Top Nursing Schools & Programs in Washington

The University of Washington-Bothell Campus offers an RN-to-BSN program in a hybrid format, ideal for registered nurses aiming to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. With classes meeting in person every other week, it provides flexibility for working professionals, allowing completion in one to two years. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and has a high 90% graduation rate. It requires an Associate Degree in Nursing for admission and does not necessitate an ACT or SAT exam, as it is designed for those already holding an RN license. Multiple start dates and locations in Bothell, Everett, and Shoreline enhance accessibility.

• Hybrid program format
• Full-time track: 1 year
• Part-time track: 2 years
• 90% graduation rate
• Accredited by CCNE
• Multiple start dates
• Three location options
• In-person classes bi-weekly
• For ADN holders
• Flexible for working nurses

Gonzaga University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program integrates Jesuit values with nursing education, focusing on community, social justice, and servant leadership. The curriculum uses the Complex Adaptive Systems framework to provide a holistic approach, preparing students for RN licensure through ethical care, effective communication, and practical experience. As a campus-based program, it emphasizes leadership and professionalism without requiring an ACT or SAT for admission.

• Jesuit and nursing traditions.
• Focus on community and social justice.
• Complex Adaptive Systems framework.
• Prepares for registered nurse licensure.
• Campus-based program.
• Leadership and professionalism focus.
• Comprehensive curriculum.
• Practical experience included.
• Ethical care emphasis.
• Effective communication training.

Saint Martin's University in Lacey, WA, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that integrates a liberal arts foundation with rigorous nursing education, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and diverse healthcare roles. With state-of-the-art simulation labs, hands-on clinical experiences, and a focus on community service and health disparities, the program emphasizes critical thinking and leadership. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA in prerequisites, and it does not require an ACT or SAT exam. Scholarships are available, and the program aligns with Benedictine values, supporting lifelong learning and graduate education.

• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• State-of-the-art simulation lab.
• 3.0 GPA required for admission.
• Scholarships available.
• Focus on community and service.
• Hands-on clinical experiences.
• Liberal arts foundation.
• Dedicated nursing study lounge.
• Clinical sites include hospitals.
• Addresses health disparities.

Saint Martin's University provides a hybrid LPN to BSN program for Licensed Practical Nurses, designed to be completed in two years with a mix of online and on-campus classes and weekly clinical practicums. Accredited by CCNE, it features small class sizes, experienced faculty, and a cohort model for support. Prerequisites include a Washington State LPN license and a 3.0 GPA, and it does not require an entrance exam. The program awards 15 credits for LPN experience, offers scholarships, and has a high NCLEX pass rate, preparing nurses for advanced roles in acute and community care settings.

• Hybrid learning model.
• Complete in two years.
• One day class weekly.
• One day clinical weekly.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Small class sizes.
• Experienced faculty.
• Cohort model support.
• Washington State approved.
• Scholarships available.

Heritage University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is CCNE-accredited and excels in preparing students for diverse healthcare roles, with a focus on serving multicultural and rural communities. It features extensive hands-on clinical experience through partnerships with over 20 healthcare institutions and state-of-the-art simulation labs. The curriculum emphasizes holistic, culturally inclusive care, leadership, and advocacy, supported by a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a 4:1 clinical hours ratio. Graduates achieve a 100% employment rate within one year. As a bachelor's program, it may require an ACT or SAT entrance exam, though specific requirements should be verified with the university.

• Accredited by CCNE.
• 100% employment rate.
• Hands-on clinical experience.
• Focus on multicultural care.
• State-of-the-art simulation labs.
• 4:1 clinical hours ratio.
• 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
• Strong community partnerships.
• Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
• Emphasis on holistic care.

Seattle University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program integrates Jesuit principles with a focus on social justice and holistic care, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam and leadership roles in healthcare. Located in Seattle, a major medical hub, it offers a blend of liberal arts and nursing science through hands-on clinical experiences. The program is CCNE-accredited and emphasizes critical thinking and communication skills, with a 4-year track for freshmen and a 2-year option for transfer students. Entrance exams like ACT or SAT may be required for admission, aligning with bachelor's level program standards.

• 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.