Best Nursing Schools in Washington

Big Bend Community College's Associate in Nursing DTA/MRP degree prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a career as a Registered Nurse. The program blends classroom theory with skills lab and clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings. Students develop clinical decision-making, communication, and patient-centered care skills. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, microbiology, nutrition, psychology, and more. Graduates are eligible to transfer to most Washington state BSN programs. With small cohorts of 24-28 students admitted each fall, personalized instruction and simulation lab practice enhance learning. The program boasts an 80% NCLEX first-time pass rate target and 90% employment rate within a year. Financial aid and scholarships are available.

• ACEN, Washington State Board of Nursing accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TEAS
• 2-Year program
• Apply by 2026-04-17
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• 80% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• 90% job placement rate

Green River College's LPN to BSN program is designed for Licensed Practical Nurses ready to advance their careers. This hybrid, cohort-based pathway combines online coursework with two in-person instruction days per week, offering both full-time (2 years) and part-time (3 years) options. The curriculum builds on your practical nursing experience, covering comprehensive patient care, healthcare team collaboration, patient education, emergency response, and leadership. Graduates earn a BSN degree and are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN for Registered Nurse licensure, opening doors to roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. With a 100% NCLEX pass rate, selective admissions, and accreditation by NLN CNEA, this program provides a supportive learning environment with open houses and workshops to guide you from application to career.

• NLN CNEA accredited
• $28,000 total program tuition
• 2-Year program
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/winter
• 100% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Bellingham Technical College’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a concept-based, nationally accredited program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN and a career as a registered nurse. The curriculum blends arts and sciences with nursing theory and clinical practice, covering health concepts, acute and complex care, professional nursing, and pharmacology. Students develop clinical judgment through on-campus simulation labs and off-campus experiences in hospitals, long-term care, and community settings. The DTA/MRP degree allows seamless transfer to Washington state RN-to-BSN programs. With six nursing pathways, including full-time and part-time options, the program admits three cohorts per year. Prerequisite courses require a B or higher. Graduates are highly sought after, with a 96% placement rate and a median annual wage of $114,400. Since 1954, BTC has been the region’s largest nursing educator, offering a supportive, in-person learning environment with faculty who bring diverse clinical expertise.

• ACEN, NCQAC accredited
• 2 concentration options
• $27,200 total program tuition
• $201 per credit
• 2-Year program
• Complete in two-year
• 135 total credit hours
• Apply by 2026-07-01
• Full-time and part-time options
• 3 start dates per year

The LPN to RN track at Bellingham Technical College offers licensed practical nurses a direct path to becoming a registered nurse. This concept-based associate degree program builds on your existing knowledge, covering acute and complex health concepts, nutrition, ethics, and psychosocial issues. You'll develop clinical judgment through hands-on skills labs, simulation, and preceptor-guided experiences in local acute care facilities. The curriculum culminates in a capstone experience. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and can pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing, and more. The DTA/MRP degree also provides a seamless transfer to BSN programs. With strong NCLEX pass rates and job placement, this program offers a solid foundation for career advancement. Instruction is in-person, with cohort-based learning and dedicated faculty support.

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
• $12,600 total program tuition
• $268 per credit
• 47 total credit hours
• 96% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• 96% job placement rate
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Financial aid available

Gonzaga University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a pre-licensure program grounded in Jesuit and nursing traditions. The curriculum emphasizes community, reflection, servant leadership, and social justice, preparing students to promote health and care for patients with acute and chronic illnesses. Built on a foundation in health and behavioral sciences, the program integrates ethical principles and liberal arts with professional study. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills essential for nursing. Graduates are prepared for registered nurse licensure and careers in diverse healthcare settings. The program focuses on forming adaptive, effective caregivers committed to serving others. With a supportive learning environment and a holistic approach, Gonzaga's BSN program equips students to make a meaningful impact in nursing.

• Pre-licensure BSN program
• Focus on servant leadership
• Liberal arts and science foundation
• Care for acute and chronic illness
• Community and social justice focus

Northwest University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a two-year, campus-based program that blends scientific, clinical, and holistic health studies with a faith-integrated perspective. Students gain hands-on experience through high-fidelity simulation labs with virtual reality and clinical rotations at top Pacific Northwest hospitals like Seattle Children's and UW Medical Center. The curriculum covers medical-surgical, psychiatric, maternity, and community nursing, preparing graduates for entry-level RN positions in diverse healthcare settings. A cross-cultural study abroad component enhances global perspectives. The program also builds a foundation for graduate study and specialized certifications. Graduates are ready to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and enter a growing field with strong job prospects.

• 2-Year program
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN
• Financial aid available
• Cross-cultural study abroad opportunities
• Simulation lab with VR integration
• Clinical rotations at top hospitals
• Faith-integrated nursing curriculum
• Prepares for diverse nursing careers
• Partnerships with leading hospitals

Clark College's Associate Degree Nursing program, located at Washington State University Vancouver, prepares students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, decision-making, and lifelong learning, equipping graduates to provide compassionate, equitable care across diverse populations. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical training in settings such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health agencies. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring high educational standards. With three start terms per year—fall, winter, and spring—students can begin their journey flexibly. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and pursue roles in a variety of healthcare environments. The program's mission is to build a diverse nursing workforce that advances collaborative practice and eliminates health disparities.

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
• Starts fall/winter/spring
• ACEN accredited
• Three start terms per year
• Located at WSU Vancouver
• Application deadlines: April, July, November
• Prepares for RN licensure
• Critical-thinking and decision-making skills
• Work in various healthcare settings
• Diverse community focus

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at Columbia Basin College prepares students for a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse. The curriculum blends scientific theory with hands-on clinical practice, covering anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and nursing process. Students train in state-of-the-art simulation labs and local healthcare facilities, gaining real-world experience. Graduates consistently achieve high NCLEX pass rates and find employment in diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, and public health. The program offers a unique BSN concurrent enrollment option, allowing students to start earning a bachelor's degree while completing their ADN. Career paths include pediatric, critical care, neonatal, and rehabilitation nursing. With dedicated faculty and over $200,000 in annual scholarships, CBC supports students every step of the way. The six-quarter program admits a fall cohort of 50 students, ensuring a focused, collaborative learning environment.

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TEAS
• Apply by 2027-03-01
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts fall
• Prerequisite courses required
• $55 application fee
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Scholarships available

Columbia Basin College's RN-BSN program is designed for working registered nurses seeking to advance their careers without pausing their professional lives. This hybrid, cohort-based program starts new groups in April and September, admitting up to 40 students each year. The curriculum builds on your associate degree, covering evidence-based practice, leadership, community health, and nursing informatics. You'll explore topics like critical thinking, healthcare policy, and quality improvement through engaging online classes and clinical experiences. Graduates are prepared for roles such as nurse manager, clinical nurse specialist, nurse educator, and public health professional. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring a high-quality education. With no application fee and the ability to earn 35 credits through NCLEX test credit, this pathway makes earning your BSN accessible and efficient.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts spring/fall
• Cohort-based structure
• Prerequisite courses required
• $0 application fee
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Admits up to 40 students per year
• NCLEX credit brings 35 credits
• Prepares for diverse nursing careers

Washington State University's BSN is a four-year pre-licensure program blending two years of prerequisites with two years of intensive nursing study. The curriculum covers pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, acute and chronic care, child and family health, mental health, and community nursing. Clinical placements at diverse sites up to 50 miles away provide hands-on experience. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and licensure, with a strong job outlook in the region. The program features holistic admissions, a Rural Nursing Pathway for community-based training, and over $200,000 in annual scholarships. With 85% Washington admits and a supportive faculty, WSU BSN graduates are in demand.

• CCNE accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Exams: TEAS
• 4-Year program
• 60 total credit hours
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX

Olympic College's Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program prepares you for a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse. In just two years, you'll gain the knowledge and clinical skills needed to provide compassionate care in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health settings. The curriculum covers anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, dosage calculations, and nursing theory, with hands-on clinical experiences at regional healthcare facilities. You'll learn from experienced faculty and practice critical thinking, patient assessment, and evidence-based care. The program is accredited by the ACEN and boasts strong NCLEX-RN pass rates and job placement outcomes. Admission is competitive and based on a holistic review of your prerequisites, reflective statement, resume, and healthcare experience. The program starts each fall, and the priority application deadline is March 31st. With small class sizes and dedicated support coaches, Olympic College's ADN program is a solid foundation for your nursing journey.

• ACEN accredited
• No entrance exam required
• 2-Year program
• Full-time enrollment
• Starts fall
• 86% licensure pass rate
• 97% job placement rate
• Prerequisite courses required
• $37 application fee
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Olympic College’s Associate Degree in Nursing (LPN to RN) pathway is designed for licensed practical nurses ready to advance their careers. This full-time, campus-based program completes in four quarters plus a transition course, blending nursing theory, general education, and hands-on clinical practice at partner healthcare facilities. Students gain skills in patient care, pharmacology, and dosage calculation while preparing for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and psychology, with options for additional support courses. Graduates are prepared for registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. The program emphasizes small cohorts of up to 10 students, ensuring personalized attention. Admission requires a current Washington LPN license and completion of prerequisite courses. Financial aid and military benefits are available, and the program holds ACEN accreditation.

• ACEN accredited
• Complete in in four quarters, plus one transition course
• Full-time enrollment
• 1 start dates per year
• Starts winter
• 80% licensure pass rate
• 80% job placement rate
• Prerequisite courses required
• $37 application fee
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Olympic College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares registered nurses for advanced roles in healthcare. The program offers two pathways: the VL-BSN for LPNs and military medics, and the RN-BSN for working RNs. Students gain skills in leadership, population health, evidence-based practice, and clinical reasoning. The curriculum includes healthcare policy, research methods, and informatics. Graduates are equipped for roles as BSN-prepared RNs in hospitals, community health, and leadership. Accredited by CCNE, the program offers flexible one to three-year completion plans. Admission requires a current RN license, one year of clinical experience, and prerequisite coursework. The learning experience blends online flexibility with in-person clinical practice, fostering collaboration and quality care.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
• 2 concentration options
• Complete in one, two, or three-year plans to complete the degree
• Rolling admissions
• Starts fall/winter/spring/summer
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required
• Prerequisite courses required
• Portfolio required for graduation
• Priority fall deadline: March 31

Olympic College's Veteran and Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (VL-BSN) program is built specifically for LPNs and military medics who are ready to advance their careers without putting the rest of life on hold. Delivered in a hybrid format that blends online coursework with in-person instruction at the Bremerton, WA campus, the program fits the reality of working adults juggling jobs, family, and school simultaneously. The curriculum builds on existing clinical knowledge to prepare students for the full scope of baccalaureate-level nursing practice. Coursework spans anatomy and physiology, microbiology, chemistry, psychology, nutrition, and advanced nursing sciences alongside general education requirements in writing, humanities, and social sciences. Students graduate equipped to practice as Registered Nurses, with the program specifically designed to help them pass the NCLEX-RN — a goal reflected in the program's impressive 93% three-year mean pass rate. Accredited by CCNE and approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing, the program admits one cohort each fall through a competitive application process. Military veterans benefit from dedicated MVP support services and bonus admissions points. Graduates go on to work in high-demand RN roles, with recent cohorts reporting up to 88% employment at six months post-graduation.

• CCNE, WABON accredited
• No entrance exam required
• Apply by 2026-03-31
• Full-time enrollment
• Starts fall
• 93% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• 83% job placement rate
• 2.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)

Walla Walla University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for a rewarding career at the forefront of healthcare. The curriculum blends scientific knowledge with compassionate, holistic care, emphasizing competency-based learning to ensure graduates are practice-ready. Students train in modern simulation labs across two campuses, building confidence through realistic scenarios. The program covers nursing across the lifespan, preparing graduates for diverse settings such as hospitals, community health, schools, and home health. Nurses from this program are known for strong NCLEX pass rates and high job placement within a year of graduation. Beyond academics, students enjoy a vibrant campus life with community-building events like Bread Night, fostering a supportive learning environment.

• Prepares for NCLEX
• 94.6% NCLEX pass rate
• 97.8% job placement within 12 months
• Competency-based learning curriculum
• Modernized simulation labs
• Two campus locations
• Holistic care emphasis
• Bread Night weekly community meal