Best Massachusetts LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026
Massachusetts offers LPN to RN bridge programs that combine classroom education with hospital-based clinical practice. Students study advanced subjects such as pharmacology and critical care. Programs prepare graduates for RN licensure and expanded responsibilities in patient care.
2027 Best LPN to RN Programs in Massachusetts
Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, MA - Public 4-Year - fitchburgstate.edu
Associate - LPN to BS in Nursing Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fitchburg State University's LPN to BS in Nursing Bridge Program offers licensed practical nurses a streamlined path to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This accelerated, hybrid program blends day and evening courses to accommodate working professionals. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, health promotion, patient safety, and leadership across diverse healthcare settings. Students gain hands-on experience through nursing labs, simulations, and internships, preparing for roles in acute, primary, and long-term care. The CCNE-accredited program requires an entrance exam, includes 120 total credit hours, and awards up to 18 transfer credits via NLN exams. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN and can pursue advanced roles or graduate study. Military applicant criteria and a two-year course rotation are available.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 120 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Accelerated curriculum with day and evening
- 18 transfer credits via NLN exams
- CCNE accredited program
- Face-to-face with evening options
Bachelor's - LPN to BS in Nursing Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fitchburg State University's LPN to BS in Nursing Bridge Program provides licensed practical nurses a direct, accelerated path to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This hybrid program combines on-campus day and evening classes, building on your LPN foundation with advanced nursing theory, evidence-based practice, leadership, and community health. Students learn to integrate liberal arts and sciences into patient care, use informatics to improve outcomes, and apply ethical standards in diverse settings. The CCNE-accredited program requires passing NACE exams for admission and awards 18 transfer credits. With 120 total credits, articulation agreements with Massachusetts colleges, and military applicant criteria, graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and careers in acute, primary, or long-term care, as well as graduate study.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 120 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Awarded 18 transfer credits
- NACE exams required for admission
- Accelerated curriculum option
- Career in acute, primary, long-term care
Worcester State University
Worcester, MA - Public 4-Year - worcester.edu
Associate - LPN to BS in Nursing Track III Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Worcester State University's LPN to BS in Nursing Track III Program provides a structured three-year pathway for licensed practical nurses to earn a bachelor's degree. The curriculum spans health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical care, obstetrics, pediatrics, community and public health, and mental health nursing, culminating in a capstone and courses in research and leadership. Fall admission only, with a minimum 2.5 GPA and 41 prerequisite credits in sciences and statistics required. Candidates must pass NACE I and PN-RN entrance exams. Emphasizing diversity and social responsibility, this track prepares graduates for registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, and community organizations, meeting evolving healthcare needs.
- Entrance exam required
- 3-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Fall start only
- Requires NACE I and PN-RN exams
Bachelor's - LPN-to-BS Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Worcester State University's LPN-to-BS program offers a hybrid learning format for licensed practical nurses advancing to a baccalaureate degree. Coursework includes pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and nursing sciences across medical-surgical, obstetric, pediatric, community health, and mental health settings, plus a capstone experience. Enrollment begins in fall with an admission deadline of June 1. Applicants need an unencumbered LPN license and a 2.5 GPA, along with successful completion of NACE entrance exams. The program follows a structured three-year timeline, integrating prior LPN knowledge with advanced professional nursing. Graduates are equipped for RN positions in hospitals, clinics, and public health agencies, with a strong focus on diversity and social responsibility.
- Entrance exam required
- Starts fall
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- LPN license required
- Admission deadline June 1
- Fall start only
- Capstone course included
- Prerequisite courses required
- NACE entrance exams required
College of Our Lady of the Elms
Chicopee, MA - Private 4-year - elms.edu
Bachelor's - LPN-to-BSN Nursing Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Elms College offers an LPN-to-BSN pathway designed for licensed practical nurses seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The hybrid format supports working professionals, blending online coursework with on-campus experiences to accommodate careers and family obligations. Students can complete the program in 24–27 months, with the next cohort beginning Fall 2025. Building on prior LPN training, the curriculum develops BSN-level competencies for roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health. With over 40 years of nursing education in Western Massachusetts, Elms is a Roman Catholic institution that provides a supportive, faith-based learning environment. The program is military-friendly and does not explicitly require ACT or SAT entrance exams, focusing instead on applicants' nursing experience and credentials.
- Complete in 24-27 months
- Starts fall
- Continuing education for LPNs
- Hybrid format for working students
- Over 40 years nursing education history
- Career advancement opportunities
- Pathway for LPNs to achieve BSN
Laboure College of Healthcare
Milton, MA - Private 4-year - laboure.edu
Associate - LPN to RN Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Licensed practical nurses can earn an Associate of Science in Nursing at Labouré College of Healthcare through an accelerated LPN-to-RN bridge program. This ACEN-accredited, Massachusetts Board of Nursing-approved track completes in about one year, granting advanced placement via HESI exams for fundamentals. The curriculum blends arts, sciences, and hands-on practice in a state-of-the-art simulation lab, plus clinical rotations at Greater Boston hospitals. Day, evening, full-time, and part-time options accommodate working students. With 130+ years of nursing education expertise, Labouré offers free tutoring, academic workshops, and peer mentorship. Graduates are NCLEX-RN-eligible and see an average 50% salary increase. Military-friendly and designed for diverse healthcare settings.
- ACEN accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in about one year
- Full-time and part-time options
- 50% salary increase
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Longest-running nursing program in Boston
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Day or evening course options
- Clinical placements in Greater Boston
Berkshire Community College
Pittsfield, MA - Public 2-Year - berkshirecc.edu
Associate - Educational Mobility: LPN to ADN Bridge
Campus Based - Visit Website
Berkshire Community College’s LPN to ADN bridge, known as Educational Mobility, is designed for working LPNs seeking RN licensure. The program begins with a dedicated bridge course (NUR-106) and progresses to advanced nursing coursework covering physical and mental health, patient-centered care, leadership, and evidence-based practice. An entrance exam is required, but free review classes and up to 17 challenge exam credits help students succeed. BCC PN graduates benefit from reserved seats. The program is ACEN-accredited and boasts a 73% NCLEX-RN pass rate and an 80% completion rate, with 65 graduates in 2025. Applicants must meet a 2.0 GPA, complete prerequisites, and have relevant work experience. This pathway offers a practical, supported route to career advancement.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 73% licensure pass rate
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 17 challenge exam credits available
- Free review classes for entrance exam
- 5 seats reserved for BCC PN graduates
Massachusetts LPN to RN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To bridge from LPN to RN in Massachusetts, applicants typically need to meet program-specific requirements while also aligning with statewide expectations for RN licensure. Common prerequisites include:
- A current, unencumbered Massachusetts LPN license and proof of graduation from an approved practical nursing program
- Official transcripts showing completion of prerequisite college courses such as Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs, Microbiology with lab, English Composition, Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and College-level Math; some programs also require Nutrition, Statistics, or Chemistry
- Minimum GPA in prerequisite coursework and overall college work set by the school
- Admissions assessment such as the TEAS or equivalent, as required by the institution
- Current BLS CPR certification for healthcare providers from an accepted organization
- Health and clinical clearance that meets Massachusetts clinical site requirements, including immunizations, tuberculosis screening, and physical exam documentation
- Criminal Offender Record Information background check and, in many cases, drug screening to qualify for clinical placements
- Proof of recent LPN work experience may be required for advanced placement by some programs
After completing an approved program, graduates apply for RN licensure and must pass the NCLEX-RN. The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing sets licensure requirements and approves nursing education programs in the state.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN to RN bridge curricula in Massachusetts build on practical nursing experience and expand into the full RN scope of practice. Students can expect:
- Transition coursework that validates prior LPN learning and introduces RN-level clinical judgment, professional standards, and role development
- Core nursing courses in adult medical surgical, maternal newborn, pediatrics, mental health, and community or population health
- Advanced content in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment with emphasis on evidence-based practice and patient safety
- Clinical rotations across acute care hospitals, long-term care, rehabilitation, and community settings, with simulation used to reinforce skills
- Leadership, delegation, quality improvement, and informatics concepts; BSN-track programs add research appraisal and public health nursing
Approval by the state board is required for graduates to be eligible for RN licensure. Many Massachusetts employers and RN to BSN or graduate programs give preference to programmatic accreditation by ACEN or CCNE and to institutions with recognized institutional accreditation, as this supports transferability, graduate study, and quality assurance. Always verify that the program is board approved and understand how national accreditation may affect future education and employment options.
LPN to RN Schools and Classes
In Massachusetts, LPN to RN bridge options are offered through community colleges and public universities as LPN to ADN pathways, and through universities as LPN to BSN pathways. Programs may grant advanced standing to LPNs through standardized exams, portfolio review, or transition courses so you can complete degree requirements more efficiently.
Typical coursework includes:
- Transition to professional nursing and RN scope of practice
- Comprehensive health assessment and clinical decision making
- Adult health nursing across the lifespan, including complex and chronic conditions
- Maternal newborn and pediatric nursing
- Psychiatric mental health nursing
- Pharmacology, pathophysiology, and dosage calculation
- Community and population health, leadership and management, and nursing informatics
Clinical learning occurs in Massachusetts healthcare facilities and skills labs, often supplemented by high fidelity simulation. BSN pathways add coursework in research, public health, and leadership to prepare for broader roles and future graduate study.
Career Outlook
Registered nurses in Massachusetts work in a wide range of settings, including academic medical centers, community hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health, long-term care, rehabilitation, public health, and schools. Demand for RNs is steady due to population health needs, chronic disease management, and ongoing workforce turnover.
Compared with LPN roles, RNs in Massachusetts have a broader scope of practice, including comprehensive assessment, independent care planning, complex clinical decision making, delegation, and leadership responsibilities. This typically expands employment options, eligibility for specialty certifications, and long-term earning potential. Work schedules vary by setting; hospitals commonly use 8 or 12 hour shifts with nights, weekends, and holiday rotations, while ambulatory and community roles may offer more traditional hours. Many employers in the state prefer or require a BSN for certain roles, particularly in acute care and leadership.
LPN to RN Program Length
- Full-time LPN to ADN: Often 12 to 18 months of nursing coursework after prerequisites and advanced standing are granted
- Part-time LPN to ADN: Commonly 18 to 36 months, depending on course load and clinical availability
- Evening or weekend LPN to ADN: Designed for working LPNs, frequently 18 to 30 months
- LPN to BSN: Typically 2 to 3 years full time after prerequisites, or 3 to 4 years part time
Actual timelines depend on transfer credits, completion of prerequisites, clinical scheduling, and whether summer terms are available.
2027 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Massachusetts
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Worcester State University |
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| College of Our Lady of the Elms |
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| Laboure College of Healthcare |
|
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Tuition and Costs
Costs vary by institution type and residency status:
- Public community college LPN to ADN: Approximately 8,000 to 18,000 in tuition and mandatory fees for in-state students for the nursing specific coursework, excluding general education prerequisites; nursing course fees, labs, and clinical fees can add to totals
- Public university LPN to BSN: Roughly 20,000 to 45,000 in in-state tuition and fees for upper division nursing and remaining general education credits
- Private institutions: Often higher, commonly 80,000 to 150,000 or more depending on the institution and the number of credits needed
Additional expenses may include textbooks and digital resources, uniforms, clinical supplies, background checks and drug screening, immunizations, transportation to clinical sites, and NCLEX-RN and state licensure fees. Housing and living costs in Massachusetts, particularly in and around Boston, are above the national average; students can mitigate expenses by considering roommate housing, commuting from lower cost regions, or using limited on-campus options where available.
2027 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Massachusetts
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Essex Community College |
|
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| Quinsigamond Community College |
|
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| Bristol Community College |
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Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?
Massachusetts schools commonly offer LPN to RN coursework in several formats:
- In person: Traditional classroom and on-campus skills labs with clinical placements in local facilities
- Hybrid: Didactic courses delivered online or in a blended format, with on-campus labs and in-person clinical rotations
- Online: Selected theory courses may be fully online, but hands-on skills labs and direct patient care clinical hours are completed face-to-face
Clinical learning experiences must occur under program oversight in approved settings and cannot be fully replaced by simulation. When comparing programs, confirm which components are online versus on campus, how clinical placements are arranged in Massachusetts, and whether the program holds state board approval so you remain eligible for RN licensure after graduation.
LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in Massachusetts
NCLEX-RN Exam Information
After completing an LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN program, you must obtain authorization from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing (BORN) to take the NCLEX-RN. Once the Board determines you are eligible, you will receive an Authorization to Test and can register and schedule your exam through the NCLEX program. Official results are reported to the Board; you will be licensed once all Board requirements are met and your passing result is posted. If you do not pass on the first attempt, retesting follows NCLEX rules on waiting periods and frequency.
State resource: The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing provides application instructions, eligibility criteria, and updates related to licensure by examination.
RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Massachusetts licenses experienced RNs moving from other states by endorsement (often called reciprocity). You must hold an active RN license in another U.S. jurisdiction, meet Massachusetts education and good moral character standards, and provide primary source verification of your original license. Massachusetts does not maintain separate bilateral reciprocity agreements beyond standard endorsement processes.
Massachusetts is not a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact. A Massachusetts RN license is valid for practice only in Massachusetts. If you reside in Massachusetts and wish to practice in another state, you must obtain that state’s license unless you relocate and qualify for a multistate license in a compact state. Likewise, nurses from compact states must obtain a Massachusetts license by endorsement before practicing in Massachusetts.
Licensure Requirements
The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing, within the Department of Public Health, regulates RN licensure. For initial RN licensure by examination, applicants generally must:
- Graduate from a Board-approved or substantially equivalent RN education program (ADN or BSN).
- Meet the Commonwealth’s Good Moral Character requirement, which includes a criminal record review consistent with Board regulations.
- Hold a U.S. Social Security Number for license issuance.
- Submit a complete application and fees, including official transcripts sent per Board instructions.
- Receive Authorization to Test and pass the NCLEX-RN.
For licensure by endorsement, applicants typically must:
- Hold an active RN license in another U.S. jurisdiction obtained by exam.
- Provide verification of original licensure and education meeting Massachusetts standards.
- Meet Good Moral Character and identification requirements, and submit the application with fees.
License Renewal
RN licenses in Massachusetts are renewed every two years and expire on your birthday. You must attest to completing required continuing education (CE) before submitting renewal.
- CE requirement: 15 contact hours per renewal period for RNs.
- Timing: Earn CE during the current two-year licensure cycle and before you renew.
- Documentation: Keep CE certificates for at least two consecutive renewal periods in case of audit.
- Practice hours: No clinical practice hours are required for renewal of an RN license.
- Late renewal: If your license expires, you must renew and may be subject to additional fees; practice is not permitted while expired.
The Board’s website provides renewal instructions, fees, and any updates to CE or attestation requirements.
Average LPN State Salary in Massachusetts
$76,400
2024 LPN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Average RN State Salary in Massachusetts
$112,610
2024 RN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Typically 1 to 2 years.
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Provides the foundational knowledge and clinical skills for entry-level RN positions, focusing on direct patient care in various healthcare settings.
Average In-State Tuition in Maryland:
Generally ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 for the entire program, though this can vary.
Best For:
LPNs seeking the quickest and most cost-effective route to becoming an RN and entering the workforce.
School Types:
Community colleges.
LPN to BSN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Typically 2 to 4 years.
Credential Awarded:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes.
Program Focus:
Offers a broader education in nursing, including topics like research, leadership, and community health, preparing graduates for a wider range of roles and further education.
Average In-State Tuition in Maryland:
In-state tuition can range from approximately $7,800 to over $20,000 annually. For example, annual full-time, in-state tuition at institutions like Coppin State University is around $7,800, while the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus is approximately $10,425 per year.
Best For:
LPNs aiming for leadership positions, specialized roles, or future graduate studies, and those who want to enhance their long-term career opportunities.
School Types:
Universities and four-year colleges.
Choose LPN→ADN If:
- Faster Entry into the RN Role: These programs are significantly shorter, allowing for a quicker transition to a registered nursing position.
- Lower Cost: The overall tuition and fees at community colleges are substantially less than at four-year universities, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Immediate Workforce Entry: Graduates can quickly enter the workforce as RNs and gain valuable experience while deciding on further education.
- Foundation for Future Learning: An ADN serves as a solid foundation for later pursuing a BSN through an RN to BSN bridge program, often with employer tuition assistance.
Choose LPN→BSN If:
- Expanded Career Opportunities: A BSN is often required for leadership, management, and specialized nursing roles, and is preferred by many healthcare employers.
- Higher Earning Potential: Nurses with a BSN generally have a higher earning potential over the course of their careers.
- Preparation for Advanced Degrees: A BSN is the necessary stepping stone for pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a doctoral degree in nursing.
- Broader Skill Set: The curriculum provides a more in-depth understanding of nursing theory, research, and public health, which can lead to improved patient outcomes.
List of LPN to RN Programs in Massachusetts
Brockton, MA
Massasoit Community College
- Associate - LPN to Associate Degree Advanced Placement Nurse Education
Campus Based - Website
- 3-Semester program
- Part-time available
- Cohort-based structure
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Evening classes
- Advanced placement for LPNs
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Associate of Science degree
Chicopee, MA
College of Our Lady of the Elms
- Bachelor's - LPN-to-BSN Nursing Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Complete in 24-27 months
- Starts fall
- Continuing education for LPNs
- Hybrid format for working students
- Over 40 years nursing education history
- Career advancement opportunities
- Pathway for LPNs to achieve BSN
Danvers, MA
North Shore Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Advanced Placement Option
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in just one academic year
- 98% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Scholarships available
- Community College Nursing Scholarship available
- Advanced standing through Credit for Advanced Standing
Fall River, MA
Bristol Community College
- Associate - LPN-to-RN Bridge Pathway
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 3.2 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- CPL assessment for NUR 101 and NUR 102
- Awarded 16 credits for prior learning
Fitchburg, MA
Fitchburg State University
- Associate - LPN to BS in Nursing Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 120 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Accelerated curriculum with day and evening
- 18 transfer credits via NLN exams
- Bachelor's - LPN to BS in Nursing Bridge Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 120 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Awarded 18 transfer credits
- NACE exams required for admission
Gardner, MA
Mount Wachusett Community College
- Associate - Advanced Standing Bridge Option
Campus Based - Website
- Massachusetts Board of Nursing, Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Work experience required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Fast track to associate degree
- NUR 116 LPN to RN Transitions course
- 76-77 college credits
- Clinical placements at partner sites
- Classroom, lab, and clinical learning
Haverhill, MA
Northern Essex Community College
- Associate - Advanced Placement Nursing: LPN to ADN
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- $346 per credit
- 1-Year program
- Complete in can complete the A.S. in Nursing in one year
- 86% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Save thousands on nursing education
Milton, MA
Laboure College of Healthcare
- Associate - LPN to RN Program
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in about one year
- Full-time and part-time options
- 50% salary increase
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Longest-running nursing program in Boston
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
Pittsfield, MA
Berkshire Community College
- Associate - Educational Mobility: LPN to ADN Bridge
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- 73% licensure pass rate
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- 17 challenge exam credits available
Worcester, MA
Quinsigamond Community College
- Associate - Nurse Education - Advanced Placement LPN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- ACEN, MABORN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $227 per credit
- 6-Semester program
- Complete in 15 month program
- 71 total credit hours
- Starts summer
Worcester State University
- Associate - LPN to BS in Nursing Track III Program
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 3-Year program
- 120 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Bachelor's - LPN-to-BS Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Starts fall
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- LPN license required
- Admission deadline June 1
- Fall start only
- Capstone course included
- Prerequisite courses required
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