Washington Nursing Colleges & Licenses
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Washington State, famous for its lush green landscapes and vibrant cities, is also known for its progressive policies for public healthcare. The state offers nursing opportunities across various healthcare settings, from bustling city hospitals to serene rural clinics.
Nursing in Washington State offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges, making it an exciting place for healthcare professionals. The state boasts a robust healthcare system with a diverse demographic of registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) contributing to high-quality patient care across various settings.
However, like many other states, it faces its own unique set of challenges. One of the significant challenges facing the nursing profession in Washington is the need for more nurses, particularly in rural areas. This has led to a higher nurse-patient ratio in some regions. Several initiatives are underway to improve nurse recruitment and retention strategies to address this.
The future looks bright for registered nurses in Washington and the United States. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2022) projects a 6 percent job growth rate for registered nurses between 2021 and 2031, slightly faster than the national average for all occupations. However, nurse practitioners are in even higher demand, with a staggering 46 percent projected growth rate in the coming decade.
In terms of salary, registered nurses in Washington are doing exceptionally well. As of May 2022, they earn an annual mean wage of $101,230, 12 percent higher than the national average of $81,220 (BLS 2022). These statistics highlight the promising career prospects for nurses in Washington and underscore the importance of quality nursing education.
In summary, nursing in Washington State offers a dynamic and rewarding career path. Its diverse opportunities, rigorous educational programs, and progressive healthcare policies make it a compelling choice for those seeking to make a difference in nursing.
This guide provides an overview of the top nursing colleges in Washington and licensing processes required to work in the state.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Washington
Bellingham Technical College (On-campus)
The Nursing DTA/MRP (direct-transfer agreement/major ready pathway) associate degree program offered by Bellingham Technical College is a comprehensive and rigorous course designed for individuals looking to enter the nursing profession. This program offers full-time and part-time options, catering to students with different needs and schedules. The curriculum is structured to provide students with diverse, complex, and specific experiences essential to acquiring and practicing critical nursing skills. It’s a vigorous program requiring sufficient intellectual and emotional functions to plan and implement patient care.
Upon completion, students earn an associate in nursing degree, preparing them for an entry-level career as an RN or transfer to a baccalaureate program in nursing (BSN). One of the standout features of this program is its emphasis on preparing students for real-world challenges they may face in their nursing careers, making it an excellent choice for those serious about a healthcare career.
- Location: Bellingham, WA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $21,600 total
Bellevue College (On-campus)
Bellevue College’s nursing program is a comprehensive and dynamic educational pathway that prepares students for fulfilling careers in healthcare. The program offers an associate degree in nursing (ADN), accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education, ensuring a high standard of education. Bellevue College also provides an RN to BSN program designed to build upon the academic foundations and experiences of the Associate Degree prepared nurse.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, further enhancing its credibility. The curriculum emphasizes practical knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for beginning-level clinical practice as registered nurses. This robust nursing program aligns with Bellevue College’s mission of preparing students for life-long learning by offering high-quality, flexible education.
- Location: Bellevue, WA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $123.58 per credit (residents); $317.95 per credit (non-residents)
Big Bend Community College (On-campus)
The associate degree in nursing at Big Bend Community College is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a career in the healthcare industry. The program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality nursing care in various healthcare settings. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with practical laboratory experiences, offering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and patient care courses.
Throughout the program, students acquire various skills, including critical thinking, effective communication, clinical decision-making, and patient advocacy. The program emphasizes developing these skills through hands-on clinical experiences in various healthcare facilities. The program provides internships, career fairs, and community service projects, further enhancing students’ practical experience and networking opportunities. Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
- Location: Moses Lake, WA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $123.58 per credit (residents); $140.92 per credit (non-residents)
Eastern Washington University (On-campus)
The bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program at Eastern Washington University (EWU) is an exciting and comprehensive program that prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing. Starting in fall 2023, the BSN program accepts a 40-seat cohort in the fall and spring semesters.
It’s a rigorous program that requires four years of full-time study, with courses covering a wide array of topics such as professional role development, nursing foundations, and more. The program also includes practical experiences to help students apply their knowledge in real-world healthcare settings.
- Location: Cheney, WA
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission
- Tuition: $7,104 per year (residents); $25,464 per year (non-residents)
Walla Walla University (On-campus)
Walla Walla University’s bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program stands out for its commitment to preparing students for a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding career in nursing. The program follows a four-year curriculum leading to a baccalaureate degree with a major in nursing. Its primary purpose is to prepare students to deliver high-quality care in diverse healthcare settings. The program focuses on real-world application and integrates rigorous academic study with hands-on clinical experience.
Graduates of this program are well-equipped to meet the profession’s demands and take on leadership roles in the field. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), ensuring that students receive an education that meets the highest standards in the field.
- Location: College Place, WA
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $852 per quarter-hour
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Washington
Gonzaga University (On-campus)
The doctor of nurse anesthesia practice (DNAP) program at Gonzaga University is a highly regarded, rigorous program designed for nurses aspiring to pursue a career as a nurse anesthetist. This 36-month (nine semester) full-time program, which starts in May each year, is structured to provide an evidence-based experience that seamlessly blends clinical anesthesia practice with leadership strategies. The curriculum encompasses many courses, ensuring students are prepared for the field’s challenges.
The program aims to produce anesthesia providers that set the benchmark for safe, competent, and evidence-based anesthesia care. Graduates from this program are well-equipped to take on leadership roles in the field, contributing positively to patient care and the nursing profession.
- Location: Spokane, WA
- Duration: 4.5 years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE); Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs
- Tuition: $1,140 per credit
Pacific Lutheran University (On-campus)
Pacific Lutheran University offers robust and comprehensive nursing programs that are designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. The School of Nursing provides multiple paths to a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), including a traditional BSN for first-time college students, an accelerated BSN for students with non-nursing college credits, and a master of science in nursing for those looking to further their education.
The curriculum is carefully crafted to balance theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring students can handle real-world scenarios. Courses include foundations of care delivery and health promotion, patho/pharmacology, and more. The university also offers a doctor of nursing practice and post-graduate APRN certificate programs, both accredited and recognized for their quality of education.
The nursing program’s focus on scientific knowledge, humanistic theory, and advanced healthcare technology makes it a top choice for aspiring nurses. Additionally, the program’s strong ties with local healthcare facilities provide students with valuable hands-on experience, preparing them for a seamless transition into their professional careers.
- Location: Tacoma, WA
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $806 to $1,093 per credit
Seattle Pacific University (On-campus)
The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) pathways program at Seattle Pacific University (SPU) is a dynamic and comprehensive course designed to prepare nurse leaders for advanced practice roles. The program emphasizes the development of the highest level of competence to meet the changing demands of the healthcare industry. SPU offers specialty pathways within the DNP program, including nurse practitioner specializations in adult/gerontology and family nursing. These pathways provide a 360-degree approach to nursing education, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
The DNP Pathways program at SPU is highly regarded for its commitment to excellence in nursing education. It prepares students to provide high-quality patient care and take on leadership roles within the healthcare industry. Graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare environments, making significant contributions to improving patient outcomes and advancing the nursing field.
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Duration: Three to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $899 per credit
Seattle University (On-campus)
The doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program at Seattle University is a robust and comprehensive offering designed to prepare nurses for the highest level of practice. The curriculum caters to nurses with bachelor’s and master’s degrees and college graduates with no healthcare background and integrates advanced nursing theory with high-level clinical practice. The program offers several focus areas, such as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse-adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioner.
Unique features of the program include an intense, practice-based curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and hands-on training in various healthcare settings. In addition to this, students have the opportunity to attend online information sessions to learn more about the program. The DNP program at Seattle University equips students with a sophisticated understanding of their practice and its larger context, preparing them for leadership roles in the ever-evolving healthcare field.
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $268 per quarter credit
Washington State University (On-campus)
The Washington State University College of Nursing offers a dynamic range of graduate programs designed to advance students’ nursing careers. From the master of science in nursing (MSN) program that prepares graduates for advanced practice roles in acute, outpatient, and community settings to the doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) and PhD programs that equip students with the skills to transform healthcare systems and influence policy, each program is tailored to meet the demands of today’s complex healthcare landscape.
The college also participates in the Western Regional Graduate Program, providing residents of 16 western states with increased access to high-quality, affordable education. With state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a commitment to excellence, WSU College of Nursing is ideal for those seeking to elevate their nursing expertise and impact.
- Location: Spokane, WA
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $9,167 per semester
University of Washington (Online & On-Campus)
The University of Washington School of Nursing offers highly distinguished MSN (master of science in nursing), DNP (doctorate of nursing practice), and PhD (doctor of philosophy in nursing science) programs. The MSN program prepares nursing leaders to innovate and provide high-quality care in various healthcare settings. The DNP program, on the other hand, is a practice-focused doctorate designed to prepare experts in specialized advanced nursing practice. Both programs emphasize applying research to clinical practice, leadership, and policy-making.
The PhD program, however, is more research-intensive and aims to cultivate premier leaders in nursing research. It is ideal for students with diverse backgrounds who maintain a holistic view of nursing. This program equips students with advanced research skills and prepares them to contribute to developing nursing science and improving healthcare delivery.
All three programs offer engaging research opportunities and practical experiences that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. These graduate programs stand out for their exceptional faculty expertise, comprehensive resources, and strong reputation in the nursing field. The University of Washington School of Nursing boasts a rich history of innovation and leadership in nursing education and research, making it an excellent choice for students who contribute significantly to the nursing field.
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Duration: 15 to 24 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $727 per credit
Nursing School Accreditation
Nursing school accreditation is a vital process that guarantees nurses have the most current knowledge, skills, and competence aligned with industry standards. It brings security and peace of mind to all stakeholders, including future nurses, training institutions, employers, support staff, and patients.
Students must complete a nursing program accredited by institutional or programmatic accrediting bodies to practice nursing legally. When it comes to nursing school accreditation, there are two categories: institutional and programmatic.
The leading organizations for programmatic accreditation in nursing schools are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Other nursing accreditation organizations focus on specialized curriculums, such as the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.
Institutional accreditation is an evaluative mark of a college or university’s quality. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), recognized by the US Department of Education, identifies seven regional organizations that review and grant institutional accreditation status. These independent bodies evaluate academic integrity, financial stability, faculty expertise, and degrees awarded to determine a university’s standards.
Lastly, it is crucial to consider the state authorization status when researching online and hybrid nursing programs, especially for degrees that require state licensing. The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) regulates this to help prospective students ensure their educational institution is compatible with state boards of nursing requirements for online or hybrid nursing programs. Confirming state authorization status is essential to avoid expensive challenges during state licensing tests or even the inability to receive credentials.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Washington?
Across the board, LPN, RN, and MSN- and DNP-prepared nurses in Washington earn above the national average income of $61,900 annually (BLS May 2022). This is likely because Washington was ranked as the 7th most expensive state in July 2023, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) cost of living index.
Look at the tables below to compare national salary data for nurses and the salaries of nurses working in Washington state. These tables are based on the latest BLS data available as of August 2023.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 632,020 | 6,430 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $55,860 | $69,950 |
| 10th percentile | $40,490 | $54,700 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $54,620 | $68,370 |
| 90th percentile | $72,650 | $83,060 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,072,700 | 64,920 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $89,010 | $101,670 |
| 10th percentile | $61,250 | $77,460 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $81,220 | $101,230 |
| 90th percentile | $129,400 | $131,230 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 46,540 | 430 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $205,770 | $222,610 |
| 10th percentile | $143,870 | $177,930 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $203,090 | $214,800 |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 per year | >$239,200 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,950 | 150 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $122,450 | $135,780 |
| 10th percentile | $77,510 | $108,940 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,880 | $134,770 |
| 90th percentile | $171,230 | $168,220 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Washington | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 258,230 | 4,150 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $124,680 | $135,590 |
| 10th percentile | $87,340 | $105,690 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $121,610 | $134,200 |
| 90th percentile | $165,240 | $167,840 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licenses in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Washington applicants for a LPN license must meet the following requirements:
| Every three years Washington LPNs are required to renew their licenses. They must complete an application and pay the $93 fee. They must also obtain eight hours of continuing education and proof of 96 active hours of practice per year. |
Registered Nurse (RN) Licenses in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Washington State’s Board of Nursing | Washington applicants for an RN license must meet the following requirements:
| Every three years RNs in Washington must complete a license renewal application and pay the $120 fee. They must also obtain eight hours of continuing education and proof of 96 active hours of practice per year. Two hours of continuing education must be in health equity. |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licenses in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In Washington, an NP is licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and require the following to be eligible for licensure:
|
All ARNPs in Washington state must renew their license every other year, by their birthday, to remain in active status. ARNPs must provide proof of an active registered nurse license (which can be renewed at the same time), active certification in the area of practice and submit a copy of recertification, and sign the renewal notice attestation stating completion of 30 contact hours of continuing education credit during the renewal period. If there is prescriptive authority, an additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required. The renewal fee is $125. |
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Licenses in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| In Washington, a CNM is licensed as an ARNP. To be eligible for licensure, candidates must:
| All ARNPs in Washington state must renew their license every other year by their birthday to remain in active status. ARNPs must provide proof of an active registered nurse license (which can be renewed at the same time), active certification in the area of practice and submit a copy of recertification, and sign the renewal notice attestation stating completion of 30 contact hours of continuing education credit during the renewal period. If there is prescriptive authority, an additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required. The renewal fee is $130. |
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Licenses in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| In Washington, a CRNA is licensed as an advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP) and require the following to be eligible for licensure:
| All ARNPs in Washington state must renew their license every other year, by their birthday, to remain in active status. ARNPs must provide proof of an active registered nurse license (which can be renewed at the same time), active certification in the area of practice and submit a copy of recertification, and sign the renewal notice attestation stating completion of 30 contact hours of continuing education credit during the renewal period. If there is prescriptive authority, an additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required. The renewal fee is $130. |
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licenses in Washington
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| In Washington, a CNS is licensed as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) and require the following to be eligible for licensure:
| All ARNPs in Washington state must renew their license every other year, by their birthday, to remain in active status. ARNPs must provide proof of an active registered nurse license (which can be renewed at the same time), active certification in the area of practice and submit a copy of recertification, and sign the renewal notice attestation stating completion of 30 contact hours of continuing education credit during the renewal period. If there is prescriptive authority, an additional 15 hours in pharmacology is required. The renewal fee is $130. |
Rachel Drummond, MEd
WriterAt NursingColleges.com, Rachel Drummond has applied her extensive experience in education and mindfulness to elucidate the importance of self-care for nursing students since 2022. Through her writings, she underscores the role of mental and physical well-being in fostering resilient and compassionate healthcare professionals.
Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.