Online Nursing Schools in WA: Finding Top Programs

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.

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.

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.

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

In Washington state, the Registered Nurse (RN) profession is experiencing strong growth, with a projected increase of 13.4%, resulting in over 8,000 new RN jobs by 2030. This growth rate is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting strong demand for healthcare services in the state. The average annual job openings are expected to be 5,150 due to new positions, retirements, and turnover.

RNs in Washington state earn competitive wages. The median annual salary is $107,720, with top earners (90th percentile) making up to $139,390. Salaries vary by region, with Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue offering the highest pay, where the median salary reaches $109,700. In smaller areas like Yakima and Walla Walla, the salaries are lower but still competitive, with medians of $96,410 and $107,450, respectively. For anyone considering a nursing career in Washington, the state's strong job growth and attractive salary range make it a promising opportunity.