University of Massachusetts Boston

What you'll study

The BSN curriculum combines foundational sciences with nursing theory, clinical practice and research methods. Early coursework typically covers anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology and pathophysiology to build a biomedical foundation. Core nursing modules focus on health assessment, adult and geriatric care, maternal and child health, mental health nursing, community and public health, and care across the lifespan.

Students also study leadership and management in healthcare, nursing informatics, ethics and legal aspects of practice, and evidence-based practice and research methods. The programme includes extensive clinical practice across a range of healthcare settings, simulation-based learning in skills laboratories, and a culminating clinical practicum or capstone project that integrates clinical care, administration or a research-focused enquiry depending on the student’s pathway.

• Foundational sciences: anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology
• Nursing core: health assessment, medical–surgical nursing, maternal–child, mental health
• Community and public health nursing
• Leadership, management and healthcare systems
• Nursing research, statistics and evidence-based practice
• Clinical practicum placements and simulation lab experiences
• Electives or pathway-focused projects in administration, research or advanced clinical skills

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record and completion of college‑prep coursework. Typical prerequisites include biology and chemistry and courses in English and mathematics. Selection is competitive and based on academic transcripts; some applicants may be required to submit scores from a recognised nursing entrance assessment where applicable to the programme.

Admitted students must meet professional programme requirements such as current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification, a health clearance that includes specified immunisations, and a criminal background check and drug screening as required by clinical partners. The university also offers pathways for transfer students and a degree-completion (RN-to-BSN) route for registered nurses who already hold a diploma or associate degree in nursing.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to sit for the national licensure examination for registered nurses and to work across acute care, primary care, long-term care, community/public health and mental health settings. Career roles include staff nurse in hospitals and clinics, community/public health nurse, case manager, clinical educator and charge nurse or unit manager.

With experience or additional study, graduates may move into nurse administration, quality improvement, clinical research support roles, advanced practice nursing or academic and research careers. The BSN also provides the academic foundation for graduate study such as master’s programmes in nursing (MSN), nurse practitioner tracks, clinical leadership or doctoral research degrees.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Boston

UMass Boston is an urban public research university with strong links to healthcare providers across the Greater Boston area, giving students access to diverse clinical placements in hospitals, community clinics and public health settings. The nursing programme emphasises community‑focused care and evidence‑based practice, reflecting the health needs of urban and culturally diverse populations.

Students benefit from hands‑on training in clinical skills and simulation facilities, faculty who combine academic and clinical experience, and support services for academic advising and career development. The campus environment, interdisciplinary opportunities and partnerships with local health systems help prepare graduates for the varied demands of contemporary nursing practice.