The Washington State University College of Nursing's undergraduate nursing program has reached a notable milestone in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, entering the national top 50 for the first time in the school's history.
In rankings released in September 2025, WSU's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program was listed among the top 50 undergraduate nursing programs nationwide, tying with several other institutions at this level of recognition. The achievement reflects a multi-year effort by faculty and administrators to enhance academic quality and student outcomes.
The U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings evaluate accredited undergraduate nursing programs across the United States. Rankings are based on peer assessments from nursing school administrators and faculty, graduation rates, and other indicators of program strength. Schools are eligible to be ranked if they hold bachelor's-level accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and have recently awarded a significant number of BSN degrees.
This marks a historic moment for WSU's nursing education efforts, which have steadily grown in both enrollment and academic reputation over the past decade. University officials said the school's commitment to immersive clinical learning, research into community health, and support for nursing students across diverse backgrounds contributed to the climb.
WSU's BSN program includes multiple pathways for students pursuing nursing careers. Standard offerings include:
- The Traditional BSN, designed for students entering directly from high school or transfer pathways.
- An Accelerated BSN, which allows students with prior degrees in other fields to complete nursing education on an expedited timeline.
- An RN-to-BSN completion track for licensed registered nurses seeking a baccalaureate degree.
These program options are structured to meet the needs of a varied student body, including recent graduates, career changers, and working nurses pursuing advancement.
The College of Nursing's move into the top 50 comes as WSU also reports continued growth in clinical partnerships throughout the Pacific Northwest. In recent years, the program has expanded affiliations with regional hospitals and public health agencies, giving students access to a broad range of practice settings as part of their required clinical experience. Nursing faculty say such partnerships help prepare graduates for real-world challenges and may support stronger employment outcomes after graduation.
The inclusion of our BSN program among the nation's top 50 undergraduate nursing programs reflects the dedication of our faculty and students, and our ongoing commitment to improving health in our communities,
said a representative from WSU College of Nursing in a statement accompanying the ranking announcement.
Washington State University, founded in 1890, is a land-grant institution with a broad mission that includes professional education, research, and community service. Its College of Nursing has expanded significantly over recent years, with a growing student population and a curriculum designed to integrate evidence-based practice, leadership development, and population health perspectives.
For prospective students seeking a nursing school in Washington, the WSU BSN program's rise in the U.S. News rankings may signal both increased national visibility and recognition of consistent program quality. While rankings are only one factor among many in academic decision-making, placement in the top 50 underscores a perception of strength among peer reviewers and reflects advancements in academic rigor and student support. Rankings assessments can help learners and families make informed comparisons among programs, particularly for an investment as significant as nursing education.
Learn more about the WSU College of Nursing here: https://nursing.wsu.edu/.