Washington Online LPN Programs: See Top Schools

Inside Online LPN Programs in Washington

Washington state offers a variety of LPN programs across the state, but finding the one that works for you can take some time and research. To help you in your search, we’ve rounded up a couple of the top state-approved LPN programs that feature affordability, clinical teaching, and student support for online students.

When reading over these programs, it’s important to note that none are fully online, and only two programs in the state offer hybrid classes. To become an LPN in Washington, online students must complete in-person clinical hours, meaning only hybrid or fully in-person programs are eligible for licensure. Learn more about each program below to see if one has what you’re looking for.

FAQs for LPNs Students in Washington

While the overviews above provide a good idea of what these types of programs are like, they don’t answer all of your questions. You’re still likely concerned about how much your degree will cost or how long it takes to graduate. To help, we answered the five most commonly asked questions below.

What skills do you learn in LPN programs in Washington?

Basic subjects covered include human anatomy and physiology, contemporary health topics, and nursing practice basics. Many LPN programs emphasize outcomes related to human flourishing, nursing judgement, caregiving, professional identity, collaboration, and a spirit of inquiry, making LPNs different from RNs. Students additionally tackle a full range of advanced nursing theory and practice topics before completing practicum hours.

LPN programs in Washington provide the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to act as a vital part of the caregiving team for patients. These programs teach students how to provide safe, patient-centered care based on established best practices within the discipline.

What is the shortest way to become an LPN?

Most programs in Washington take about four semesters, or two years, to complete. Accelerated LPN programs are available that offer a more intense course load and a greater number of clinical training hours per week.

These programs are rigorous, making it difficult to balance them with work. The exception to this is bridge programs. Some colleges offer online medical assistant to LPN programs. Since medical assistants already know some of the skills LPNs need, they can often complete an LPN program faster and without the burden of more concentrated coursework. However, they still need to complete clinical training.

Can I get financial aid to help pay for my LPN program in Washington?

Yes. For example, the Washington Center for Nursing, a non-profit, provides a list of scholarships and grants available to students enrolled in an LPN program in Washington. In addition to these awards, plenty of professional associations, hospitals and clinics, nonprofits, and foundations provide LPN scholarships, both locally and nationally.

While costs for LPN programs at community colleges and vocational schools in Washington tend to be lower than those for four-year nursing degrees at a university, financial assistance is still available to learners who still need help in covering their costs. Prospective students should make sure they understand their financial aid options before applying to any program.

How long do LPN programs in Washington take to finish?

The majority of LPN programs in Washington take approximately four semesters to complete if enrolled on a full-time basis. Other programs are designed for working students who need more flexibility.

The practical nursing program at Edmonds is taught on a part-time basis and takes seven quarters (21 months) to complete. Students who want to graduate and begin working in nursing quickly may be able to find an accelerated LPN program that takes three semesters to complete. Because LPN programs in Washington require students to complete prerequisites, getting prerequisite coursework out of the way before enrolling can also speed up the process.

Can you complete your LPN online in Washington?

No fully online LPN programs in Washington State exist because LPN students must take part in several in-person clinicals at approved medical facilities to complete licensure training requirements. Some schools provide hybrid LPN programs that allow for some classes to be completed online. At Edmonds College, for instance, students can complete some of their theory courses via distance learning for added flexibility.

Students should prepare themselves for balancing campus-based classes with existing personal and professional responsibilities. While they may be able to take a few classes online, they will still need to visit campus and their practicum site regularly.

Washington’s LPN Licensing Requirements

The Washington State Department of Health’s Nursing Commission sets the rules for licensure, making it a vital resource in this process. The first step to receiving LPN licensure is to attend one of the eight LPN programs approved by the Washington State Nursing Commission. When possible, students should also try to attend a program accredited by the ACEN, CCNE, or CNEA. All of these programs include a clinical training component that allows learners to gain hands-on training before graduating.

After meeting all prelicensure education, clinical training, and other requirements, students can begin the process of applying for a license, which includes taking and passing the NCLEX-PN examination. Check out our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX-PN and our guide of essential study skills for resources on acing the exam on your first try. You must also submit to a background check.

After completing the necessary requirements, you can sign up for a Secure Access Washington (SAW) account and apply for licensure online. Applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee of $90.

LPNs looking to renew their licenses in Washington must do so annually by their date of birth. They must also provide evidence of working a minimum of 96 hours the previous year and completion of at least eight hours of continuing education coursework.

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