13 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in California | 2024

In response to the growing demand for advanced practice nurses, California nursing schools are offering comprehensive nurse practitioner (NP) programs that combine academic excellence with extensive clinical training.

Join us as we explore the best of these NP programs, highlighting their unique features, specialized areas of focus, and the factors that distinguish them. We'll also provide insights into salary prospects post-graduation, the pathway to NP licensure in the state, and address frequently asked questions.

What Is a Nurse Practitioner Program?

NP programs are graduate-level educational designed for nurses who wish to advance their careers and practice at a higher level of nursing. These programs typically lead to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and prepare nurses to provide a wide range of healthcare services, including diagnosis and management of various health conditions, independently or in collaboration with other healthcare professionals. NP programs specialize in areas such as family care, pediatrics, geriatrics, women's health, mental health, acute care, and more.

NP Coursework

The coursework in an NP Program is comprehensive and designed to build upon the foundational knowledge gained in undergraduate nursing studies. Key components include:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: Understanding the changes in normal body functions that result from diseases.
• Advanced Pharmacology: In-depth study of pharmacological agents, their therapeutic uses, and effects on the human body.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Skills for comprehensive physical and psychosocial assessments of patients across different age groups.
• Primary Care: Focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and management of common health problems in primary care settings.
• Specialty Courses: Depending on the specialization, courses may focus on specific populations such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health.
• Healthcare Policy and Ethics: Study of healthcare policies, ethical principles, and their application in clinical practice.
• Research Methods: Training in research methodologies relevant to evidence-based practice.
• Leadership and Management: Skills for leadership roles in healthcare settings, including managing healthcare teams and resources.

NP Clinical Training

Clinical training is a critical component of NP programs, providing hands-on experience in patient care under the supervision of experienced practitioners. Key aspects include:

• Clinical Rotations: Students complete rotations in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.
• Diverse Patient Populations: Exposure to a wide range of patients, including different age groups, cultural backgrounds, and health conditions.
• Specialized Practice Areas: Opportunities to practice in specific areas of interest, such as family practice, pediatrics, or mental health.
• Skill Development: Development of advanced practice skills, including diagnostic reasoning, treatment planning, and patient education.
• Professional Collaboration: Learning to collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary team.
• Clinical Hours Requirement: Most programs require a certain number of supervised clinical hours for graduation, often ranging from 500 to 1,000 hours or more.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in California

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. California State University - Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), offers comprehensive nursing programs known for their commitment to producing competent and compassionate nurses. They offer undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees and have a strong focus on community engagement and clinical experience.

Through its DNP degree, five NP concentrations are offered:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

CSULB is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

2. University of California - San Francisco

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), is renowned for its exceptional nursing programs. UCSF offers a variety of educational pathways and is known for its cutting-edge research and contributions to the field of healthcare.

Through its MSN degree, several NP concentrations are offered:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Environmental Health Nursing
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

UCSF is accredited by the CCNE.

3. Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University is a private Christian university with a respected nursing program. They offer a range of nursing degrees and emphasize a holistic approach to patient care, integrating faith into their nursing education.

The university offers five NP concentrations through its MSN degree:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Azusa is accredited by the CCNE.

4. University of San Diego

The University of San Diego (USD) offers high-quality nursing programs that combine classroom education with extensive clinical experiences. They are known for their commitment to values-based education and for producing nurses who are dedicated to ethical patient care.

Five NP concentrations are offered through USD's DNP degree:

• Dual Adult-Gerontology/Family Nurse Practitioner
• Dual Pediatric NP/Family NP
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Care
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

USD is accredited by the CCNE.

5. Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University is a Seventh-day Adventist institution with a strong healthcare focus, including nursing. They are known for their emphasis on whole-person care and values-driven nursing education.

LLU offers several NP concentrations through its DNP degree:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

LLU is accredited by the CCNE.

6. San Diego State University

San Diego State University (SDSU) offers nursing programs that prepare students for diverse healthcare settings. They focus on evidence-based practice and offer opportunities for research and community involvement.

The university's MSN degree offers a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) with two- and three-year program options (50 units total). It's delivered in the traditional classroom model for all clinical work and is considered an optimum option for RNs with at least two to three years of acute care experience.

SDSU is accredited by the CCNE.

7. Brandman University

Brandman University offers nursing programs designed for working professionals. They provide flexible learning options and a range of degree levels, making it accessible for individuals seeking career advancement in nursing.

Through its online DNP degree, Brandman University offers three NP concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Brandman University is accredited by the CCNE.

8. Sonoma State University

Sonoma State University's nursing programs are known for their commitment to social justice and community health. They offer undergraduate and graduate options with a strong emphasis on cultural competence and advocacy.

Through its MSN degree, Sonoma offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration in two- and three-year tracks. The program focuses on the theoretical and scientific bases for the diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses, health teaching, counseling, and preventative services.

Sonoma State University is ACEN accredited.

9. San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University (SFSU) offers nursing programs with a focus on diversity and inclusion. They prepare students to provide nursing care in a variety of healthcare settings, including urban and underserved communities.

SFSU offers a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) through its MSN degree with a family population focus. Graduates are prepared for state NP license and national certification, making them eligible to practice autonomously and in collaboration with other healthcare professionals.

SFSU is accredited by the CCNE.

10. University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco offers nursing programs that integrate Jesuit values and ethics into nursing education. They prepare nurses to be leaders in the healthcare field with a focus on social justice and service.

Through its DNP degree, USF offers two NP concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

USF is accredited by the CCNE.

11. Fresno State University

California State University, Fresno (Fresno State), offers nursing programs that prepare students for the demands of modern healthcare. They emphasize evidence-based practice and clinical experience.

Through its MSN degree, the university offers a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration. The goals and curriculum of the program are organized around the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) core competencies.

FSU is accredited by the CCNE.

12. Samuel Merritt University

Samuel Merritt University is a healthcare-focused institution with nursing programs that prepare students for a wide range of healthcare roles. They offer a variety of nursing specialties and prioritize hands-on experience.

Through its MSN and DNP degrees, two NP concentrations are offered:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the CCNE.

13. UC Davis

The University of California, Davis (UC Davis), offers a prestigious nursing program that emphasizes research, leadership, and innovation in healthcare. They prepare nurses to excel in various healthcare settings and contribute to advancements in the field.

The university's MSN and DNP degrees offer a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) with the mission of educating healthcare professionals to lead clinical programs in collaborative teams and to improve the accessibility of culturally relevant healthcare to underserved populations.

US Davis is accredited by the CCNE.

Nurse Practitioner Career Overview

In California, NPs are integral pillars of advanced practice nursing, bringing a depth of clinical acumen to diverse care environments, from acute care hospitals to primary care clinics. The progression of an NP in California typically begins with securing an RN license, which then leads to further academic endeavors, culminating in an MSN or DNP degree.

After finalizing their NP curriculum, graduates in California are mandated to pass a comprehensive national certification exam to earn their advanced practice license. Their clinical aptitude is consistently monitored, and they undergo routine peer evaluations to ensure they adhere to the highest standards of patient care excellence.

NPs in California are highly esteemed across a spectrum of healthcare settings, encompassing emergency units, urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and private physician practices.

Primary NP Responsibilities

• Perform detailed physical health evaluations.
• Commence and interpret diagnostic measures, such as X-rays and laboratory evaluations.
• Identify and address a range of health issues, both immediate and persistent.
• Prescribe medications and therapeutic regimens.
• Instruct patients on preventive measures, available treatment avenues, and self-care methodologies.

NP Concentrations

• Family NP (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive healthcare to individuals across all life stages. They focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and chronic disease management, often serving as primary caregivers for families.
• Women's Health NP (WHNP): WHNPs cater to the unique health needs of women, from adolescence through post-menopause. They offer services related to reproductive health, gynecological care, and prenatal and postnatal support.
• Adult-Gerontology NP (AGNP): AGNPs address the health concerns of adults, from young adulthood through senior years. They specialize in acute and chronic condition management, with an emphasis on health promotion and tailored patient education.
• Neonatal NP (NNP): NNPs are experts in caring for newborns, especially those with premature births or critical health conditions. They primarily work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and collaborate with a diverse healthcare team.
• Pediatric NP (PNP): PNPs concentrate on the health and well-being of children, from birth to adolescence. They handle common pediatric conditions, perform regular health check-ups, and provide guidance on nutrition and developmental milestones.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP): PMHNPs are trained to address mental health needs, offering diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive care for a range of psychiatric conditions.

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in California

Here's the pathway to becoming an NP in California:

1. Achieve RN Licensure in California:
   • Start by graduating from a nursing program approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
   • Successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your registered nurse license in California.
   • It's important to note that while both ADN and BSN graduates can become RNs, many advanced nursing programs have a preference for candidates with a BSN.
2. Undertake Advanced Studies:
   • Enroll in a MSN or DNP program that emphasizes a nurse practitioner specialty. It's crucial to choose a program accredited by esteemed organizations, such as the CCNE or ACEN.
   • Fulfill all academic and clinical requirements set by your chosen program.
3. Achieve National Certification:
   • Upon completing your advanced studies, select your NP specialty (e.g., Family, Pediatric, Adult-Gerontology) and sit for the corresponding national certification exam. Prominent organizations like the ANCC and AANP administer these exams.
4. Secure NP Licensure in California:
   • Apply for Nurse Practitioner certification through the California Board of Registered Nursing.
   • Submit all necessary documentation, including evidence of RN licensure, advanced degree credentials, and national certification.
   • A criminal background check may also be a part of the licensure process in California.
5. Maintain Licensure and Certification:
   • Stay updated with the latest nursing practices and California state regulations.
   • Participate in ongoing professional development to satisfy the renewal criteria for both your state licensure and national certification.
   • Consistently renew your license and certification, ensuring you meet the continuing education and clinical practice hours mandated by the California Board of Registered Nursing and the certification body.

Always consult the California Board of Registered Nursing or relevant organizations to stay current on any changes in requirements or procedures.

Costs of NP Programs in California

The cost of NP programs in California can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of institution (public or private), the specific program (MSN, DNP, or graduate certificate), and the duration of the program. Here are some key considerations:

• Tuition Fees: This is typically the largest expense and can vary based on many factors. For example, CSULB costs $7,635 for their DNP resident tuition while Azusa Pacific University costs $860 per credit for their MSN.
• Additional Fees: Beyond tuition, there are often additional fees, such as technology fees, lab fees, student services fees, and other institutional fees. These can add several thousand dollars to the overall cost.
• Books and Supplies: The cost of textbooks, online resources, and other supplies can be significant.
• Clinical Costs: Clinical rotations, which are a crucial part of NP programs, may incur additional costs. These can include transportation, uniforms, and equipment. Some programs may also require students to carry malpractice insurance.
• Living Expenses: Living expenses in California can be high, especially in major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego. Housing, food, and personal expenses should be factored into the overall cost, especially for students relocating for their studies.
• Online vs. On-Campus Programs: Online NP programs might offer lower tuition rates and eliminate the need for relocation or commuting costs. However, they still require clinical placements, which must be completed in person.

Financial Aid Insights

Navigating financial aid is key for students in Nurse Practitioner programs to alleviate educational expenses. Options include federal and state grants, loans, work-study programs, and targeted scholarships. Early application is advised to increase funding chances.

Scholarships and grants offered by various healthcare organizations, professional groups, and community organizations are crucial for reducing costs. It's essential for NP students to seek and apply for these opportunities actively.

For loans, it's important to understand the terms, with federal loans typically providing more favorable conditions than private ones. Responsible borrowing and awareness of repayment terms are crucial for financial planning.

Careful consideration of these financial avenues can help NP students effectively manage the cost of their education.

Salary Expectations

The latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provide essential information regarding NP salaries in California. However, when evaluating these salary estimates, several factors come into play.

Factors such as your educational qualifications, accumulated years of professional experience, the healthcare facility you're associated with, your specific employer, the demand for your nursing specialty, and your working hours, including shift patterns, all influence your earnings. For a detailed understanding of what you might earn, it's important to consider individual circumstances and your employer's pay structure.

In California, the average NP salary is $158,130, or $76.02 per hour, which is significantly higher than the national average of $124,680.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

NP Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts that employment for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), encompassing all nurse practitioner specialties, will expand by 38% from 2022 to 2032, signaling the addition of an estimated 123,600 new NP roles across the board. As the healthcare landscape confronts growing challenges, the need for specialized nurse practitioners in fields such as family care, mental health, gerontology, and acute care is increasing. Nurse practitioners hold the record for the highest employment rate within the APRN category, surpassing both nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives.

Initially established to improve pediatric healthcare accessibility, the nurse practitioner role has diversified considerably, adapting to the broad spectrum of healthcare necessities. Specialized NPs are becoming increasingly critical in an era marked by an aging population and a retiring healthcare workforce. Their versatility in a variety of clinical environments meets the shifting needs of patients, delivering thorough and reachable specialized care. With the healthcare sector in flux, nurse practitioners of all specialties are proving to be key players in addressing the urgent healthcare needs of the population.

NP Salary by Every State

Learn more about career outlooks with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

Are NP Programs in California Worth It?

Like any educational pursuit, NP programs in California come with advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of NP Programs in California

1. High Demand for NPs: California, with its large and diverse population, has a high demand for healthcare services, including those provided by NPs. This demand can lead to job security and numerous employment opportunities.
2. Competitive Salaries: NPs in California are among the highest paid in the country, reflecting the state's higher cost of living but also the value placed on their expertise.
3. Scope of Practice: California offers a broad scope of practice for NPs, allowing them to perform a wide range of healthcare services, which can be professionally rewarding and enhance job satisfaction.
4. Diverse Specializations: California's NP programs offer a variety of specializations, catering to different interests and career paths in healthcare, from family practice to mental health.
5. Networking Opportunities: Studying in a state with a large healthcare sector provides ample opportunities for professional networking, mentorship, and career advancement.

Cons of NP Programs in California

1. High Cost of Education: The cost of NP programs in California, especially in private institutions, can be significantly higher than in other states, potentially leading to substantial student debt.
2. Cost of Living: California's high cost of living, particularly in major urban areas, can be a financial burden for students and new graduates.
3. Competitive Admission: NP programs in California can be highly competitive, requiring excellent academic records and substantial nursing experience for admission.
4. Intensive Coursework and Clinical Hours: The rigorous nature of NP programs, combined with the need to fulfill clinical hours, can be challenging, especially for those balancing work or family commitments.
5. Licensing and Regulation: California has specific licensing requirements and regulations for NPs, which might be more stringent compared to other states, requiring additional effort and time for compliance.

California NP Scope of Pracitce & Certification

Navigating the scope of practice regulations is vital for any Nurse Practitioner (NP) in California. In contrast to states with full NP autonomy, California enforces certain restrictions, requiring NPs to collaborate with other healthcare professionals. This might include working under supervision or as part of a team.

The limitations in California are noteworthy for NPs who might consider practicing in states like New York, Maryland, or Washington, where NPs can practice independently. However, graduating from a program in a state with a restricted scope of practice, such as California, does not necessarily impede your ability to practice in a state with full practice rights. Presently, only eleven states, including California, have restricted NP practice, fifteen have reduced practice, and the remainder offer full practice authority. 

It is incumbent upon prospective NP students to verify that their program meets the licensure standards of the state where they intend to practice, as well as any states they may potentially move to. Prospective NPs can consult the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) for state regulations and the nursing board of the state where they plan to practice to gain a thorough understanding of state-specific regulations.

NP National Certification

National certification for NPs transcends individual state licensure, with uniformity across the nation. These certifications vary by specialty and are offered by various boards, all of which can be examined on the AANP site. This includes the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Board (AANPCB), American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and the National Certification Corporation (NCC).

NP Program Accreditation

Choosing an accredited Nurse Practitioner (NP) program is critical due to its multifaceted impact:

• Guarantee Quality Education: Accreditation signifies that a program meets rigorous educational standards through thorough reviews, ensuring quality in curriculum, faculty, student support, and clinical training.
• Enhance Skills: Accredited programs go beyond basic education, focusing on the holistic development of skills necessary to address healthcare's complexities.
• Emphasize Innovation: Integration of research and innovation in these programs keeps students at the forefront of healthcare advancements.
• Meet Clinical Practice Standards: These programs mandate 500 to 1000 clinical hours, meeting professional requirements for MSN or DNP pathways.
• Ensure Certification and Licensure: Accreditation is crucial for eligibility for nursing certifications and state licensure, enabling APRN practice.
• Improve Career Prospects: Graduates from accredited programs are favored by employers for their comprehensive education and are positioned for greater job opportunities.
• Facilitate Credit Transferability: Credits from accredited programs are more likely to be recognized by other institutions, aiding in further academic pursuits.
• Build Professional Reputation: Completing such a program adds to one's professional credibility, reflecting adherence to national advanced nursing standards.
• Access Financial Aid: Accreditation is often necessary for federal financial aid, crucial for students needing monetary support.

Aspiring NPs should prioritize programs accredited by recognized bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to secure these benefits.

NP Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: In California, are NPs allowed to practice independently, or do they need a collaborative agreement with a physician?

In California, NPs have historically practiced under the supervision of a physician. However, recent legislation has expanded the scope of practice for NPs in the state.

• Independent Practice: As of January 1, 2023, with the passage of Assembly Bill 890, experienced NPs in California can practice without physician supervision in specific settings, including clinics, health facilities, and some hospitals. This allows them to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications independently after meeting certain requirements.
• Transition Period: NPs who have completed a three-year transition period working under physician supervision or have practiced for an equivalent amount of time in another state can apply for independent practice authority in California.

Q: Are there California-specific courses or requirements for NP programs compared to other states?

While the core curriculum for NP programs tends to be consistent across states due to national accreditation standards, there are some California-specific elements:

• State Laws and Regulations: NP programs in California may offer coursework or training modules that familiarize students with California-specific laws, regulations, and practice guidelines, especially given the recent changes in NP practice authority in the state.
• Cultural Competence: Given California's diverse population, some programs may emphasize cultural competence, ensuring future NPs can deliver care that respects and responds to diverse health beliefs and practices.
• Prescriptive Authority: California has specific requirements for NPs regarding prescriptive authority, so NP programs in the state might emphasize pharmacology and the state-specific process for obtaining and maintaining this authority.

Prospective students should consult with individual NP programs in California to understand any state-specific curriculum components or requirements.

Edited Mar 16 by Erin Lee