In Massachusetts, if you obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, you will need to apply for a different license if you intend to practice as a Nurse Practitioner (NP).

Currently, Massachusetts recognizes two types of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs): Certified Nurse Practitioners (CNPs) and Certified Nurse Specialists (CNSs). Both CNPs and CNSs are required to hold a separate license in addition to their registered nurse (RN) license.

If you have completed a DNP program and wish to practice as an NP in Massachusetts, you will need to apply for a Nurse Practitioner license through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. This license is specific to NPs and grants you the authority to diagnose, treat, and manage patients within your chosen specialty.

It's important to note that the requirements for obtaining a Nurse Practitioner license in Massachusetts may vary depending on your specialty area. For example, if you specialize in Family Practice, Adult-Gerontology, Pediatrics, or Women's Health, you will need to meet specific educational and certification criteria set by the Board.

Here are a few examples of the specialty-specific requirements:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Completion of an accredited FNP program, national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, and a master's or doctoral degree in nursing.
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP): Completion of an accredited AGPCNP program, national certification as an AGPCNP, and a master's or doctoral degree in nursing.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Completion of an accredited PMHNP program, national certification as a PMHNP, and a master's or doctoral degree in nursing.

It's essential to review the specific requirements outlined by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing for your chosen specialty to ensure you meet all the criteria.

For more detailed information and the most up-to-date requirements, you can visit the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing's official website: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-in-nursing.

Remember, licensing requirements can change over time, so it's crucial to refer to official sources and consult with the appropriate regulatory bodies for the most accurate and current information.