Nurse Researcher Review of RN to BSN Programs
An RN to BSN degree empowers Washington’s nurses with enhanced knowledge in healthcare policy, research, leadership, and population health. The RN to BSN program, typically completed within two years, bolsters the nurses’ ability to provide top-tier patient care, adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape, and step into leadership roles.
As the healthcare system grows more complex, the need for BSN-prepared nurses surges, setting the stage for those carrying this credential to make a significant impact on Washington’s healthcare landscape. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about the quality of care, improving patient outcomes, and creating a robust and resilient nursing workforce ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.
You’ll find nursing school rankings, costs, licensure requirements, expected salaries for BSN-prepared nurses as well as guides to admissions requirements, expected classes and courses you’ll take, the availability of online programs. You’ll also financial aid options, scholarships for Washington nurses, understanding the benefits of earning a BSN degree beyond just the salary perks, and you’ll find a wealth of RN to BSN resources. As an ADN, you’ll want to know the latest status of 80 Percent BSN Initiative in Washington.
Ultimately, this comprehensive resource aims to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your nursing career trajectory.
Best Ranked RN to BSN Programs in Washington
#1 in Washington
Walla Walla University
![5 Best RN to BSN Programs in Washington [year] 2 Ranking Seal](https://www.rncareers.org/wp-content/plugins/cds-client-s/images/ranking-seal.png?2024)
- 204 S College Ave, College Place, WA - 99324-1198
- (509) 527-2615
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, RN to BSN
![5 Best RN to BSN Programs in Washington [year] 6 Person](https://www.rncareers.org/wp-content/plugins/cds-client-s/images/person.png)
University Information
Total Faculty: 88
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $942
Book and Supplies: N/A
Percent Received Aid: 100%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $13,723
Percent Admitted: N/A
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
Graduation Rate: 59%
Highlights for RN to BSN Students
- Online Flexibility: Take advantage of asynchronous online classes that are designed to be convenient and fit into your hectic schedule.
- Dedicated Support: Make the most of an Online Engagement Coordinator's help to guarantee a seamless and productive online learning experience.
- Campus Access: Make use of the cutting-edge labs and facilities on campus for a well-rounded education that combines online and in-person instruction.
- Professional Growth: The RN to BSN curriculum creates pathways to more senior nursing employment, including management and supervisory positions.
- Greater Earning Potential: RN to BSN graduates frequently experience a notable rise in their earning potential.
- Broader Knowledge Base: The curriculum improves your professional competency by broadening your understanding of nursing from practical skills to theoretical knowledge.
- Networking Opportunities: Establish connections with alumni and nursing professionals to further your career.
About Walla Walla University's Nursing School
Expanding your nursing career with a BSN degree? Walla Walla University's Nursing School presents a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Small class sizes, a curriculum full of international and cross-cultural experiences, and a faith-based approach to patient care set the university apart as a leader in nursing education. At Walla Walla University, you'll find more than just a nursing program. It's a place that combines knowledge and faith. The institution guarantees that your education goes well beyond the classroom with its dedication to experiential learning, international study tours, and partnerships. Imagine receiving guidance from knowledgeable and engrossing faculty members as you complete 800-1000 hours of clinical experience in a variety of healthcare settings, from acute care to community health.
The Walla Walla University nursing baccalaureate program's accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is proof of its high caliber. The Portland location, which is next to Adventist Health Portland, provides an immersive experience for junior and senior level nursing courses, while the College Place campus establishes the groundwork for your nursing career.
Small class sizes enhance the learning environment. This is coupled with a number of academic resources, such as the Donald Blake Center and the Center for Educational Equity and Diversity. The RN-to-BSN program at Walla Walla University is designed to support your goals and prepare you for a fulfilling nursing profession, regardless of whether you're transferring or starting over.
About Walla Walla University's RN to BSN Program
If you want to progress in your career as a nurse, the RN to BSN program at Walla Walla University may be your ticket to new prospects. I know how important it is to choose a curriculum that fits both your personal and professional objectives because I am a nurse.
For nurses, Walla Walla University's RN to BSN program provides a smooth transition. The program is designed to meet your needs, regardless of whether you choose to begin at the Portland site or the College Place campus. You'll experience a blend of general studies, pre-requisite courses, and nursing-specific classes, culminating in a comprehensive BSN degree.
The program's flexibility is noteworthy, especially for working nurses. With options for fall entry at College Place or summer entry in Portland, the university ensures that you can start your journey at a time that suits you best.
The true value of this program lies in its personalized approach. Smaller class sizes mean more one-on-one time with experienced faculty, and the extensive clinical hours ensure you're well-prepared for the realities of nursing.
Hence, the RN to BSN program at Walla Walla University is notable for its extensive curriculum, flexible start times, and dedication to providing holistic, religiously-based nursing care. This curriculum equips nurses to lead their profession in addition to providing education. Visit this link to learn more about this enriching program.
#2 in Washington
University of Washington
![5 Best RN to BSN Programs in Washington [year] 2 Ranking Seal](https://www.rncareers.org/wp-content/plugins/cds-client-s/images/ranking-seal.png?2024)
- 1400 NE Campus Parkway, Seattle, WA - 98195-4550
- (206) 543-2100
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursingg, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, RN to BSN
![5 Best RN to BSN Programs in Washington [year] 6 Person](https://www.rncareers.org/wp-content/plugins/cds-client-s/images/person.png)
University Information
Total Faculty: 7812
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $12,076
Book and Supplies: $900
Percent Received Aid: 56%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $14,519
Percent Admitted: 56%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 29%
Graduation Rate: 82%
Highlights for RN to BSN Students
- Streamlined Learning: You can achieve your BSN more quickly by enrolling in classes that build on your prior nursing knowledge.
- Career Advancement: With a BSN degree, you’ll have access to leadership roles and specialty nursing fields.
- Flexible Scheduling: Thanks to the program’s flexibility, you can juggle your coursework and work commitments.
- Friendly Community: Connect with a team of peers and mentors who share your commitment to nursing.
- Dynamic Teaching Approaches: Curriculum instruction uses a blend of traditional and contemporary approaches.
- Instant Application: There are various opportunities for direct application of classroom knowledge.
About the University of Washington's Nursing School
The School of Nursing at the University of Washington is a center for innovation, diversity, and leadership in the nursing profession. It has been a leader in nursing education for more than 27 years. In terms of reputation, it has consistently ranked among the top institutions for nursing studies.
Every facet of the school's curricula demonstrates its dedication to developing future leaders and advancing nursing science via research. Notably, the RN to BSN program is crafted with a keen understanding of the evolving healthcare landscape. Here, you start a journey that opens doors to leadership positions and specializations, broadening your professional options.
The program's strength is its diversity-driven approach, which values the range of viewpoints and life experiences. This inclusivity is a practiced culture that is essential to the greatness the School stands for. The University of Washington's progressive vision blends seamlessly with its historic heritage in the center of Seattle.
About the University of Washington's RN to BSN Program
As a nurse, you're constantly seeking ways to expand your skills and knowledge. The RN to BSN program at the University of Washington Bothell offers just that—a transformative educational journey tailored for practicing nurses.
This program offers a smooth transition from an associate's degree in nursing to a BSN through a dual admissions approach in collaboration with Everett Community College. With the help of this cutting-edge approach, you can have a thorough educational experience that will enhance your professional practice in addition to giving you a degree.
The program’s curriculum is created with your work experience and nursing education in mind. It cultivates critical thinking and interdisciplinary teamwork, two essential abilities in the fast-paced healthcare landscape of today. The combination of electives and upper-division nursing courses provides a well-rounded exposure to both general academic topics and specific knowledge.
However, this program's dedication to accessibility and flexibility is what really makes it stand out. The program provides a hybrid schedule that enables you to balance your academic goals with your personal and professional obligations since it recognizes the demands placed on practicing nurses.
Additionally, the program's conformance to the Essentials of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing guarantees that your education is not only thorough but also current and accepted across the country. Hence, the University of Washington Bothell's RN to BSN program honors your background, pushes your intellectual limits, and gets you ready for the next phase of your nursing journey.
#3 in Washington
Washington State University
![5 Best RN to BSN Programs in Washington [year] 2 Ranking Seal](https://www.rncareers.org/wp-content/plugins/cds-client-s/images/ranking-seal.png?2024)
- French Administration Building, Pullman, WA - 99164-5910
- (509) 335-3564
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, RN to BSN
![5 Best RN to BSN Programs in Washington [year] 6 Person](https://www.rncareers.org/wp-content/plugins/cds-client-s/images/person.png)
University Information
Total Faculty: 1701
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $12,417
Book and Supplies: $960
Percent Received Aid: 92%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $10,425
Percent Admitted: 80%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 25%
Graduation Rate: 59%
Highlights for RN to BSN Students
- Seamless Online Learning: Tailor your studies to your schedule with our flexible, mostly online format.
- In-Depth Projects: Engage in meaningful community and capstone projects, enriching your practical experience.
- One-Year Completion: Fast-track your career advancement with a program that can be completed in just one year.
- Extensive Support: Access dedicated advisors and instructors for guidance throughout your journey.
- Broaden Career Horizons: Open doors to advanced nursing roles and specializations with your BSN.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Benefit from over 700 scholarships available, easing your financial burden.
- State-of-the-Art Resources: Utilize WSU's vast resources for an enriched learning experience.
About Washington State University's Nursing School
Looking to elevate your nursing career with a BSN degree? Washington State University's Nursing School stands out as an exceptional choice. As a nurse, you know the importance of a comprehensive education, and WSU delivers just that.
Why choose WSU? For starters, the university's history of over 130 years in education speaks volumes. With its sitewide reach across six campuses and extension offices in all 39 Washington counties, WSU offers unparalleled access and opportunities. Notably, WSU is among the top tier of U.S. colleges for very high research activity, and it's known for its supportive environment for LGBTQ students and first-generation college students.
The WSU College of Nursing, founded in Spokane in 1968, has been a pioneer in using simulation for nursing education. This innovative approach, coupled with hands-on experiences in hospital-like labs, prepares you not just academically, but practically too. The college's focus on important healthcare issues like addiction, health equity, and smart health aligns your education with the evolving demands of the nursing profession.
WSU's commitment to holistic admission review ensures that you're more than just a number. With an average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 87.50% and strong national rankings, the quality of education here is evident. Plus, WSU's membership with the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) reaffirms its academic excellence.
About Washington State University's RN to BSN Program
As a nurse who's already in the field, I know you're seeking a program that's both flexible and enriching. WSU's RN to BSN program is just that. This program is designed with you, the working professional, in mind.
WSU's RN-BSN program uniquely transforms traditional clinical hours into practice experience hours, achieved through engaging community and capstone projects. This approach not only immerses you in real-world scenarios but also enables you to explore areas that personally interest you. Impressively, you can complete the program in just one year.
The program shines with its flexible, mostly online format, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your professional work with academic studies. Its 30-credit framework is both efficient and thorough, aiming to expand your nursing skills comprehensively. Addressing practical needs, the program sets clear application criteria, including maintaining a current RN license and achieving a minimum GPA. The experiential learning hours offer hands-on training, equipping you for more advanced roles in nursing.
Hence, WSU's RN to BSN program is ideal for nurses seeking to advance their careers while balancing work demands. It combines online coursework with practical projects, supported by extensive resources, making it an excellent choice to advance your nursing career. Explore this transformative program further here.
See our Ranking Methodology
![5 Best RN to BSN Programs in Washington [year] 41 Rn To Bsn Programs In Washington](https://www.rncareers.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/RN-to-BSN-Programs-in-Washington-1024x682.jpg)
Admissions Requirements RN to BSN Programs
Navigating the path to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree requires understanding and meeting certain prerequisites. For those seeking to upgrade their skills through RN to BSN programs in Washington, the admission requirements may vary slightly across different institutions. However, some general prerequisites are typically consistent across the board. Here’s a detailed look at the standard admission requirements:
- Active and Unencumbered RN License: Applicants must have a current, active RN license that is in good standing. This license should have no disciplinary actions against it and must be valid in the state of Washington.
- Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing: Candidates should have graduated from an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program or a diploma program.
- Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA): While the exact GPA required may vary by program, a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 in prior nursing coursework is typically expected.
- Completion of Prerequisite Courses: Depending on the program, some prerequisite courses may need to be completed prior to admission. These often include courses in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and statistics.
- Professional References: Letters of recommendation, usually from employers or professors, attesting to the candidate’s professional competence and suitability for the BSN program.
- Personal Statement or Essay: Some programs require a personal statement or essay detailing the applicant’s professional goals and reasons for pursuing a BSN.
- TOEFL or IELTS: For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required.
Optional but Highly Recommended:
- Filling Out the FAFSA: While not a strict admission requirement, applicants are advised to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early in the process. The FAFSA can open the door to various financial aid options, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Visit the FAFSA website for more information and to submit an application.
Meeting these requirements is the first step towards achieving your BSN and boosting your career prospects in Washington’s dynamic healthcare sector. Remember, each program may have its unique requirements, so it is essential to verify specific prerequisites with your chosen institution.
Classes & Courses for RN to BSN Programs
Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is a financial investment that demands careful consideration. The tuition and cost of attendance for RN to BSN programs in Washington vary, influenced by factors such as school prestige, program format, and the availability of online or hybrid learning options.
At the University of Washington, the RN to BSN program has an estimated tuition cost of $8,700 per year for Washington state residents attending full-time. This cost excludes additional expenses like books, supplies, and personal living expenses.
On the other hand, Washington State University’s RN to BSN program, delivered primarily online, estimates tuition at approximately $12,500 for the entire program. This estimate reflects the cost for in-state students and excludes additional fees and personal expenses.
Eastern Washington University offers another alternative for RN to BSN programs in Washington. Their online RN to BSN program is priced at approximately $10,500 for the entire program, not including additional expenses like books, personal, or housing costs.
While these tuition figures provide a starting point for budgeting, students must also factor in additional costs such as books and supplies, housing, transportation, and personal expenses when calculating the total cost of attendance. Remember, there’s also a vast array of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities that can help mitigate these costs. It’s important to explore all available resources to make the pursuit of an RN to BSN degree as affordable as possible.
Timeline for Online RN to BSN Programs
Navigating through the landscape of higher education requires a clear understanding of the admission process, timelines, and program length associated with RN to BSN programs in Washington. Embarking on this educational journey necessitates planning and preparation, especially for working RNs juggling personal and professional commitments.
Admission Process and Timeline:
- Research and Shortlist Programs: Before diving into the application process, thoroughly research RN to BSN programs in Washington, considering factors such as tuition, program format, and curriculum. Shortlist programs that best align with your career goals and personal circumstances.
- Fulfill Admission Requirements: Collect necessary documents and fulfill prerequisites, such as holding an active RN license, having an Associate Degree or diploma in nursing, meeting the GPA requirements, and completing prerequisite courses.
- Complete Application: Fill out the application forms for your chosen programs, typically available on the school’s website. Along with your application, submit the necessary documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
- Application Deadlines: Be mindful of application deadlines. Most programs have fall and spring admissions, with application deadlines ranging from early spring to late summer. Ensure all application materials are submitted before the deadline.
Program Length and Time to Completion:
- Program Duration: Most RN to BSN programs in Washington are designed to be completed in 1 to 2 years. The exact duration depends on factors such as the program’s structure and whether the student is attending full-time or part-time.
- Course Load: Full-time students typically take a heavier course load and can finish the program quicker. Part-time students, often those who are working concurrently, have a lighter course load and may take a bit longer to complete the program.
- Clinical Requirements: Some programs require a certain number of clinical hours, which could affect the overall time to completion. However, many programs recognize the working RN’s experience and may waive or incorporate these requirements in a way that minimizes disruption to the RN’s work schedule.
Whether you’re pursuing the program full-time or balancing it with work or family responsibilities, RN to BSN programs in Washington are designed to be flexible and accommodate the unique needs of working RNs. Embarking on this educational journey can significantly enhance your skills, broaden your career prospects, and align you with the evolving landscape of the nursing profession.
Tuition and Cost of Attendance
Advancing one’s nursing career through an RN to BSN degree requires not only time and dedication, but also financial investment. RN to BSN programs in Washington vary in cost, influenced by factors such as institutional reputation, program format, and online or hybrid options.
At the University of Washington, a prestigious institution, the estimated tuition cost for its RN to BSN program is around $8,700 per year for full-time in-state students. This figure, however, doesn’t include additional expenses like books, supplies, and personal living costs.
A more affordable alternative can be found in Washington State University’s RN to BSN program. Delivered primarily online, the total program cost for in-state students is approximately $12,500, excluding incidental fees and personal expenditures.
For students seeking a balance between cost and flexibility, Eastern Washington University’s online RN to BSN program offers a compelling choice. The entire program is priced around $10,500, excluding expenses for books, personal needs, or housing.
While these tuition figures provide a foundational understanding, prospective students should also account for auxiliary costs such as textbooks, housing, transportation, and personal expenses in their budget. Additionally, various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities, can help offset these costs. Therefore, students are encouraged to thoroughly explore all available resources to make their pursuit of an RN to BSN degree as affordable as possible.
Scholarships for RN to BSN Programs in Washington
Securing financial assistance in the form of scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden associated with pursuing RN to BSN programs. For nurses in Washington, a host of scholarships are available, designed to support them as they further their education and contribute to the state’s healthcare sector. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 10 RN to BSN nursing scholarships for Washington nurses:
- Washington State Nurses Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for undergraduate nursing students who are residents of Washington State.
- Deadline Month: March
- Award Amount: Varies
- Website: wsna.org
- Promise Scholarship: Offered by the University of Washington, this scholarship is for registered nurses enrolled in the RN to BSN program.
- Deadline Month: Varies
- Award Amount: Up to $3,000
- Website: uw.edu
- Mary A. Moller Psychiatric Nursing Scholarship: This scholarship is for Washington nursing students with an interest in psychiatric nursing.
- Deadline Month: March
- Award Amount: Varies
- Website: wsna.org
- Virginia E. Gillmore Scholarship: For students enrolled in RN to BSN programs in Washington who have demonstrated financial need.
- Deadline Month: March
- Award Amount: Varies
- Website: wsna.org
- Washington State Opportunity Scholarship: For low- and middle-income students pursuing health care degrees in Washington State.
- Deadline Month: February
- Award Amount: Up to $22,500
- Website: waopportunityscholarship.org
- MultiCare Health System RN Residency Scholarship: This scholarship is for newly graduated RNs starting their careers at MultiCare.
- Deadline Month: Varies
- Award Amount: Varies
- Website: multicare.org
- Nurse Corps Scholarship Program: For students who are committed to serving in eligible Critical Shortage Facilities in high need areas.
- Deadline Month: May
- Award Amount: Tuition, fees, and a monthly stipend
- Website: bhw.hrsa.gov
- Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses Organization Scholarship: For students of African heritage pursuing a degree in nursing.
- Deadline Month: April
- Award Amount: Varies
- Website: marymahoney.org
- ANA-WA Scholarship: Offered by the American Nurses Association Washington, this scholarship is for ANA-WA members pursuing a BSN or higher nursing degree.
- Deadline Month: October
- Award Amount: Varies
- Website: wanurses.org
- Washington State Employee Credit Union Scholarship: For members of the Washington State Employee Credit Union pursuing a degree in nursing.
- Deadline Month: February
- Award Amount: $2,500
- Website: wsecu.org
In addition to these scholarships, all students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This crucial step, often overlooked, can open doors to federal, state, and institutional financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. More information and the application can be found at the FAFSA website.
Salary Increases for BSN Degree Earners
Choosing to advance one’s nursing education is not merely a matter of personal growth and professional development. It is also a financial decision, with many nurses asking the question: “Will earning an RN to BSN increase my salary?” According to the 2023 BSN Comprehensive Salary Report, the answer is a resounding yes.
In Washington, the difference in earnings between a registered nurse with a two-year degree (ADN) and one with a four-year degree (BSN) can be significant. BSN-prepared nurses typically earn more, with salary increments depending on the healthcare setting, geographic location, and the nurse’s experience and specialized skills.
Nonetheless, the benefits of pursuing RN to BSN programs in Washington extend beyond increased salary potential. These include:
- Expanded Opportunities: With a BSN, nurses have access to a broader range of nursing roles, including leadership and management positions, nurse educator roles, and specialized areas like pediatrics, critical care, or public health.
- Higher Skill Level: BSN programs delve deeper into the critical aspects of nursing, from research and evidence-based practice to community health and nursing leadership, equipping graduates with a higher level of knowledge and skills.
- Industry Preference: With the growing emphasis on higher education in nursing, many healthcare employers now prefer, if not require, nurses to hold a BSN. This industry preference translates to better job prospects for BSN-prepared nurses.
Pursuing a BSN degree is more than a pathway to potentially higher earnings. It’s a step towards broader career opportunities, enhanced skills, and alignment with industry trends. As nurses in Washington contemplate this educational journey, these potential benefits reaffirm the value of investing in a BSN degree.
How to Pay for an RN to BSN
Pursuing RN to BSN programs in Washington is an investment in your career. However, it comes with a financial commitment. Fortunately, numerous funding options are available to prospective students. These options can significantly lighten the financial burden and make the degree program more attainable. Let’s explore some of these options:
- Federal Financial Aid: The U.S. Department of Education provides various forms of financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step in securing federal aid.
- State Aid: The Washington State Need Grant is available to low-income residents pursuing higher education, including RN to BSN programs. Students must complete the FAFSA or WASFA to qualify.
- Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are available to nursing students in Washington, from sources such as local community foundations, non-profit organizations, universities, and professional nursing associations.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to support their employees’ educational advancement. Check with your human resources department to explore this option.
- Work-Study Programs: These federally and institutionally funded programs allow students to work part-time while studying. This not only helps offset educational costs but also provides valuable experience.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs: Programs such as the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program can forgive student loans for nurses who meet specific service requirements.
- Military Benefits: Active duty, reserve military personnel, and veterans have access to education benefits such as the GI Bill. These benefits can cover tuition, books, and living expenses.
- Payment Plans: Some universities offer payment plans that allow students to pay tuition and fees in installments throughout the semester, rather than in one lump sum.
- Tax Credits: Students may qualify for tax credits such as the American Opportunity Credit or the Lifetime Learning Credit, which reduce the amount of income tax owed based on tuition expenses.
- Private Student Loans: When federal and state aid aren’t enough, private student loans from banks, credit unions, or online lenders can fill the gap. However, these often come with higher interest rates and less flexible repayment options.
While this is not an exhaustive list, it offers a comprehensive overview of the various avenues available for funding an RN to BSN program in Washington. The key is to explore all options, apply early, and ensure that your chosen path aligns with your career goals and financial capacity.
Status for 80 Percent BSN Initiative
H2: The Pursuit of 80 Percent BSN in Washington: Progress and Prospects
Washington State stands firm in its commitment to the “80 by 2020” initiative, an ambitious goal set by the Institute of Medicine (now known as the National Academy of Medicine) to have 80 percent of nurses hold a BSN degree by the year 2020. This target, driven by a recognized need for a better-educated nursing workforce, acknowledges the complexity of modern healthcare and the crucial role nurses play in this dynamic landscape.
Though the 2020 deadline has passed, Washington continues to emphasize the importance of RN to BSN programs in Washington, seeing them as critical for enhancing the quality of patient care, fostering nursing leadership, and promoting a higher standard of professionalism in nursing. To this end, the state supports initiatives designed to increase BSN attainment among its nursing workforce.
These initiatives range from providing flexible RN to BSN program options that accommodate working nurses, to fostering partnerships between community colleges and universities to streamline the transition from an ADN to a BSN degree. Furthermore, many hospitals and healthcare institutions in Washington prefer or require newly hired nurses to hold a BSN, reflecting the industry’s growing recognition of the BSN’s value.
Despite the progress made, reaching the 80 percent target remains a challenge. As of the latest data available, the percentage of BSN-prepared nurses in Washington is steadily increasing but has yet to reach the desired mark. Nevertheless, the state remains committed to the goal, recognizing its significant implications for patient outcomes and healthcare quality in the long run.
10 Benefits of Earning an RN to BSN in Washington
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can be a transformative career move for registered nurses. The evolution of the healthcare industry calls for higher levels of education, and RN to BSN programs in Washington are stepping up to meet this demand. For Washington’s nurses, the journey to a BSN degree opens up a myriad of benefits, both immediate and long-term. Here are 10 significant advantages:
- Expanded Career Opportunities: With a BSN, nurses can access a variety of specialized nursing roles, leadership positions, and management opportunities that may not be available to those with an ADN.
- Higher Salary Potential: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, BSN-prepared nurses often earn higher salaries compared to their ADN counterparts, reflecting the additional skills and knowledge they bring to the field.
- Preparation for Advanced Degrees: A BSN is a stepping-stone for further education, such as a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nursing. This opens doors to roles like nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse educator.
- Improved Patient Outcomes: Research indicates that hospitals with a higher percentage of BSN-prepared nurses have lower mortality rates and better patient outcomes.
- Enhanced Skills and Knowledge: RN to BSN programs delve deeper into areas such as research, public health, leadership, and health policy, equipping nurses with a broader set of skills and a comprehensive understanding of healthcare.
- Greater Professional Recognition: A BSN degree is often viewed as a mark of professionalism in nursing, potentially leading to increased respect and recognition within the healthcare community.
- Meeting Industry Standards: With the push towards the “80 by 2020” initiative, earning a BSN aligns with the industry’s move towards higher education for nurses.
- Increased Job Security: As more hospitals seek Magnet Recognition, which requires a certain percentage of BSN-prepared nurses, BSN holders are likely to have more job security.
- Enhanced Communication and Leadership Skills: BSN programs place a strong emphasis on communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills – vital competencies in the complex world of healthcare.
- Global Perspective: BSN curriculum often includes a focus on global health issues, giving nurses a broader perspective on healthcare beyond their immediate environment.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, pursuing a BSN in Washington is a strategic move towards greater career mobility, professional growth, and the delivery of high-quality patient care.
More RN to BSN Programs
University | Offered as | City/State |
---|---|---|
Bellevue College | Campus | Bellevue, WA |
Olympic College | Campus | Bremerton, WA |
Washington State University | Campus, Hybrid | Pullman, WA |
University of Washington | Campus | Seattle, WA |
Wenatchee Valley College | Campus | Wenatchee, WA |
Walla Walla University | Campus | College Place, WA |
RN to BSN Resources for Nurses in Washington
As nurses look to further their education, it is important to be equipped with relevant and beneficial resources. Particularly for those considering RN to BSN programs in Washington, these tools can prove invaluable for navigating the landscape of higher education in nursing. Here are some excellent resources to guide and support your journey:
- Washington State Nurses Association: This professional organization provides numerous resources for nurses, including continuing education, career advice, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
- Washington Center for Nursing: The center promotes the nursing profession and advocates for a healthy Washington by providing data on the nursing workforce, resources for career development, and guidance on leadership and diversity.
- American Nurses Association: ANA provides a wealth of resources for nurses nationwide, including career development tools, educational resources, networking opportunities, and more.
- “RN to BSN Programs in Your State”: This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on RN to BSN programs nationwide, including Washington, enabling nurses to make informed decisions about further education.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education: This accrediting body ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs, including RN to BSN programs. Their searchable database can help you verify the accreditation of your chosen program.
- Nursing Students of Washington State: A great resource for students, this association provides opportunities for leadership, advocacy, and mentorship for nursing students across the state.
- Washington State Department of Health – Nursing Commission: This government resource provides important information on licensing, nursing practice, and continuing competency.
These resources can provide a wealth of information, guidance, and support as you navigate your path from RN to BSN in Washington. Remember, it’s not just about choosing the right program; it’s also about finding the right resources to support your educational journey.
Best Ranked RN to BSN Programs in Your State
Elevate your nursing career with our curated list of the best RN to BSN programs in each state. Transitioning from a Registered Nurse (RN) to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) opens doors to broader career prospects and deeper clinical knowledge. Our guide spotlights premier programs close to you, paving a well-marked path towards achieving your enhanced nursing ambitions.
See our ranking methodology for RN-to-BSN degree programs.
- About the Author
- Latest Posts

Krystina is an RN with a varied background. She has worked on a telemetry unit, an allergy/immunotherapy clinic and is currently working in diabetes education, pursuing her Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) certification. She has traveled the long road to her bachelor’s degree – she began her nursing career as an LPN, graduating from a local university. She pursued first her ADN, then BSN from Excelsior College.