If you’re looking to embark on a rewarding career in healthcare, practical nursing programs can provide an excellent starting point. On this page, you’ll find a curated list of LPN programs available in Seattle, along with essential information such as program duration, cost, class schedules, and NCLEX-PN pass rates.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or considering a career change, these programs offer a practical and efficient pathway to becoming a licensed practical nurse. Investing in your education and gaining hands-on experience through these programs can open doors to various healthcare settings and provide a solid foundation for further professional growth. Explore the LPN programs listed here and take a significant step towards a fulfilling healthcare career.
Featured LPN Programs
The following is a curated list of LPN programs in the Seattle area, meticulously researched to provide you with excellent options for obtaining LPN licensure. Continuously updated, this list reflects the most dependable choices available in the Seattle region. Take the next step in your career by exploring additional details through the provided links for each school.
Green River College
The Green River Practical Nursing Program is a viable option for individuals aspiring to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). One of its notable strengths is its consistently high NCLEX pass rates, with an average of 89% from 2020 to 2022. Although the pass rate slightly decreased to 88% in 2022 compared to 95% in 2020, the program still maintains a respectable performance. Completion rates are also commendable, averaging at 87% over the same period, with the 2021-22 academic year reaching 89%.
Another positive aspect of the program is its strong reputation among key stakeholders, employers, and clinical partners. The satisfaction of these community members demonstrates Green River’s commitment to providing a quality practical nursing education. Additionally, 91% of graduates reported securing employment in the nursing field within 6-12 months after graduation, indicating the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for real-world nursing careers.
Green River offers four options within its Practical Nursing Program, catering to different schedules and learning preferences. The full-time LPN Program, conducted face-to-face, spans three quarters and begins in the Fall, concluding in the Spring. With a program capacity of 40 students, availability is determined by the number of faculty members. The part-time LPN Program, on the other hand, follows a hybrid format and lasts for six quarters, commencing in the Spring and ending in the Summer. The part-time program accommodates 24 students, depending on faculty availability.
To succeed in the program, students must maintain a minimum grade of 2.5 or higher in both nursing and supporting courses. The Practical Nursing Program itself comprises 90 credits and encompasses various learning environments, including classroom instruction, campus lab practice, and community lab experiences. Upon completion, graduates become eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), which is necessary for obtaining an LPN license.
One advantage of pursuing an LPN career is the job security it offers. It serves as an excellent pathway for gaining experience and can even act as a stepping stone to higher nursing degrees, such as an ADN or BSN program. Additionally, individuals can start working as LPNs in as little as one year after completing the program.
Green River’s Practical Nursing Program provides additional support through its I-BEST program. This initiative offers assistance from an additional instructor throughout the quarter, benefiting students who may struggle in traditional classroom settings. The I-BEST instructor aids primary teachers in various areas, including English as a second language, study skills development, math skills and dosage calculation assistance, test-taking strategies, and career guidance.
Students are required to take the CASAS exam during the first week of class to help faculty tailor the curriculum and address specific student needs. Moreover, all students must participate in support class activities to further enhance their learning experience.
A notable feature of the Green River Nursing Program is its state-of-the-art SIM lab. Equipped with three beds, the simulation suite allows for audio/visual recording and relaying of patient and patient monitor data using a cloud-based simulation management system. The program also boasts five high-fidelity simulation manikins, each representing different age groups and medical scenarios. Faculty members can observe students in the simulation area from an observation room equipped with one-way windows. Simulation activities are recorded and assessed using SimCapture, a learning management system. Furthermore, the program offers a debrief room for real-time or recorded broadcasting of simulations, allowing students to engage in meaningful post-simulation discussions.
The Green River Practical Nursing Program stands out as a reliable choice for aspiring LPNs. Its strong NCLEX pass rates, high completion rates, and positive feedback from community stakeholders attest to the program’s effectiveness. With different program options, comprehensive support services, and a great staff, Green River is a great option as a LPN program in the Seattle area.
Admission Requirements
- Submit a copy of their College Success or CASAS testing results, meeting one of the following criteria:
- College Success score of 72 or higher, or
- CASAS score of 236 or higher
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be currently enrolled GRC Students with a valid Student Identification (SID)
- Successfully pass a Washington State Background Check
- Complete a 2-step TB test
- Receive a flu shot
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $4,896.90 + $1,500 in course fees |
| Program Duration | 3 semesters, approximately 12 months |
| Class Schedule | Full-time LPN Program (In-Person) Part-time LPN Program (Hybrid) Full-time MA to LPN Program (In-Person) Part-time MA to LPN Program (Hybrid) |
| Website | https://www.greenriver.edu/students/academics/degrees-programs/nursing/practical-nursing/ |
| Location | 12401 SE 320th St, Auburn, WA 98092 |
| Phone | 253-833-9111, ext. 2641 |
| [email protected] |
Clover Park Technical College
The Licensed Practical Nursing certificate program offered by Clover Park Technical College is designed to prepare students for a career as practical nurses. This program provides comprehensive training under the supervision of licensed professionals in the field. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX PN exam, which is a requirement for licensure.
The Practical Nursing Certificate program at Clover Park Technical College consists of 60 credits of nursing courses and 53 credits of general education courses. To successfully graduate, students must earn a minimum grade of “B-” in all technical (nursing) courses.
The program adopts a well-rounded approach to nursing education, focusing on both the art and science of the profession. Students gain knowledge and skills through classroom instruction, hands-on practice in skills laboratories, and clinical experiences in various healthcare settings. These clinical experiences are supervised by nursing faculty and take place in the community. It’s important to note that clinical rotations may be scheduled during different times, including evenings and weekends if necessary, and students may need to travel up to 50 miles for their clinical sites.
Applying to the program involves downloading and completing the PN Admission Packet and following the instructions provided regarding deadlines and submission requirements. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA), ensuring that it meets established standards of quality in nursing education.
Being a practical nurse requires moderate physical activity, including handling body fluids and potential exposure to infectious diseases. Nurses often spend long periods standing, and student nurses must be capable of performing basic cardiac life support, including CPR, as well as functioning effectively in stressful or emergency situations.
Upon completion of the program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and meet state eligibility requirements, including a criminal background check, to apply for licensure. Individuals with a history of criminal convictions may face limitations or ineligibility for licensure.
The program is designed to be completed in four quarters, offering an academically rigorous curriculum that demands strong reading comprehension, critical thinking skills, and the ability to apply complex concepts to ensure the provision of quality patient care. Students should anticipate dedicating approximately 3-4 hours per week per class for homework and study, totaling around 15-20 hours per week for four classes, in addition to class time. To maintain a balanced workload, it is strongly recommended that students limit their work hours to no more than 20 per week while enrolled in the nursing program.
Admission dates for the program are available during the fall, winter, and spring quarters. If students have taken prerequisite courses at another educational institution, they must have their credits evaluated before submitting their application. Official college transcripts should be sent to CPTC Enrollment Services for evaluation, along with a completed transfer credit request form.
To fulfill the program’s completion requirements, students need to meet various prerequisites, including completing general education courses and achieving a minimum grade of “B” in certain subjects. These prerequisites cover topics such as biology, chemistry, English composition, mathematics, psychology, and nutrition. Additionally, students must successfully complete COLL 102, a college success course, and demonstrate proficiency in English language skills. It is also mandatory for students to obtain American Heart Association CPR certification for healthcare providers and maintain personal health/medical insurance throughout their clinical rotations.
Prospective students should note that the Practical Nurse program at Clover Park Technical College places importance on professional values and competencies. The program emphasizes human flourishing, nursing judgment and caregiving, professional identity, collaboration, and the spirit of inquiry. These outcomes reflect the college’s commitment to preparing graduates who can provide safe, quality care while respecting the dignity, autonomy, and diversity of patients and their families.
Overall, the Clover Park Technical College Licensed Practical Nursing Program offers a comprehensive curriculum for individuals interested in pursuing a career as practical nurses. With its accreditation, emphasis on clinical experience, and a focus on essential nursing competencies, the program provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the field. However, potential applicants should carefully consider the program’s rigorous demands and the need for adequate study time, as well as the requirements for licensure, including a criminal background check.
Admission Requirements
- NLN PAX passing test score
- 18 years of age or older
- Completed high school or equivalent
- Completed necessary immunizations for clinical hours
- Criminal background check
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Inquire with program |
| Program Duration | 4 quarters – 60 credit hours |
| Class Schedule | 4 classes per week, 15-20 hours per week |
| Website | https://www.cptc.edu/programs/nursing |
| Location | 4500 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA 98499 |
| Phone | 253-589-5800 |
| [email protected] |
Edmonds College
The Edmonds College Licensed Practical Nursing Program is a part-time program that spans seven quarters, equivalent to 21 calendar months. Students are expected to take no more than 10 credit hours per quarter. This program is designed for current healthcare professionals who are employed in the healthcare industry. It offers a combination of online and hybrid classes, requiring students to come to campus for labs and attend clinicals at local facilities in the north sound area.
During the first year of the program, students would need to come to campus about two days or evenings a week and have clinicals approximately one day a week. In the second year, clinicals and simulation labs would be held approximately two days per week, requiring a minimum of two days per week of physical presence on campus or at a clinical site. Given the emphasis on online learning, students must possess good computer skills and have access to the necessary technology, including a computer with a webcam and microphone, reliable broadband internet connection, and proficiency in managing computer files, accessing email and the internet, and conducting online searches.
It is crucial for prospective students to recognize the importance of computer proficiency before enrolling in the program, as nursing school is not the time to learn basic computer skills. The program utilizes the Canvas learning management system, which is widely used in schools across Washington state. However, students should have contingency plans in case of technology failures, ensuring access to alternative computer resources and reliable Wi-Fi.
Online learning in this program differs significantly from traditional classroom learning. It requires strict attention to directions, details, and deadlines. Students must possess organizational skills and self-motivation to meet coursework requirements without constant reminders from instructors. Time management is crucial, as students are expected to commit at least 20 to 30 hours per week to coursework, making it almost a full-time job. Regular logins to the Canvas system, at least three times per week, are necessary for staying up-to-date with coursework.
Online learning can present challenges for individuals who are not strong readers, auditory learners, or non-native English speakers. While these difficulties do not preclude success in online learning, they may require additional time and effort to overcome. Communication with instructors is essential, as they cannot gauge students’ progress through a computer screen. Students are encouraged to maintain open lines of communication with instructors to receive necessary support.
Clinical experiences in the program begin in the second quarter and take place in various healthcare facilities located in south Snohomish and north King counties. These facilities include assisted living and memory care facilities, skilled nursing and sub-acute facilities, group homes, home care for medically fragile adults and children, long-term acute care hospitals, and mental health inpatient and outpatient facilities.
To fulfill clinical placement requirements, students must complete necessary documentation through Castle Branch, an online repository. Castle Branch facilitates background checks, immunization records, TB status, COVID vaccination documentation, healthcare provider CPR certification, and drug screening. Compliance with these requirements is essential, as failure to meet them can prevent students from attending clinicals and ultimately graduating from the program.
Prospective students must fulfill several admission requirements, including completion of five prerequisite courses with a minimum overall GPA of 2.75, TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) test, six months of recent patient care experience, two professional recommendations, computer proficiency, and English language proficiency. Preference is given to candidates who have experience as nursing assistants, medical assistants, or have served in the military medical corps.
The required prerequisite courses include English 101, intermediate algebra (or math equivalent), anatomy and physiology I and II, and lifespan psychology. The minimum GPA expectation does not allow for any class grades below 2.0. English language proficiency is assessed through a proctored essay to evaluate writing and computer skills.
Prospective students must document
proof of their recent patient care experience, which should span at least six months. This requirement ensures that students have practical exposure to healthcare settings and are familiar with the demands of patient care.
In addition to patient care experience, two professional recommendations are necessary for admission. These recommendations should come from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s skills, work ethic, and suitability for the nursing profession. It is important for prospective students to choose recommenders who can provide insightful and positive assessments of their abilities and character.
Computer proficiency is another crucial requirement for enrollment in the program. As mentioned earlier, students must possess the necessary technology and skills to participate in online and hybrid classes. This includes being comfortable with using a computer, accessing online resources, and effectively communicating through digital platforms. Adequate computer proficiency is essential for success in the program, as it forms the backbone of the online learning experience.
English language proficiency is assessed through a proctored essay. This evaluation ensures that students have the necessary language skills to comprehend course materials, participate in discussions, and effectively communicate in written form. The proctored essay also serves to assess students’ computer skills, as it is conducted online.
Overall, the Edmonds College Licensed Practical Nursing Program offers a comprehensive and flexible learning experience for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their careers in nursing. The program’s combination of online and hybrid classes allows students to balance their educational pursuits with their work and personal commitments. However, prospective students should be aware of the program’s emphasis on computer proficiency and the demands of online learning. Strong organizational skills, self-motivation, and effective communication with instructors are essential for success in this program.
Admission Requirements
- 18 years of age
- High school diploma or equivalent
- COVID-19 Immunization
- TEAS test score, preferably over 58%
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Inquire with program |
| Program Duration | 7 quarters, approximately 21 months |
| Class Schedule | Full time: Online and hybrid classes |
| Website | https://www.edmonds.edu/programs-and-degrees/areas-of-study/healthcare-and-health-sciences/nursing/ |
| Location | 20000 68th Ave. W, Lynnwood, WA 98036 |
| Phone | 425-640-1459 |
| [email protected] |
LPN Salaries in Seattle
Seattle, the bustling city in the beautiful state of Washington, hosts a noteworthy LPN workforce of 3,490 individuals. When it comes to compensation, LPNs in Seattle earn an average hourly wage of $35.34, resulting in an annual salary of approximately $73,510.
Comparing these figures to the national average of $19.51 per hour and an annual salary of $40,580, it is evident that LPNs in Seattle enjoy significantly higher compensation. Similarly, when compared to the state average in Washington of $33.63 per hour and an annual salary of $69,950, LPNs in Seattle maintain a competitive edge.
| # of LVNs | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $ 19.51 | $ 40,580 |
| Washington | 6,430 | $ 33.63 | $ 69,950 |
| Seattle | 3,490 | $ 35.34 | $ 73,510 |
What Impacts LPN Salaries in Seattle?
LPNs in Seattle enjoy relatively high salaries due to several factors. Here are some reasons why LPN salaries in Seattle tend to be elevated:
- Cost of Living: Seattle is known for its higher cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States. To attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals, including LPNs, employers in Seattle offer higher salaries to align with the increased expenses associated with living in the area.
- Strong Healthcare Sector: Seattle is home to renowned medical institutions, including hospitals, clinics, and research centers. The city has a thriving healthcare sector that demands a skilled workforce to cater to the healthcare needs of its population. The high demand for healthcare services and the need for qualified LPNs contribute to the higher salaries offered to LPNs in Seattle.
- Competitive Job Market: Seattle’s strong economy and diverse job market create competition among healthcare employers to attract and retain top talent. To secure the services of skilled LPNs, employers must offer competitive compensation packages, including higher salaries, to remain competitive in the job market.
- Scope of Practice: LPNs in Seattle may have expanded roles and responsibilities compared to LPNs in other locations. Certain states or regions may grant LPNs additional responsibilities or allow them to perform certain advanced procedures under the supervision of registered nurses or other healthcare professionals. This increased scope of practice can lead to higher salaries for LPNs in Seattle.
- Limited Supply of LPNs: Seattle’s demand for LPNs may outweigh the supply of qualified professionals in the area. If the number of LPNs available to meet the healthcare needs of the city is limited, employers may offer higher salaries as an incentive to attract and retain LPNs.