Advanced practice authorization to diagnose, prescribe, and manage care in a specialty (FNP, PMHNP, AGNP, etc.). MA grants full practice authority after 2 years of supervised practice.

Who needs it

RNs who complete a Master's (MSN) or DNP and want to practice as a Nurse Practitioner in MA.

How to get it

Complete an MSN or DNP at a MA-accepted program (UMass, Northeastern, MGH Institute, Simmons, Salem State, etc.), pass national certification (ANCC or AANP), then apply to the MA BORN.

Cost

MSN: $40K–$80K (often offset by hospital tuition reimbursement). National cert exam: ~$300–$400. MA APRN authorization fee: ~$150.

Where to start

MA Board of Registration in Nursing — APRN ↗