Washington, DC RN Programs
Washington, D.C., our nation’s capital, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and opportunity. It also boasts a growing demand for healthcare professionals, including nurses, driven by the city’s diverse population and numerous healthcare facilities. According to recent projections, nursing job openings in D.C. are expected to rise to over 5% higher in the next decade, reflecting the increasing need for skilled caregivers. To explore how you can prepare for and access these opportunities, review the sections below.
Jump to:
- Washington DC RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
- Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Getting an RN License in Washington DC
For RN bridge programs visit:
Washington DC Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
Nursing careers offer multiple entry points for those starting out. If you’re new to the field, you can pursue an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each pathway has its own benefits, so it's essential to understand the differences to choose the one that best aligns with your goals.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
The primary difference between an ADN and an RN diploma is that an ADN is a degree program, while an RN diploma is a training program. ADN programs are usually offered at universities, whereas nursing diplomas are often available through hospitals and other medical facilities. While nursing diplomas may have a slightly shorter timeline, both pathways generally take about two years to complete. If you're already working as an LPN, you might qualify for an LPN to RN bridge program, which can lead to either an ADN or a BSN, depending on the program.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Washington DC 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:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
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 DC.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
If you’re ready to invest more time in your nursing education, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a great option. A traditional BSN program typically takes 4 years to complete. However, if you already have nursing experience and an ADN, you may qualify for an RN to BSN program, allowing you to finish in as little as 2 years. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, you can pursue an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program, which can help you earn a BSN in as little as one year, leveraging your existing education.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Washington DC 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:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
A Washington DC RN to BSN lets you graduate in only 2 years as opposed to a traditional BSN program which requires at least 4 years of full-time study. To enroll in an RN to BSN, you’ll need to have an RN license and an ADN degree.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Thinking about becoming a nurse later in your career? If you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing but want to get your BSN without investing another 4 years, you can enroll in a Washington DC ABSN program. These bridge programs allow you to graduate with a BSN in only a year!
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
Students in Washington, D.C., aiming to become nurse practitioners or advanced practice nurses have access to a variety of advanced nursing education programs. Whether you're pursuing 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), there's an option to fit your goals. Most of these programs require you to already hold a BSN or MSN, maintain an active and unencumbered RN license, and meet the specific entry requirements of the 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 DC:
- Washington DC Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Washington DC MSN Program
- Washington DC RN to MSN Programs
- Washington DC Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Washington DC DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Washington DC
Beyond the educational steps required to become a registered nurse, licensure is also a key part of the process. In Washington, D.C., you'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a formal application to the District of Columbia Board of Nursing along with the required fee. After obtaining your RN license, you'll need to stay compliant by completing continuing education courses to maintain your licensure.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Washington DC
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Washington DC Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Attending an accredited nursing program is essential for obtaining licensure as a nurse. Simply put, graduates from non-accredited schools cannot become licensed, a mandatory requirement for all nurses in the district. When researching nursing programs, be sure to select one accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). RN program accreditation ensures your program meets the standards set by the District of Columbia Board of Nursing for RN licensure eligibility.