Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs offer a fast-track route for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to enter the nursing profession. These intensive programs, usually completed in 12–24 months, combine classroom study with clinical training to prepare graduates for RN licensure.
Washington State is an excellent place to pursue an ABSN, with respected universities, strong healthcare systems like Providence, UW Medicine, and MultiCare, and a growing demand for nurses across both urban and rural communities.
What Is an ABSN Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into nursing without starting over in a traditional four-year program. These programs streamline the BSN curriculum into an intensive format, typically completed in 12 to 24 months.
Students in ABSN programs take a mix of classroom and lab-based coursework in subjects such as pharmacology, health assessment, and nursing ethics, along with clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. This combination ensures graduates are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
For students comparing options nationwide, exploring the cheapest ABSN programs can help identify cost-effective pathways, while the best ABSN programs highlight schools with strong academic and clinical reputations.
Upon completion, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure test required to become a registered nurse in Washington and across the U.S.
Why Choose an ABSN Program in Washington?
Washington State offers several advantages for students pursuing an Accelerated BSN. With its strong healthcare infrastructure and respected universities, the state provides an excellent environment for both education and long-term career opportunities.
High Demand for Nurses Across Communities
Washington continues to face a growing need for registered nurses, driven by an aging population, expanding healthcare access, and workforce retirements. This demand exists not only in large cities like Seattle and Tacoma but also in rural areas where access to healthcare professionals is limited.
Access to Top-Ranked Nursing Schools
The state is home to well-regarded universities with accredited ABSN pathways. Programs at institutions such as the University of Washington and Seattle University are nationally recognized for academic excellence and clinical preparation.
Large Healthcare Networks and Clinical Opportunities
Students benefit from clinical rotations within some of the state’s largest healthcare systems, including Providence, UW Medicine, Swedish Medical Center, and MultiCare. These partnerships expose ABSN students to diverse patient populations and healthcare settings.
Competitive Salaries for Nurses in Washington
Registered nurses in Washington consistently earn salaries above the national average, making it one of the higher-paying states for nursing professionals. This financial incentive, combined with strong employment prospects, makes pursuing an ABSN in Washington particularly appealing.
Notable ABSN Programs in Washington State
Below is an overview of two ABSN options in the state, each with its own strengths and opportunities for hands-on learning.
| Institution | Location | Program |
| University of Washington | Seattle | Accelerated BSN |
| Pacific Lutheran University | Lynnwood | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) |
Accreditation and Licensing Considerations
Before applying to an Accelerated BSN program in Washington State, it’s important to understand how accreditation and licensure work. These factors directly impact your ability to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and practice as a registered nurse.
Importance of Accreditation
Accreditation ensures that a nursing program meets national standards of quality and rigor. In Washington, ABSN programs are typically accredited by one of two agencies:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Graduating from an accredited program is essential for:
- NCLEX-RN eligibility
- Access to federal financial aid
- Employment opportunities, since most healthcare employers prefer or require degrees from accredited schools
Washington State Board of Nursing
The Washington State Board of Nursing oversees RN licensure in the state. To become licensed, graduates must:
- Complete an accredited nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Submit an application and background check to the Board
The Board also monitors nursing programs and ensures they maintain educational standards.
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
As of 2023, Washington joined the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means a Washington RN license now allows nurses to practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses—a major advantage for nurses who want mobility across state lines.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Accelerated BSN programs in Washington State is competitive, reflecting both the intensity of the programs and the strong demand for nursing careers. While each school may set its own criteria, most ABSN programs share common requirements.
Typical ABSN Admission Criteria
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree
Applicants must hold a completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in a field other than nursing. - Completion of Prerequisite Courses
Prerequisites typically include science and statistics courses completed within the past 5–10 years. Commonly required subjects are:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Statistics
- Nutrition
- Developmental or Lifespan Psychology
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Minimum GPA
Many programs require a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Some may also set minimum grade standards for prerequisites. - Application Materials
A complete application often includes:
- Résumé or CV detailing academic and professional history
- Personal statement or essays explaining motivation for nursing and career goals
- Letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or healthcare professionals
- Résumé or CV detailing academic and professional history
- Healthcare or Volunteer Experience
While not always mandatory, many Washington programs give preference to applicants with prior clinical exposure, whether through paid healthcare work or volunteer service.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Pursuing an Accelerated BSN in Washington is a significant investment, but it can pay off quickly given the strong job market and competitive salaries for registered nurses in the state. Understanding both the costs and the available financial aid options is essential before committing to a program.
Tuition Ranges for ABSN Programs in Washington
The cost of an ABSN program in Washington generally falls between $30,000 and $70,000, depending on the institution, length, and delivery format. Private universities often fall at the higher end of the range, while public universities may offer more affordable options for state residents.
In addition to tuition, students should plan for additional expenses such as:
- Lab and clinical fees
- Textbooks and online resources
- Uniforms and equipment (stethoscopes, nursing kits)
- Health screenings, immunizations, and background checks
- NCLEX-RN exam and state licensure application fees
Financial Aid Options
- Federal and State Aid
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to access federal loans and grants. Washington also offers programs such as the Washington College Grant, which supports students with demonstrated financial need. - Nursing-Specific Scholarships and Grants
Organizations such as the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the Washington State Nurses Association, and hospital foundations often provide scholarships for nursing students. - Employer Tuition Assistance
Healthcare employers in Washington, including large systems like Providence and MultiCare, may offer tuition reimbursement or loan repayment assistance for employees pursuing a BSN. - Loan Repayment and Forgiveness Programs
Nurses working in federally designated shortage areas may qualify for programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program, or state-based forgiveness options aimed at addressing rural healthcare shortages.
Career Outlook for ABSN Graduates in Washington State
Graduates of Accelerated BSN programs in Washington step into a workforce with strong demand, competitive pay, and diverse career opportunities. The state’s robust healthcare infrastructure, combined with both urban and rural healthcare needs, makes Washington a particularly promising place to launch a nursing career.
Salary Expectations for Registered Nurses in Washington
Washington is one of the higher-paying states for registered nurses. According to O*NET OnLine, the average annual wage for RNs in Washington is $112,180, compared to the national average of $93,600. Earnings range from about $86,490 at the lower end to more than $149,000 for top earners.
Salaries also vary by region within the state:
- Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue: $118,570 average
- Olympia–Lacey–Tumwater: $103,850 average
- Spokane–Spokane Valley: $99,290 average
- Yakima: $98,240 average
Nationally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that registered nurses earned a median annual wage of $93,600 in 2024, with the highest 10% earning over $135,000.
Employment Growth and Demand
Washington is projected to see 13% job growth for registered nurses between 2022 and 2032, significantly faster than the national growth rate of 6%. This translates to about 5,150 job openings annually across the state, fueled by population growth, retirements, and the need for expanded healthcare services.
Major Employers and Work Environments
Graduates of Washington ABSN programs can find opportunities in a range of healthcare settings, including:
- Large Hospital Systems – UW Medicine, Providence, Swedish Medical Center, and MultiCare are among the state’s biggest employers.
- Outpatient and Specialty Clinics – providing care in areas like oncology, cardiology, and women’s health.
- Community and Rural Health Facilities – meeting the needs of underserved populations outside urban centers.
- Schools and Public Health Agencies – offering preventive care, health education, and wellness support.
Combined with Washington’s membership in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), nurses who earn their license in the state now also enjoy the flexibility to practice across multiple states without needing additional credentials.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
With several Accelerated BSN programs available in Washington State, choosing the right one requires balancing academic quality, career outcomes, and personal fit. Here are some key factors to consider as you compare schools:
Review Accreditation and NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
Make sure the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN and approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing. Reviewing recent NCLEX-RN pass rates can also give insight into how well a program prepares its students for licensure.
Evaluate Clinical Placement Opportunities
Hands-on experience is a cornerstone of ABSN training. Ask about a school’s clinical partnerships—whether with major hospital systems like Providence or UW Medicine, community clinics, or rural health centers—and consider how these align with your career goals.
Consider Program Format and Length
Washington programs may offer in-person or hybrid formats, with most lasting 12 to 24 months. Consider whether a fully on-campus model or a hybrid schedule combining online coursework with in-person clinicals is the best fit for your learning style and schedule.
Compare Costs and Financial Aid
Look at the total cost of attendance, not just tuition. Weigh this against available scholarships, grants, and potential employer tuition support. Keep in mind that public universities may be more affordable for Washington residents than private institutions.
Check Start Dates and Cohort Availability
Some programs admit students once a year, while others offer multiple start dates. If your goal is to begin as soon as possible, a program with rolling or multiple admissions cycles may be more attractive.
Think About Location and Access to Healthcare Networks
Proximity to healthcare hubs like Seattle–Tacoma can provide broader clinical opportunities and job prospects, while programs in smaller cities or rural areas may offer more intimate learning environments and unique community health experiences.
FAQ: ABSN Programs in Washington State
Are there online or hybrid ABSN programs in Washington?
Yes. While a fully online ABSN program is not possible due to the need for in-person clinical rotations, some schools in Washington offer hybrid formats. These combine online coursework with required lab sessions and clinical placements at healthcare facilities across the state.
How long do programs take to complete?
Most Accelerated BSN programs in Washington can be completed in 12 to 24 months, depending on the school and whether the program follows an intensive year-round schedule or a traditional semester-based calendar.
Do schools accept prior credits?
Yes. Since ABSN programs are specifically for students with a prior bachelor’s degree, most general education credits will transfer. However, you may still need to complete science prerequisites like anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry if they weren’t part of your original degree.
Are there accelerated 12-month options?
Some Washington ABSN programs can be finished in about 12 months, though these are highly intensive and require full-time commitment. Students should be prepared for a demanding pace with limited flexibility for outside work.
Can students realistically work while enrolled?
Because ABSN programs are fast-paced and include extensive clinical requirements, most schools strongly discourage working while enrolled. Students may be able to work part-time in longer programs (18–24 months), but balancing employment with the workload is challenging.