Admissions

The Master of Nursing seeks a diverse student body that embodies a wide range of identities and experiences. Applying for admission to the program requires an application for graduate studies and supplemental materials to be submitted to the University of Washington Graduate School. 

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Application dates

Fall 2024
Now accepting with a priority deadline of June 1.

We understand not all RNs ready for graduate school hold a BSN. In this case, explore our RN-MN pathway designed for experienced nurses holding a bachelor’s degree in major other than nursing.

RN-MN Admissions

Whether for personal or professional development or an interest in the curriculum, we welcome eligible students interested in enrolling in our coursework with graduate non-matriculated status (GNM).

GNM enrollment

Admission requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an NLN or CCNE-accredited program.
  • At least a 3.0-grade point average on a 4-point scale (or equivalent measures of performance if a graduate of an institution with no grading system) for those credits earned at the institution awarding the bachelor’s degree OR at least a 3.0-grade point average (on a 4 point scale) for the last 90 graded quarter credits or 60 graded semester credits.
  • Proficiency in English. Every applicant whose native language is not English must demonstrate  English proficiency. Learn more.
  • Completion of a 3-credit quarter-based or 2-credit semester-based basic statistics course in descriptive and inferential statistics with a grade of at least 2.0 grade (no expiration date).
  • Active and unencumbered Washington State RN license.
  • Agree to comport with the Essential Nursing Behaviors and the Health and Safety requirements.
  • Criminal background check with acceptable results upon offer of admission.

Application materials

In addition to the online Graduate School application for graduate studies, submit the following:

Résumé

Describe your RN work experience, with dates, positions, and a brief description of responsibilities, including evidence of leadership in practice. Provide your educational background, a Washington State RN license number, and a list any certifications. Identify professional involvement, accomplishments, awards, volunteer work, publications, and/or committee leadership and/or membership.

Statement of purpose

The maximum length of your statement should be no more than three pages and double-spaced, using a 12-point font. Address the following:

  • How the program aligns with your overall goals.
  • Your unique attributes and background and how these contribute to your academic and professional nursing career goals.
  • Why you are pursuing a graduate nursing degree and how a graduate experience is necessary or desired to reach your nursing goals.

Two recommendations

A supervisor recommendation is required if you are currently employed. If you are not currently employed, provide a recommendation from a former supervisor or provide a professional recommendation from a graduate degree-prepared healthcare provider. Contact the graduate advisor for alternate options as needed.

An academic or professional recommendation if your nursing degree was earned within the last 3 years. If it has been more than three years, provide a professional recommendation. Contact the graduate advisor for alternate options as needed.

Criminal disclosure form

Upon offer of admission, submission of a Criminal Disclosure Form is required.

Unofficial transcripts

Transcripts from all prior educational institutions. If admitted, you will be required to submit official copies of selected transcripts as directed by the School.

Application fee assistance

UW BSN students and alumni from Bothell, Tacoma, and Seattle are eligible to have the application pre-paid as funding permits. 

Email the graduate program advisor prior to submitting the application to request pre-payment. Reimbursement is not an option. Celinda Smith, cesmith3@uw.edu.

All Applicants who have financial need and those who participate in the McNairs Scholars or PPIA Fellows programs may be eligible for an application fee waiver from the UW Graduate School. See the UW Graduate School fee waiver policy and application

At this time, applicants holding an F-1 or J1 visa are not eligible to enroll in this program.