Best Washington LPN to RN/BSN Programs 2026
Washington provides LPN to RN programs that guide students through advanced study and clinical experience. Coursework includes nursing leadership and patient care. Clinical placements prepare graduates for RN licensure and career advancement.
2026 Best LPN to RN Programs in Washington
Columbia Basin College
Pasco, WA - Public 4-Year - columbiabasin.edu
Associate - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia Basin College's LPN to BSN hybrid program enables licensed practical nurses to advance their careers over seven academic quarters, blending online coursework with weekend clinicals for flexibility. It features state-of-the-art simulation labs, a holistic admissions process, and a cohort size of 16 students, offering up to 35 NCLEX credits. As one of only five such programs in Washington, it prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and diverse nursing roles without requiring an ACT or SAT entrance exam, focusing on critical thinking and patient-centered care.
- Online and weekend classes
- 7 academic quarters long
- 16 students per cohort
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- 35 NCLEX credits available
- Holistic admissions process
- Prepares for RN licensure
- One of 5 LPN to BSN programs statewide
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
At Columbia Basin College, the LPN to BSN program spans seven quarters in a hybrid format, combining online classes with weekend clinical and lab sessions to suit working nurses. With a small annual cohort of 16 students, it includes options for NCLEX exam credits and multiple prerequisite pathways, emphasizing critical thinking and professional growth. This program, unique as one of five statewide, leads to RN licensure and does not mandate an ACT or SAT entrance exam, fostering career advancement in various healthcare settings.
- 7 quarter hybrid nursing program
- Online classes, weekend clinicals
- One of 5 LPN to BSN programs statewide
- 16 students admitted annually
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- NCLEX exam credit option
- Holistic admissions process
- Multiple prerequisite options
- Clinical experiences at local facilities
Lower Columbia College
Longview, WA - Public 4-Year - lowercolumbia.edu
Associate - LPN-entry, campus-based program option
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lower Columbia College's campus-based LPN-entry program enables licensed practical nurses to become registered nurses through a focused 3-quarter curriculum. Emphasizing hands-on clinical training and academic rigor, it offers flexible quarterly starts and prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN. Admission requires an unencumbered LPN license, prerequisite completion, and competitive scoring, with no concentration specified.
- 3-quarter campus-based program
- For licensed practical nurses
- Multiple quarterly entry options
- Competitive admission process
- Direct transfer degree option
- Clinical skills training included
- Prepare for RN licensure exam
Associate - LPN-entry, eLearning program option
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lower Columbia College's hybrid LPN-entry program combines eLearning and campus elements for flexibility, allowing LPNs to earn an Associate in Nursing with Direct Transfer Agreement. It requires at least 1,000 LPN work hours, focuses on critical thinking and patient care, and prepares for multi-state RN licensure via competitive admission, with no concentration highlighted.
- Hybrid campus and eLearning options
- Multiple program entry pathways
- Multi-state RN licensure preparation
- Minimum 1,000 LPN work hours required
- ACEN accredited program
- Competitive admission process
- Focuses on critical nursing skills
Walla Walla University
College Place, WA - Private 4-year - wallawalla.edu
Associate - L.P.N. to B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Walla Walla University's L.P.N. to B.S. Nursing Entry program, based at the Portland campus, provides a direct route for Licensed Practical Nurses to achieve a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Tailored for working professionals, it emphasizes building on existing clinical skills through prior learning validation and advanced standing opportunities. Prerequisites can be completed at accredited institutions with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and the program requires an unrestricted LPN license and clinical experience. As a bachelor's-level program, it may require entrance exams like the ACT or SAT, but specifics should be verified with the university.
- Portland campus program
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 85+ transferable credits
- Unrestricted LPN license
- Advanced standing possible
- Clinical experience required
- Standardized exam validation
Bachelor's - L.P.N. to B.S. Entry
Campus Based - Visit Website
At Walla Walla University's Portland campus, the L.P.N. to B.S. Entry program enables licensed practical nurses to convert their credentials into a BSN efficiently. This program demands a 3.0 GPA and over 85 transferable credits, offering up to 16 nursing credits for advanced standing. It includes standardized exam validation and comprehensive prerequisites to accelerate degree completion for career advancement. Since it is a bachelor's program, entrance exams such as the ACT or SAT might be required; applicants should confirm details directly with the institution.
- Portland campus location
- 3.0 GPA required
- 85+ transferable credits
- Unrestricted LPN license
- 16 potential nursing credits
- Standardized exam validation
- Comprehensive prerequisite requirements
Saint Martin's University
Lacey, WA - Private 4-year - stmartin.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Martin's University provides a hybrid LPN to BSN pathway tailored for working LPNs, blending online coursework with in-person classes held once weekly and separate clinical practicums. This two-year program awards 15 credits for prior LPN experience, supporting career advancement with a curriculum led by practicing nurse educators. It requires a 3.0 GPA for admission but does not mandate an ACT or SAT exam, emphasizing accessibility. The program is CCNE accredited and boasts a 92% NCLEX pass rate, with cohort-based learning and scholarship opportunities enhancing student success in Washington's nursing landscape.
- Two-year BSN completion program
- Hybrid learning model
- One day weekly classes
- 15 credits from LPN license
- 92% NCLEX pass rate
- CCNE accredited program
- Cohort model support
- Clinical experiences in community
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Scholarships available
Wenatchee Valley College
Wenatchee, WA - Public 4-Year - wvc.edu
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Wenatchee Valley College offers an LPN to BSN program designed for licensed practical nurses seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This hybrid format blends online learning with on-campus components, allowing for flexible study over approximately two years. The curriculum spans 90 credits, focusing on advanced nursing competencies, patient-centered care, and professional growth. With small class sizes capped at 15 students, the program includes extensive clinical experiences in Washington to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and roles in diverse healthcare settings. No specific entrance exam is mentioned as required for this bachelor's level program.
- Hybrid learning format
- 90 credit total program
- 6 quarter completion timeline
- 15 student maximum class size
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- 75 nursing core credits
- Clinical experiences in Washington
Washington LPN to RN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Washington LPN to RN bridge programs are designed for currently licensed practical nurses who want advanced standing in an Associate Degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing pathway. Typical requirements include:
- Current, unencumbered Washington LPN license and graduation from an approved practical nursing program
- Completion of prerequisite college courses with minimum grades, commonly including Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs, Microbiology with lab, English composition, college-level math or statistics, lifespan development or psychology, and nutrition, with some programs also requiring introductory chemistry
- Competitive prerequisite GPA, often in the 2.5 to 3.0 range or higher
- Current American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers certification
- Clear criminal background check, drug screen, and compliance with required immunizations, TB screening, and physical exam for clinical placement
- Proof of recent practice or clinical readiness, such as verified work experience as an LPN or a clinical skills assessment, depending on the program
- Placement testing as required by the college, and in some cases a nursing readiness exam
Applicants with recent paid LPN experience may receive advanced placement through a transition course, skills validation, or credit for prior learning, which can shorten time to completion.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN to RN curricula build on practical nursing experience and emphasize professional RN scope and judgment. Students typically complete a transition course, then move into:
- Advanced medical surgical nursing across adult lifespan, including complex and chronic conditions
- Maternal newborn and pediatric nursing
- Mental health and gerontological nursing
- Health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology with safe medication administration
- Nursing leadership, quality improvement, and interprofessional teamwork
- Community and population health, evidence based practice, informatics, and research concepts, especially in BSN pathways
Learning occurs through classroom or online theory, high fidelity simulation and skills lab, and supervised clinical rotations in hospitals, long term care, community health, and ambulatory settings. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX RN and enter entry level RN practice.
In Washington, nursing education programs must be approved by the Washington Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission for graduates to qualify for RN licensure. Many programs also hold national nursing accreditation through ACEN or CCNE, and colleges are typically institutionally accredited by regional accreditors. Approval and accreditation support eligibility for licensure, financial aid, transfer to higher degrees, and employer recognition.
LPN to RN Schools and Classes
Across Washington, LPN to RN bridge options are available at community and technical colleges for the ADN route and at a limited number of universities for LPN to BSN or upper division BSN entry after additional prerequisites. Programs are offered in urban, suburban, and rural regions, and many operate on a quarter system.
Coursework commonly includes an LPN to RN transition course, health assessment across the lifespan, pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology and dosage calculation, adult complex care, family nursing, pediatrics, maternal newborn, behavioral health, community health, and leadership with a precepted capstone. Expect intensive skills and simulation labs that emphasize IV therapy, clinical judgment, and care coordination, followed by direct patient care in multiple clinical settings.
Career Outlook
Registered nurses in Washington are employed in acute care hospitals, outpatient clinics, surgical centers, long term care and skilled nursing, home health and hospice, behavioral health, schools, and public and community health agencies. Schedules range from 12 hour shifts to weekday clinic hours, with options for nights or weekends depending on the setting.
Statewide demand for RNs is driven by population growth, aging, and the need for care in both urban and rural communities. Compared with LPN roles, RN positions offer a broader scope that includes comprehensive assessment, independent nursing diagnosis within the RN scope, care planning, delegation, and management of complex patients. RNs have wider access to hospital employment and specialty areas and typically earn higher wages than LPNs. With experience and further education, RNs in Washington can advance into charge roles, specialty certifications, public health, case management, education, and graduate study.
LPN to RN Program Length
- Full time bridge, ADN: commonly 3 to 5 academic quarters after prerequisites and transition coursework, about 12 to 18 months
- Part time bridge, ADN: approximately 18 to 30 months after prerequisites, with reduced course loads each term
- Evening or weekend options: offered by select colleges, often part time or hybrid, with similar total credit requirements and extended timelines due to clinical scheduling
- LPN to BSN: typically 2.5 to 3 years of upper division nursing after completion of general education and science prerequisites, often full time
Time to completion varies by quarter or semester calendars, credit awarded for prior learning, and availability of clinical placements.
2026 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Washington
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Martin's University |
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| Wenatchee Valley College |
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| Bellingham Technical College |
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Tuition and Costs
Costs differ by institution type and residency:
- Public community and technical college LPN to ADN: roughly 7,000 to 15,000 for in state tuition for the nursing coursework, plus college and program fees
- Public university LPN to BSN or upper division BSN: approximately 20,000 to 35,000 for in state tuition for the nursing portion, higher at private institutions
- Books, digital resources, and supplies: about 1,000 to 2,500 across the program
- Uniforms, shoes, stethoscope, skills lab kits: about 200 to 600
- Clinical compliance costs, immunizations, background check, drug screen, BLS renewal, and liability insurance: about 200 to 600
- Licensure expenses after graduation, including Washington RN application, fingerprinting, and the NCLEX RN exam fee
Housing costs in Washington vary widely by region. Students should budget approximately 1,200 to 2,300 per month for a modest one bedroom rental, with higher costs in the central Puget Sound area and lower costs in many parts of central and eastern Washington. Transportation and parking for clinical sites, child care, and health insurance should also be planned for.
2026 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Washington
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Bellingham Technical College |
|
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| Shoreline Community College |
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| Green River College |
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Can I Take LPN to RN Classes Online?
Washington programs commonly use hybrid delivery. Didactic coursework may be offered in person, online, or in a blended format, while skills labs and clinical education occur face to face. High quality simulation is used to supplement, not replace, direct patient care. Fully online programs that lead to initial RN licensure still require in person clinical rotations at approved Washington sites, and programs must be approved by the state nursing commission. If you are considering an out of state online option, verify that it is authorized for clinical placements in Washington and meets state approval standards before enrolling.
LPN to RN Licensure Requirements in Washington
NCLEX-RN Exam Information
Graduates of LPN to ADN or LPN to BSN bridge programs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses to become licensed in Washington. Candidates apply to the Washington State Board of Nursing for RN licensure by examination and register for the NCLEX-RN through the NCLEX program. After the Board determines eligibility, you receive an Authorization to Test and can schedule your exam. Results are sent directly to the Board; you may not practice as an RN until Washington issues your license.
Retesting follows NCLEX rules, including the standard 45-day wait between attempts. Washington’s Board provides state-specific application instructions, fees, and background check requirements for exam applicants.
RN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
Washington licenses out-of-state RNs by endorsement. If you hold an active, unencumbered RN license from another U.S. state or territory and have passed the NCLEX-RN, you can apply for Washington licensure by endorsement by submitting an application, verification of your original license, education, a background check, and the required fees to the Washington State Board of Nursing. Washington does not maintain separate reciprocity agreements with individual states; recognition of other states’ licenses occurs through the endorsement process.
Washington became a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) on January 31, 2023. Nurses and students can review current compact participation and multistate license rules at the Nurse Licensure Compact. As a member of the Compact, a Washington RN license may be a multistate license, allowing practice in other NLC states, or a single-state license, valid only in Washington, depending on the nurse’s primary state of residency. Nurses holding a multistate license from another compact state can practice in Washington without obtaining a separate Washington license, provided their primary state of residence is a compact state.1w
Licensure Requirements
The Washington State Board of Nursing regulates RN licensure, education standards, and practice. To obtain an RN license by examination, applicants generally must:
- Graduate from an approved nursing education program such as an ADN or BSN, including LPN to RN bridge programs.
- Submit an RN application and fees to the Washington State Board of Nursing.
- Arrange for official transcripts sent directly from the school to the Board.
- Register for and pass the NCLEX-RN.
- Complete required state and national background checks and provide any additional documents the Board requests.
LPNs who complete an accredited LPN to RN program follow the same RN-by-exam pathway. Applicants licensed in another jurisdiction use the endorsement route and must provide license verification, evidence of NCLEX-RN passage, background checks, and fees as directed by the Board.
License Renewal
Washington RN licenses renew every two years. Renewal is completed with the Washington State Board of Nursing and requires meeting the state’s continuing competency standards. RNs must complete at least 8 hours of continuing education and 96 hours of active nursing practice every two-year renewal period. Nurses must maintain documentation of their continuing competency, including education hours and practice hours, and provide it if selected for audit.
Complete your required hours during the renewal period immediately preceding your license expiration and submit your renewal before the deadline to avoid late fees or a lapse in licensure. If a license expires, additional steps and fees may be required for late renewal or reinstatement as set by the Board.
Average LPN State Salary in Washington
$79,970
2024 LPN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Average RN State Salary in Washington
$115,740
2024 RN Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
LPN to ADN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Typically 12 to 18 months.
Credential Awarded:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Associate in Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes
Program Focus:
This pathway concentrates on the fundamental clinical skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level RN positions, preparing graduates for direct patient care in various healthcare settings.
Average In-State Tuition in Washington:
Approximately $7,000 to $15,000 for the entire program.
Best For:
LPNs who want the quickest and most affordable route to becoming an RN and entering the workforce.
School Types:
Community and technical colleges.
LPN to BSN Bridge Program
Program Length:
Generally 2 to 3 years.
Credential Awarded:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
NCLEX-RN Eligibility:
Yes
Program Focus:
This comprehensive curriculum builds upon LPN experience with advanced coursework in nursing theory, research, leadership, and public health.
Average In-State Tuition in Washington:
Approximately $23,000 to $29,000 or more annually for the university portion of the program.
Best For:
LPNs aiming for leadership roles, specialized fields, or future graduate studies, and who want to enhance their career and professional mobility.
School Types:
Universities and four-year colleges, with some programs offered in a hybrid format.
Choose LPN→ADN If:
- Faster Entry into the RN Role: These programs offer a quicker transition to becoming a registered nurse, allowing for a faster increase in earning potential and responsibilities.
- Lower Cost: Tuition and fees at community and technical colleges are generally more affordable than at universities, making this a more budget-friendly option.
- Foundation for Further Education: An ADN serves as a solid base for later pursuing a BSN through an RN to BSN bridge program, allowing individuals to work as an RN while continuing their education.
- Focus on Core Clinical Skills: The curriculum is centered on the essential hands-on skills needed for immediate employment in a variety of healthcare settings.
Choose LPN→BSN If:
- Broader Career Opportunities: A BSN is often required for leadership, management, and specialized nursing roles, and may be preferred by many healthcare employers.
- Higher Earning Potential: RNs with a BSN typically have a higher long-term earning potential compared to those with an ADN.
- Pathway to Advanced Degrees: The BSN is the necessary foundation for pursuing Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees.
- In-depth Knowledge and Skills: The curriculum provides a deeper understanding of evidence-based practice, nursing research, and healthcare systems, preparing graduates for more complex roles in the evolving healthcare landscape.
List of LPN to RN Programs in Washington
Aberdeen, WA
Grays Harbor College
- Associate - Transition from LPN to ADN
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- 2.00 course credits.
- Includes clinical hours.
- Focus on nursing process.
- Sterile procedures training.
- Medication administration safety.
- Intravenous therapeutics instruction.
- Requires LPN license.
Auburn, WA
Green River College
- Associate - LPN to BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year full-time program
- 90 total credit program
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- 32-student cohort size
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Selective admissions process
- Fall quarter start date
- Approximately $23,000 total cost
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year full-time program
- 90 total credits
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Approximately $23,000 total cost
- Selective admissions process
- 32-student cohort size
- In-person learning format
Bellingham, WA
Bellingham Technical College
- Associate - LPN-RN Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Nationally accredited nursing program
- DTA/MRP associate degree
- Total program credits: 47
- 93% NCLEX first-time pass rate
- 91% graduate job placement rate
- Face-to-face clinical and classroom instruction
- Pathway to BSN completion
- Total tuition around $13,200
Bremerton, WA
Olympic College
- Associate - Transition to Associate Degree Nursing (LPN to RN)
Campus Based - Website
- Four-quarter specialized nursing curriculum
- Prepares LPNs for RN licensure
- Accredited nursing program
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Requires prerequisite science courses
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Diverse healthcare career opportunities
- Professional role development focus
College Place, WA
Walla Walla University
- Associate - L.P.N. to B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Portland campus program
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 85+ transferable credits
- Unrestricted LPN license
- Advanced standing possible
- Clinical experience required
- Standardized exam validation
- Bachelor's - L.P.N. to B.S. Entry
Campus Based - Website
- Portland campus location
- 3.0 GPA required
- 85+ transferable credits
- Unrestricted LPN license
- 16 potential nursing credits
- Standardized exam validation
- Comprehensive prerequisite requirements
Lacey, WA
Saint Martin's University
- Bachelor's - Nursing LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Two-year BSN completion program
- Hybrid learning model
- One day weekly classes
- 15 credits from LPN license
- 92% NCLEX pass rate
- CCNE accredited program
- Cohort model support
- Clinical experiences in community
Lakewood, WA
Clover Park Technical College
- Associate - LPN-RN Transition Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time evening/weekend program
- Five-quarter Associate Degree
- 42 nursing credits required
- Clinical experiences included
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Pre-accreditation status NLN
- High employability rates
- Flexible learning environment
Pierce College District
- Associate - LPN to RN
Campus Based - Website
- Four nursing program options
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Transfer to four-year universities
- Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination
Longview, WA
Lower Columbia College
- Associate - LPN-entry, campus-based program option
Campus Based - Website
- 3-quarter campus-based program
- For licensed practical nurses
- Multiple quarterly entry options
- Competitive admission process
- Direct transfer degree option
- Clinical skills training included
- Prepare for RN licensure exam
- Associate - LPN-entry, eLearning program option
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid campus and eLearning options
- Multiple program entry pathways
- Multi-state RN licensure preparation
- Minimum 1,000 LPN work hours required
- ACEN accredited program
- Competitive admission process
- Focuses on critical nursing skills
Mount Vernon, WA
Skagit Valley College
- Associate - RN Advanced Entry AAS Degree
Campus Based - Website
- Advanced entry for LPNs
- 99 total credits
- Full-time program
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Flexible placement options
Pasco, WA
Columbia Basin College
- Associate - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and weekend classes
- 7 academic quarters long
- 16 students per cohort
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- 35 NCLEX credits available
- Holistic admissions process
- Prepares for RN licensure
- One of 5 LPN to BSN programs statewide
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 7 quarter hybrid nursing program
- Online classes, weekend clinicals
- One of 5 LPN to BSN programs statewide
- 16 students admitted annually
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- NCLEX exam credit option
- Holistic admissions process
- Multiple prerequisite options
Shoreline, WA
Shoreline Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Advanced Placement Option AAS-T
Campus Based - Website
- 110-credit AAS-T program
- Advanced placement for LPNs
- On-campus clinical training
- Flexible start quarters
- Pathway to BSN programs
- Good employment outlook
- Multiple career opportunities
- Varied healthcare sector options
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Associate in Nursing (DTA/MRP)
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time, one-year program
- Accredited by ACEN
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Winter quarter admission
- Requires active LPN license
- Advanced clinical training
- Comprehensive prerequisites required
- Weighted lottery admission process
Wenatchee, WA
Wenatchee Valley College
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 90 credit total program
- 6 quarter completion timeline
- 15 student maximum class size
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- 75 nursing core credits
- Clinical experiences in Washington
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