Rural Nursing Education Program (RNEP)

Young female nurse in blue scrubs wearing stethoscope smiles holding tablet in front of vast rural background showing a home and green fields.

Current Happenings

RNEP Expansion

RNEP expanded its community partner model. Approved Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) are now RNEP Approved Sites and may nominate students for RNEP. Nominated students must complete an application.

✚ Deadline: May 15

✚Contact RNEP@doh.wa.gov for details.

Strengthening Rural Communities Through Partnership

The Rural Nursing Education Program (RNEP) addresses Washington’s critical rural nursing shortage by expanding access to nursing education in rural and underserved communities across the state.

RNEP partners with the Washington State Department of Health, nursing schools, Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs), rural health care facilities, and community members to grow the rural health workforce. Through this “grow-your-own” model, students earn nursing degrees while living and learning in their rural communities.

Program Overview

RNEP builds a strong and diverse rural nursing workforce across Washington. Students complete coursework online while gaining clinical experience in their home communities at Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) where they work.

The program connects academic instruction with local clinical training. Students receive support throughout their education to prepare for nursing practice in rural health care settings.

Students

Students drive RNEP. RNEP students complete remote nursing programs while staying in their rural communities. With wraparound support, financial assistance, and strong local partnerships, students earn nursing degrees without leaving the place they call home.

Community Partners

Community partners support RNEP by nominating students, providing clinical training through preceptors, and coordinating community resources. Their involvement helps prepare students for practice, building a strong rural health care workforce for today and tomorrow.

Academic Partners

Academic partners provide the educational foundation for RNEP. They deliver instruction through remote learning models that allow students to stay in their communities while they study. Their teaching and expertise prepare students for nursing careers and help build a skilled rural health care workforce.