Massachusetts LPN Requirements and Training Programs

An individual becomes a licensed practical nurse (LPN) after successfully completing a practical nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN, the state licensing exam. After meeting the Massachusetts Board of Nursing requirements for state licensure, an LPN can obtain employment in various areas within the healthcare continuum, including extended care facilities, nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, physicians’ office, outpatient clinics, and correctional facilities, to name just a few. Practical nurses use their training to provide care for medical-surgical patients in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Their Board-supplied license is their passport to providing professional care under the direction of registered nurses and licensed physicians in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws. They work primarily with patients that have predictable outcomes and have a vital role in the planning, implementation and evaluation of patient care plans. Other duties include wound care, assisting patients with the activities of daily living, patient advocacy, and supervising CNAs and other LPNs.

LPN Programs in Massachusetts:

• LPN Programs Greenfield, MA
• LPN Programs Haverhill, MA
• LPN Programs Canton, MA
• LPN Programs Danvers, MA
• LPN Programs Worcester, MA
• LPN Programs Boston, MA

LPN Training Massachusetts: Prerequisites and Program Content

The practical nursing education provides the knowledge and skills needed to practice as a practical nurse. The program curriculum uses classroom and clinical instruction to emphasize nursing concepts that will help students develop technical competencies, critical thinking, and communication skills. Instructors employ seminars, lectures, presentations, and interactive discussions in the classroom as well as hands-on practice in the clinical and laboratory settings to give students a well-rounded education. Graduates are prepared to provide care within the Standards of Practice and demonstrate competent, safe, and ethical practice.

As a prospective nurse, it is vital that you obtain your training through an institute approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. Course topics include medical terminology, essentials of nursing, lifespan psychology, care of the family, foundations of practical nursing, medical surgical nursing, principles of pharmacology, issues and trends in practical nursing, nursing leadership, functions of the human body, and nursing concepts.

During the clinical experience, students work with children, the elderly, and the disabled, which will require a criminal background records check of local (CORI and SORI) records and FBI records. If you have a court record or criminal conviction, it may impair your ability to complete the program’s requirements and graduate.

Massachusetts practical nursing programs use selective admissions. Candidates must submit evidence of completing high school or GED equivalent, achieve an acceptable score on the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), provide two to three references, and pass an admissions interview. Candidates accepted on a provisional basis must demonstrate their physical and emotional abilities to complete the program, possess CPR certification, and obtain liability insurance.

Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN for state licensure. The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing has the final say on a candidate’s eligibility to take the exam.

Duration and Cost of Training: Tuition is variable in Massachusetts, ranging from $5,500 to $28,000 for a 10 to 12-month program. Part-time training, when available, costs more than full-time attendance. Meeting the prerequisite course requirements will increase the final cost of earning a certificate to practice nursing. Advertised costs rarely include vital expenses, such as textbooks, uniform for the clinical experience, lab and clinical supplies, liability insurance, CPR certification, and transport to and from the clinical sites. Entrance fees and requirements, such as criminal background screening, immunization, and pre-admissions testing, are standard costs that students must bear. Sources of funding for the program may be available through VA and Pell Grants, Federal loans, and in-house payment plans. Contact the school’s financial aid office if you need help covering the cost of training.

NCLEX Massachusetts

Massachusetts’s nursing graduates must register for the NCLEX at the same time they submit an application for the licensure exam to the Board of Nursing. Registration is available over the internet or via the toll-free hotline (1.866.496.2539). Pearson Vue requires candidates to submit a valid email address during registration, as all communications will be transmitted via this means of communication only. Full details for registration is available in the Candidate Bulletin. The registration fee of $200 is payable using a credit card or debit card.

After submitting a completed Massachusetts nurse licensure application and fee and registration for the NCLEX-PN, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) via email in approximately 2 business days. The ATT contains your candidate identification, authorization number, and your personal information as entered during registration. Your name and address should match the name and address submitted on the Board’s application. It should also match your ID. Inform Pearson Vue of any discrepancies as you will not be allowed to take the test if the names do not match. The ATT also contains the validity dates. You must schedule an NCLEX appointment online or by phone and take the test during the 60-day eligibility period. You will forfeit the fee and will need to submit a new application if you do not take the test.

The results will be available by US Mail approximately 10 business days after taking the exam. PCS will deliver the results after Pearson Vue makes them available. The Board of Nursing will mail the license approximately 21 business days after passing the NCLEX. However, the license number will appear on the Board’s website 5 business days after passing the NCLEX.

PCS will mail a Candidate Performance Report to candidates who fail the exam. The fee for submitting a new application to the Board is $80 plus $200 (to Pearson Vue) to re-register for the exam. While it is possible to register any time after receiving the CPR, it is not possible to take the exam until 45 days have elapsed.

Massachusetts LPN Licensure Requirements

To practice nursing in Massachusetts, a graduate nurse or out-of-state LPN must obtain a valid, current license issued by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. To qualify for licensure, the applicant must possess a good moral character (as established by the Board), be a graduate of an approved practical nursing education program, achieve a passing score on the NCLEX, and pay all required fees with a completed application.

Once licensed, the Licensed Practical Nurse bears full responsibility for the quality of health care delivered to patients or health care consumers. LPNs execute the Board-outlined scope of practice under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed physician.

Massachusetts does not issue temporary licenses, and it is illegal to practice as a Graduate Nurse.

Licensure By Examination

Graduates of approved nursing education programs should submit an application for the licensure exam. The Board of Nursing has contracted with Professional Credential Services in Nashville, TN to process application forms and fees.

Submit the following for authorization to take the licensure exam:

• A completed and signed application for licensure by examination.
• The non-refundable application fee of $230. Money orders should be made payable to “PCS.” PCS also accepts credit card payments via the form attached to the application.
• Certification of graduation submitted by an approved nursing education program in Massachusetts or other US state or territory. All confirmation of graduation must arrive at PCS’ office directly from the school’s registrar.
• A written explanation of circumstances surrounding a criminal conviction if you answer “yes” to the questions related to the good moral character licensure requirement. It is also important to consult the Determination of Good Moral Character Compliance Information Sheet to determine the process and requirements from the Board.
• A 2” x 2” passport type, signed color photo stapled to the application.
• A request for special accommodation due to disability – if applicable. Check the box on page 1 of the application.
• Your registration for the NCLEX. Submit the registration at the same time you submit an application for licensure. You must use the same name and address on both applications.

Graduates of Foreign Nursing Program

If you graduated from a foreign nursing program, you must complete the following steps in addition to those outlined above:

• Receive certification from PCS, on behalf of the Board, as a graduate of an approved nursing program.
• Submit supporting documentation in the form of a CGFNS Credentials Evaluation Services (CES) Report, including a course-by-course report (for nursing and science courses) and evidence of License/Registration.
• Submit proof of English proficiency.

The licensure application is valid for one year from the date PCS receives the application. The application will expire if the applicant fails to meet the requirements for nursing licensure including passage of the NCLEX. The fee is non-refundable and non-transferrable, and the applicant must submit a new application and fee to request licensure. PCS will send a discrepancy letter via mail or email if your application is incomplete. Notify PCS in writing if your address changes after you submit the application.

Licensure By Endorsement

LPNs with a license to practice in another US state or territory can apply for reciprocity in Massachusetts if they:

• Can demonstrate good moral character
• Graduated from a program approved by the Board of Nursing in the state of licensure.
• Achieved a passing score in the NCLEX-PN or SBTPE.
• Pay all required fees.

Submit the following for licensure by endorsement:

• A completed and signed application for licensure by reciprocity.
• A signed colored 2” x 2” photograph.
• The non-refundable application fee of $275. Money orders should be made payable to “PCS.” PCS also accepts credit card payments via the form attached to the application.
• Certification of graduation submitted by an approved nursing education program in Massachusetts or other US state or territory. All confirmation of graduation must arrive at PCS’ office directly from the school’s registrar.
• A written explanation of circumstances surrounding a criminal conviction if you answer “yes” to the questions related to the good moral character licensure requirement. It is also important to consult the Determination of Good Moral Character Compliance Information Sheet to determine the process and requirements from the Board.
• License verification through NURSYS or a completed Verification of Nurse Licensure by Reciprocity – included in the application. Complete the authorization at the top of the form, enclose the appropriate verification fee and send to the Board of Nursing in a jurisdiction. The agency should complete the form and return directly to the Board of Nursing. Provide verification of licensure from all jurisdictions. The form expires 6 months after PCS receives it.

The application will automatically expire one year after the date of official receipt if you fail to meet all the licensure requirements.

Renewing Your LPN License

LPNs, who receive a license within a three-month period prior to their birthdate in odd-numbered years, will receive an expiration date as their birthdate in the odd-numbered year following their birthday. All others who receive a license three months or more before their birthdate in an odd-numbered year will be required to renew their license in that year. The renewal fee is $120 for the 2-year registration.

Salary and Job Outlook LPNs Massachusetts

The career outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses is favorable. The profession is one of the fastest growing in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the profession is expected to grow 25% by the year 2022, which is well above the average rate (11%) for most professions. The current nursing shortage, in part, fuels the demand for LPNs. There has been a lack of educated and trained nurses to fill the growing number of entry-level positions created in response to public demands.

An economic downturn in the past forced many nurses to put off retirement. However, as the economy picks up slowly, these experienced nurses embrace retirement, creating a wealth of opportunities for new nurses to join the workforce.

The growing population, including the extensive Baby Boomer population, also place heavy demands on the healthcare systems. Hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities require nurses to accommodate the medical needs of this sector of the population.

The conclusion is that retiring nurses and the senior population will create numerous employment opportunities for nurses over the next decade. Almost 30% of Massachusetts nurses work in nursing care facilities. Twenty percent work in hospitals, 12% work in physicians’ offices, 11% in home health care, and 8% in residential care facilities. The median hourly wage is $25.55, and the yearly mean wage is $53,020 according to the BLS. Compared to the nation’s average of $19.97 per hour, Massachusetts LPNs are among the highest paid. The geographic region, the level of experience, specialty, and size of the facility are some factors that influence an LPN’s salary.

Contact the Board of Nursing
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
239 Causeway Street, Second Floor
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: (617) 973-0800
Fax: (617) 973-0984

Professional Credential Services
ATTN: MA Nursing
P.O. Box 19888
Nashville, TN 37219
nursebyexam@pcshq.com
Toll-Free: 877-887-9727
Web: www.pcshq.com

Massachusetts Board of Nursing Approved Training Programs and NCLEX Pass Rates

Billerica, MA LPN Training Programs:
Shawsheen Valley Technical High School
100 Cook Street, Billerica, MA
(978) 667-2111
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 88%

Bourne, MA LPN Training Programs:
Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School
220 Sandwich Rd, Bourne, MA 02532
(508) 759-7711
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 89%

Canton, MA LPN Training Programs:
Blue Hills Regional Technical School
800 Randolph St, Canton, MA
(781) 828-5800
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 100%

Charlton, MA LPN Training Programs:
Bay Path Vocational Technical High School
57 Old Muggett Hill Rd, Charlton, MA
(508) 248-5971
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 75%

Danvers, MA LPN Training Programs:
North Shore Community College
1 Ferncroft Road, Danvers, MA
(978) 762-4000
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 91%

Fall River, MA LPN Training Programs:
Diman Regional Regional Technical School
251 Stonehaven Rd, Fall River, MA 02723
(508) 678-2891
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 93%

Fitchburg, MA LPN Training Programs:
Montachusett Regional Technical School
1050 Westminster St, Fitchburg, MA 01420
(978) 345-9200
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 90%

Franklin, MA LPN Training Programs:
Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School
147 Pond Street, Franklin, MA
(508) 528-5400
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 83%

Gardner, MA LPN Training Programs:
Mount Wachusett Community College
444 Green St, Gardner, MA 01440
(978) 632-6600
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 89%

Greenfield, MA LPN Training Programs:
Greenfield Community College
1 College Dr, Greenfield, MA 01301
(413) 775-1801
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 90%

Haverhill, MA LPN Training Programs:
Northern Essex Community College
100 Elliott St, Haverhill, MA 01830
(978) 556-3000
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 92%

Holyoke, MA LPN Training Programs:
Holyoke Community College
303 Homestead Ave, Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 538-7000
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 90%

Malden, MA LPN Training Programs:
Medical Professional Institute
80 Pleasant St, Malden, MA 02148
(781) 397-6822
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 77%

Marlborough, MA LPN Training Programs:
Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School
215 Fitchburg Street, Marlborough, MA
(508) 485-9430
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 86%

North Adams, MA LPN Training Programs:
McCann Technical School
70 Hodges Cross Road, North Adams, MA
(413) 663-5383
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 96%

Pittsfield, MA LPN Training Programs:
Berkshire Community College
1350 West St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 499-4660
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 77%

Quincy, MA LPN Training Programs:
Quincy College
1250 Hancock St, Quincy, MA 02169
(617) 984-1700
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 76%

Roxbury Crossing, MA LPN Training Programs:
Roxbury Community College
1234 Columbus Ave, Roxbury Crossing, MA 02120
(617) 427-0060
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 73%

South Easton, MA LPN Training Programs:
Southeastern Regional Technical School
250 Foundry Street, South Easton, MA
(508) 230-1200
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 100%

Taunton, MA LPN Training Programs:
Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School
207 Hart Street, Taunton, MA
(508) 823-5151
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 100%

Tyngsborough, MA LPN Training Programs:
Greater Lowell Regional Technical School
250 Pawtucket Boulevard, Tyngsborough, MA 01879
(978) 454-5411
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 96%

Upton, MA LPN Training Programs:
Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical School
65 Pleasant Street, Upton, MA
(508) 529-7758
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 100%

Wellesley Hills, MA LPN Training Programs:
Massachusetts Bay Community College
50 Oakland Street, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
(781) 239-3000
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 92%

Worcester, MA LPN Training Programs:
Quinsigamond Community College
670 W Boylston St, Worcester, MA 01606
(508) 853-2300
NCLEX-PN Pass Rate: 88%