
Washington LPN to RN/BSN Programs
Tucked atop the Pacific Northwest, Washington state places a high emphasis on skilled nurses in the workforce. Many LPNs in the state are choosing to enroll in LPN to RN bridge programs in order to advance their careers and enter the world of registered nursing. RNs enjoy better career prospects, more challenging duties, and higher paychecks. RNs in Washington earn an average of $29,380 more annually than LPNs in the state do, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Want more details on the LPN to RN educational pathway? Learn about taking and passing the NCLEX-RN exam and check out the Washington State Board of Nursing for information on licensing, education, and available organizations and associations for registered nurses in the state.
2025 Best LPN to RN Programs in Washington
Looking to advance your nursing career in Washington? PracticalNursing.org has ranked the best LPN to RN programs in the state. These programs help licensed practical nurses become registered nurses. They offer flexible schedules and support for working students. Our rankings focus on quality, affordability, and student success. Find the right program to meet your goals. Learn more about how we rank programs at https://practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
Walla Walla University
College Place, WA - Private 4-year - wallawalla.edu
Associate - L.P.N. to B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Walla Walla University's L.P.N. to B.S. Nursing Entry program offers Licensed Practical Nurses a streamlined pathway to earn a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Designed for working professionals, this program allows experienced nurses to build on their existing clinical knowledge, with opportunities to validate prior learning and advance their careers. Students can complete prerequisites at various accredited institutions, with a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement. The Portland campus provides flexible entry options, recognizing the unique backgrounds of practicing nurses seeking higher education.
- Portland campus program
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 85+ transferable credits
- Unrestricted LPN license
- Advanced standing possible
- Clinical experience required
- Standardized exam validation
Bachelor's - L.P.N. to B.S. Entry
Campus Based - Visit Website
Walla Walla University's L.P.N. to B.S. Entry nursing program offers licensed practical nurses a streamlined pathway to advance their healthcare career. This innovative program transforms existing nursing credentials into a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing, providing opportunities for professional growth and expanded clinical expertise. Located at the Portland campus, the program requires a 3.0 GPA and 85+ transferable credits. Successful applicants benefit from advanced standing, potentially receiving 16 lower-division nursing credits. Designed for working professionals, the program validates prior nursing knowledge through a standardized examination, enabling faster degree completion.
- Portland campus location
- 3.0 GPA required
- 85+ transferable credits
- Unrestricted LPN license
- 16 potential nursing credits
- Standardized exam validation
- Comprehensive prerequisite requirements
Saint Martin's University
Lacey, WA - Private 4-year - stmartin.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Martin's University offers a specialized LPN to BSN pathway designed for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance their nursing career. This two-year hybrid program allows students to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing while continuing to work, with classes one day per week and clinical practicums on another day. Prospective students benefit from small class sizes, experienced faculty who actively practice nursing, and a curriculum that provides one semester of credited coursework for their LPN license. The program boasts an impressive 92% NCLEX pass rate and is fully approved by the Washington Board of Nursing.
- Two-year BSN completion program
- Hybrid learning model
- One day weekly classes
- 15 credits from LPN license
- 92% NCLEX pass rate
- CCNE accredited program
- Cohort model support
- Clinical experiences in community
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Scholarships available
Wenatchee Valley College
Wenatchee, WA - Public 4-Year - wvc.edu
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Wenatchee Valley College's LPN to BSN program provides licensed practical nurses a streamlined pathway to earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This hybrid program combines online coursework with on-campus sessions, enabling students to advance their nursing career efficiently. Spanning 90 credits over two years, the program emphasizes comprehensive nursing skills, patient-centered care, and professional development. With small class sizes and focused clinical experiences, students gain the knowledge needed to take the NCLEX-RN and excel in complex healthcare environments.
- Hybrid learning format
- 90 credit total program
- 6 quarter completion timeline
- 15 student maximum class size
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- 75 nursing core credits
- Clinical experiences in Washington
Columbia Basin College
Pasco, WA - Public 4-Year - columbiabasin.edu
Associate - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia Basin College's LPN to BSN program offers licensed practical nurses a flexible pathway to advance their nursing career without disrupting work life. The hybrid program spans 7 academic quarters, combining online coursework with weekend clinical experiences. Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and a curriculum designed for working professionals. Graduates become eligible for the NCLEX-RN examination and can pursue diverse nursing roles in various healthcare settings. Prerequisites include science and general education courses, with opportunities for credit by examination. The program is competitively priced and prepares nurses for expanded career opportunities in patient care, leadership, and specialized nursing fields.
- Online and weekend classes
- 7 academic quarters long
- 16 students per cohort
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- 35 NCLEX credits available
- Holistic admissions process
- Prepares for RN licensure
- One of 5 LPN to BSN programs statewide
Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia Basin College's LPN to BSN program offers licensed practical nurses a flexible pathway to advance their nursing career without disrupting their professional lives. This innovative hybrid program spans 7 academic quarters, combining online coursework with weekend laboratory and clinical training. Students can complete prerequisites while working, with courses designed to accommodate busy healthcare professionals. The program provides a comprehensive education leading to RN licensure, focusing on critical thinking, patient-centered care, and professional development. Graduates gain competitive advantages in healthcare settings, with opportunities for career advancement and potential graduate studies.
- 7 quarter hybrid nursing program
- Online classes, weekend clinicals
- One of 5 LPN to BSN programs statewide
- 16 students admitted annually
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- NCLEX exam credit option
- Holistic admissions process
- Multiple prerequisite options
- Clinical experiences at local facilities
Grays Harbor College
Aberdeen, WA - Public 4-Year - ghc.edu
Associate - Transition from LPN to ADN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Grays Harbor College offers a Transition from LPN to ADN program designed for licensed practical nurses seeking to advance their careers. This program integrates LPNs into the associate degree nursing curriculum, focusing on nursing process, sterile procedures, and medication administration. It includes both lecture and clinical hours, preparing students for the ADN program's expectations. Admission requires graduation from an approved practical nursing program, a current Washington State LPN license, and recent clinical practice. This program is ideal for LPNs looking to enhance their skills and qualifications in a supportive educational environment.
- Campus-based program.
- 2.00 course credits.
- Includes clinical hours.
- Focus on nursing process.
- Sterile procedures training.
- Medication administration safety.
- Intravenous therapeutics instruction.
- Requires LPN license.
- Recent clinical practice needed.
- Facilitates ADN program entry.
List of 2025 LPN to RN or LPN to BSN Programs in WA
Below is the 2025 best comprehensive list of LPN to RN programs in Washington. Some of these programs may be a ADN or BSN degree, please visit the school's website for program details.
Aberdeen, WA
Grays Harbor College
- Associate - Transition from LPN to ADN
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- 2.00 course credits.
- Includes clinical hours.
- Focus on nursing process.
- Sterile procedures training.
- Medication administration safety.
- Intravenous therapeutics instruction.
- Requires LPN license.
Auburn, WA
Green River College
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year full-time program
- 90 total credits
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Approximately $23,000 total cost
- Selective admissions process
- 32-student cohort size
- In-person learning format
- Associate - LPN to BSN Program
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year full-time program
- 90 total credit program
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- 32-student cohort size
- State-of-the-art simulation lab
- Selective admissions process
- Fall quarter start date
- Approximately $23,000 total cost
Bellingham, WA
Bellingham Technical College
- Associate - LPN-RN Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- Nationally accredited nursing program
- DTA/MRP associate degree
- Total program credits: 47
- 93% NCLEX first-time pass rate
- 91% graduate job placement rate
- Face-to-face clinical and classroom instruction
- Pathway to BSN completion
- Total tuition around $13,200
Bremerton, WA
Olympic College
- Associate - Transition to Associate Degree Nursing (LPN to RN)
Campus Based - Website
- Four-quarter specialized nursing curriculum
- Prepares LPNs for RN licensure
- Accredited nursing program
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Requires prerequisite science courses
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Diverse healthcare career opportunities
- Professional role development focus
College Place, WA
Walla Walla University
- Associate - L.P.N. to B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Portland campus program
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 85+ transferable credits
- Unrestricted LPN license
- Advanced standing possible
- Clinical experience required
- Standardized exam validation
- Bachelor's - L.P.N. to B.S. Entry
Campus Based - Website
- Portland campus location
- 3.0 GPA required
- 85+ transferable credits
- Unrestricted LPN license
- 16 potential nursing credits
- Standardized exam validation
- Comprehensive prerequisite requirements
Lacey, WA
Saint Martin's University
- Bachelor's - Nursing LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Two-year BSN completion program
- Hybrid learning model
- One day weekly classes
- 15 credits from LPN license
- 92% NCLEX pass rate
- CCNE accredited program
- Cohort model support
- Clinical experiences in community
Lakewood, WA
Clover Park Technical College
- Associate - LPN-RN Transition Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time evening/weekend program
- Five-quarter Associate Degree
- 42 nursing credits required
- Clinical experiences included
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Pre-accreditation status NLN
- High employability rates
- Flexible learning environment
Pierce College District
- Associate - LPN to RN
Campus Based - Website
- Four nursing program options
- Full-time and part-time tracks
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Transfer to four-year universities
- Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination
Longview, WA
Lower Columbia College
- Associate - LPN-entry, campus-based program option
Campus Based - Website
- 3-quarter campus-based program
- For licensed practical nurses
- Multiple quarterly entry options
- Competitive admission process
- Direct transfer degree option
- Clinical skills training included
- Prepare for RN licensure exam
- Associate - LPN-entry, eLearning program option
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid campus and eLearning options
- Multiple program entry pathways
- Multi-state RN licensure preparation
- Minimum 1,000 LPN work hours required
- ACEN accredited program
- Competitive admission process
- Focuses on critical nursing skills
Mount Vernon, WA
Skagit Valley College
- Associate - RN Advanced Entry AAS Degree
Campus Based - Website
- Advanced entry for LPNs
- 99 total credits
- Full-time program
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Flexible placement options
Pasco, WA
Columbia Basin College
- Associate - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online and weekend classes
- 7 academic quarters long
- 16 students per cohort
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- 35 NCLEX credits available
- Holistic admissions process
- Prepares for RN licensure
- One of 5 LPN to BSN programs statewide
- Bachelor's - LPN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 7 quarter hybrid nursing program
- Online classes, weekend clinicals
- One of 5 LPN to BSN programs statewide
- 16 students admitted annually
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- NCLEX exam credit option
- Holistic admissions process
- Multiple prerequisite options
Shoreline, WA
Shoreline Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Advanced Placement Option AAS-T
Campus Based - Website
- 110-credit AAS-T program
- Advanced placement for LPNs
- On-campus clinical training
- Flexible start quarters
- Pathway to BSN programs
- Good employment outlook
- Multiple career opportunities
- Varied healthcare sector options
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Associate in Nursing (DTA/MRP)
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time, one-year program
- Accredited by ACEN
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Winter quarter admission
- Requires active LPN license
- Advanced clinical training
- Comprehensive prerequisites required
- Weighted lottery admission process
Wenatchee, WA
Tacoma Community College
- Associate - LPN to RN Associate in Nursing (DTA/MRP)
Campus Based - Website
- Full-time, one-year program
- Accredited by ACEN
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Winter quarter admission
- Requires active LPN license
- Advanced clinical training
- Comprehensive prerequisites required
- Weighted lottery admission process
Washington LPN vs RN Salary Comparison By Area
The table below compares the annual salary of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to a registered nurse (RN), along with the percent increase that can be expected. The data was retrieved from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for LPNs and RNs in Washington.
On average an RN in Washington earns $56,032, which is 16% more than the national average for registered nurses ($48,109).
City/Area | Avg LPN Salary | Avg RN Salary | % Diff |
---|---|---|---|
Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue - WA | $58,530 | $85,840 | 46.7% |
Spokane, Spokane Valley - WA | $53,150 | $79,200 | 49.0% |
Kennewick, Richland - WA | $54,020 | $78,120 | 44.6% |
Olympia, Tumwater - WA | $54,180 | $76,600 | 41.4% |
Yakima - WA | $52,490 | $76,130 | 45.0% |
Bremerton, Silverdale - WA | $53,980 | $82,070 | 52.0% |
Wenatchee - WA | $47,580 | $80,650 | 69.5% |
Mount Vernon, Anacortes - WA | $45,540 | $81,070 | 78.0% |
Longview - WA | $51,170 | $68,300 | 33.5% |
Bellingham - WA | $48,700 | $58,410 | 19.9% |
Walla Walla - WA | $53,120 | $71,080 | 33.8% |
Table data taken from 2018 BLS https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291141.htm & https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292061.htm