Disqualifying Convictions & Background Checks

Students enrolled in Nursing & Healthcare Studies programs may be required to complete a criminal background check before participating in clinical experiences. Certain criminal convictions or pending charges may prevent a student from participating in clinical training, which may make it impossible to complete their program.

The list below highlights convictions that may automatically disqualify an individual or have waiting periods before eligibility may be reconsidered. This is not a complete list. Other convictions or pending charges may also affect eligibility based on state regulations, clinical site requirements, or a review of an individual's background.

If you have questions about your eligibility, please contact nhs@greenriver.edu before applying or enrolling.

Convictions That May Automatically Disqualify Applicants

The following convictions generally result in automatic disqualification, regardless of when they occurred:

  • Abuse or neglect of a child
  • Child molestation
  • Child buying or selling
  • Commercial sexual abuse of a minor
  • Communication with a minor for immoral purposes
  • Homicide or Murder
  • Manslaughter
  • Rape or Rape of a Child
  • Sexual Exploitation of a Minor
  • Sexual Misconduct with a Minor
  • Indecent Liberties
  • Incest
  • Kidnapping
  • Burglary 1
  • Robbery 1
  • Assault 1
  • Assault of a Child
  • Homicide by Abuse or Vehicular Homicide
  • Criminal Mistreatment
  • Theft from a Vulnerable Adult (First Degree)
  • Voyeurism
  • Many additional felony offenses listed in Washington Administrative Code (WAC).

Convictions With Waiting Periods

The following convictions may no longer result in automatic disqualification after the required amount of time has passed since the date of conviction.

3-Year Waiting Period:

  • Assault 4 (Simple Assault)
  • Delivery of Marijuana
  • Prostitution
  • Theft 3

5-Year Waiting Period:

  • Assault 2
  • Assault 3
  • Coercion
  • Extortion 2
  • Forgery
  • Identity Theft
  • Robbery 2
  • Theft 2
  • Stalking
  • Unlawful Use of Building for Drug Purposes
  • Delivery or Possession with Intent to Deliver Controlled Substances
  • Several other offenses identified in Washington Administrative Code.

 

10-Year Waiting Period:

  • Theft 1
  • Theft from a Vulnerable Adult (Second Degree)

 

Important Information

  • Pending criminal charges may also result in disqualification.
  • Equivalent convictions from other states or federal courts may also be disqualifying.
  • Some convictions may require an additional character, competence, and suitability review even after the waiting period has expired.
  • Clinical placement requirements may be more restrictive than state regulations.