Best Nursing Schools And Programs In California

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best nursing schools in california

In California, the nursing shortage is severe. As a result, the state needs more nurses to step in and fill this need.

The high demand for nurses isn’t the only thing that should make you consider pursuing your nursing career in this state. California is also one of the highest paying states in the country for nurses. There’s also paid time off and health insurance.

Now, before you can apply as a nurse in this state, you need to find the best nursing program in California that can equip you with the knowledge and skills you’ll need to be a successful nurse. Below is a guide to help you pick the right nursing program for you.

Requirements: How to Become An RN In California

Like most states, becoming a registered nurse in California isn’t that easy. Here’s a quick glance at the steps you have to take to become one:

Get Into An Accredited Nursing Program

In choosing a good nursing program, the first thing you need to check is its accreditation. Being accredited means that the school meets the best and highest standard for teaching its students.

Apart from that, you also need to consider the type of pre-licensure nursing program you need to take.

An Associate Degree in Nursing is offered at many community colleges and generally takes 2 to 3 years to complete. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing, on the other hand, takes 4 years. It prepares students to move into different settings and even leadership positions.

Pass The NCLEX

After graduating from an accredited program, you’ll be qualified to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Passing it is critical to earning your nursing license. Without it, you won’t be able to legally practice nursing in California.

Obtain Your License

Nursing licensure in this state can be a time-consuming process. For your initial license, the processing time can take anywhere from 10 to 16 weeks.

The licensure takes so long because of the overwhelming number of applicants. Apart from that, college transcripts and fingerprinting can also slow down the process.

In California, there are two methods to obtaining licensure. The first one is Licensure by Endorsement and the other is Licensure by Examination.

Apart from the two, you also have the option to get a temporary license which is good for 6 months. To get one, you’ll need to complete the entire application packet the state requires while you wait for your college transcripts to be processed. Only then can you get a permanent license.

ADN Programs In California

This program prepares students for their entry to registered nurse positions in different health care environments. It teaches them to use their critical thinking skills to solve problems effectively, make proper decisions, and provide appropriate care to their patients.

There are more than 50 ADN programs in California so you have lots of options. The programs are accredited and evaluated through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or ACEN. In choosing the right ADN program for you, there are performance indicators you need to check first. The list includes the school’s RN licensure pass rate, satisfaction data, rate of graduation, and job market statistics.

The admission requirements vary. Most schools require a GPA with a minimum of 2.5 (core sciences courses) and proficiency in languages apart from English. As an application, you may also be required to submit completed certificates or diplomas and applications for the program.

LVN To RN Programs In California

If you are a California licensed vocational nurse, you have a few options to become a registered nurse. There’s the LVN to ADN program which you can complete in just 3 semesters. It’ll help you secure an entry-level RN position.

You can also take the longer route which is the LVN to BSN program. It takes 3 years to complete.

The LVN to RN certificate program is one of the most recent methods to allow students to enter registered nursing. Compared with the traditional LVN to RN program, you won’t be able to get a nursing degree from it. However, it allows you to take the minimum number of units required by the state to qualify for the NCLEX exam.

Take note that this program doesn’t qualify students to get their licenses in other states. It may not also meet most employment qualifications. If you’re planning on taking this program, it’s best to do your research first to ensure that it’ll help you meet your career goals.

BSN Programs In California

best nursing schools and programs in california

In California, BSN programs are offered at no less than 35 different locations. This allows students to find a program that meets their needs.

Now, with so many options, you have to know what to consider. First, make sure to pick a program that allows students to pick a specialization. Determine if the program can adequately train you for the area of concentration you want to pursue.

It’s also important to know the program’s NCLEX pass rates, faculty credentials, costs, and quality of clinical partnerships.

In general, BSN programs can take 4 years to complete. Most of them require the following:

  • Proof of up-to-date vaccinations
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • SAT/ACT scores meeting the minimum requirement

Take note the list doesn’t end there. There may be additional requirements depending on the school and the program.

MSN Programs In California

Getting an MSN degree can mean higher earning capacity, advanced roles, and more opportunities. If you are considering enrolling in an MSN program, you need to submit your official college transcript, letters of reference showing your clinical expertise, evidence of completing the prerequisite requirements, and a current RN license. Additional requirements may be asked depending on the institution.

Pursuing an MSN program can be considered as an investment for your future, but it will definitely leave a dent in your finances. College tuition is continuously rising around the country and the same goes for MSN programs in California.

Accelerated Nursing Programs In California

In the state, you’ll find no less than 10 accelerated BSN programs. They can take 12 to 14 months to complete with full-time commitment.

The requirements will depend on the previous degree you’ve attained. As for the cost, it’ll be determined by the program, the prerequisite courses required, and other costs that need to be factored in.

Best RN Programs in California

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California State University, BakersfieldView School Profile
California State University, FullertonView School Profile
University of California, IrvineView School Profile
California State University, Long BeachView School Profile
California State University, Los AngelesView School Profile
University of California, Los AngelesView School Profile
California State University, SacramentoView School Profile
San Diego State UniversityView School Profile
University of California, San FranciscoView School Profile
California State University, StanislausView School Profile

A Closer Look At The Best Nursing Programs In California

To come up with this list, a number of criteria were considered to make sure that only the best schools, colleges, and universities make it to this list. The factors considered include the NCLEX pass rates, acceptance rates, accreditation, reputation, and costs.

1. California State University, Bakersfield

california state university bakersfield
Via calstate.edu

California State University, Bakersfield is well-known for its comprehensive nursing program. Focused on empathic care and critical thinking, its traditional 3-year BSN, RN to BSN, and MSN programs provide an excellent pathway for nurses who plan on advancing their careers. The RN to BSN Program is an online program; however, attendance is required when starting the 135 on-site clinical hours in Community Health.

A nationally recognized university, it takes pride in its high NCLEX pass rate. With a feel of a college town, you won’t be disappointed with the various options it offers its undergraduate students. A testament to its excellence, CSUB ranked No. 7 in RegisteredNursing.org’s 2024 Best RN Programs in California list.

Furthermore, CSUB’s BSN program aims to expose its students to a wide variety of patient populations and clinical settings to really hone their skills. Additionally, it also incorporates social, biological, and physical sciences into their curriculum to really prepare their students. Those are in addition to the in-depth training they provide in different specialties, like pediatrics and critical care nursing.

It’s worth noting that the Department of Nursing’s MSN/FNP program is not accepting applications for Fall 2024 to give way to the launch of the DNP program in Fall next year. California State University, Bakersfield’s programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

2. California State University, Fullerton

california state university fullerton
Via calstate.edu

This institution offers several RN pathways to its students. Its two main options are the traditional BSN, offered for direct-entry first-year students with no previous nursing education and RN-BSN for registered nurses wishing to advance their careers by getting a bachelor’s degree.

The Traditional BSN Program can be completed through a four year or a five year pathway. Currently, only California residents are only accepted for admission due to impaction, meaning California State University, Fullerton’s Traditional BSN program receives more applications than spaces available.

For those who are keen to apply, students are admitted into the Traditional BSN in the fall semester only. Meanwhile, the School of Nursing admits 40 new students each year.

The university also has an MSN program for those who want to further advance their careers. It is designed to offer course work and clinical experiences with the goal to prepare nurses to expand their career choices through focusing on leadership roles

Candidates for the MSN program are required to have a minimum cumulative GPA or last 60 semester unit GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and one year of work experience as a Registered Nurse.

CSUF’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

3. University of California, Irvine

university of california irvine
Via collegeconsensus.com

As one of the top public schools in the country, the University of California, Irvine is popular for its high graduate employment. The BS in Nursing Science program, in particular, is in the top 6% of programs ranked by US News & World Report. With its highly competitive admission, you can consider yourself lucky if you get admitted here. This means that the school can help set you up for a successful nursing career in the future.

The university is considered a top research center as well. It investigates and researches topics concerning wellness promotion to health interventions. As proof of the university’s dedication to quality education, 50% or more of their clinical placements are at UCI Medical Center.

It will take four years for students to finish their Bachelor’s degree in Nursing Science, which offers a curriculum offering education in theory and research-based clinical practice. All in all, students will be educated and trained on critical thinking, human caring, and clinical knowledge, all while incorporating Interdisciplinary sciences. The bottom line in all of this is that graduates will be more than prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

UCI’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

4. California State University, Long Beach

california state university long beach
Via aecom.com

Providing quality nursing education for over 50 years, California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is one of the best nursing schools in California due to their full national accreditation award given by the California Board of Registered Nursing and the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

CSULB gives students access to its state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab, classrooms, teaching labs, and computer labs to prepare them for their chosen career. With the aim of being the premier nursing program, you can rest assured that you’ll be getting no less than the best nursing education in California here. Graduates are also recommended for the California Public Health Nurse (PHN) Certificate.

The NCLEX pass rate of this university is quite impressive. The diverse programs it offers – BSN, RN-BSN, RN-BSN Online, BSN-DNP Program, and Master of Science in Nursing – are designed to meet the different needs of its students. CSULB also offers a Step-Up Bridge Program, allowing students currently taking an ADN program to begin taking courses at CSULB. That is if they plan to apply and enroll in the RN-BSN online completion program. Students taking the program, of course, must be in good standing.

5. California State University, Los Angeles

california state university los Angeles
Via calstate.edu

California State University, Los Angeles has a wide range of programs designed to provide students theoretical and practical training. Being close to various hospitals, students have a lot of opportunities to complete their clinicals here.

Out of all the nursing programs it offers, its accelerated BSN program for non-registered nurses is probably the most interesting. A student can complete it in just 15 months. Right after that, you can be qualified to take the NCLEX-RN and eventually obtain your license. Graduate and Certification programs are also available, as well as the Doctoral Nursing Program (DNP).

Meanwhile, the BSN Traditional program consists of general education with theoretical and clinical nursing courses over the course of three years. The competition is high in Cal State LA’s BSN program – of the roughly 700 students who apply each year, only 70 are granted slots. Applicants will be screened via the following requirements: Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam score, Cumulative & Prerequisite GPA (3.25 minimum to apply), and volunteer or work experience in healthcare will also help you stand out.

There are four undergraduate programs: BSN, RN-BSN, ADN-BSN Collaborative Program, and Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Program. Cal State LA’s School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

6. University Of California, Los Angeles

university of california los Angeles
Via universities.com

UCLA is a popular choice among students looking for the best nursing program in California. It’s a recognized institution worldwide so that’s not surprising.

The UCLA School of Nursing offers multiple programs designed to prepare students to excel in their chosen career. In addition to developing the fundamental skills and knowledge required for the job, your chosen program will also give you the educational course and training you need to enter a master’s program or to take on more advanced roles such as clinical nurse specialists or administrators in acute and primary care.

The school will also prepare you to take your career in your chosen area. So, whether you are planning on doing hospital- or community-based nursing, you’ll be able to fulfill your role in an effective and efficient manner.

As a top nursing school in the state, it offers BSN and MSN programs. Compared with other state schools, UCLA’s programs cost more. However, in-state students can enjoy the low-tuition rate. The programs offered are: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science – Entry, Master of Science – APRN, Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Post-Master’s Certificate – Psych. Mental Health. If you’re unsure what program to take, UCLA’s website has a School of Nursing Programs Pathways map you can check.

7. California State University, Sacramento

california state university sacramento
Via calstate.edu

This university is considered one of the most diverse schools in the country. It has students coming not just from California but across the United States.

The university’s BSN program is great for incoming freshmen who possess no nursing experience. There are up to 80 students admitted to the clinical portion of the BSN program every semester.

If you are a current nurse who’s thinking of completing a degree, you can enroll in its RN-BSN program. Students of the RN-BSN program also gain the opportunity to earn a Public Health Nurse certificate.

For registered nurses with baccalaureate degrees seeking to advance their careers, California State University, Sacramento’s MSN program is worth considering. In addition to its BSN and MSN programs, the school also offers transfer and bridge programs for current registered nurses. As part of its requirements, you’ll be required to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills or TEAS. It’s typically given any time before the application period ends.

The baccalaureate degree in nursing program and master’s degree in nursing program at California State University, Sacramento are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

8. San Diego State University

san diego state university
Via usnews.com

San Diego State University has options for transfer, returning, and new students (Direct Entry Bachelor of Science and Transfer Bachelor of Science). With one of the most notable nursing programs in California, you can expect to graduate as a highly competent healthcare provider here.

Its in-state tuition cost is low. Apart from that, its NCLEX pass rate is also high. Plus, it offers students the rare chance to study abroad, too. Considering all those things, it’s not surprising why San Diego State University can be found on most students’ lists.

To qualify for an undergraduate Nursing program, you must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a good transcript of records. You also need to submit letters of recommendation, undergraduate statistics class, and personal essays. Admission is highly selective; students are admitted according to rank and available slots. Other competitive programs include RN to BSN and Advanced Practice Nursing (APN).

SDSU’s master’s degree program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), while its traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Nurse Practitioner programs are approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing.

9. University of California, San Francisco

university of california san francisco
Via ucsf.edu

This school is a top recipient of the National Institutes of Health that funds students and faculty to carry on with their researches and studies. It is also considered to be one of the best nursing schools to get proficient education and training. For many years, UCSF has gained such a distinction among public institutions.

As the UCSF School of Nursing continues to evolve, it introduces a new BSN Entry to the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) — Advanced Nursing Focus pathway. The program will enable nurses with a BSN to pursue an advanced nursing specialty and DNP degree.
As of this writing, the school’s Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) is paused. The program that licensed vocational nurses can take to become an RN is also paused as a result. This decision is scheduled for reassessment in Fall 2025.

To apply for the BSN Entry to DNP — Advanced Nursing Focus, you must be a graduate of an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, complete transcript of records, a minimum GPA of 3.0, a résumé, and letters of recommendation. Applicants must also be licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) in California. GRE is not required at this time.

Some of the specialties to choose from are: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Family Nurse Practitioner. There’s an application fee of $120 for U.S. citizens and permanent residents and $140 for international applicants. Just like all the schools in this list, UCSF’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

10. California State University, Stanislaus

california state university stanislaus
Via csustan.edu

California State University, Stanislaus has such a strong nursing program. It’s particularly designed to help nursing students keep up with the demands of today’s healthcare system.

The university offers numerous pathways. There’s the LVN to BSN program, pre-licensure BSN program, online RN-BSN program, and many others. Each pathway is designed to assist students not just in passing the NCLEX-RN exam but to be successful nurses who are capable of providing proper and excellent nursing care to their patients.

You will need a minimum of 70% (TEAS) to apply for the Pre-licensure BSN track and required prerequisites (Chemistry, Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology for Sciences and English Composition, Communication, Critical Thinking, and Statistics for Non-Science). 100-250 students apply to the program but only 30 are admitted each Fall and Spring. The BSN program takes about three years to complete.

Stanislaus State’s nursing program has received a 10-year accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the highest recognition earned.

Conclusion

Starting your career as a nurse begins with choosing the right school and program. Some of the best nursing schools in California offer more programs than the others, that’s why it’s important to know which career path you’re planning to take. By knowing the exact program that’s right for you, it’s easier to filter your options by concentrating on colleges and universities that offer them.

Of course, things like admission requirements, tuition fees, and cutting-edge facilities and laboratories are also important considerations that need looking over. But with California equipped with some of the best nursing schools and programs in the country, chances are you’ll find a great school that will hone your knowledge and skills and train you to become one of the state’s future nurses.

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