Best Nursing Schools in Washington

Best RN Programs in Washington

Washington Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

The degree you need to become a registered nurse depends on your background and career goals. Many first-time nurses choose an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) because they are affordable and can be completed relatively quickly. Explore the differences between these and other nursing pathways below to find the best fit for you.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

For those seeking a faster and more affordable path to becoming a registered nurse in Washington, RN diplomas and Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs are great entry-level options. These programs can typically be completed in one to two years. If you're already working as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), you might qualify for an LPN to RN bridge program, allowing you to earn an ADN or even a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in a reduced timeframe, often as little as one to two years.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Washington include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
• Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Washington.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

If you're looking to aim higher in your nursing education in Washington, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often the best choice for entry-level nurses. BSN programs, typically completed in four years, provide comprehensive training for registered nurses and serve as a strong foundation for advancing into graduate-level degrees, such as those required for nurse practitioner roles. For those who already have experience or prior education, options like RN-to-BSN bridge programs or accelerated BSN programs can offer faster pathways to earning this degree.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Washington typically include:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

RN to BSN

If you already hold an RN license and an ADN degree in you may qualify for a faster path to earning your BSN through a Washington RN to BSN. While traditional BSN programs typically take four years or more, an RN-to-BSN program can often be completed in as little as two years, offering a streamlined option for advancing your nursing education.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Some individuals may decide later in their career that they want to make the switch to nursing. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing, you can enroll in a Washington ABSN program which can get you to graduation in as little as a year.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

For those looking to take their nursing education further, pursuing a graduate degree could be the next step. Options include a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP),. These advanced programs typically require you to hold at least a BSN or MSN, possess an active and unencumbered RN license, and meet the specific entry requirements for your chosen program.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Washington:

• Washington Nurse Practitioner Programs
• Washington MSN Program
• Washington Accelerated MSN Program
• Washington RN to MSN Programs
• Washington Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
• Washington DNP Programs

Getting an RN License in Washington

The final step to starting your nursing career in Washington is obtaining licensure. This process begins with graduating from an accredited nursing program (details below) and passing the NCLEX-RN, a nationally standardized exam that evaluates essential entry-level nursing skills. Once you've passed the exam, you'll need to apply for licensure through the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission and adhere to continuing education requirements to maintain your license.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Washington

• Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
• Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
• Application to the Washington Board of Nursing
• Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

Accreditation is essential for nursing programs to ensure they meet the standards required for licensure. To become a licensed nurse in Washington, you must graduate from a program accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Without this accreditation, your path to licensure may not be possible.

Getting a Washington Nursing License

Washington State Board of Nursing regulations for nursing licensure is clearly laid out for both examination process and by endorsement.

Applying by examination candidates need to complete the application forms, including the fees associated and have ready the following information:

• Certificate of Completion - sent electronically from the school to the state Board
• Official transcripts - mailed by the school nursing directly to the state Board
• Register for NCLEX - successful outcome upon completion
• Fingerprint-based Criminal Background Check

Applying by endorsement candidates are required to submit a completed application, as well as:

• Verification of licensure - either by request for or through NURSYS
• Verification of Education - either official transcripts or through NURSYS
• Proof of Current/Active License
• Passing score on NCLEX
• Fingerprint-based Criminal Background Check

Learn more about WA RN license requirement at the Washington State of Department of Health.

Accelerated Nursing Programs in Washington

Washington state has an accelerated BSN program and a separate MSN direct entry program. The accelerated program is 12 to 18 months in length, while the MSN program normally runs for 27 months, both programs have clinical hours as a requirement before graduation. Courses that need to be taken prior to entry into the degree programs vary with each program curriculum, which means candidates should request information about the prerequisite requirements. There will be increases to fees if additional courses need to add or any other factors, such as housing should need to be included.

• Washington Accelerated BSN Programs
• Washington Accelerated MSN Programs

Continued List of All RN Programs in Washington

Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.