MSN Programs in Washington

Washington MSN Programs

Washington MSN programs are a great opportunity to take one's nursing career to the next level. The MSN is one of the highest level nursing degrees an individual can earn, and it can open many doors for career growth and even potential for a higher salary. Since the MSN is not necessary for practice as an RN, having this degree can help to set an individual apart from his or her fellow nurses when competing for jobs.

The easiest way to shrink one's options is to assess the MSN programs in Washington by their focus. Depending on the particular program, students have the option to choose from various specialties. In addition, it is useful to know that some MSN programs are offered online, while others are offered in a traditional classroom setting. It is important to take all of these factors into consideration when deciding which program is best.

Online vs. Traditional Programs

There are many options for nurses wishing to pursue an MSN degree online. This program format is offered by many online educators, as well as many traditional colleges and universities wishing to reach a wider range of students and allow for more flexibility.

Georgetown University's MSN program is offered online and has 5 different specialty options for nurses wishing to pursue an MSN: AG-Acute Care NP/CNS, Family NP, Nurse Anesthesia, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Midwife/Women's Health NP. The curriculum is made up of 35-49 credit hours and can be completed in 12-24 months full-time or 24-26 months as a part-time student, depending on the chosen specialty.

Seattle Pacific University is one example of a Washington university that offers an MSN program in a more traditional classroom setting. The curriculum ranges from 48-59 credits, and is designed to be completed over two or three years. Students can choose from the following areas of study: Administration, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse Educator. The MSN program must be completed within a six-year time period.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements differ slightly between programs, but they are more alike than not. Student should expect to be subject to the following requirements:

  • Application and fee
  • Personal goal statement or essay
  • Official transcripts
  • Bachelor's degree from accredited program with minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Undergraduate statistics course with 'C' or better
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Unencumbered RN license
  • Proof of liability insurance
  • Current resume
  • Interview

Tuition

Tuition varies by program and is subject to change annually. Currently, the cost of tuition to attend Seattle Pacific University's MSN program is $670, so total tuition for the program can be estimated to cost $32,160-$39,530.

Additional Resources

MSN Schools Near You & Online in Washington

Seattle University

  • 901 12th Avenue Seattle, WA 98122
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, MSN, Psychiatric Nursing, Public Health Nursing, RN, Sonography
    (206) 296-6000

Gonzaga University

  • 502 East Boone Avenue Spokane, WA 99258
    Programs: BSN, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, MSN, RN, RN to MSN
    (800) 986-9585

Washington State University – Spokane

  • 103 E Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99202
    Programs: BSN, MSN, RN
    (509) 324-7360

Pacific Lutheran University

  • 12180 Park Avenue S. Tacoma, WA 98447
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, Family Nurse Practitioner, LPN to BSN, MSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (253) 531-6900

Washington State University

  • 1401 W. Prasch Avenue Yakima, WA 98902
    Programs: BSN, MSN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (509) 494-7900