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.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.
Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.
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Washington bridge programs help LPNs transition into higher-level nursing practice.

2027 Best LPN to RN Programs in Washington

When you're an LPN looking to take the next step, finding the right bridge program is crucial. At practicalnursing.org, we've ranked the Best LPN to RN Programs in Washington to help you make an informed choice. Our evaluations consider accreditation, NCLEX-RN pass rates, admission requirements, and program flexibility. Each school on our list offers a solid path to earning an Associate Degree in Nursing, with support for working nurses. Whether you prefer online coursework, evening classes, or a traditional campus setting, Washington has strong options. To understand how we create these rankings, visit our methodology page: https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

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-to-RN track takes licensed practical nurses through an accelerated three-quarter sequence. The curriculum emphasizes medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, mental health, and maternal-child care, supplemented by a Nursing Success course that hones study and test-taking skills before clinical placements at regional healthcare facilities. Admission is selective, requiring competitive TEAS and Kaplan Fundamentals exam scores, a minimum 2.8 GPA, and current LPN licensure. Students benefit from small cohort sizes and dedicated faculty advising. Graduates earn an Associate in Nursing and are prepared for the NCLEX-RN. With ACEN accreditation and projected 16% RN job growth, this program offers a solid pathway to hospital, clinic, and community health careers.

  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 3 quarters program
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts fall/winter/spring
  • 2.8 GPA minimum
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Kaplan Fundamentals Exam required
  • Current LPN licensure required

Associate - LPN-entry, eLearning program option

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed for working LPNs, Lower Columbia College’s eLearning hybrid bridge option combines online coursework with essential in-person clinical experiences, including sessions during the summer quarter. Spanning four quarters, the program covers nursing theory, pharmacology, and patient care, and includes a Nursing Success course to ready students for the NCLEX-RN. Applicants must have at least 1,000 hours of recent LPN practice, a 2.8 GPA, and successful TEAS and Kaplan Fundamentals scores. Only 60 seats are available each cycle, with applications due by June 30, 2026. This ACEN-accredited, state-approved pathway leads to an Associate in Nursing and prepares graduates for diverse settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community health agencies.

  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • Apply by 2026-06-30
  • 2.8 GPA minimum
  • Work experience required
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • eLearning hybrid option
  • 4 quarters including summer
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Columbia Basin College

Pasco, WA - Public 4-Year - columbiabasin.edu

Associate - LPN to BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Columbia Basin College offers a hybrid LPN-to-BSN pathway for working LPNs. Over seven quarters, students combine online coursework with weekend labs and clinicals at the Richland Health Science Center and regional facilities. The curriculum covers evidence-based practice, leadership, community health, and patient-centered care, culminating in eligibility for the NCLEX-RN and a BSN. The program features state-of-the-art simulation labs, small cohorts of 16–18, and holistic admissions considering work and volunteer experience. Up to 35 credits may be awarded through NCLEX test credit. One of only five such programs in Washington, it requires a current Washington LPN license and starts summer 2026; applications close April 6, 2026.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • Complete in 7 academic quarters
  • Apply by 2026-04-06
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts summer
  • Cohort-based structure
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Online coursework with weekend labs
  • State-of-the-art simulation labs

Bachelor's - LPN to BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The LPN to BSN program at Columbia Basin College is accredited by the CCNE and the Washington Board of Nursing. This hybrid format pairs online coursework with weekend clinical labs and state-of-the-art simulation. Complete in seven quarters; start summer 2026, with applications due April 6. Courses span nursing theory, health assessment, community health, and healthcare systems. Graduates are ready for the NCLEX-RN and careers in pediatrics, critical care, public health, or management. Small cohorts of 16 and holistic admissions enhance the experience. Up to 35 credits via NCLEX test credit accelerate degree completion. One of only five in Washington, this program consistently exceeds national NCLEX pass rates.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Washington Board of Nursing accredited
  • Complete in 7 academic quarters
  • Apply by 2026-04-06
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts summer
  • Cohort-based structure
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • One of only 5 in Washington state
  • Small cohort of 16 students
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

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 offers an accelerated LPN to BSN pathway designed for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance their careers. This hybrid program combines online coursework with one in-person class day per week and clinical practicums in community and hospital settings. Students receive 15 credits for their LPN experience and complete the degree in two years. The curriculum covers advanced topics such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, health policy, population health, leadership, and capstone synthesis. Learning occurs in small cohorts with experienced faculty and hands-on simulation labs. The program is CCNE-accredited and approved by the Washington Board of Nursing, with a 92% NCLEX-RN pass rate. No information is available about whether ACT or SAT scores are required for admission.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • 2-Year program
  • Complete in just two years
  • 92% licensure pass rate
  • Cohort-based structure
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Capstone required
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Financial aid available
#4

Wenatchee Valley College

Wenatchee, WA - Public 4-Year - wvc.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The LPN to BSN track at Wenatchee Valley College is a hybrid program completed in six quarters, requiring a current Washington LPN license and 45 general education credits. The curriculum covers pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, clinical judgment, community and public health, nursing research, health policy, leadership, health equity, organizational change, and healthcare economics. Students complete clinical rotations in acute care, community health, and psychiatric settings, plus a leadership portfolio and capstone. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA, prerequisite courses, a $50 application fee, healthcare provider CPR, background check, drug screening, and physical ability to lift 50 pounds. Graduates are prepared for hospital, clinic, and community health roles, with a BSN enabling leadership and specialized positions.

  • 2.0 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Capstone required
  • $50 application fee
  • Hybrid on-campus and online courses
  • Requires current WA LPN license
  • Physical ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Background check and drug screening
  • Healthcare provider CPR required
  • Forty-five general education credits prerequisite
#5

Skagit Valley College

Mount Vernon, WA - Public 4-Year - skagit.edu

Associate - Nursing, Registered Nursing, AAS

Campus Based - Visit Website

Skagit Valley College’s LPN to RN bridge program offers Washington State LPNs an accelerated route to an Associate in Applied Science in Registered Nursing. Students enter directly into the second quarter of RN coursework, building on prior nursing knowledge. The curriculum covers medical-surgical nursing, obstetrics, pediatrics, and complex patient care through lectures, labs, and clinical practicums. This full-time, 4–5 quarter program requires 99 credit hours plus prerequisite courses. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN and can pursue careers in acute or critical care. A key advantage is the seamless transition to a Bachelor of Applied Science degree, supporting long-term career growth.

  • Complete in 4 to 5 quarters
  • 99 total credit hours
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Designed for Washington State LPNs
  • Enter in second quarter of RN courses
  • Eligible for NCLEX-RN licensing exam
  • Full-time program over 4-5 quarters
  • Pathway to high-wage healthcare careers

Associate - Advanced Placement (LPN) Registered Nursing, ATA

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Advanced Placement (LPN) Registered Nursing ATA program at Skagit Valley College’s Whidbey Island Campus gives licensed practical nurses a direct path to registered nursing. This bridge option concentrates on the second year of the RN curriculum, integrating LPN students with associate degree nursing cohorts. Completed over 99 credits, the program includes prerequisites, related coursework, and clinical experiences emphasizing critical thinking and patient care. Graduates earn an Associate of Technical Arts degree and qualify for the NCLEX-RN. The program’s structure is intensive but leverages existing PN education, preparing nurses for hospital, clinic, and community health positions in Washington’s high-demand healthcare market.

  • 99 total credit hours
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Located on Whidbey Island Campus
  • Pathway for PN graduates
  • Focus on second year of RN program

Associate - Nursing, Registered Nursing, AAS (Whidbey Island Campus)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Skagit Valley College’s Whidbey Island Campus offers a part-time LPN to RN bridge leading to an Associate of Applied Science in Registered Nursing. Spanning six quarters including summer, this 99-credit program is designed for working LPNs seeking flexibility. Coursework builds on LPN foundations, covering obstetrics, pediatrics, medical-surgical, and geriatric nursing, along with healthcare ethics and a practicum. General education and nursing prerequisites provide a solid academic base. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN and can work as registered nurses, critical care nurses, or acute care nurses. The part-time format makes it a practical choice for LPNs advancing their careers while employed.

  • Complete in part-time degree path (6 quarters, including summer)
  • 99 total credit hours
  • Part-time available
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Requires current Washington LPN license
  • Pathway for PN graduates to high-demand careers
  • Focuses on second year of RN program
  • Sample careers: RN, Critical Care, Acute Care
  • Prerequisites: biology, chemistry, English, math
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2025 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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.

2027 Fastest LPN to RN Programs in Washington

We've found the quickest LPN to RN programs in Washington. For working nurses, the shortest route to a degree matters. Shorter programs reduce time away from work and speed up career growth. This table shows top options with program highlights, graduation rates, and retention. Whether in Seattle, Tacoma, or Spokane, these programs help nurses advance efficiently. Choosing a short path saves time and money while increasing earning potential. Review the table below to find the best fit.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Saint Martin's University
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • 2-Year program
  • Complete in just two years
  • 92% licensure pass rate
  • Cohort-based structure
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Capstone required
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 11 :1
Green River College
  • NLN CNEA accredited
  • $28,000 total program tuition
  • 2-Year program
  • 90 total credit hours
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • Cohort-based structure
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Military benefits accepted
  • Graduation Rate: 39%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 11 :1
Tacoma Community College
  • ACEN accredited
  • Entrance exam required
  • Exams: TEAS
  • 1-Year program
  • Complete in one-year period
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts winter
  • 2.5 GPA minimum
  • Graduation Rate: 32%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 17 :1
*IPEDS 2025 dataset, accessed via NCES Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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.

2027 Affordable LPN to RN Programs in Washington

In Washington, LPN to RN programs offer a practical path to advance your nursing career. We've put together a table below that compares schools, program types, and what each has to offer. From Seattle to Spokane, these affordable options make it easier to reach your goals without worrying about high tuition. Whether you're seeking an associate or bachelor's degree, the list includes key highlights and tuition ranges. Many of these cost-effective programs also provide flexible schedules, allowing you to balance work and study. Check the table to find the program that fits your needs.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Bellingham Technical College
  • ACEN, NCQAC accredited
  • $12,600 total program tuition
  • $268 per credit
  • 47 total credit hours
  • 100% licensure pass rate
  • Cohort-based structure
  • 96% job placement rate
  • $114,400 median earnings
  • $3,500 - $5,300 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $4,600 - $7,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Shoreline Community College
  • Starts fall/winter/spring
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Lectures, skills labs, clinical experience
  • Hospital staff nurse, home health nurse roles
  • Prepares for critical care, ER, OR roles
  • Additional fees: $150-$275 per quarter
  • Federal aid and scholarships available
  • $4,100 - $6,100 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $6,300 - $9,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Saint Martin's University
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • 2-Year program
  • Complete in just two years
  • 92% licensure pass rate
  • Cohort-based structure
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Capstone required
  • $36,400 - $54,600 (Undergraduate)
*Source: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2025 survey data.

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.

VS

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

We've pulled together a list of LPN to RN programs in Washington to make the search easier. In the table below, find each school's city and state, along with highlights of what the program offers. For full details, follow the link to the school's official program page. Whether starting fresh or building on experience, these options cover a range of paths.
Jump to City:

Auburn, WA

Green River College

  • Associate - LPN to BSN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) accredited
    • $28,000 total program tuition
    • 2-Year program
    • 90 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/winter
    • 100% licensure pass rate
  • Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • NLN CNEA accredited
    • $28,000 total program tuition
    • 2-Year program
    • 90 total credit hours
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • Cohort-based structure
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Military benefits accepted

Bellingham, WA

Bellingham Technical College

  • Associate - LPN-RN Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN, NCQAC accredited
    • $12,600 total program tuition
    • $268 per credit
    • 47 total credit hours
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 96% job placement rate
    • $114,400 median earnings

Bremerton, WA

Olympic College

  • Associate - Transition to Associate Degree Nursing (LPN to RN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • 90 total credit hours
    • Starts spring
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Four quarters plus one course
    • Admission deadline August 31

Lacey, WA

Saint Martin's University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing LPN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 2-Year program
    • Complete in just two years
    • 92% licensure pass rate
    • Cohort-based structure
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Capstone required

Lakewood, WA

Pierce College District

  • Associate - LPN to RN

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN, WABON accredited
    • 2 concentration options
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts spring/summer
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available

Longview, WA

Lower Columbia College

  • Associate - LPN-entry, campus-based program option

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 3 quarters program
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/winter/spring
    • 2.8 GPA minimum
    • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Associate - LPN-entry, eLearning program option

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • Apply by 2026-06-30
    • 2.8 GPA minimum
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Mount Vernon, WA

Skagit Valley College

  • Associate - Advanced Placement (LPN) Registered Nursing, ATA

    Campus Based - Website

    • 99 total credit hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Located on Whidbey Island Campus
    • Pathway for PN graduates
    • Focus on second year of RN program
  • Associate - Nursing, Registered Nursing, AAS

    Campus Based - Website

    • Complete in 4 to 5 quarters
    • 99 total credit hours
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Designed for Washington State LPNs
    • Enter in second quarter of RN courses
    • Eligible for NCLEX-RN licensing exam
    • Full-time program over 4-5 quarters
  • Associate - Nursing, Registered Nursing, AAS

    Concentration: Whidbey Island Campus - Campus Based - Website

    • Complete in part-time degree path (6 quarters, including summer)
    • 99 total credit hours
    • Part-time available
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Requires current Washington LPN license
    • Pathway for PN graduates to high-demand careers
    • Focuses on second year of RN program

Pasco, WA

Columbia Basin College

  • Associate - LPN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • Complete in 7 academic quarters
    • Apply by 2026-04-06
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts summer
    • Cohort-based structure
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Bachelor's - LPN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Washington Board of Nursing accredited
    • Complete in 7 academic quarters
    • Apply by 2026-04-06
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts summer
    • Cohort-based structure
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Shoreline, WA

Shoreline Community College

  • Associate - LPN to RN Advanced Placement Option AAS-T

    Campus Based - Website

    • Starts fall/winter/spring
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Lectures, skills labs, clinical experience
    • Hospital staff nurse, home health nurse roles
    • Prepares for critical care, ER, OR roles
    • Additional fees: $150-$275 per quarter
    • Federal aid and scholarships available

Tacoma, WA

Tacoma Community College

  • Associate - LPN to RN Associate in Nursing (DTA/MRP)

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 1-Year program
    • Complete in one-year period
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts winter
    • 2.5 GPA minimum

Wenatchee, WA

Wenatchee Valley College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 2.0 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Capstone required
    • $50 application fee
    • Hybrid on-campus and online courses
    • Requires current WA LPN license
    • Physical ability to lift 50 pounds
    • Background check and drug screening
*IPEDS 2025 survey data, provided by NCES, U.S. Department of Education.