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. A new cohort begins each fall quarter.

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Application dates

Fall 2024
Now accepting!
Priority deadline of June 1. Applications received after the deadline are reviewed on a space available basis.

RN to MN pathway

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

Learn more

Graduate non-matriculated enrollment option

We welcome students interested in enrolling in the program’s core and elective coursework without being formally admitted (matriculated) to the program.

Learn more

Admission requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an NLN or CCNE-accredited program. The degree can be in progress. Applicants not holding a BSN are eligible to apply.
  • 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. Applicants not meeting the GPA requirement may still apply and will be reviewed on a case-by-case in accordance with the Graduate School Alternate Standards Policy 3.1.2.
  • 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.

This program is not eligible to admit international students enrolling with an F1 or J1 student visa.

Application materials

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 of 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

Admissions Appeal Policy and Procedure Reinstatement Policy and Procedure