Best Nursing Schools in Tacoma Washington

Key Takeaways

• Tacoma offers four primary accredited nursing schools with pathways from ADN to MSN.
• Top programs include University of Washington Tacoma, Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma Community College, and Pierce College.
• NCLEX pass rates, clinical partnerships, and tuition vary significantly between public and private institutions.
• Washington state nurses earn strong salaries, with high demand in the Tacoma and Pierce County region.
• Choosing the right program depends on your career goal, budget, and timeline to licensure.

How to Choose the Right Nursing School in Tacoma

Selecting a nursing school is not just about rankings. It requires evaluating accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical partnerships, costs, flexibility, and long term career outcomes.

All schools listed here are approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission and hold appropriate regional or national accreditation. Each offers unique advantages depending on whether you plan to pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or an advanced graduate degree.

Side-by-Side Comparison of Tacoma Nursing Schools

SchoolPrograms OfferedEstimated Tuition RangeProgram HighlightsBest ForUniversity of Washington TacomaBSN, RN-BSN, MSN$11,000–$14,000 per year (in-state)Research-based curriculum, strong hospital partnershipsStudents seeking advanced or graduate pathwaysPacific Lutheran UniversityBSN, Entry-Level MSN$45,000+ per yearPrivate university, small cohort sizesStudents wanting personalized instructionTacoma Community CollegeADN$5,000–$6,500 per year (in-state)Affordable, strong NCLEX resultsBudget-conscious studentsPierce CollegeADN$5,000–$6,500 per year (in-state)High clinical hour countHands-on learners

Top Accredited Nursing Schools in Tacoma, Washington

1. University of Washington Tacoma

The University of Washington Tacoma is widely considered the most comprehensive nursing option in the city. As part of the respected University of Washington system, it offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN-BSN completion track, and graduate-level Master of Nursing programs.

Why It Stands Out

• Access to world-class research and faculty
• Clinical placements across MultiCare, CHI Franciscan, and regional hospitals
• Strong preparation for advanced practice and leadership roles

Pros

• Highly respected degree statewide
• Competitive NCLEX-RN pass rates
• Clear pathway to advanced practice roles

Considerations

• Competitive admission process
• Requires completion of prerequisite coursework

This is an ideal choice for students aiming for long term career mobility, including nurse practitioner or leadership roles.

2. Pacific Lutheran University

Pacific Lutheran University is a private institution offering a traditional BSN and an Entry-Level MSN for students who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

Program Highlights

• Low student-to-faculty ratio
• Excellent student support services
• Strong ethical and community-based framework

Pros

• Personalized clinical placements
• Strong alumni network in the region

Considerations

• Higher tuition compared to public colleges
• Selective admissions

This program fits students seeking individualized attention and a structured academic experience.

3. Tacoma Community College

Tacoma Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing designed to prepare students for RN licensure. It is one of the most affordable paths to becoming a registered nurse in Tacoma.

Program Strengths

• Solid NCLEX preparation
• Affordable tuition for Washington residents
• Strong relationships with local healthcare facilities

Pros

• Cost-effective entry into nursing
• Efficient timeline to licensure

Considerations

• Primarily focused on ADN level education
• Students may later need an RN-BSN for advancement

This is an excellent stepping stone for students planning to enter the workforce quickly.

4. Pierce College

Pierce College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing with extensive clinical hours. It is respected for producing practice-ready graduates.

Program Advantages

• Emphasis on direct patient care
• Strong lab and simulation training
• Partnerships with Tacoma-area hospitals and long-term care facilities

Pros

• High hands-on experience
• Competitive tuition rates

Considerations

• Limited advanced degree options on-site

Pierce College is ideal for students who learn best in applied clinical settings.

NCLEX Pass Rates and Outcomes

NCLEX-RN pass rates are one of the most important indicators of program quality. Tacoma programs consistently meet or exceed the Washington state average, which often ranges between 85 percent and 90 percent for first-time test takers.

Graduates from UW Tacoma and PLU typically demonstrate especially strong preparation for licensure and long term advancement. Community college graduates also perform well, reflecting the hands-on focus of ADN programs.

Clinical Placements and Hospital Partnerships

Tacoma students benefit from access to major healthcare systems including:

• MultiCare Health System
• St. Joseph Medical Center
• Tacoma General Hospital
• Madigan Army Medical Center

These placements provide exposure to critical care, pediatrics, geriatrics, and community health settings. Strong clinical networks can significantly impact your job placement opportunities after graduation.

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Scholarships

Community colleges in Tacoma offer the most affordable tuition rates, especially for Washington residents. Public university tuition remains moderate compared to national averages. Private education at PLU commands a premium price but often includes institutional scholarships.

Students may qualify for:

• Washington State Need Grant
• Federal Pell Grants
• Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
• Employer tuition reimbursement through regional hospitals

Comparing total cost, including books, clinical fees, uniforms, and exam expenses, is essential before enrolling.

Nursing Career Outlook in Tacoma and Washington State

Washington state consistently ranks among the top paying states for registered nurses. According to federal labor data, RNs in Washington often earn between $85,000 and $110,000 annually depending on specialty and experience.

The Tacoma and Pierce County region continues to see demand driven by population growth and expanding healthcare systems. Graduates from local schools often secure positions within months of licensure, especially those completing clinical rotations locally.

How to Apply and Admission Requirements

While requirements vary by institution, most Tacoma nursing programs require:

• Completion of science prerequisites such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry
• Minimum GPA typically ranging from 2.8 to 3.5
• TEAS or similar entrance exam scores
• Background checks and immunization records

BSN and MSN programs may also require essays, interviews, and healthcare experience. Applying early and meeting with an academic advisor improves acceptance chances.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools in Tacoma

What accredited nursing programs can you find in Tacoma?

In Tacoma, you can choose from ADN, BSN, RN-BSN, and MSN programs. Tacoma Community College and Pierce College offer ADN programs. University of Washington Tacoma offers BSN, RN-BSN, and MSN options. Pacific Lutheran University offers a BSN and an Entry-Level MSN for non-nursing graduates.

How do you choose the right nursing school in Tacoma?

You should look at accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical sites, total tuition, schedule flexibility, and how fast you can become licensed. Also match the program level to your goal, whether that is ADN for quick entry, BSN for broader options, or MSN for advanced roles.

How much does nursing school cost in Tacoma?

Community college ADN programs at Tacoma Community College and Pierce College are often around $5,000–$6,500 per year for in-state students. University of Washington Tacoma is about $11,000–$14,000 per year in-state. Pacific Lutheran University is a private school and usually costs $45,000 or more per year before scholarships. Remember to add books, fees, uniforms, and exam costs.

How good are NCLEX pass rates for Tacoma nursing schools?

Tacoma programs usually meet or are close to the Washington state average NCLEX-RN pass rate, which is often around 85%–90% for first-time test takers. UW Tacoma and Pacific Lutheran University tend to show strong NCLEX outcomes, and the ADN programs at Tacoma Community College and Pierce College also focus closely on exam prep.

What is the job outlook and salary for nurses in Tacoma and Washington?

Registered nurses in Washington often earn about $85,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on your role, setting, and experience, according to recent federal labor data (Bureau of Labor Statistics). The Tacoma and Pierce County area continues to see steady demand, and many graduates find local jobs within months of getting licensed.