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Washington Nursing At a Glance

MetricDetail
Median Nursing Salary$105,072
National ComparisonWashington offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 4.6% below the national trend.
Primary Licensing BodyWashington Board of Nursing
Accreditation RequiredInstitutional + Regional

Earning an online nursing degree in Washington offers a flexible path to a high-demand career. Washington offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 4.6% below the national trend. Whether you’re looking for an affordable in-state option or a top-ranked national program, Washington students have access to a variety of accredited online choices that balance quality and cost.


Top Online Nursing Schools in Washington

The following schools offer accredited online nursing programs and are ranked based on affordability, graduation rates, and student outcomes in Washington.

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only -- always confirm details directly with each school.


Career Outlook and Salaries in Washington

Nursing professionals in Washington experience a dynamic job market with competitive wages. Below are the median annual salaries for key roles in the field, based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for Washington.

OccupationMedian Annual Salary (Washington)
Registered Nurse$112,180
Licensed Practical Nurse$79,700
Nurse AnesthetistN/A
Nurse Midwife$145,000
Nurse Practitioner$140,220
Nursing Assistant$48,260

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.


Why Pursue an Online Nursing Degree in Washington?

Choosing a program in Washington can provide several advantages:

  • In-State Tuition: Many public universities in Washington offer lower tuition rates for residents, even for online programs.
  • Local Networking: Attending a school within your state can make it easier to connect with local employers and professional organizations.
  • Licensing Alignment: Local nursing programs are designed to meet Washington Board of Nursing requirements, facilitating your path to RN or APRN licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online nursing programs in Washington accredited?

Yes, the programs listed above are accredited by recognized regional or national agencies. For Washington, this includes accreditation from agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring your degree meets high academic standards.

How does Nursing pay in Washington compare to other states?

Washington offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 4.6% below the national trend. This makes Washington a strong choice for students looking to maximize their ROI after graduation.

What is the primary licensing board for nursing in Washington?

The Washington Board of Nursing oversees professional standards and licensure for the field in Washington. Most accredited programs are designed to align with their specific requirements.


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