Online Nursing Schools in WA: Finding Top Programs
In this comprehensive guide to online nursing schools in Washington state you will find a list of accredited programs at every degree level, from Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs to PhD graduate programs. We have researched and briefly summarized each degree type with details on program lengths and tuition costs. Additionally, this guide will explain the steps to getting your RN license in Washington after completing an accredited RN program. From the early stages of researching educational options to the post graduate licensing process and beyond, this guide will introduce you to the expansive options for nursing education in the state.
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The Education Levels of Online Nursing Programs in Washington
Nursing programs in Washington state offer various levels of education, including ADN, BSN, and RN-to-BSN programs. Many schools provide online learning options, allowing students to complete coursework remotely. However, due to the nature of nursing, some undergraduate programs will not be offered completely online. This is because to earn your RN license you prove that you have completed a certain number of clinical hours in an approved healthcare facility. If you choose to continue your education with a master’s degree, these programs are usually fully online with no in-person component depending on the specialization path you choose.
When choosing a program, students should consider several factors, including accreditation (which is important for licensure), cost, and the program’s format (synchronous vs. asynchronous). It is also essential to understand your individual career and educational timeline. If you would like to enter the healthcare field quickly without having to take any pre-requisites, pursuing a CNA certificate program would allow you to do so. However, if you would ultimately like to pursue a graduate program, an associate or bachelor’s degree is a great start even though it takes longer to complete. If you are already working in the healthcare industry and want to advance your career, that is where graduate and bridge programs come into play. Learn more about which type of degree would suit your goals and needs below.
Online Undergraduate Degree Programs
Undergraduate nursing programs typically result in a diploma, certificate, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These programs are designed for individuals beginning their nursing careers, whether they are recent high school graduates or transitioning from other fields. They equip graduates for licensure and prepare them for entry-level nursing positions.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Certified Nursing Assistants work collaboratively under the supervision of registered nurses to assist with patient care tasks, such as dressing, bathing, and transporting patients. If you are considering a career as a CNA, the educational training is affordable and relatively short in length. These programs also have a low barrier to entry as they usually only require a high school diploma or GED.
Edmonds College – Certified Nursing Assistants
- Cost: $1,200 – $2,000
- Length: 4-6 weeks
- Mode: In-person
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Washington state provides LPN programs at several community colleges and technical schools. LPNs have more intensive training than CNAs do, but are not allowed to do many of the tasks RNs are responsible for. These programs usually last between one and two years and incorporate both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Upon graduation, students are prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam for licensure. Programs are available in both in-person and hybrid formats.
Green River College – Practical Nursing Program
- Cost: $7,000 (residency dependent)
- Length: 12-18 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Earning an Associate Degree in Nursing in Washington state prepares students for registered nursing careers. ADN programs typically take 2-3 years, combining classroom learning with clinical experience. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed nurses.
Bellevue College – Associate Degree in Nursing
- Cost: $495 per credit
- Length: Two years
- Mode: In-person
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Washington state equips students with advanced clinical knowledge and leadership skills. BSN programs typically take 4 years to complete and include classroom instruction, labs, and clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam and higher-paying nursing positions.
School of Nursing University of Washington – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Cost: $4,325 per quarter (residency dependent)
- Length: Four years
- Mode: In-peron
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Earning an Accelerated BSN in Washington state is designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These programs typically take 12-18 months to complete, offering an intensive curriculum that includes clinical training. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Pacific Lutheran University – Accelerated Nursing Program
- Cost: $1,025 per credit hour
- Length: 15 months
- Mode: In-person
Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs
Graduate and postgraduate nursing programs in Washington state offer registered nurses the opportunity to advance their careers into leadership and management positions with higher pay. Programs such as the Master of Science in Nursing and the Doctor of Nursing Practice focus on specialized areas, including nurse practitioner roles, leadership, and healthcare policy. Doctoral programs, such as PhD tracks, place a strong emphasis on research and academia. Most programs require a combination of advanced coursework, clinical hours, and research projects to prepare nurses for higher-level positions in the healthcare field.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
A Master of Science in Nursing prepares registered nurses for advanced roles such as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse leaders, or nurse educators. MSN programs typically require 2-3 years of study, combining advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and specialized coursework to enhance nursing practice.
Western Washington University – Master of Science in Nursing Education
- Cost: $393 – $843 per credit (residency dependent)
- Length: Two years
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
DNP and PhD programs in nursing offer the top levels of academic and clinical training. For students interested in research and teaching opportunities, a PhD in nursing prepares students with the skills and credentials they need to move into these new roles. Conversely, a DNP degree prepares students with extensive clinical knowledge for leadership roles in nursing.
Seattle University – Advanced Practice Nursing Immersion program
- Cost: $944 per credit
- Length: Two to three years
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Master’s and doctoral programs aren’t the only way for nurses to maximize their professional options. Post-graduate nursing certificates offer targeted, specialized knowledge and are often available as online options. Some popular post-graduate nursing certificates include topics like gerontology, nursing education, and nursing informatics.
Pacific Lutheran University – Post Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificates
- Cost: $54,120 or $1,230 per semester hour
- Length: 28 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Bridge Degree Programs
Nursing bridge programs enable professionals with existing nursing credentials to pursue advanced degrees. By building on the knowledge and experience gained from previous studies, these programs allow you to meet educational requirements more efficiently. Designed to accommodate students who work full-time, bridge program allow students to study asynchronously and use current work experience to count toward the clinical hours requirement.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
If you have completed a licensed practical nursing program and want to broaden your career opportunities, consider enrolling in an LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN program. These programs use your clinical experience and academic training, to expedite the process of earning your RN licensure. LPN-to-RN programs can be finished in as little as 18 months, while LPN-to-BSN students typically complete their degrees in three to four years.
Saint Martin’s University – Nursing LPN to BSN
- Cost: $1,320 per credit
- Length: Two to three years
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
The RN to BSN track is an online program designed for RNs who have an associate degree in nursing and wish to pursue a BSN degree. To enroll, students must hold a current and unencumbered RN license. These programs can typically can be completed in one to two years depending on if students study full or part time.
Olympic College – RN to BSN Program
- Cost: $127 – $247 per credit (residency dependent)
- Length: One to two years
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to MSN
If you completed an ADN program and aspire to work as an advanced practice registered nurse, an online RN to MSN program may be the best option for you. These programs typically take between 30 to 36 months to complete and include clinical hours that can be performed at your current workplace. You can choose from various specializations, such as family nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or psychiatric nurse practitioner, among others.
Gonzaga University – RN-to-MSN program
- Cost: $975 per credit
- Length: Two to three years
- Mode: Hybrid
BSN to DNP
After working as a registered nurse for several years, you might choose pursue a doctorate. An online BSN to DNP program can typically be completed in about three to four years of full-time study. Upon finishing this program, you will be qualified for various roles, including nursing professor, healthcare executive, clinical researcher, and nurse practitioner leader. Similar to MSN programs, you can also choose from specializations in areas such as adult-gerontology acute or primary care, nurse midwifery, or clinical nurse specialist, among others.
Pacific Lutheran University – Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Cost: $1,230 per credit hour
- Length: Three to four years
- Mode: Hybrid
Direct-Entry MSN
Direct-Entry MSN programs in Washington state enable individuals who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to become registered nurses while simultaneously earning a Master of Science in Nursing. These accelerated programs typically take 2 to 3 years to complete, combining theoretical coursework, clinical training, and specialized education for advanced nursing practice.
Pacific Lutheran University – Entry-Level Pathway to the MSN
- Cost: $855 per credit hour for the pre-licensure portion and $1,160 per credit hour for the MSN portion
- Length: 27 months
- Mode: Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensing Requirements for Registered Nurses in Washington
To become a licensed RN in Washington state, individuals must graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Applicants must submit proof of education and a background check to the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). Other requirements include fingerprinting and proof of U.S. citizenship or legal status. Every three years after initially earning license, RNs must also complete continuing education courses to maintain active status. For more details, we have included the steps for earning your RN license below.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
To earn an accredited nursing degree in Washington State, you must enroll in a nursing program that is approved by the Washington State DOH and accredited by recognized organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Completing a nursing program typically involves coursework in anatomy, physiology, nursing theory, and clinical practice. After graduation, you are required to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure and be able to practice as a registered nurse in the state.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
To pass the NCLEX-RN exam in Washington state, you first need to complete an accredited nursing program and apply for licensure through the Washington State DOH. Once you receive approval, register with Pearson VUE, the designated NCLEX testing provider. To prepare for the exam, review nursing concepts, practice with sample questions, and consider taking NCLEX prep courses. Keep in mind, you are only allowed to take retake the NCLEX-RN up to eight times a year with a 45-day waiting period between each attempt.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
After passing the NCLEX-RN, you must submit an application to the Washington State DOH. The application will require personal information, proof of your educational background, and fingerprinting for a background check. If all requirements are met, the DOH will issue your RN license after processing your application. Remember that licenses must be renewed every three years, which involves continuing education and verification of your practice.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
To maintain and renew your RN license in Washington state, you must complete 531 hours of active nursing practice within the past three years. Additionally, you are required to complete 45 hours of continuing education every three years, covering specific topics such as using new medical equipment, treatment of HIV/AIDS, and suicide prevention. When you submit your renewal application you will be required to pay a renewal fee of $138.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
To obtain specialty certifications in Washington state, registered nurses must first fulfill the eligibility requirements set by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Typically, these requirements include having a specific amount of clinical experience in the specialty area and completing continuing education courses. Once the requirements are met, nurses can apply to take the certification exam. Successfully passing the exam grants specialty certification, which must be maintained through re-certification every few years.
Jobs & Earnings Outlook for Registered Nurses in Washington
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $86,490 | $112,180 | $149,370 |
| Bellingham, WA | $84,310 | $101,580 | $149,370 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA | $84,390 | $101,180 | $152,660 |
| Kennewick-Richland, WA | $82,260 | $100,540 | $151,360 |
| Longview-Kelso, WA | $83,570 | $103,740 | $150,990 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes, WA | $81,800 | $102,660 | $133,340 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA | $80,560 | $103,850 | $150,720 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $89,700 | $118,570 | $157,380 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley, WA | $82,770 | $99,290 | $136,030 |
| Walla Walla, WA | $85,970 | $105,360 | $135,130 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA | $85,700 | $108,350 | $134,470 |
| Yakima, WA | $81,730 | $98,240 | $154,180 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Washington | 61,030 | 69,180 | 8,150 | 13.40% | 5,150 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Top Online Nursing Programs & Schools in Washington State
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $27,987 Avg. Aid Amount
- 75% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Seattle University
- Seattle University's Nursing program offers an Advanced Practice Nursing Immersion (APNI) pathway, allowing college graduates without healthcare backgrounds to enter the DNP program directly.
- The program emphasizes leadership development through scholarship, advocacy, and community engagement to promote equitable healthcare systems that reduce disparities.
- Seattle University is ranked Washington’s #1 Nursing School, providing nationally recognized specialized tracks such as the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) DNP with skills for comprehensive patient-centered care across diverse populations.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $27,987 Avg. Aid Amount
- 75% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $5,471 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Washington State University
- Washington State University Vancouver’s College of Nursing offers a Concurrent Enrollment Program that enables community college students to take RN-to-BSN courses during summers for a seamless transition to a bachelor’s degree.
- The program provides flexible course delivery options tailored for working nurses, including RN-BSN, MSN, DNP, and specialized nurse practitioner tracks, allowing accelerated and convenient progression in nursing careers.
- As part of a top-tier research university, WSU Vancouver engages faculty and students in impactful local and global health research, enriching the educational experience with evidence-based practice and innovation.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $5,471 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Western Washington University
Bellingham, WAProgram Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,996 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Western Washington University
- Western Washington University’s Nursing Education programs combine online coursework with immersive face-to-face sessions and hands-on practical experiences arranged by faculty in diverse clinical settings, providing real-world practice with seasoned preceptors.
- The MSN in Nursing Leadership & Administration prepares students for leadership roles with integrated health equity principles, systems thinking, and strategic financial management together with direct practice experience alongside nurse leaders.
- The RN-to-BSN program is designed for working nurses, offering a flexible schedule with classes one day per week to balance professional education and work, facilitating degree completion without disrupting ongoing career responsibilities.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,996 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
Tacoma, WAProgram Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $4,515 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
- The UW Tacoma RN-BSN program offers a flexible hybrid format with courses scheduled only on Wednesdays, enabling working professionals to complete the degree efficiently.
- Students can complete the RN-BSN program in just three quarters, providing an accelerated path to advance their nursing career.
- UW Tacoma Nursing emphasizes leadership development and cultural sensitivity, preparing graduates to assume influential roles in healthcare settings.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $4,515 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 15/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $18,587 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northwest University
- Northwest University’s Nursing program offers small cohort sizes for personalized 1:1 faculty attention, enhancing skill development and confidence in patient care.
- The program integrates faith into every course, allowing students to fully express their Christian beliefs alongside rigorous nursing education.
- The faculty bring both real-world clinical experience and deep personal commitment, providing expert mentorship focused on each student’s success.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $18,587 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WAProgram Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $7,669 Avg. Aid Amount
- 84% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Washington-Seattle Campus
- The UW School of Nursing’s Accelerated BSN program enables students to become registered nurses in just 12 months through an intensive, four-quarter curriculum with extensive clinical placements in top healthcare settings.
- UW Nursing faculty are nationally acclaimed with 99% holding PhDs, providing students access to leading research, expert guidance, and innovative simulation labs for hands-on learning.
- The program emphasizes social justice and health equity by training students to apply anti-racism principles and understand social determinants of health, preparing graduates to advocate effectively for diverse and underserved communities.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $7,669 Avg. Aid Amount
- 84% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 20/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $21,946 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Seattle Pacific University
- Seattle Pacific University’s Nursing program offers a discounted flat rate for all required undergraduate nursing course materials through the Nursing Falcon Advantage Program, reducing student expenses significantly.
- The program provides personalized mentorship from experienced faculty who bring real-world nursing expertise, enhancing students’ clinical and professional readiness.
- Seattle Pacific integrates relationship-centered learning grounded in Christian faith and values, preparing graduates who are ethically committed and highly sought-after for diverse healthcare settings.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $21,946 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $33,257 Avg. Aid Amount
- 69% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Pacific Lutheran University
- Pacific Lutheran University’s Nursing program offers clinical experiences through partnerships with over 100 healthcare agencies, providing extensive hands-on training in diverse, real-world settings.
- The Accelerated BSN program features intensive simulation labs enabling students to practice and refine clinical skills in realistic, controlled environments before direct patient care.
- PLU supports leadership development with a dual Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and MBA degree option, preparing nurses for advanced management and administrative roles in healthcare.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $33,257 Avg. Aid Amount
- 69% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $26,989 Avg. Aid Amount
- 59% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Saint Martin’s University
- Saint Martin’s RN-to-BSN program allows completion in as little as one year with hybrid classes only one night per week, offering flexibility for working nurses.
- The Nursing program features state-of-the-art facilities including a dedicated simulation lab, expanded nursing classrooms, and a student study lounge funded by the Murdock grant.
- Students gain diverse clinical experience through placements at local acute care hospitals and community healthcare sites, enhancing real-world readiness and professional networking.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $26,989 Avg. Aid Amount
- 59% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $2,497 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Grays Harbor College
- Georgia Highlands College partners with Atrium Health Floyd to offer nursing students tuition assistance up to $1,500 per semester and guaranteed clinical placement opportunities.
- The Atrium Health Pathway Program provides students with prioritized job placement at Atrium Health Floyd facilities in exchange for work commitment, enhancing employment prospects upon graduation.
- Students enrolled in the nursing program are eligible for the Excellence in Nursing Scholarships, awarding selected first-year students up to $3,000 during their final year to reduce financial burden.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $2,497 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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