Nursing Programs in Seattle, WA
With the demand for nurses only continuing to rise, obtaining or adding on to a nursing degree in the Seattle metropolitan area is a wise career choice. Accredited program options are plentiful, and before you know it, you could be in your dream nursing career.
To get started in nursing or to advance your nursing career, check out our accredited program listings sections below:

2026 Best Nursing Schools in Seattle
North Seattle College
Seattle, WA - Public 4-Year - northseattle.edu
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing (AN DTA/MRP)
Campus Based - Visit Website
North Seattle College offers an Associate Degree Nursing (AN DTA/MRP) program, perfect for those aiming to start a nursing career or transfer to a four-year university. This campus-based program provides a solid foundation in nursing principles, preparing students for the next steps in their education or career. With a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, students are equipped to meet the demands of the healthcare industry. Financial aid and advising support are available to help navigate the admissions process and program requirements.
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for transfer
- Focus on nursing principles
- Financial aid available
- Advisory support
Pima Medical Institute-Seattle
Seattle, WA - Private 2-year - pmi.edu
Associate - Nursing Associate Degree Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Nursing Associate Degree Program at Pima Medical Institute-Seattle prepares students for a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse. This 20-month program combines classroom learning with hands-on lab exercises, covering essential topics like anatomy, physiology, and patient care. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. With a focus on real-world skills, this program is ideal for those looking to make a difference in healthcare. Financial aid options are available to eligible students.
- 20-month program length.
- On-campus delivery method.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Hands-on training included.
- Covers anatomy and physiology.
- Financial aid available.
- Focus on patient care skills.
- Eligible for licensure in Arizona.
Seattle Central College
Seattle, WA - Public 4-Year - seattlecentral.edu
Associate - Associate in Nursing DTA/MRP
Campus Based - Visit Website
Seattle Central College's Associate in Nursing DTA/MRP program prepares students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. This campus-based program is accredited and approved by Washington State, offering a streamlined path to licensure. With a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, students can complete the program in nine quarters full-time. Prerequisites include biology, chemistry, and psychology courses. The program boasts strong NCLEX pass rates and high employment post-graduation, making it a solid choice for aspiring nurses.
- Campus-based program
- Accredited by ACEN
- Approved by Washington State
- 135 credits to complete
- Full-time in nine quarters
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Strong employment outcomes
- Prerequisite courses required
- Focus on practical skills
- Theoretical knowledge included
Seattle Pacific University
Seattle, WA - Private 4-year - spu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Seattle Pacific University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for entry-level nursing practice with a blend of rigorous academics and hands-on clinical training. Grounded in Christian faith and values, the program emphasizes health promotion, illness care, and ethical leadership. Students benefit from personalized mentorship by experienced faculty, preparing them for diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum integrates liberal arts with nursing science, fostering critical thinking and collaboration. Admission requires meeting general education prerequisites. Financial aid options are available to support students in achieving their nursing career goals.
- Upper-division nursing program.
- Prepares for acute care settings.
- Christian faith and values foundation.
- Personalized faculty mentorship.
- Integrates liberal arts and sciences.
- Focus on health promotion.
- Emphasizes ethical leadership.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Competitive licensure exam pass rates.
- Diverse clinical practice opportunities.
Seattle University
Seattle, WA - Private 4-year - seattleu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Seattle University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program stands out with its Jesuit education, focusing on social justice and holistic patient care. Located in Seattle's healthcare hub, it prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and future leadership roles. The program blends liberal arts with nursing science, offering hands-on clinical experience in a supportive environment. With a 4-year duration for freshmen and 2 years for transfers, it's designed for aspiring nurses seeking a comprehensive education. Accredited by CCNE, it emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare settings.
- CCNE Accredited.
- 4 years for freshmen.
- 2 years for transfers.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Focus on social justice.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
- Jesuit education values.
- Located in Seattle's healthcare hub.
- Leadership skills development.
- Liberal arts and nursing science blend.
Entry Level ADN & BSN Programs in Seattle, WA
For those starting from scratch to become an RN, entry-level nursing programs are ideal. Prospective students can choose between the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) pathways.
For licensed practical nurses in the Seattle area, an entry point to a career as a registered nurse is an LPN to RN bridge program that builds on LPN coursework to help students earn their ADN at a faster pace. For example, Tacoma Community College offers an LPN to RN program that is taught in a four-quarter sequence over a one-year period.
LPN to RN Programs
ADN Programs
The ADN pathway is the shortest and most basic option to become a registered nurse. Students can complete coursework and training in just two years. For example, the Lake Washington Institute of Technology offers an associate's pathway, called the Associate of Applied Science-Transfer (AAS-T), which prepares students to become RNs through its 90-credit curriculum. The program boasts a 90% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN examination.
Direct-Entry BSN Programs
Traditional BSN programs are becoming more popular, due in part to the fact that many hospitals and healthcare employers are starting to require them. Students can earn their bachelor's degree in nursing in roughly 4 years of study. Seattle University offers a classic, accredited BSN program that requires around 180 credits to complete.
RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Seattle, WA
Bridge programs, such as the RN to BSN and RN to MSN pathways, are designed to allow actively licensed RNs to continue their nursing education. Many nurses appreciate these programs due to their shortened length, as they are built to expand upon the nurse's prior education and knowledge.
RN to BSN Programs
For nurses who hold an ADN or nursing diploma, the RN to BSN program is an ideal way to earn a bachelor's degree. These programs tend to offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate busy working RNs. Bellevue College offers an RN to BSN program that consists of 180 total credits, 90 of which are transferred over from the student's prior ADN program.
Find out more about Washington RN to BSN programs.
RN to MSN Programs
RN to MSN programs allow ADN-educated nurses to access an even higher order of nursing specialties through a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN). These programs typically require nurses to choose a concentration, such as a family nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or more. Seattle Pacific University offers two bridge programs: an ADN to MSN Clinical Leadership in Practice program, and a Nurse Educator program that is available to both ADN and BSN-educated nurses.
Find out more about Washington RN to MSN programs.
Bellevue, WA
Bellevue College
- RN to BSN - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- Minimal campus time
- CCNE accredited program
- Designed for working nurses
- Requires current RN license
- Minimum 2.0 GPA requirement
- One year clinical experience
- Selective admission program
Bothell, WA
University of Washington-Bothell Campus
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program with flexible schedule
- Full-time track graduates in 1 year
- 90% yearly graduation rate
- Three program locations available
- Multiple start dates: January/September
- Accredited by CCNE
- Part-time option available
- Classes meet every other week
Bremerton, WA
Olympic College
- RN to BSN - Nursing (RN-BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Designed for working RNs
- Enhances nursing credentials
- Flexible learning pathway
- Professional development opportunity
Tacoma, WA
Pacific Lutheran University
- RN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Campus Based - Website
- Top 100 graduate nursing program.
- Clinical Nurse Leader concentration.
- BSN to MSN pathway available.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Focus on leadership and patient care.
- Prepares for doctoral studies.
- Located in Tacoma, WA.
- Financial aid options available.
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
- RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning schedule
- Part-time and full-time options
- Professional skill development
- Builds on existing nursing experience
- Supports leadership skill enhancement
APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Seattle, WA
For nurses looking to enter the most advanced nurse practitioner careers, the Seattle area offers numerous options. Students can choose between a traditional MSN, a post-graduate certificate program, or even doctoral programs such as a DNP or Ph.D. in nursing.
MSN Programs
This master's degree pathway is a popular choice for nurses wanting to specialize as a nurse practitioner or other advanced-practice role. Students can typically complete the MSN in 2 years, with flexible scheduling options offered. The University of Washington Bothell offers an MSN with concentrations in education, population health, or administrative leadership.
Find out more about Washington Nurse Practitioner programs.
Post-Graduate Certificate Programs
For RNs who already hold an MSN, the post-grad nursing certificate is the perfect way to switch specialties without having to go through another full degree program. Many advanced nurses who don't wish to pursue a doctoral degree are able to expand their practice this way. Seattle University, for example, offers a post-graduate nursing certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care.
Find out more about Washington post-graduate nursing certificate programs.
DNP & Ph.D. Programs
Doctoral degrees such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.) are the terminal degrees in nursing. Most students who wish to focus on clinical practice opt for the DNP, while those in academia and research tend to earn a Ph.D. The University of Washington offers both doctoral degrees, with a DNP that includes multiple specialization pathways as well as a traditional Ph.D. program.
Find out more about Washington DNP programs.
Bothell, WA
University of Washington-Bothell Campus
- BSN to MSN - Master of Nursing
Concentration: Administrative Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid 2-4 year graduate program
- 55 total credit program
- 100 hours fieldwork required
- Advanced leadership curriculum
- Nurse Executive credentialing preparation
- Interdisciplinary course collaboration
- Complex organizational management
- Healthcare systems focus
- BSN to MSN - Nurse Educator
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid 2 or 4-year program
- 51 total credit hours
- 100 hours fieldwork included
- In-person and online learning
- Advanced nurse educator certification
- Cohort-based learning model
- Capstone project required
- Meets NLN credentialing requirements
Seattle, WA
City University of Seattle
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Concentration: Nurse Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- Nurse Leadership concentration
- Flexible for working professionals
- Advanced healthcare leadership focus
- Evidence-based practice curriculum
Seattle Pacific University
- MSN to DNP - Clinical Nurse Specialist (DNP)
Campus Based - Website
- 11-quarter full-time program
- 93 total credit minimum
- Christian values integrated
- Advanced clinical leadership focus
- Requires active RN license
- BSN or Master's required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Interprofessional collaboration emphasis
- MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
Campus Based - Website
- 100 total credit program
- Full-time 11-quarter schedule
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 12+ months RN experience needed
- Advanced clinical practicum included
- Christian values integrated
- Interprofessional collaboration focus
- Leadership and transformation emphasis
Seattle University
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Campus Based - Website
- 3-4 Year Completion Options
- Multiple Specialized Tracks
- 95% Board Certification Rate
- Hands-On Clinical Experience
- Direct Entry for Non-Nurses
- Nationally Ranked Program
- High Employment Demand
- Purpose-Built Clinical Labs
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care - Campus Based - Website
- 90 clinical hours quarterly
- Acute care practice focus
- Two years experience preferred
- $145K average annual salary
- Nationally ranked DNP program
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Certified Nurse-Midwifery - Campus Based - Website
- Nationally ranked #22 CNM program
- Comprehensive midwifery training
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Trusted midwifery traditions
- Advanced clinical preparation
- MSN to DNP - Family Nurse-Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- Doctorate in Nursing Practice
- 4 years non-nurses, 3 years RNs
- CCNE Accredited Program
- 85.7% Job Placement Rate
- 109-166 Total Credits
- In-Person Learning Format
- ANCC/AANPCB Certification Eligible
- State-of-the-Art Clinical Lab
- MSN to DNP - Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, DNP
Campus Based - Website
- 3-year full-time DNP program
- 90 clinical hours per quarter
- 2 years acute care experience preferred
- CCNE Accredited Program
- 85.7% job placement rate
- State-of-the-art Clinical Performance Lab
- Located at Swedish Cherry Hill Medical Center
- Eligible for ANCC certification exam
- MSN to DNP - Nursing, Health Systems Leader, Post-Master's DNP
Campus Based - Website
- 3-year program duration
- Full and part-time options
- 44 total credits required
- CCNE Accredited program
- 85.7% job placement rate
- Clinical hours transferable
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Located near major medical centers
- MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE Accredited Doctoral Program
- Lifespan Mental Health Focus
- In-Person Clinical Training
- 108-171 Total Credits
- 85.7% Job Placement Rate
- 3-4 Year Program Duration
- State-of-the-Art Clinical Lab
- Comprehensive Mental Health Curriculum
- MSN to DNP - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
Campus Based - Website
- Nationally ranked DNP program
- Washington's #1 Nursing School
- 3-4 year program duration
- In-person clinical training
- Eligible for NCC certification
- State-of-the-art clinical lab
- Located near major medical centers
- CCNE accredited program
Tacoma, WA
Pacific Lutheran University
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Three program pathway options
- Full-time and part-time study
- Small cohort sizes
- Clinical placements arranged
- CCNE accredited program
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Inter-professional team preparation
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Flexible full-time/part-time options
- Small cohort learning environment
- Faculty-arranged clinical placements
- CCNE accredited program
- Three pathway options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP, MSN-APRN to DNP
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Three pathways to DNP
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Full and part-time options
- Specialized PMHNP concentration
- Clinical placements arranged by faculty
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
- MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 9-quarter full-time DNP program
- Comprehensive acute care training
- Pre-arranged clinical placements
- National certification preparation
- Diverse practice settings available
- One year RN experience recommended
- State-of-art simulation center
- Extensive procedural skills training
- MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 9-quarter full-time DNP program
- Pre-arranged clinical placements
- $3.8M in DNP scholarships
- Practice in diverse healthcare settings
- National certification eligibility
- Focuses on adult and senior care
- State-of-art simulation training
- Comprehensive health assessment skills
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Women's Health Clinical Nurse Specialist - Online & Campus Based - Website
- #2 Public DNP Nursing Program
- 9-quarter full-time program
- Pre-arranged clinical placements
- Comprehensive women's health focus
- Multiple career path options
- Advanced practice nursing training
- State-of-art simulation center
- Leadership and research emphasis
- MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- #2 Public DNP Nursing School
- 9-quarter full-time program
- Pre-arranged clinical placements
- Practice across patient lifespan
- National certification eligible
- Multiple practice settings
- State-of-art simulation center
- Leadership skill development
- MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care
Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 9-quarter DNP program
- Full-time, in-person training
- Nationwide top-ranked nursing program
- Pre-arranged clinical placements
- Only WWAMI region PNP-AC track
- $3.8M in DNP scholarships
- Graduates eligible for PNCB certification
- One year RN experience recommended
- MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 9-quarter Doctor of Nursing Practice
- #2 ranked public nursing school
- Pre-arranged clinical placements
- Full-time, in-person program
- National certification eligibility
- Comprehensive pediatric healthcare focus
- Practice in diverse healthcare settings
