Key Takeaways
- Bellevue College is the leading nursing school physically located in Bellevue, WA, with strong NCLEX-RN pass rates and ACEN accreditation.
- Top-tier programs near Bellevue include University of Washington, Seattle University, and Lake Washington Institute of Technology.
- Most competitive programs require prerequisite science courses, a minimum 2.5 to 3.0 GPA, and TEAS testing.
- Students should compare NCLEX pass rates, tuition, clinical partnerships, and accreditation before applying.
- The Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue metro area offers excellent employment prospects for RNs, with salaries above the national average.
Why Study Nursing in Bellevue, Washington?
Bellevue sits in the heart of one of the strongest healthcare job markets in the Pacific Northwest. The greater Seattle area is home to major employers such as UW Medicine, Overlake Medical Center, EvergreenHealth, and Swedish Medical Center. Registered nurses in Washington consistently earn salaries above the national average, with strong projected job growth.
For aspiring nurses, this means robust clinical training opportunities, competitive salaries, and access to respected academic institutions. Whether you are pursuing an ADN, BSN, or RN-to-BSN pathway, Bellevue offers multiple high-quality options within a short commute.
Best Nursing Schools in Bellevue, Washington (Ranked and Compared)
SchoolLocationDegree OptionsAccreditationNotable StrengthBellevue CollegeBellevueADN, RN-to-BSNACENStrong clinical partnerships, affordable tuitionUniversity of WashingtonSeattle (nearby)BSN, ABSN, DNP, PhDCCNENationally ranked research institutionSeattle UniversitySeattle (nearby)BSN, ABSN, DNPCCNEJesuit values, holistic nursing focusLake Washington Institute of TechnologyKirkland (nearby)LPN, ADNACENHands-on workforce training
Bellevue College Nursing Program
Overview
Bellevue College is the primary nursing school located directly in Bellevue. Its Nursing Associate Degree (ADN) prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level registered nursing roles.
Programs Offered
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- RN-to-BSN completion program
Accreditation and Outcomes
The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Bellevue College consistently reports strong NCLEX-RN pass rates that align with or exceed state averages.
Admissions Requirements
- Completion of prerequisite science courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology
- Minimum GPA requirement, typically around 2.5 to 3.0
- TEAS entrance exam
- Competitive application process
Pros
- Affordable in-district tuition
- Strong local hospital partnerships
- Pathway to BSN completion
Cons
- Highly competitive admissions
- Limited program seats
University of Washington School of Nursing
Overview
Located about 20 minutes from Bellevue, the University of Washington (UW) School of Nursing is consistently ranked among the top public nursing schools in the country.
Programs Offered
- Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- PhD in Nursing Science
Accreditation
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Why It Stands Out
- Extensive clinical placements across major medical centers
- High research funding and reputation
- Strong graduate and advanced practice programs
Admission is competitive, often requiring higher GPAs and strong academic backgrounds. For students seeking prestige and advanced career opportunities, UW is a top choice near Bellevue.
Seattle University College of Nursing
Overview
Seattle University offers a respected nursing school grounded in Jesuit values, emphasizing ethical care and leadership.
Degree Options
- BSN
- Accelerated BSN
- DNP programs
Program Highlights
- Small class sizes
- Strong NCLEX pass rates
- Focus on community health and underserved populations
Tuition is higher than public institutions, but financial aid and scholarship options are available.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Overview
Located in nearby Kirkland, LWTech is known for workforce-focused healthcare training.
Programs
- Practical Nursing (LPN)
- Associate Degree in Nursing
Strengths
- Hands-on lab instruction
- Strong employer relationships
- Affordable tuition
This school is a strong option for students seeking a practical pathway into nursing with the option to ladder into advanced degrees later.
How to Choose the Right Nursing Program
1. Verify Accreditation
Ensure the school is accredited by ACEN or CCNE. Accreditation confirms academic quality and allows eligibility for financial aid and licensure.
2. Compare NCLEX Pass Rates
High NCLEX pass rates indicate program effectiveness. Look for consistent performance at or above Washington state averages.
3. Evaluate Clinical Opportunities
Check where students complete clinical rotations. Top programs partner with major hospitals and healthcare systems in the Bellevue and Seattle metro area.
4. Consider Program Flexibility
- Part-time vs. full-time tracks
- Online RN-to-BSN options
- Accelerated pathways
5. Review Total Cost
Compare tuition, fees, uniforms, books, and exam costs. Public colleges typically offer lower in-state tuition compared to private universities.
Admission Requirements at a Glance
- Completion of prerequisite sciences
- Minimum GPA requirement
- TEAS or other entrance exam
- Background check and immunizations
- CPR certification
Most programs admit students once or twice per year. Competitive schools may use point-based ranking systems considering GPA, test scores, and prior healthcare experience.
Career Outlook for Nurses in Bellevue
The Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue metropolitan area consistently ranks among the top-paying regions for registered nurses in the United States. Demand remains strong due to population growth, aging demographics, and expansion of specialty healthcare services.
Common employers include:
- Overlake Medical Center
- EvergreenHealth
- UW Medicine
- Swedish Medical Center
Graduates from accredited Bellevue-area programs are well positioned for immediate employment and long-term career advancement.
Online and RN-to-BSN Options for Working Nurses
For licensed RNs seeking advancement, RN-to-BSN programs such as Bellevue College’s option provide flexible, online coursework designed for working professionals.
These programs typically require:
- Active RN license
- Graduation from an accredited ADN program
- Minimum GPA requirement
Completion often takes 12 to 24 months depending on enrollment status.
Final Considerations Before Applying
Before submitting applications, attend information sessions, speak with current students, and verify application deadlines. Nursing programs in Bellevue and the surrounding region are competitive, so early preparation is essential. Focus on strong academic performance in science prerequisites, prepare thoroughly for entrance exams, and apply to multiple programs to increase your chances of acceptance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Bellevue, Washington
Which nursing schools are located in or near Bellevue, WA?
Bellevue College is the main nursing school in Bellevue. Nearby options include the University of Washington and Seattle University in Seattle, and Lake Washington Institute of Technology in Kirkland.
What are the basic admission requirements for nursing programs near Bellevue?
You usually need completed science prerequisites, a minimum 2.5–3.0 GPA, a TEAS or similar entrance exam, a background check, up-to-date immunizations, and CPR certification. Some schools may add extra criteria or use a point system.
Is Bellevue College’s nursing program accredited?
Yes. Bellevue College’s nursing programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), and they report NCLEX-RN pass rates that meet or exceed Washington state averages.
How do nursing salaries in Bellevue compare to the national average?
Registered nurses in the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue metro area earn salaries that are typically above the U.S. average, according to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS RN wage data).
Can you complete an RN-to-BSN while working in Bellevue?
Yes. Programs like Bellevue College’s RN-to-BSN offer flexible, often online coursework designed for working RNs. Most students finish in about 12 to 24 months, depending on course load.
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