Key Takeaways
- Kent, Washington offers access to top accredited nursing programs within a short commute, including Green River College and major Seattle-Tacoma institutions.
- Prospective students can pursue CNA, LPN, ADN, BSN, and advanced nursing degrees with strong NCLEX pass rates and clinical partnerships.
- Accreditation and Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission approval are critical when choosing a program.
- Programs within 10 to 25 miles of Kent provide affordable tuition options, financial aid access, and flexible scheduling.
- The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue region continues to show strong demand and above-average wages for registered nurses.
Why Choose a Nursing Program Near Kent, Washington?
Kent sits in the heart of the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area, one of the strongest healthcare employment markets in Washington State. Students in Kent benefit from proximity to major hospital systems such as UW Medicine, MultiCare Health System, Valley Medical Center, and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health.
According to federal labor data, registered nurses in the Seattle metro area earn significantly above the national average, with strong projected job growth through 2032. Choosing a nursing program in or near Kent means access to urban hospital systems, community health clinics, and specialty care centers for clinical experience.
Types of Nursing Programs Available Near Kent
CNA Programs
Certified Nursing Assistant programs can typically be completed in 4 to 12 weeks. These entry-level programs are ideal for students seeking immediate employment in long-term care or hospital support roles. Many local training centers and community colleges offer state-approved CNA courses.
LPN Programs
Licensed Practical Nurse programs typically take 12 to 18 months. Graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN to practice in Washington. LPN programs in the region emphasize patient care fundamentals and clinical rotations in rehabilitation and long-term care facilities.
ADN and RN Programs
Associate Degree in Nursing programs are commonly offered at community colleges and take approximately two years to complete. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and begin working as registered nurses.
BSN Programs
Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs typically require four years for traditional students, with accelerated options available for those who already hold a degree. Many healthcare employers in Washington prefer or require a BSN for long-term advancement.
MSN and Advanced Practice Programs
For RNs seeking leadership or advanced clinical roles, several universities within commuting distance of Kent offer Master of Science in Nursing programs with concentrations in nurse practitioner, leadership, or education.
Top Nursing Schools Serving Kent, WA
SchoolDistance from KentPrograms OfferedAccreditationHighlightsGreen River College (Auburn)5 milesNursing Assistant, ADNACEN AccreditedStrong NCLEX-RN pass rates, affordable tuitionHighline College (Des Moines)12 milesLPN, ADNACEN AccreditedDiverse clinical placements, evening optionsUniversity of Washington (Seattle)20 milesBSN, ABSN, MSN, DNPCCNE AccreditedTop-ranked nationally, research-driven trainingSeattle University20 milesBSN, MSN, DNPCCNE AccreditedHigh licensure success, Jesuit values focusPacific Lutheran University25 milesBSN, MSNCCNE AccreditedSmall cohort sizes, strong faculty mentorship
Accreditation and State Approval
Every nursing program you consider should be approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission. Additionally, look for national accreditation through:
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Accreditation ensures eligibility for federal financial aid, smoother license transfer, and employer recognition.
Admission Requirements and Prerequisites
While admission criteria vary, most Kent-area nursing programs require:
- Prerequisite coursework in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and chemistry
- Minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.0
- TEAS entrance exam scores
- Background check and immunization records
- CPR certification
Competitive programs may use a point-based admissions system. Apply early and confirm deadlines, which commonly fall between January and April for fall cohorts.
Tuition and Financial Aid Options
Community colleges near Kent offer some of the most affordable ADN pathways in Washington. In-district tuition can be significantly lower than four-year universities. Public university BSN programs typically cost more but offer strong return on investment through higher earning potential.
Students should explore:
- Federal Pell Grants and loans through FAFSA
- Washington College Grant
- Workforce development funding
- Hospital tuition reimbursement programs
- Scholarships from the Washington State Nurses Association
Local healthcare employers often provide tuition assistance in exchange for employment commitments after graduation.
Clinical Placements and Local Partnerships
Clinical experience is a defining factor in any nursing program. Schools serving Kent partner with respected facilities such as:
- Valley Medical Center
- MultiCare Auburn Medical Center
- UW Medical Center
- Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
- Local long-term care and community clinics
These partnerships allow students to gain hands-on experience in acute care, pediatrics, mental health, and community nursing.
NCLEX Pass Rates and Career Outcomes
NCLEX pass rates are one of the most reliable performance indicators for nursing schools. Many community colleges and universities in the Kent-Seattle area consistently report first-time pass rates that meet or exceed national averages.
Graduates benefit from strong hiring networks. Seattle-area hospitals frequently recruit directly from affiliated programs. In addition, Washington State participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact pathway for streamlined licensure mobility through endorsement.
How to Choose the Best Nursing Program for You
1. Define Your Career Timeline
If you want to enter the workforce quickly, consider a CNA or ADN pathway. If leadership or advanced practice is your goal, a BSN or MSN may be more suitable.
2. Compare Total Cost, Not Just Tuition
Include books, uniforms, exam fees, and commuting expenses in your calculations.
3. Check Clinical Access
Ask how placements are assigned and whether students are guaranteed rotations at major hospitals.
4. Review Support Services
Look for tutoring, NCLEX prep programs, mental health support, and career placement services.
5. Evaluate Schedule Flexibility
Working students should examine evening, hybrid, or part-time options.
Career Outlook for Nurses in the Kent Area
The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue region continues to experience healthcare expansion due to population growth and an aging demographic. Registered nurses in the area command competitive salaries and enjoy diverse specialization options in trauma, oncology, pediatrics, and primary care.
Kent’s strategic location allows graduates to work locally or commute easily to Seattle or Tacoma medical centers, expanding employment flexibility.
Application Timeline Checklist
- 12 months prior: Complete prerequisite coursework
- 6 to 9 months prior: Take TEAS exam
- 4 to 6 months prior: Submit application and transcripts
- After acceptance: Complete background checks, vaccinations, and CPR certification
Planning ahead can significantly improve your chances of acceptance into competitive programs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Programs Near Kent, WA
What types of nursing programs are available near Kent, Washington?
Near Kent, you can find CNA, LPN, ADN (RN), BSN, and MSN or advanced practice programs. Community colleges such as Green River College and Highline College offer CNA, LPN, and ADN options, while universities in Seattle and Tacoma offer BSN, ABSN, MSN, and DNP pathways.
How long does it take to complete a nursing program near Kent?
CNA programs usually take 4–12 weeks, LPN programs take about 12–18 months, ADN programs about 2 years, and traditional BSN programs about 4 years. Accelerated BSN and MSN options may take 12–24 months, depending on your prior education and course load.
What are the basic admission requirements for Kent-area nursing schools?
Most programs ask for prerequisite courses in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and chemistry, a minimum GPA of about 2.5–3.0, TEAS exam scores, a background check, immunization records, and current CPR certification. Many schools admit once a year with deadlines in early spring.
How much does nursing school cost near Kent, and what financial aid can you get?
Community college ADN programs near Kent often have lower in-district tuition than four-year universities. BSN and graduate programs usually cost more but can lead to higher long-term earnings. You can apply for FAFSA-based aid, the Washington College Grant, workforce funding, hospital tuition assistance, and nursing scholarships from state and professional groups.
Why is accreditation important for nursing programs in Washington State?
You should choose a program approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission and accredited by ACEN or CCNE. This helps you qualify for federal financial aid, sit for the NCLEX, move your license more easily, and meet hiring standards at most hospitals and clinics.
What is the job outlook for nurses in the Kent and Seattle-Tacoma area?
The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue region shows strong demand for registered nurses, with salaries that are generally above the national average and steady growth projected through 2032. Kent’s location gives you access to large systems like UW Medicine, MultiCare, Valley Medical Center, and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health for both clinicals and jobs.
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