Washington’s job growth rate surpasses the U.S. as a whole. The state also boasts a higher-than-average National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) pass rate for nursing school graduates.
When it comes to pursuing a nursing career, choosing the right nursing school is crucial. With numerous nursing colleges in Washington offering a range of programs, finding the best nursing school can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top-rated nursing schools in Washington to help you make an informed decision.
Our methodology for ranking the best nursing schools takes into account important factors, such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. We believe that these metrics are essential for students to consider when selecting a nursing program that aligns with their career goals, budget, and learning preferences.
Whether you’re looking for nursing schools in Seattle or nursing programs in Spokane, our comprehensive list covers accredited nursing schools across the state. We aim to provide you with the information you need to choose the best nursing program in Washington.
In addition to highlighting the top nursing schools in Washington, we will also provide guidance on how to choose a nursing program. Factors such as cost, NCLEX-RN pass rate, acceptance rate, admission requirements, clinical placement options, and program logistics should all be considered in your decision-making process.
Becoming a nurse in Washington offers numerous benefits and opportunities. The state has a high demand for nurses, with competitive salaries and a diverse nursing workforce. We’ll explore these advantages further and discuss the financial aid options available for nursing school in Washington.
Furthermore, we will provide insights into the salary and job outlook for nurses in Washington. This information includes the projected job growth for registered nurses (RNs) in the state, as well as the average annual salary for Washington RNs. We will also highlight the highest-paying cities for nurses in Washington.
Join us as we delve into the best nursing schools in Washington and equip you with the knowledge you need to kickstart your nursing career in this thriving state.
The Best Nursing Schools in Washington
With more than 40 nursing programs in Washington for associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degrees, you can find a school to match your career goals, budget, background, and learning preferences. Whether you are looking for a program in Seattle or Spokane, there are top-rated nursing schools throughout the state.
Gonzaga University, located in Spokane, offers a range of nursing programs including BSN, ABSN, MSN, and DNP. With a NCLEX pass rate of 94.35%, Gonzaga University is known for its high-quality education and focus on holistic nursing care.
Seattle University’s College of Nursing is another excellent choice, located in Seattle. The school offers BSN, online RN to MSN, online MSN, and online DNP programs. Seattle University has a strong focus on combining compassion with critical thinking, and its nursing students have the opportunity to gain hands-on clinical experience through rotations at various clinical facilities in the area.
Seattle Pacific University in Seattle is also renowned for its nursing program. With a focus on combining clinical skills with caring and empathy, the School of Health Sciences offers BSN and DNP programs. Nursing students have the opportunity to practice their skills in a simulated hospital environment at the Clinical Performance Lab and complete clinical rotations at hospitals and community agencies throughout the region.
Table: Top Nursing Schools in Washington
School | NCLEX Pass Rate | Tuition per Year |
---|---|---|
Gonzaga University | 94.35% | $12,076 |
Seattle University | 98.70% | $47,560 |
Seattle Pacific University | 89.16% | $49,472 |
These are just a few examples of the best nursing schools in Washington. Each school offers unique programs, clinical opportunities, and tuition rates, allowing you to find a school that aligns with your specific needs and goals. When choosing a nursing program, consider factors such as location, tuition costs, NCLEX pass rates, and programs offered to make an informed decision.
Our Methodology: Ranking the Best Nursing Schools in Washington
Our Methodology: We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools in Washington, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
When evaluating nursing schools, we consider the following factors:
- Academic Quality: We look at factors such as graduation rate, NCLEX pass rate, and accreditation to assess the quality of education provided by each nursing program.
- Affordability: We understand that the cost of education is a significant factor for many students. We analyze the tuition fees and financial aid options available at each school.
- Reputation: We take into account the reputation and recognition of the nursing school, including rankings, reviews, and feedback from students and alumni.
- Program Offerings: We assess the variety and depth of nursing programs offered by each school, including options for associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and advanced practice nursing specialties.
By analyzing these metrics, we are able to generate a ranking of the best nursing schools in Washington. Our goal is to provide you with reliable and comprehensive information to help you make an informed decision about your nursing education.
Featured Online MSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
University | Program | Tuition |
---|---|---|
University 1 | MSN Program 1 | $XX,XXX |
University 2 | MSN Program 2 | $XX,XXX |
University 3 | MSN Program 3 | $XX,XXX |
These featured online MSN programs offer flexibility and convenience for working nurses who wish to advance their careers. Contact the universities directly for more information about their programs and admission requirements.
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Washington
Whether you want an ADN or a BSN, consider costs (tuition and financial aid), the NCLEX-RN pass rate (one of the most important quality measures), and the program’s acceptance rate and admission requirements. Clinical placement options and program logistics should also be factors.
When choosing a nursing program in Washington, it is important to consider the cost of tuition and the availability of financial aid. Nursing school can be expensive, so exploring scholarship opportunities and grants can help alleviate the financial burden. Additionally, understanding the program’s NCLEX-RN pass rate is crucial, as it indicates the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the licensing examination.
Another important factor to consider is the program’s acceptance rate and admission requirements. This can give you an idea of the competitiveness of the program and the likelihood of being accepted. It is also important to consider clinical placement options, as hands-on experience is essential for nursing education.
Lastly, program logistics should be taken into account. Some programs may offer flexible scheduling options, such as evening or weekend classes, which can be beneficial for individuals who need to work while pursuing their nursing degree. It is also important to ensure that the nursing program you choose is accredited, as this guarantees that the program meets the necessary standards of quality and prepares you for licensure.
Table 1: Comparison of Nursing Programs in Washington
Nursing School | Tuition per Year | NCLEX-RN Pass Rate | Acceptance Rate | Clinical Placement Options |
---|---|---|---|---|
University of Washington | $12,076 | 94.35% | 30% | Hospitals in Seattle region |
Seattle University | $47,560 | 98.70% | 45% | Swedish Cherry Hill Medical Center, Seattle Children’s Hospital |
Seattle Pacific University | $49,472 | 89.16% | 40% | EvergreenHealth Medical Center, Virginia Mason Hospital |
Washington State University | $29,487 | 91.18% | 35% | UW Medical Center, Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center |
*Note: The data provided in Table 1 is based on available information and may be subject to change. Please visit the respective nursing school’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Why Become a Nurse in Washington
Nurses are in high demand in Washington, with salaries among the highest in the country. The NCLEX-RN pass rate for nursing programs in Washington is 90.6%, compared to 88% nationally.
High Demand: Washington State is facing a nursing shortage, and the demand for qualified nurses is expected to continue to grow. This means that nurses in Washington have a wide range of job opportunities and excellent job security.
Competitive Salaries: Nurses in Washington enjoy some of the highest salaries in the nation. The average annual salary for registered nurses in Washington is $91,310, compared to the national average of $80,010. This higher earning potential allows nurses to enjoy a comfortable and rewarding career.
Diverse Nursing Workforce: Washington prides itself on its diverse nursing workforce, with nurses coming from various backgrounds and cultures. This diversity enhances the quality of patient care and promotes inclusivity in healthcare.
Financial Aid Options: Washington offers numerous financial aid options for nursing school. The Washington Center for Nursing provides information on scholarships, grants, and loan repayment programs to support aspiring nurses in achieving their educational goals.
Quote:
“Washington is one of the few states that requires hospitals to have a staffing committee to establish nurse-patient plans and policies.” – Nursing in Washington State
Table: Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Washington
Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Average Salary for RNs |
---|---|
Seattle — Tacoma — Bellevue | $95,120 |
Olympia — Tumwater | $93,270 |
Wenatchee | $88,550 |
Spokane — Spokane Valley | $89,890 |
Walla Walla | $91,280 |
- High demand for nurses in Washington
- Competitive salaries
- Diverse nursing workforce
- Financial aid options for nursing school
Overall, becoming a nurse in Washington offers numerous benefits, including high demand, competitive salaries, a diverse nursing workforce, and financial aid options. With the state’s commitment to quality healthcare and the thriving job market, nursing professionals can find a fulfilling and rewarding career in Washington.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Washington
The projected job growth for RNs between 2020 and 2030 in Washington is 20.5%, compared to 12.1% for the nation overall, according to Projections Central. This indicates a strong demand for nurses in the state, offering excellent career prospects for aspiring nursing professionals.
In addition to the promising job growth, the average annual salary for Washington RNs is $91,310, considerably higher than the national average of $80,010, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This higher average salary reflects the competitive nature of the healthcare industry in Washington and the value placed on qualified nursing professionals.
It is important to note that the cost of living in Washington is higher than the national average, with a cost-of-living index of 111.6%. However, the higher salaries for nurses in the state help offset this higher cost of living.
Seattle is one of the highest-paying cities for nurses in Washington, with an average salary of $95,120. Other major cities and metropolitan areas in the state, such as Olympia-Tumwater, Wenatchee, Spokane-Spokane Valley, and Walla Walla, also offer above-average salaries for nurses.
Overall, pursuing a nursing career in Washington can lead to excellent job opportunities and competitive salaries. With the projected job growth and higher-than-average salaries, nurses in the state can enjoy a fulfilling career while making a positive impact on the health and well-being of their communities.