reading, and writing are also common expectations across Massachusetts institutions.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Massachusetts provide foundational instruction in nursing and patient care combined with hands-on clinical experience. Core subjects include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health nursing. Clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities are essential components that allow students to apply coursework in real-world settings.
Accreditation is a key factor when selecting a program. Accredited programs in Massachusetts meet the educational standards set by governing bodies such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). To become licensed, graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam, which requires completing a state-approved program. Students can verify whether a program is approved through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
LPN Schools and Classes
Massachusetts offers a variety of LPN programs through vocational-technical schools, community colleges, and private colleges. These institutions are located across the state, serving both urban and rural areas to provide flexibility for local residents. Programs include both classroom instruction and clinical practice, ensuring students are well-prepared for the LPN role upon graduation.
Typical coursework includes fundamentals of nursing, medical terminology, nutrition, pharmacology, human growth and development, and infection control. In addition, students participate in supervised clinical experiences across several nursing disciplines. These might include long-term care, acute care, and outpatient settings. The broad curriculum prepares students to meet patient care demands in diverse medical environments.
Career Outlook
LPNs in Massachusetts are in steady demand, particularly in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, home health, and outpatient clinics. Hospitals and private practices also employ LPNs, though opportunities are more limited in those settings compared to others. The work-life balance for LPNs can vary based on shifts and employers, but many locations offer dependable schedules and full-time or part-time options. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for LPNs nationally is projected to grow, and Massachusetts’ aging population is expected to sustain a strong need for nursing care support.
LPN Program Length
Full-time LPN programs in Massachusetts generally take about 10 to 12 months to complete. Part-time programs may take 18 to 24 months and offer more flexibility for students balancing work or family responsibilities. Some schools also offer evening or weekend schedules, which extend the overall program length but make training more accessible for nontraditional students. All program types include classroom learning and clinical experience requirements that must be completed to graduate and sit for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam.
2027 Shortest LPN Programs in Massachusetts
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Greenfield Community College |
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| Quinsigamond Community College |
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| North Shore Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
In Massachusetts, LPN program tuition typically ranges from $10,000 to $25,000 depending on the institution and whether it’s public or private. Community colleges and vocational schools usually offer more affordable options, especially for in-state residents. Additional costs include books, uniforms, clinical supplies, lab fees, testing fees, and licensure exam fees. Students should also plan for living expenses. Housing costs in Massachusetts can vary widely, with student housing or shared rentals being more budget-friendly alternatives to private accommodations, especially in cities like Boston or Worcester.
2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Massachusetts
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Berkshire Community College |
|
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| Northern Essex Community College |
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| Quinsigamond Community College |
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Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
No, LPN programs in Massachusetts cannot be completed entirely online. The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing requires that all practical nursing programs include in-person clinical practice, which is essential for building the hands-on skills necessary for patient care. While some general education or theory-based courses may be offered in hybrid or online formats, supervised clinical rotations and skills labs must be completed on-site at approved healthcare facilities and instructional labs.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Massachusetts
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Massachusetts, graduates of approved practical nursing programs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), the NCLEX-PN assesses the competency of entry-level practical nurses. In Massachusetts, applicants must first apply for licensure with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing before registering to take the NCLEX-PN. Once approved, candidates receive an Authorization to Test (ATT), which allows them to schedule their exam. The exam is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Massachusetts offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who are already licensed in another U.S. state or jurisdiction. According to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing, applicants must hold a current LPN license in good standing, submit official verification of licensure, and meet educational and examination requirements consistent with Massachusetts standards.
Massachusetts is not currently a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means LPNs licensed in Massachusetts do not have multistate privileges and must obtain licensure by endorsement to practice in other states. Similarly, LPNs moving to Massachusetts from an NLC state are required to apply for a Massachusetts-specific license.
Licensure Requirements
The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing is the state agency that issues practical nurse licenses. To be eligible for licensure, applicants must:
- Graduate from a Board-approved practical nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
- Submit a completed application and pay associated fees
- Undergo a background check with CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) review
The Board requires all applicants to demonstrate good moral character and compliance with state laws affecting nursing licensure. Background information is reviewed as part of the application process.
License Renewal
Massachusetts LPN licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed by the individual’s birthday in odd-numbered years. The renewal cycle is consistent, regardless of when the license was first issued. To renew, LPNs must complete:
- 15 contact hours of continuing education within the two-year renewal period
- Online licensure renewal through the Massachusetts Health Professions Licensing portal
There is no requirement for a specific number of clinical hours for renewal, but LPNs must ensure all continuing education is approved by a recognized provider. Failure to renew by the deadline may result in license expiration and the need to meet reactivation requirements.
Massachusetts LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) salary in Massachusetts is $76,400, which is substantially higher than the national average of $62,340 for LPNs/LVNs. This significant wage difference is primarily influenced by the state's higher cost of living index. Other contributing factors include strong demand for long-term care services driven by state population trends and a competitive healthcare labor market. State-specific regulations governing nurse staffing and scope of practice may also contribute to the elevated compensation levels compared to the national figure.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Massachusetts LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
Typically 10-12 months for full-time students.
Credential Awarded:
Certificate of Completion or Diploma in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam for LPN licensure.
Program Focus:
Concentrates on essential, hands-on clinical skills and direct patient care to prepare students for entry-level practice under the supervision of an RN or physician.
Average In-State Tuition in Massachusetts:
Approximately $13,000 - $22,000 for the entire program, including tuition, fees, and supplies.
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest route to becoming a licensed nurse and entering the workforce quickly.
School Types:
Vocational/technical high schools (post-secondary programs), community colleges, and private career colleges.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
Typically 2 years (four to five semesters).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Associate in Applied Science (AAS).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
No. Graduates of these programs are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Registered Nurse.
Program Focus:
Provides a broader education, including general education courses (e.g., English, psychology) alongside deeper nursing theory, leadership skills, and care for patients with more complex conditions.
Average In-State Tuition in Massachusetts:
Approximately $12,000 - $25,000 for the entire program at a public community college.
Best For:
Students who want to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and desire a broader educational foundation for advanced roles.
School Types:
Public community colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- You want the fastest route to becoming a licensed nurse and entering the workforce.
- You prefer a program that concentrates on essential, hands-on clinical skills for direct patient care.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Your goal is to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
- You want a broader education that includes general studies alongside deeper nursing theory.
- You are preparing for leadership roles and caring for patients with complex conditions.
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Massachusetts
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $64,000 - $81,000 | 10-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 540+ hours | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| MA | $40,000 - $55,000 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA) Exam | 160-200 hours | $5,000 - $12,000 |
| CNA | $37,000 - $48,000 | 4-8 weeks | Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation (NNAAP) | 24+ hours | $1,200 - $2,000 |
| DA | $47,000 - $64,000 | 9-11 months | DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exam | 150-300 hours | $10,000 - $18,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $40,000 - $56,000 | 8-12 months | PTCE (CPhT) or ExCPT (CPhT) Exam | 120-200 hours | $6,000 - $15,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $41,000 - $58,000 | 3-6 months | PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or RPT (AMT) Exam | 40-120 hours (including 100+ successful draws) | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| OTA | $64,000 - $83,000 | 2 years (Associate's Degree) | NBCOT Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) Exam | 16+ weeks (approx. 640 hours) | $14,000 - $35,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Massachusetts
Danvers, MA
North Shore Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 10-Month program
- 95% licensure pass rate
- 89% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Scholarships available
- Approved by Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
- Clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings
Gardner, MA
Mount Wachusett Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Massachusetts Board of Nursing, Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 7 total courses
- 96% licensure pass rate
- $57,800 median earnings
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- High demand in Massachusetts
Greenfield, MA
Greenfield Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Massachusetts Board of Registration for Nursing (MABORN) accredited
- No entrance exam required
- 10-Month program
- 43 total credit hours
- 86% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure exam
Haverhill, MA
Northern Essex Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- $346 per credit
- 85% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- NCLEX-PN exam preparation
- Transfer to associate degree in nursing
- Multiple supervised clinical experiences
Holyoke, MA
Holyoke Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing, Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 45 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Requires C+ or better in all courses
- Science courses valid within seven years
- CORI/SORI check and drug screening
- Nurses Aid training or PCT experience
- CPR and immunization documentation required
Pittsfield, MA
Berkshire Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse (Certificate)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Apply by 2026-06-01
- Starts fall
- 95% licensure pass rate
- Median hourly wage: $35.29 / Annual mean wage: $73,400
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Financial aid available
Quincy, MA
Quincy College
- Certificate/Diploma - Certificate of Completion in Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN, MABORN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 10-Month program
- Complete in as little as ten months
- 44 total credit hours
- 7 total courses
- Apply by 2026-05-31
Wellesley Hills, MA
Massachusetts Bay Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 40-Week program
- Full-time enrollment
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- Approved by MA Board of Nursing
Worcester, MA
Quinsigamond Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $227 per credit
- 5-Semester program
- 46 total credit hours
- Starts summer
- 90% licensure pass rate
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