Nursing is one of the most reliable careers you can train for at a community or technical college, and Washington pays nurses well above the national median. The catch is getting in: programs are competitive and only take applications a few weeks a year. Start here.
Washington Nursing School Application Tracker
Every LPN and RN program at Washington’s community and technical colleges, with when applications open and close, entrance tests and what we found. Updated weekly.
The nursing career ladder
Most nurses climb in steps, and you can work at each one while training for the next.
| Step | Typical training | Washington median pay |
|---|---|---|
| Nursing assistant (CNA/NAC) | Weeks to a few months | $49,180 |
| Licensed practical nurse (LPN) | About 1 year after prerequisites | $83,150 |
| Registered nurse (RN) | About 2 years (ADN) after prerequisites | $124,200 |
Source: O*NET OnLine, BLS OEWS May 2025.
Washington nursing guides
How to Become an LPN in Washington
Practical nursing programs, license steps and fees, the NCLEX-PN and what LPNs earn across Washington.
How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in Washington
ADN vs. BSN, how admissions points work, every ADN program in the state, license fees and RN pay.
Find a nursing program near you
Search LPN and RN programs anywhere in the U.S. by ZIP code.
Other healthcare careers
Healthcare Careers You Can Start in 2 Years or Less
16 jobs, from CNA and phlebotomy to sonography and respiratory therapy, with training time and pay for each.
