Best Online MSN Programs in Washington

Jessica Guzzetti, MBA, BSN, RN, CCHP-RN
Last Updated On Jun 15, 2026
Expert Verified: Jessica Guzzetti, MBA, BSN, RN, CCHP-RN
6 Min Read
Washington

Whether you're a working nurse aiming to advance your career with higher-paying positions or aspiring to take on roles beyond that of a registered nurse, a Master of Nursing Science (MSN) programs is a valuable step forward. Washington offers a range of excellent MSN programs designed to help you achieve your professional goals. With a growing demand for advanced nursing roles like nurse practitioners and nurse administrators, particularly in urban centers like Seattle and Spokane and rural communities across the state, there are ample opportunities for career advancement. To learn more about specific programs or to find the most affordable and accelerated MSN options in Washington, explore the details below.

2027 Best Online MSN Programs in Washington

Registerednursing.org ranks the best online MSN programs in Washington to help nurses advance their careers without putting life on hold. Online learning brings the classroom to you, making it easier to balance work, family, and school. Many programs feature hybrid or partially online formats, so some on-campus sessions may still be required; we still count these as online options. The flexibility of distance learning and remote coursework opens doors for nurses in rural areas or busy hospitals, allowing them to earn a master's degree while continuing to work. These MSN programs prepare graduates for leadership, education, and advanced practice roles, all with the convenience of studying from home. To see how we evaluate each school, visit our methodology at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

Gonzaga University

Spokane, WA - Private 4-year - gonzaga.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Gonzaga University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for advanced practice roles. The program comprises 47 credits and 660 clinical hours, typically completed over nine semesters. Curricular highlights include psychopharmacology, advanced health assessment, and evidence-based care for diverse populations. Students attend five on-campus immersions, which complement the flexible online coursework for working professionals. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, preferably in nursing; non-BSN students may need prerequisites. No entrance exam is listed in program materials. Financial aid is available, and the university is military-friendly. This program emphasizes holistic, patient-centered mental health care across the lifespan.

  • 47 credits required.
  • 660 clinical hours included.
  • 9 semesters completion time.
  • Flexible online courses.
  • 5 on-campus immersions.
  • Program is online.
  • Focus on psychiatric mental health.
  • Includes psychopharmacology course.
  • Advanced health assessment practicum.
  • Clinical hours in approved settings.
#2

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA - Public 4-Year - wwu.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Leadership & Administration

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Washington University's Master of Science in Nursing Leadership & Administration is a 48-credit, non-thesis hybrid program designed for working nurses seeking leadership roles. The two-year curriculum blends online asynchronous coursework with on-site practice hours, covering health equity, systems thinking, financial management, and informatics. Students complete a capstone project and gain mentored real-world experience with nurse leaders. The program aligns with AONL competencies and prepares graduates for Nurse Executive (NE-BC) and Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) certification. Graduates pursue careers as nurse managers, directors, and healthcare administrators. The program holds WA BON Phase III approval and is pursuing CCNE accreditation.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Online asynchronous coursework
  • On-site practice hours
  • Two-year full-time duration
  • 48-credit non-thesis degree
  • Focus on health equity
  • Systems thinking curriculum
  • Financial management training
  • Real-world practice experiences
  • Capstone project required
#3

University of Washington-Bothell Campus

Bothell, WA - Public 4-Year - uwb.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing (nurse education track)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Washington-Bothell Campus offers an online Master of Nursing with a nurse education track in a hybrid format, blending web-based coursework with in-person fieldwork. This 50-credit program covers advanced pathophysiology, healthcare systems leadership, research methods, and focuses on health disparities, social justice, and ethical practice. Students complete 100 hours of faculty-led fieldwork in hospitals and nursing schools, followed by a capstone project applying theory to practice. The curriculum aligns with AACN Essentials and is accredited by CCNE. Graduates pursue careers in academic education, clinical training, or professional development. The program emphasizes leadership and does not specify an entrance exam requirement, such as the GRE.

  • CCNE accredited
  • 50 total credit hours
  • 8 total courses
  • 100 clinical hours
  • Capstone required
  • Fieldwork in leading hospitals
  • Capstone project required
  • Focus on health disparities
  • Leadership skills development
  • Electives across UW campuses
*IPEDS 2025 survey data, provided by NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

RN to MSN Programs in Washington

RN to MSN programs in Washington provide a fast and affordable pathway for registered nurses looking to advance their careers. While a BSN is typically required for MSN admission, nurses with an ADN and relevant professional experience can often bypass this step, transitioning directly into an MSN program. This streamlined approach saves both time and money. Below is a comprehensive list of admission criteria for RN to MSN programs in Washington:

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

  • Washington RN license
  • ADN or nursing diploma
  • GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
  • Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
  • Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume

While these programs are not currently available in Washington, you can enroll in online RN to MSN programs or RN programs located in nearby states, such as the RN to MSN program offered by Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU).

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in Washington

For many nurses returning to school, the primary concerns are the cost and time commitment needed to complete the program. Fortunately, most MSN programs in Washington are both affordable and faster to complete than doctorate programs. If you're seeking an efficient and budget-friendly way to advance your nursing career in Washington, we've outlined several promising options below.

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

Most MSN programs in Washington generally take two to four years to complete. However, with careful planning, you can find programs that fall on the shorter end of this range—or even faster. Self-paced online options or taking advantage of summer courses can significantly reduce your completion time. For example, Pacific Lutheran University (PSU) offers a 2-year MSN program.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

Graduate school can be costly, but there are several strategies to help lower tuition expenses. One effective approach is establishing residency in Washington, which can qualify you for in-state tuition rates, often significantly more affordable than out-of-state fees. Additionally, some institutions in Washington naturally offer more budget-friendly tuition rates. Both Seattle University and the University of Washington (UW) are both great examples of affordable schools that offer MSN programs.

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Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs in Washington offer a fast-track pathway for individuals with non-nursing bachelor's degrees to enter the nursing field. These intensive programs combine foundational nursing coursework with advanced practice training, enabling students to earn an MSN and qualify for advanced roles, even without prior nursing experience. Below are some common admission requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
  • GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
  • Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
  • Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
  • Admissions interview

As of now, Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) is the only school in Washington that offers a MENP program.

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

A significant benefit of pursuing an MSN degree in Washington is the ability to specialize in a nursing field that aligns with your passions and career aspirations. Many programs offer concentrations in areas such as informatics, public health, or other advanced practice specialties, allowing you to tailor your education to your professional goals. If you're looking for a specialized MSN program located in Washington, take a look at the University of Washington (UW) ‘s Family Nurse Practitioner program.

What is MSN Accreditation?

MSN accreditation in Washington guarantees that a program meets rigorous academic and professional standards set by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures the curriculum, faculty, and program outcomes effectively prepare students for advanced practice roles, licensure, and certification. Graduating from an accredited program boosts career opportunities, earns recognition from employers, and qualifies students for federal financial aid.

2026 List of MSN Programs in Washington

Still looking for more options? Find more Washington MSN programs listed below:

MSN Programs By City:

Browse Our List of Programs

We have gathered a list of programs to help you explore your options. The table below shows each school's city and state, program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. Browse through the list to find what interests you. Take a closer look at the details and choose a program that fits your needs. Start with the table and see where it leads.
Jump to City:

Bellingham, WA

Western Washington University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Leadership & Administration

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Online asynchronous coursework
    • On-site practice hours
    • Two-year full-time duration
    • 48-credit non-thesis degree
    • Focus on health equity
    • Systems thinking curriculum
    • Financial management training

Bothell, WA

University of Washington-Bothell Campus

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing

    Concentration: nurse education track - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 50 total credit hours
    • 8 total courses
    • 100 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • Fieldwork in leading hospitals
    • Capstone project required
    • Focus on health disparities

Spokane, WA

Gonzaga University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 47 credits required.
    • 660 clinical hours included.
    • 9 semesters completion time.
    • Flexible online courses.
    • 5 on-campus immersions.
    • Program is online.
    • Focus on psychiatric mental health.
    • Includes psychopharmacology course.
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2025 Final Release Data.