Best Nursing Schools in California | 2024

California, with its diverse population and cutting-edge healthcare facilities, has always been at the forefront of healthcare innovation.

As the demand for skilled nurses continues to grow, California's nursing schools have risen to the challenge, offering a range of programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry. From Associate's to Doctoral degrees, these institutions provide comprehensive training, ensuring their graduates are well-equipped to deliver top-notch patient care.

Whether you're an aspiring nurse or looking to advance your career, discover the best programs California has to offer, along with insights into what it's like to study in The Golden State, and salary expectations after graduation.

Cities in California

• Los Angeles Nursing Schools
• San Diego Nursing Schools
• San Francisco Nursing Schools
• San Jose Nursing Schools

Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs in California

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

Discover the best undergraduate nursing schools by program:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Registered Nurse to BSN (RN to BSN)

Best ADN Programs in California

ADNs are entry-level nursing programs typically offered at community colleges in California. They span about two to three years and equip students with foundational nursing skills. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become RNs.

1. Moorpark College - Moorpark, CA

Allnurses Score: 99.03 (out of 100)
Tuition: $1,247 
NCLEX Pass Rate: 98%
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Overview: Moorpark College, located in Moorpark in Simi Valley, offers a top-rated ADN program with an impressive average NCLEX pass rate of 98% over the past five years with several years at a 100% pass rate.

The annual tuition is also extremely affordable at just $1,247. The school is a relatively sizable nursing school with an average of 67 students taking the NCLEX annually.

The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring a quality nursing education.

Read More: Applying to Moorpark College ADN Program

2. Ventura College - Ventura, CA

Allnurses Score: 98.75 (out of 100)
Tuition: $874
NCLEX Pass Rate: 95%
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Overview: Ventura College, situated in Ventura, provides an esteemed ADN program with a commendable average NCLEX pass rate of 95%. The two-year associate degree is a charter member of the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN) Alpha Delta Nu Honor Society. Students at VCCCD with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are eligible for induction into this honor society.

With an estimated annual cost of just $874, this nursing program is the cheapest of all the schools we reviewed in California.

Read More: Applying to Ventura College ADN Program

3. Grossmont College - El Cajon, CA

Allnurses Score: 97.87 (out of 100)
Tuition: $3,377
NCLEX Pass Rate: 98%
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Overview: Grossmont College, based in El Cajon, boasts an ADN program with an outstanding average NCLEX pass rate of 99%.

With an estimated annual cost of $3,377, students receive top-tier, accredited nursing education.

Read More: Applying to Grossmont College ADN Program

4. Hartnell College - Salinas, CA

Allnurses Score: 98.02 (out of 100)
Tuition: $4,209
NCLEX Pass Rate: 96%
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Overview: Hartnell College, located in Salinas, offers a reputable ADN program with a strong average NCLEX pass rate of 96%. With an estimated annual cost of $4,209, the program is accredited, ensuring a high standard of nursing education.

Read More: Applying to Hartnell College Nursing Program

5. Santa Monica College - Santa Monica, CA

Allnurses Score: 97.87 (out of 100)
Tuition: $3,305
NCLEX Pass Rate: 93%
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Overview: Santa Monica College, situated in the vibrant city of Santa Monica, provides an accredited ADN program with a standout average NCLEX pass rate of 93%.

The schools' job placement is near 100% and the program completion rate is consistently above most two-year schools, sitting around the 90% mark.

Last but not least, the estimated annual tuition of $3,305 is very reasonable, given the location in one of the most expensive areas of the state.

Read More: Applying to Santa Monica College ADN Program

6. Saddleback College - Mission Viejo, CA

Allnurses Score: 97.84 (out of 100)
Tuition: $5,379
NCLEX Pass Rate: 97%
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Overview: Saddleback College, set in the picturesque town of Mission Viejo, has been conferring ADN degrees since 1971. The quality program scores high marks on the NCLEX Pass Rates, and while not the most affordable school in the state, it's still a very reasonable tuition given its location in Orange County. 

The program produces nurses with strong earning power, commanding an average salary of $117,000.

Read More: Applying to Saddleback College ADN Program

7. San Diego City College - San Diego, CA

Allnurses Score: 97.81 (out of 100)
Tuition: $6,485
NCLEX Pass Rate: 99%
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Program Overview: San Diego City College is based in the vibrant downtown area of San Diego, a mere 5-minute drive from Petco Park.

There's more to the school than just a great location; the nursing program has one of the country's highest average NCLEX Pass Rates over the last five years, a near-perfect 99%.

Read More: Applying to San Diego City College ADN Program

_{*Costs as reported by Department of Education unless otherwise noted. Actual costs will vary based on scholarship, coursework, and other factors.}

Best BSN Programs in California

BSNs are comprehensive four-year undergraduate programs offered at universities and colleges. They delve deeper into nursing theory, research, and public health compared to the ADN. BSN-prepared nurses often have more job opportunities and access to leadership roles.

1. Sonoma State University

Sonoma State University, nestled in Rohnert Park, stands out with its top-tier BSN program. With an impressive average NCLEX pass rate of 97% over the past five years and an affordable annual cost of $6,230, students are assured of an accredited and high-quality nursing education.

2. San Diego State University

San Diego State University, located in the vibrant city of San Diego, offers a distinguished BSN program. With a commendable average NCLEX pass rate of 95% and an estimated annual cost of $6,488, the program is both accredited and ensures excellence in nursing education.

3. University of California - Los Angeles

The University of California-Los Angeles, based in the iconic city of Los Angeles, boasts a reputable BSN program. With a solid average NCLEX pass rate of 93% and an estimated annual cost of $11,627, students receive top-notch, accredited nursing education at this esteemed institution.

4. California State University - East Bay

California State University-East Bay, situated in Hayward, provides a quality BSN program. With a respectable average NCLEX pass rate of 90% and an estimated annual cost of $11,327, the program is accredited, ensuring students receive a high standard of nursing education.

5. Concordia University - Irvine

Concordia University-Irvine, located in Irvine, offers an exceptional BSN program. Despite its higher estimated annual cost of $24,483, the program boasts an outstanding average NCLEX pass rate of 98%. Students are guaranteed an accredited and premium nursing education experience.

_{*Costs as reported by Department of Education unless otherwise noted. Actual costs will vary based on scholarship, coursework, and other factors.}

Best RN to BSN Programs in California

RN to BSN programs are designed for RNs with an ADN or diploma, allowing them to earn their BSN. Offered by many institutions in California, these programs often provide flexible schedules or online options to accommodate working RNs, typically taking one to two years to complete.

1. California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) School of Nursing

Situated in Fullerton, CA, CSUF stands out as California's premier choice for RN to BSN programs. With flexible online options, both part-time and full-time, CSUF boasts a competitive 38% admission rate and an impressive 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

• Cost: In-state: $3,833/semester | Out-of-state: $10,049/semester
• Duration: Full-time: 3 semesters | Part-time: 4-5 semesters
• Graduation Rate: 69%

2. San Diego State University (SDSU) School of Nursing

Located in the heart of San Diego, SDSU's hybrid RN to BSN program offers a blend of online and on-campus learning. With start dates in both fall and Spring, the university maintains a 35% admission rate and a 22:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

• Cost: $13,000
• Duration: Full-time: 12 months | Part-time: 18-24 months
• Graduation Rate: 68%

3. California State University, Chico (CSU Chico) School of Nursing

CSU Chico, located in scenic Chico, California, provides a flexible online RN to BSN program tailored for working professionals. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical rotations, with a 58% admission rate and a 21:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

• Cost: In-state: $3,791/semester | Out-of-state: $10,571/semester
• Duration: Full-time: 2 semesters | Part-time: 3 semesters
• Graduation Rate: 64%

4. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) School of Nursing

CSULB, a cornerstone in Long Beach, CA, offers a unique RN to BSN pathway. Students can start part-time in their first year and transition to full-time alongside BSN peers in their second year.

• Cost: In-state: $3,981/semester | Out-of-state: $8,913/semester
• Duration: Full-time: 3 semesters | Part-time: 4-6 semesters
• Graduation Rate: 73%

5. California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) School of Nursing

CSUS, based in the vibrant city of Sacramento, CA, features a 100% online RN to BSN program with flexible start dates in both fall and Spring.

• Cost: $3,832/semester
• Duration: Full-time: 3 semesters | Part-time: 4-6 semesters
• Graduation Rate: 72%

6. San Francisco State University (SFSU) School of Nursing

SFSU, located in the iconic city of San Francisco, CA, offers a hybrid RN to BSN program starting in the Spring semester, combining online learning with on-campus sessions.

• Cost: In-state: $3,926/semester | Out-of-state: $9,262/semester
• Duration: Full-time: 3 semesters | Part-time: 4-6 semesters
• Graduation Rate: 67%

7. California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) School of Nursing

CSUSB, a key institution in San Bernardino, CA, presents an online RN to BSN program commencing in the fall semester.

• Cost: In-state: $3,811/semester | Out-of-state: $9,247/semester
• Duration: Full-time: 3 semesters | Part-time: 4-6 semesters
• Graduation Rate: 51%

Best Graduate Nursing Programs in California

The two main types of graduate nursing programs in California are:

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Best MSN Programs in California

1. University of California - San Francisco

UCSF's Master of Science in Nursing program is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on research, clinical expertise, and interprofessional collaboration. As a leading institution in healthcare, UCSF prepares its graduates to be innovators and leaders in various nursing specialties.

Concentrations:

• Diabetes
• Genomics
• Health Policy
• HIV Care and Prevention
• Leadership and Education in Adolescence Health
• Rural Health

2. University of California - Los Angeles

UCLA's MSN program offers a blend of advanced theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical practice. With a focus on fostering leadership and evidence-based care, the program equips nurses to address complex healthcare challenges in diverse settings.

Concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

3. University of California - Davis

UC Davis' MSN program emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care, integrating advanced nursing practices with community engagement and advocacy. The program is designed to cultivate nurse leaders who can drive change and improve patient outcomes in various healthcare environments.

Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner 
• Leadership

UC Davis also offers a Master's Entry in Nursing program.

4. University of San Francisco

The MSN program at USF is rooted in the university's Jesuit values, promoting social justice, compassion, and ethical care. With a curriculum that balances clinical expertise with leadership development, USF prepares its graduates to be advocates for patients and leaders in the nursing profession.

MSN Tracks:

• RN to MSN
• Master's Entry MSN

Best DNP Programs in California

1. University of California - San Francisco

UCSF's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is a trailblazer in advanced nursing education. With a strong emphasis on translating evidence into practice, the program prepares nurse leaders to drive healthcare innovations, improve patient outcomes, and lead interprofessional teams in complex healthcare environments.

DNP Tracks:

• BSN to DNP
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — Occupational and Environmental Health Nursing
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nursing 
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Certified Nurse-Midwifery
  • Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (with subspecialties in Oncology and Critical Care Trauma)
  • Neonatal Nursing
  • Health Policy and Public Health Nursing
• Post-Master's Entry to DNP

2. University of San Francisco

USF's DNP program is grounded in the university's commitment to social justice and compassionate care. The curriculum focuses on developing advanced clinical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to implement evidence-based solutions to address healthcare disparities and challenges.

Concentrations:

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

3. University of San Diego

USD's DNP program is designed for nurses seeking a blend of clinical, organizational, and leadership training. With a focus on improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes, the program equips its graduates to be change agents in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to community clinics.

Concentrations:

• Dual Adult-Gerontology/Family Nurse Practitioner 
• Dual Pediatric/Family Nurse Practitioner
• Health Systems Leadership
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• FNP in Emergency Care
• Nursing Informatics and Data Science
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

4. Loma Linda University

LLU's DNP program emphasizes a holistic and values-based approach to advanced nursing practice. Rooted in the university's Seventh-day Adventist Christian perspective, the program cultivates nurse leaders who are dedicated to service, research, and the promotion of health and wholeness.

Concentrations:

• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Nurse Anesthesia
• Nurse Leadership
• Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-AC)
• Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP-PC)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

Studying Nursing in California

California offers a unique and enriching experience due to the state's diverse population, cutting-edge healthcare facilities, and its position as a trendsetter in healthcare policies and practices. Here's what to expect:

• Diverse Learning Environment: California is home to a rich tapestry of cultures, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This diversity provides nursing students with a broad range of clinical experiences, allowing them to interact with and care for patients from various backgrounds.
• Top-tier Institutions: California boasts some of the nation's leading nursing schools and programs. Institutions like the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and UCLA are renowned for their nursing programs and research opportunities.
• Clinical Opportunities: The state is home to numerous world-class hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers. This offers nursing students a plethora of clinical rotation opportunities in various settings, from urban hospitals to rural clinics.
• State Regulations and Licensing: The California Board of Registered Nursing sets rigorous standards for nursing education and practice. While this ensures high-quality care delivery, students must be prepared to meet these stringent requirements to obtain licensure.
• Job Opportunities: California consistently has a high demand for nurses, especially given its large and aging population. While the state offers numerous job opportunities, it's also competitive, so students often benefit from networking and gaining additional certifications.
• Cost of Living and Tuition: While California offers excellent educational opportunities, it's also one of the more expensive states in terms of cost of living, especially in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Tuition can also be higher compared to other states, but many institutions offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants.
• Innovative Learning Approaches: Many Californian nursing schools incorporate the latest in simulation technology, research opportunities, and innovative teaching methods, ensuring students are well-prepared for the ever-evolving world of healthcare.
• Natural Beauty and Recreation: Studying can be stressful, but California offers a plethora of recreational activities. Whether it's hiking in the national parks, surfing on the Pacific coast, or exploring the state's vibrant cities, there's always something to do to relax and rejuvenate.
• Networking Opportunities: Due to its position as a hub for healthcare innovation, students have numerous opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, and seminars, allowing them to network with professionals and stay updated on the latest in healthcare trends.

While studying nursing in California comes with its challenges, such as high living costs and competitive programs, the state's diverse clinical experiences, top-tier institutions, and vast job opportunities make it an attractive destination for aspiring nurses.

Salary Expectations

The most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers valuable insights into the typical nursing salaries in California. Nevertheless, when contemplating salary projections, it's vital to factor in a range of variables that can have an impact on your earnings.

These variables include your educational background, years of professional experience, the nature of the healthcare institution where you work, the employer you are associated with, the level of demand for your particular nursing specialization, and your work schedule, including shifts and hours. To acquire a comprehensive grasp of your potential income, it is recommended to explore the specific details that relate to your unique situation and your employer's compensation policies.

RN Salaries

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), California RNs can expect a mean wage of $133,340 annually. This wage is much higher than the national average of $89,010. However, this figure does not differentiate between ADN- and BSN-prepared RNs.

California also ranks first among the highest employment level of RNs:

• California: 325,630
• Texas: 231,060
• Florida: 197,630
• New York: 190,470
• Pennsylvania: 137,970

Advanced Practice Salaries: MSN- and DNP-Prepared Nurses

For APRNs with an MSN or DNP, the BLS reported the average salaries in California are:

• Nurse Practitioners: $158,130
• Nurse Anesthetists: $246,510

Compared to the national averages of:

• Nurse Practitioners: $124,680
• Nurse Anesthetists: $205,770

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the requirements to get into a nursing school in California?

Requirements vary by institution and program level. For undergraduates, applicants generally need a high school diploma or GED, prerequisite coursework (e.g., anatomy, physiology, Microbiology), a minimum GPA, and satisfactory scores on entrance exams. Some programs may also require letters of recommendation, personal statements, or interviews. For graduate programs, students may require a BSN, MSN, and clinical experience. It's important to check with each program of interest to ensure you qualify prior to applying.

Q: Is accreditation important for nursing schools in California?

Yes, accreditation ensures that the nursing program meets specific standards of quality and prepares students adequately for the nursing profession. Look for schools accredited by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Q: What is the job outlook for nurses in California?

California consistently has a high demand for nurses due to its large and diverse population. The job outlook is positive, especially for specialized nursing roles and in areas with higher healthcare needs.