Nursing Education Program Rules
Background
The Washington State Board of Nursing (board) is considering amendments to WAC 246-840-500 through 246-840-571 to:
- clarify nursing education program requirements
- significantly reduce the administrative burden on nursing programs while maintaining efficiency and adherence to minimum educational standards set by the board
- remove barriers related to clinical placements and clinical faculty oversight
- evaluate the minimum requirements for simulation education
- simplify processes for program expansion and the implementation of innovative delivery methods.
- The board also plans to address changes regarding nursing education programs resulting from legislation enacted during the 2026 legislative session.
This rulemaking is Phase 3 of the board’s review of chapter 246-840 WAC, conducted in accordance with the board’s five-year formal rule review process under RCW 43.70.041. The overall goal of this review is to clarify and update outdated language, rewrite and reformat existing rules to reflect current best practices, and restructure sections as necessary.
Filing Information
The board filed a CR-101 Preproposal for WAC 246-840-500 through 246-840-571 on December 5, 2025, under WSR 26-01-020.
Opening these rules provides an opportunity for interested party engagement, rule clarification, and possible amendments to address identified issues.
Document
Upcoming Listening Session and Rule Workshops
Listening Session:
Introduction and General Feedback
Thursday, December 18, 2025
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Join online via Zoom
Workshop #1:
- Clinical, Ratios, Simulation, Preceptors, DEU (WAC 246-840-531 through 536)
- Faculty Requirements (WAC 246-840-519 through 529)
- Nursing Education Program Standards and Approval Requirements (WAC 246-840-500 through 518)
Thursday, January 8, 2026
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Join online via Zoom
Workshop #2:
- Clinical, Ratios, Simulation, Preceptors, DEU (WAC 246-840-531 through 536)
- Faculty Requirements (WAC 246-840-519 through 529)
- Nursing Education Program Standards and Approval Requirements (WAC 246-840-500 through 518)
Thursday, January 22, 2026
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Join online via Zoom
Workshop #3:
- Clinical, Ratios, Simulation, Preceptors, DEU (WAC 246-840-531 through 536)
- Faculty Requirements (WAC 246-840-519 through 529)
- Nursing Education Program Standards and Approval Requirements (WAC 246-840-500 through 518)
Thursday, January 29, 2026
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Join online via Zoom
How to submit feedback
- Attend an upcoming rule workshop
- Email WABONRules@doh.wa.gov