The Top Nursing Schools in Washington

The Top Nursing Schools in Washington

Washington’s employment opportunities surpass the national average, and the state boasts an above-average pass rate for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) among nursing school graduates. This article provides insights into becoming a registered nurse or nurse practitioner in Washington, offering information on earning potential and job prospects for RNs and NPs in the state. Whether you prefer the bustling city life of Seattle or the tranquility of a rural area, Washington provides fulfilling opportunities for nurses.

Top Nursing Programs in Washington

With over 40 nursing programs in the state, offering associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degrees, prospective students can find a school that aligns with their career goals, budget, background, and learning preferences. The following section delves into the top nursing schools in Washington.

Our Evaluation Method:

We utilize a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Washington, simplifying the process for students to identify a program that suits their needs. Our approach relies on key metrics, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. The data is sourced from publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and all information is current as of the publication date of this article. It’s important to note that program-specific details may vary.

1. University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Location: Seattle, WA
Duration: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus

The University of Washington, one of Washington’s longstanding nursing schools, offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in the field. The bachelor’s program includes traditional and accelerated tracks, while the online master’s program focuses on clinical informatics and patient-centered technologies. Doctoral specializations cover adult-gerontology and women’s health.

Programs:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
– Master of Science (MSN)
– Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing Science
– Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Campus: Seattle, Washington
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Tuition:
– BSN: $4,026 per quarter
– MSN: $709 per credit
– Ph.D.: $6,725 per quarter
– DNP: $925 per credit ($9,934 per quarter in-state, $14,150 out-of-state for some tracks)

Admission Requirements:
– BSN: 100 hours of healthcare experience; prerequisite courses with a minimum 2.8 GPA; proctored online essay (bachelor’s degree for accelerated track)
– MSN: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; one year of healthcare experience; minimum C grade in statistics prerequisite
– Ph.D.: Bachelor’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; Zoom interview; statement of goals and research interests
– DNP: BSN; minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license; statistics course; timed online essay

Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $72,152 for bachelor’s graduates, $95,549 for master’s graduates, and $105,678 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $10,629
– Out-of-state: $37,998
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $16,278
– Out-of-state: $29,178
Retention Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 56%
Students Enrolled: 48,149
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 11% (Percentage of all students who are enrolled online)
Accreditation: Yes (Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities)

The Best Nursing Programs in Washington

2. University of Washington-Bothell Campus

Location: Bothell, WA
Duration: 4 years
Format: Campus

The University of Washington Bothell offers a RN-to-BSN program, allowing registered nurses to earn their bachelor’s degree. The program is delivered in on-campus and hybrid formats. Additionally, UW Bothell provides a hybrid master’s degree in nursing with concentrations in nurse education and nurse leadership.

Programs:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
– Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Campus: Bothell, Washington
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Tuition:
– RN-to-BSN: $16,221 per year (in-state), $53,328 (out-of-state)
– MSN: $17,817 per year (in-state), $30,999 (out-of-state)

Admission Requirements:
– RN-to-BSN: Associate degree in nursing; RN license; minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA; minimum 3.2 nursing GPA; nursing goals statement
– MSN: BSN; RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; prerequisite statistics course

Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $72,152 for bachelor’s graduates and $95,549 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $10,629
– Out-of-state: $37,998
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $16,278
– Out-of-state: $29,178
Retention Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 88%
Students Enrolled: 6,304
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 4% (Percentage of all students who are enrolled online)
Accreditation: Yes (Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities)

Post-Pandemic Nursing Shortage Affecting Aspiring Nurses

#3 Gonzaga University, Washington

Gonzaga University, located in Spokane, Washington, offers a variety of excellent nursing programs. Students pursuing a bachelor’s in nursing study on campus, while graduate nursing programs are available online. Registered nurses and nursing degree-holders have the option to pursue a master’s or doctorate in nursing, with specializations such as nurse leadership, family nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); Master of Science in Nursing (MSN and RN-to-MSN); Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus: Spokane, Washington
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: BSN: $49,800 per year; RN-to-MSN: $845-$965 per credit; MSN/DNP: $1,100 per credit
Admission Requirements:
– BSN: High school diploma
– MSN/DNP: RN license; minimum 3.0-3.3 GPA; statistics course (some tracks require a nursing degree)
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $71,930 for bachelor’s graduates, $105,418 for master’s graduates, and $105,678 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $46,060; Out-of-state: $46,060
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $17,296; Out-of-state: $17,296
Retention Rate: 92%
Admission Rate: 73%
Students Enrolled: 7,295
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 95%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#4 Western Washington University

Western Washington University, situated in Bellingham, Washington, provides a degree-completion program for registered nurses pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The 45-credit RN-to-BSN program includes weekly on-campus classes to accommodate working nurses, along with hands-on internships and projects.

Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
Campus: Bellingham, Washington
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $327 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: Associate degree or diploma in nursing; RN license; prerequisite coursework; minimum 2.75 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $76,460 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $7,377; Out-of-state: $24,135
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $11,061; Out-of-state: $22,974
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 15,197
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 6%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#5 University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

The University of Washington Tacoma offers a hybrid bachelor’s program for registered nurses holding an associate degree or diploma in nursing. Additionally, the university provides a master’s program with two concentration options: leader in healthcare delivery and nurse educator.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN); Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Campus: Tacoma, Washington
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: Full-time undergraduate: $4,066 per quarter (in-state), $13,342 (out-of-state); graduate: $6,099 (in-state), $10,556 (out-of-state)
Admission Requirements:
– RN-to-BSN: Associate degree or diploma in nursing; minimum 2.0 GPA; RN license; one year of clinical practice; statistics prerequisite
– MSN: BSN; minimum 3.0 GPA; statistics prerequisite; RN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 9-12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $72,152 for bachelor’s graduates and $95,549 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $10,629; Out-of-state: $37,998
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $16,278; Out-of-state: $29,178
Retention Rate: 80%
Admission Rate: 86%
Students Enrolled: 5,364
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 19%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#6 Whitworth University

Whitworth University, located in Spokane, Washington, is a Christian institution that collaborates with Washington State University to provide a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Students spend 2-3 years at Whitworth and then apply to WSU’s nursing school.

At Whitworth, students engage in liberal arts coursework and complete nursing prerequisites. Graduates receive a dual BSN from both Whitworth and WSU.

Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Campus: Spokane, Washington
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) through WSU
Tuition: $630 per credit hour (full time); $500 (part time)
Admission Requirements: High school transcripts; SAT, ACT, or CLT scores (optional for attendees of an accredited high school or college)
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $70,456 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $45,050
– Out-of-state: $45,050
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $12,312
– Out-of-state: $12,312
Retention Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 91%
Students Enrolled: 2,756
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 13%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#7 Seattle University

Seattle University, a Jesuit Catholic institution in Seattle, Washington, offers both a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate in nursing.

The bachelor’s program accepts recent high school graduates and transfer students. Seattle University’s doctoral program provides three paths, allowing degree-seekers to specialize as acute and primary adult-gerontology nurse practitioners, primary care family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, or certified nurse-midwives.

Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus: Seattle, Washington
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: BSN: $50,328 per year (full time), $1,118 per credit (part time); DNP: $884 per credit
Admission Requirements:
– BSN: College prep prerequisites in math, laboratory biology, and laboratory chemistry with minimum B grades
– DNP: Bachelor’s or master’s degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; two years of work experience; letter of intent
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 84.5% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $69,505 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $47,565
– Out-of-state: $47,565
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $13,500
– Out-of-state: $13,500
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 83%
Students Enrolled: 7,050
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 88%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#8 Walla Walla University

Walla Walla University, located in College Place, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, offers nursing programs. Students can choose to study entirely in Portland or spend two years completing prerequisites and sophomore nursing courses at College Place before transferring to the Portland campus.

WWU welcomes registered nurses and licensed practical nurses based on availability.

Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); RN-to-BSN; LPN-to-BSN
Campus: College Place, Washington; Portland, Oregon
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $29,487 per year
Admission Requirements: Minimum 2.9 college GPA (College Place start), minimum 3.25 college GPA (Portland start); prerequisites with minimum C grades; pre-admission testing
Minimum Time Commitment: 9-21 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.1% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $77,297 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $28,908
– Out-of-state: $28,908
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $23,580
– Out-of-state: $23,580
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,737
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 93%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#9 Seattle Pacific University

Seattle Pacific University, located in Seattle, Washington, employs a Christian approach for its undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. Doctoral students can specialize in clinical nurse specialist, adult-gerontology nurse practitioner, or family nurse practitioner.

Nursing students at SPU complete clinical practice internships and have the opportunity to practice skills in the on-campus clinical learning lab.

Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus: Seattle, Washington
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: BSN: $36,504 per year (full time), $1,014 per credit (part time); DNP: $899 per credit
Admission Requirements:
– BSN: Prerequisite coursework with a minimum 2.85 GPA; documentation of work or volunteer hours, awards, and honors; professional reference
– DNP: BSN or master’s in nursing; minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license; 12 months of RN experience
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $71,463 for bachelor’s graduates and $94,408 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $46,728
– Out-of-state: $46,728
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $31,896
– Out-of-state: $31,896
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 91%
Students Enrolled: 3,601
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 94%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#10 Pacific Lutheran University

Pacific Lutheran University, based in Tacoma, Washington, offers a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for undergraduate students. PLU also provides a bridge program catering to licensed practical nurses.

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at PLU offers tracks for non-nurses, nursing bachelor’s degree-holders, and registered nurses. Master’s degree-seekers can

choose from an advanced generalist or clinical nurse leader specialization.

Doctoral students at PLU can select the family nurse practitioner or psychiatric mental health specialty.

Program(s): Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN); LPN-to-BSN; Master of Science in Nursing (MSN); BSN-to-MSN; RN-to-BSN; BSN-to-Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); MSN-to-DNP; Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)-to-DNP
Campus: Tacoma, Washington
Type: Private
Accreditation(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: Undergraduate: $49,472 per year; MSN: $783-$1,093 per credit hour; DNP: $1,159 per credit hour
Admission Requirements:
– BSN: High school diploma or practical nurse license; prerequisite coursework
– MSN: Non-nursing bachelor’s, BSN, or RN license and experience; 3.0 GPA; prerequisites
– DNP: RN license and experience; BSN or MSN with 3.0 GPA or MSN and APRN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,875 for bachelor’s graduates and $92,632 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $45,440
– Out-of-state: $45,440
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $29,841
– Out-of-state: $29,841
Retention Rate: 80%
Admission Rate: 86%
Students Enrolled: 2,907
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 98%
Accreditation: Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Washington

When considering a nursing program in Washington, whether pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), several crucial factors merit consideration. These include assessing the overall costs, encompassing tuition and available financial aid options, evaluating the NCLEX-RN pass rate as a key indicator of program quality, and examining admission requirements and acceptance rates. Additionally, prospective students should weigh factors such as clinical placement options and logistical aspects of the program.

This guide specifically focuses on accredited nursing programs, as unaccredited ones pose potential risks to both time and financial investments.

Reasons to Pursue a Nursing Career in Washington

Washington stands out as a state with a high demand for nurses, offering salaries that rank among the highest nationally. The NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing programs in Washington is an impressive 90.6%, surpassing the national average of 88%.

Beyond the professional advantages, the Pacific Northwest, including Washington, provides a temperate climate conducive to year-round outdoor activities. Contrary to popular belief, Seattle doesn’t rank among the top 30 rainiest cities in the United States.

Washington’s commitment to nursing excellence is evident in its requirement for hospitals to establish staffing committees dedicated to formulating nurse-patient plans and policies. The Washington Center for Nursing further highlights numerous financial aid options available for nursing school in the state.

While acknowledging that nursing demographics across states may not fully mirror local populations, Washington’s nursing workforce is progressively becoming more diverse in terms of both gender and race/ethnicity.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Washington

The projected job growth for Registered Nurses (RNs) in Washington between 2020 and 2030 is an impressive 20.5%, surpassing the national average of 12.1%, according to Projections Central. Nurse Practitioner (NP) roles, while exhibiting slower growth at 28.5%, still outpace the national average of 28.2%.

In terms of compensation, the average annual salary for RNs in Washington is $91,310, significantly higher than the national average of $80,010, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). NPs in Washington earn an average salary of $126,480, compared to the national average of $114,510.

However, it’s essential to consider the cost of living in Washington, which is 111.6% of the national average (indexed at 100). Seattle, in particular, boasts one of the highest costs of living in the nation.

Notably, as of 2019, almost 75% of RNs under the age of 30 held a BSN or higher degree, indicating that obtaining a BSN can enhance job market competitiveness.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Washington

Several cities and metropolitan areas in Washington offer above-average salaries for nurses. The top paying metropolitan areas and their average RN salaries are as follows:

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Washington

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Average Salary for RNs
Seattle — Tacoma — Bellevue	$95,120
Olympia — Tumwater	$93,270
Wenatchee	$88,550
Spokane — Spokane Valley	$89,890
Walla Walla	$91,280

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Washington

Regardless of the state, the path to becoming a nurse involves earning a nursing degree, passing the relevant examination (such as the NCLEX), and completing a criminal background check.

In Washington, all nurses are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

RN Requirements in Washington

To become a licensed RN in Washington, individuals must complete an ADN or a BSN program, successfully pass the NCLEX-RN examination, and submit an application to the state board of nursing, which includes a criminal background check. For those who attended nursing school in Washington, the school typically automatically sends a certificate of completion. The application fee is $120, and there is an additional $200 fee for the NCLEX-RN examination. Washington also offers a Transition to Practice program for new graduates.

APRN Requirements in Washington

Aspiring Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Washington must possess a current and unencumbered RN license, graduate from a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, pass the relevant board certification for their nursing specialty, and apply separately for prescribing authority. APRNs should also meet pharmacology education requirements. Candidates who graduated more than one year before applying and lack an APRN license from another state must provide evidence of at least 250 clinical advanced practice hours. The application fee for APRNs is $125.

Other Top Nursing Programs in Washington

In addition to the information provided, there are resources available on the best online nurse practitioner programs and requirements in Washington. Frequently asked questions about nursing in the state, such as the time required to become an RN and the best nursing colleges, are also addressed.

Cost of Nursing School in Washington

Nursing programs in Washington vary in price, and prospective students should carefully explore program structures and learning formats. Private schools generally entail higher costs than public universities, while online programs often feature more affordable tuition.

This comprehensive guide aims to assist individuals navigating the process of choosing and pursuing a nursing education in Washington, providing valuable insights into the state’s nursing landscape and the various factors influencing educational and career paths.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Washington

What is the duration of the RN program in Washington?

Aspiring nurses in Washington have various options in terms of program duration. Individuals aiming for a swift entry into the field can opt for an associate degree, which typically requires a two-year commitment.

For those with aspirations of qualifying for nursing leadership roles or pursuing advanced degrees, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a comprehensive choice, necessitating a four-year commitment.

How can I become an RN in Washington?

Prospective nursing students can embark on their journey by applying to renowned nursing schools in Washington. Upon successfully completing the program, graduates become eligible to undertake the NCLEX exam, a crucial step toward acquiring their nursing license.

While an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) serves as the minimum educational requirement to become an RN, it’s common for most students to pursue a BSN for a more comprehensive education.

What is considered the best nursing college in Washington?

Identifying the best nursing school in Washington involves a consideration of individual educational and professional objectives. The optimal choice aligns with a student’s specific needs, taking into account factors such as cost, flexibility, and location.

Explore some of the highly-ranked nursing programs available in Washington to make an informed decision.

How much does nursing school cost in Washington?

The cost of nursing programs in Washington exhibits variability. Prospective enrollees are encouraged to delve into the structural aspects and learning formats of each program to make informed choices.

Typically, private institutions incur higher costs compared to public universities. Additionally, online programs often feature more affordable tuition, providing flexibility for students.