Your Guide to Nursing Education in Auburn, WA
Pursuing a nursing career in Auburn, Washington opens the door to strong job demand, competitive salaries, and meaningful work in patient care. While Auburn itself has limited nursing institutions within city limits, it sits in the heart of South King County with access to several accredited, high-performing programs within a short commute.
Key Takeaways
- Auburn students primarily attend Green River College for local nursing education.
- Within 15 to 45 minutes, you can access top-rated ADN, BSN, LPN, and MSN programs.
- All reputable programs are approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (NCQAC).
- NCLEX-RN pass rates and clinical partnerships are critical factors when choosing a school.
- Washington State projects continued nursing shortages, increasing job security and salary potential.
Top Nursing Schools Near Auburn, Washington
The following schools offer accredited nursing programs accessible to Auburn residents. Each program is approved by the Washington State Nursing Commission and prepares students for licensure.
SchoolLocationDegrees OfferedProgram LengthNotable StrengthGreen River CollegeAuburn, WAADN, LPN-RN2 YearsStrong local clinical tiesHighline CollegeDes Moines, WAADN2 YearsHigh NCLEX pass ratesTacoma Community CollegeTacoma, WAADN, LPN-RN2 YearsAffordable tuitionUniversity of WashingtonSeattle, WABSN, MSN, DNP2–4 YearsNationally ranked programSeattle UniversitySeattle, WABSN, MSN, DNP2–4 YearsPrivate Jesuit institution
Green River College: Auburn’s Primary Nursing Program
Location
12401 SE 320th St, Auburn, WA
Programs Offered
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- LPN to RN pathway
Green River College is Auburn’s flagship local option. The two-year ADN program prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN. The curriculum blends classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical rotations at healthcare facilities across South King County.
Clinical Partnerships
Students often complete rotations at MultiCare Auburn Medical Center, St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way, and other regional healthcare providers.
Admissions Overview
- Completion of prerequisite coursework
- Competitive GPA requirements
- TEAS test scores
- Background check and immunizations
This program is highly competitive due to limited seats and strong employer reputation in the region.
Other Highly Rated Nursing Schools Within Commuting Distance
Highline College
Located about 20 minutes from Auburn, Highline College consistently reports strong NCLEX pass rates. The program emphasizes cultural competency and community-based clinical learning.
Tacoma Community College
An affordable and respected option roughly 30 minutes south. Their LPN to RN bridge provides flexibility for working nurses.
University of Washington School of Nursing
Consistently ranked among the top public nursing schools nationally. Ideal for students pursuing BSN, MSN, or doctoral degrees. Admission is competitive and tuition is higher than community colleges, but career outcomes are exceptional.
Seattle University
A private institution offering holistic nursing education and strong alumni networks throughout Washington healthcare systems.
Choosing the Right Nursing Pathway
ADN vs BSN
- ADN (2 years): Faster entry into the workforce, lower cost.
- BSN (4 years): Preferred by many hospitals, higher long-term salary potential.
Many Auburn students begin with an ADN at Green River College and later complete an RN to BSN program online through Washington State universities.
LPN Programs
Licensed Practical Nurse programs provide quicker workforce entry, typically within 12 months. Several technical colleges near Auburn offer this option.
Graduate Options
For leadership or advanced practice roles such as Nurse Practitioner, MSN or DNP programs at UW or Seattle University are top-tier choices.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Costs vary significantly by institution:
- Community Colleges: Lower in-state tuition, typically the most affordable path.
- Public Universities: Moderate tuition with access to federal aid.
- Private Universities: Higher tuition but often offer scholarships.
Financial aid options include:
- FAFSA federal grants and loans
- Washington State Need Grant
- Workforce retraining funds
- Healthcare employer tuition reimbursement
Prospective students should consult each school’s financial aid office and apply early for scholarships targeting nursing majors.
NCLEX Pass Rates and Accreditation
Every nursing program you consider must be approved by the Washington State Nursing Commission. Approval ensures graduates are eligible for licensure.
NCLEX pass rates are a key quality indicator. Competitive ADN programs in the region typically report pass rates near or above state averages. Always review the latest data published by the Nursing Commission before applying.
Nursing Career Outlook in Washington
Washington State continues to experience nurse shortages due to population growth and retirements within the workforce.
Salary Expectations
- Registered Nurse: Average salaries in Washington often exceed national averages.
- Licensed Practical Nurse: Stable and consistent demand in long-term care settings.
Major employers near Auburn include:
- MultiCare Auburn Medical Center
- St. Francis Hospital
- Valley Medical Center
- Kaiser Permanente Washington
Graduates from local programs often find employment within South King County shortly after licensure.
Admissions Tips for Auburn Nursing Applicants
1. Complete Prerequisites Early
Courses such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and English composition must be completed with strong grades.
2. Prepare for the TEAS Exam
Many programs require TEAS scores. Competitive applicants typically score well above minimum benchmarks.
3. Gain Healthcare Experience
Volunteer work or CNA certification strengthens applications.
4. Meet Deadlines
Nursing programs often admit once or twice per year with strict application windows.
How to Verify Program Approval
Before enrolling, confirm the program appears on the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission’s list of approved education programs. This ensures eligibility for the NCLEX and protects your investment.
Prospective students should also:
- Attend information sessions
- Tour campus simulation labs
- Speak with current students or faculty
- Review job placement data if available
Why Auburn Is a Strategic Location for Nursing Students
Auburn’s central position between Seattle and Tacoma gives students access to a broad healthcare network while benefiting from relatively lower living costs compared to downtown Seattle.
With accredited community colleges nearby, competitive universities within commuting distance, and strong hospital partnerships, Auburn offers a practical, career-focused pathway into one of Washington’s most stable and respected professions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Education in Auburn, WA
Where can you study nursing in Auburn, Washington?
Your main local option in Auburn is Green River College, which offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and an LPN‑to‑RN pathway. Many students also commute to nearby colleges and universities in Des Moines, Tacoma, and Seattle for ADN, BSN, and graduate nursing programs.
What nursing degrees can you earn near Auburn, WA?
Within a 15–45 minute drive, you can earn an ADN, LPN‑to‑RN, BSN, MSN, or DNP. Community colleges near Auburn mainly offer ADN and bridge options, while universities in Seattle offer BSN and advanced degrees such as MSN and DNP.
How do you choose between an ADN and a BSN program?
Choose an ADN if you want a shorter, more affordable path to become an RN. Choose a BSN if you want more career options, leadership roles, or higher long‑term earning potential. Many Auburn students start with an ADN at Green River College and later complete an online RN‑to‑BSN program through a Washington university.
How can you check if a nursing program in Washington is approved?
You should confirm that the program appears on the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission’s list of approved education programs. Only graduates of approved programs are eligible to sit for the NCLEX and apply for RN or LPN licensure in Washington.
What are the basic admission requirements for nursing schools near Auburn?
Most programs expect you to complete science and general education prerequisites, maintain a competitive GPA, take the TEAS exam, and meet health, immunization, and background check requirements. Some programs also value volunteer experience or work in healthcare settings.
What is the job outlook for nurses in the Auburn, WA area?
You can expect steady demand for both RNs and LPNs in Washington due to ongoing nurse shortages and population growth. Major employers near Auburn include MultiCare Auburn Medical Center, St. Francis Hospital, Valley Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente Washington, and many graduates find local jobs soon after licensure.
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