Top Private Nursing Schools in California of 2024 & 2025

Top Private Nursing Schools in California of 2024 & 2025

Whether you’re a high school student embarking on the college search, a career changer contemplating a shift to nursing, or a healthcare professional looking to broaden career horizons, obtaining a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree can be the initial step toward a rewarding career as a nurse. Private nursing schools in California provide students with the essential skills to become Registered Nurses (RNs) or Nurse Practitioners (NPs). Discover the top nursing schools in California here.

California is home to 140 nursing programs, encompassing both public and private institutions, all designed to equip students with the skills necessary for practice. To assist you in making the best decision for your needs, we have compiled a ranking of the top private nursing schools in California. Explore our guide to these programs and learn how to narrow down your choices, determining which one best suits your aspirations.

We employ a data-driven methodology to rank the best private nursing programs in California, simplifying the process of finding a program that aligns with your goals. Our methodology focuses on metrics we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in a Private Nursing Program

With nearly 40 private nursing schools in California, deciding on the best program for your goals can be challenging. Our rankings of the best private nursing programs in California are designed to help you streamline your choices, based on key metrics such as:

Admission Requirements: Before applying to any nursing school, ensure you meet the minimum admission standards. Exceeding these standards can enhance your acceptance chances. Identifying any missing requirements early allows you to address them before applying.

Clinical Experience: RN programs necessitate clinical rotations for hands-on learning, but the formats, placement policies, and schedules can vary. Look for programs that facilitate easy fulfillment of these requirements, providing services like placement assistance.

Accreditation: Accreditation ensures that a school and its nursing program meet independent organization standards, qualifying students to take the NCLEX-RN for nursing licensure.

Program Length: A BSN is typically a four-year degree, requiring 120 credits and 700-800 clinical hours. Understanding program length is crucial for planning your academic journey.

School NCLEX Pass Rate: The pass rate indicates how well the program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing practice.

School Graduation Rate: A high graduation rate signifies program quality and effective student support services.

The Top Nursing Schools in California

Why Is Accreditation Important for Private Nursing Schools in California?

All programs in our rankings are accredited. Opting for an accredited private nursing program in California is crucial for your future career. Accreditation guarantees eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam, credit transferability, acceptance into graduate programs, federal financial aid eligibility, and increased employability.

Selecting an unaccredited program for nursing education can lead to negative consequences, including ineligibility for licensure and potential issues with credit transferability and employability.

Other reasons to seek accreditation include:

– Accredited schools guarantee eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam and application for a nursing license.
– Credits from an unaccredited nursing school may not transfer if you decide to change programs.
– Graduate programs may not accept degrees earned from an unaccredited undergraduate program.
– Students at unaccredited schools may not qualify for federal financial aid.
– Employers may be hesitant to hire nurses with degrees from unaccredited schools or programs.

The Best Private Nursing Programs and Schools in California

We utilize publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published, and program-specific information may vary.

#1 Fresno Pacific University

– Location: Fresno, CA
– Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
– Campus: Online + Campus
– Duration: 4 years
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $1,218 per credit
– Admission Requirements: Complete general education and nursing prerequisite courses; minimum 3.0 GPA; TEAS scores; nursing application with written statement; in-person interviews; pass criminal background check and drug tests; two references; 500-word personal statement; transcripts; provide proof of NCLEX-RN eligibility
– Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 92.62%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $100,849 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $32,954; Out-of-state: $32,954
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $14,940; Out-of-state: $14,940
– Retention Rate: 71%
– Admission Rate: 67%
– Students Enrolled: 3,995
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 9%
– Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Concordia University-Irvine

– Location: Irvine, CA

With a catalog of Christian-focused nursing undergraduate and graduate programs, CUI offers a bachelor of science in nursing degree (BSN) for non-nursing degree-holders that only takes 15 months to complete. The 127-credit accelerated BSN covers Christian theology, the New Testament, health assessments, pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, leadership and management theory, and research.  Besides the nursing theory coursework, students must complete 765 clinical hours with a focus on community health, psychiatric mental health, pediatrics, maternal nursing, medical and surgical nursing, and adult medical. The nearby Park Place campus offers nursing classrooms, two skills labs, and three simulation labs for hands-on learning. Clinical and theory courses prepare learners to earn the California Public Health Certificate.

The accelerated BSN accepts students enrolled in the bachelor’s in biology degree with a pre-nursing minor. Graduates can also pursue master of science in nursing degrees.
– Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Master of Science in Nursing
– Campus: Online + Campus
– Duration: 4 years
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $912 per credit
– Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college with a minimum of 75 transferable credits and at least a 3.25 GPA; completed prerequisites; at least 100 hours of patient care experience
– Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 96.18%
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $86,202 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state: $37,250; Out-of-state: $37,250
– Average Graduate Tuition: In-state: $8,121; Out-of-state: $8,121
– Retention Rate: 68%
– Admission Rate: 78%
– Students Enrolled: 4,071
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
– Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#3 Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, California
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + On-Campus

Established in 1899, APU stands out as one of California’s top private nursing institutions. With a rich selection of 150 programs, including BSN, MSN, and doctoral options, APU remains committed to its Wesleyan heritage.

Nursing programs, both undergraduate and graduate, are conducted at the main campus, regional sites across Southern California, and online. APU facilitates community internships at its Neighborhood Wellness Center for Azusa residents, along with mission trips to Mexico, Uganda, and Haiti.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Master of Science in Nursing; Doctorate in Nursing Practice
Campus: Azusa, California
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $460-$860 per credit
Admission Requirements: Varied, including associate or bachelor’s in nursing, minimum 2.75 GPA, and official transcripts
Minimum Time Commitment: Varies
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 80.16% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $89,570 for bachelor’s graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $40,830, Out-of-state $40,830
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $16,571, Out-of-state $16,571
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 9,006
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#4 Biola University

La Mirada, California
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + On-Campus

Biola, a distinguished private nursing school in California, provides a spiritually grounded Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, focusing on community health. The BSN curriculum integrates nursing care and Gospel preaching in hospitals across Los Angeles, Orange County, and even Rwanda.

The BSN program spans 4.5 years, with the initial phase focusing on instruction and the latter on clinical experience. Simulation labs and a weekly homeless clinic in La Mirada enhance direct patient care exposure.

Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus: La Mirada, California
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $1,946 per credit
Admission Requirements: Minimum 3.6 GPA for first-time students, TEAS score of 70 or above, and other prerequisites
Minimum Time Commitment: 54 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 77.50% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $74,576 for bachelor’s graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $43,512, Out-of-state $43,512
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $11,772, Out-of-state $11,772
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 64%
Students Enrolled: 5,815
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 98%
Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 Vanguard University of Southern California

Costa Mesa, California
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + On-Campus

Established in 2006, VUSC’s nursing school offers four nursing programs at undergraduate and graduate levels, emphasizing a Christian worldview. The degrees feature small class sizes with options for online or on-campus learning.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing pre-licensure program and RN-to-BSN and RN-to-MSN degrees cater to new and transfer students as well as registered nurses. Clinical training occurs in nursing simulation labs, complemented by partnerships with hospitals like St. Jude Medical Center and Orange County Global Medical Center.

No application fee is required for the RN-to-BSN degree.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Master of Science in Nursing
Campus: Costa Mesa, California
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $485-$725 per credit
Admission Requirements: Vary by program, requiring a current RN license and either an ADN or BSN degree
Minimum Time Commitment: 10-36 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 66.67% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $91,300 for bachelor’s graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $35,850, Out-of-state $35,850
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $16,080, Out-of-state $16,080
Retention Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 50%
Students Enrolled: 2,289
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Nurse Residencies with Lots of Job Opportunities for New Grad

#6 Loma Linda University

Loma Linda, California
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + On-Campus

Established in 1905, LLU’s School of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of 19 undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. These programs provide clinical experiences at Loma Linda University Medical Center and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, aligning with the university’s Christian service legacy.

Degree options include Bachelor of Science in Nursing, LVN-to-BSN, RN-to-BSN, and various master’s and doctoral programs. The medical simulation center at LLU facilitates practical training, with the skills lab housing 20 patient beds.

At the master’s level, students can specialize in nursing administration, adult gerontology, OB-GYN, and pediatrics. LLU also offers a Ph.D. program and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice with a focus on acute care, family medical, neonatal nursing, and primary care.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Master’s in Nursing; Doctorate in Nursing Practice
Campus: Loma Linda, California
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $345-$675 per credit
Admission Requirements: Varied, including TEAS scores, resume, recommendations, official transcripts, and specific prerequisite courses
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-36 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 79.45% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $89,658 for bachelor’s graduates and $140,440 according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $32,400, Out-of-state $32,400
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $27,040, Out-of-state $27,040
Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 4,468
Institution

Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 27%
Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#7 Samuel Merritt University

Oakland, California
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + On-Campus

With over 114 years of experience, SMU in the Central Valley offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which learners can complete in two years or four semesters.

SMU’s nursing school caters to future RNs, working nurses, and advanced practice nurses. Besides the accelerated BSN degree, the nursing school provides an RN-to-BSN degree and MSN degrees with specializations in case management, family nursing, and nursing anesthesia. Learners can also pursue a doctorate in nursing.

Clinical training opportunities abound, with access to over 1,000 health facilities. Whether studying online or on campus in Oakland, Sacramento, Fresno, or San Francisco, students benefit from a personalized education due to a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:8.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Master of Science in Nursing; Doctorate in Nursing
Campus: Oakland, California
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $1,736 per credit
Admission Requirements: Vary, including transferable credits, GPA, HESI A2 or TEAS scores, letters of recommendation, and a completed application
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 85.45% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $110,846 for bachelor’s graduates and $139,136 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $49,125, Out-of-state $49,125
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $52,896, Out-of-state $52,896
Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 2,050
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 15%
Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#8 National University

La Jolla, California
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + On-Campus

Founded in 1971, NU offers CCNE-accredited undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees with flexible four-week classes and online or hybrid options.

Nurses at NU can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, or postgraduate certificates for advanced practice registered nurses. Postgraduate certificates, such as the family nurse practitioner certificate, require a 600-hour practicum. This private nursing school in California boasts year-round enrollment and allows prospective students to apply at any time.

Programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Master of Science in Nursing; Doctorate in Nursing; Postgraduate Certificates
Campus: La Jolla, California
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $370-$798 per credit
Admission Requirements: Varies by program, with a focus on transcripts, and, in some cases, a valid RN or NP license
Minimum Time Commitment: Varies
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 79.92% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $84,367 for bachelor’s graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $13,320, Out-of-state $13,320
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $15,480, Out-of-state $15,480
Retention Rate: 45%
Admission Rate: 89%
Students Enrolled: 18,070
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 44%
Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#9 Simpson University

Redding, California
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + On-Campus

Founded in 1921, SU offers two Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs for current registered nurses (RNs) and first-time students, emphasizing a Christ-centered curriculum.

Licensed RNs can apply to the RN-to-BSN degree, which takes three semesters to complete. Prospective nurses can enroll in the four-year BSN program. The science and nursing center at SU offers clinical training, featuring two skills labs and four patient stimulation zones.

The Betty M. Dean School of Nursing at SU focuses on integrating Christian faith into nursing practice while respecting patients’ beliefs.

Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus: Redding, California
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $440-$570 per credit
Admission Requirements: Vary by program and student status, including prerequisites, GPA, and TEAS scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 91.30% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $84,161 for bachelor’s graduates
Average Undergrad Tuition: In-state $32,700, Out-of-state $32,700
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $10,543, Out-of-state $10,543
Retention Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: 60%
Students Enrolled: 855
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 86%
Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#10 Western University of Health Sciences

Pomona, California
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: On-Campus

Established in 1977, WesternU, a health-focused graduate school, offers nine master’s- and doctoral-level nursing programs.

Master’s students can specialize in family nursing or psychiatric mental health, with the direct-entry MSN program admitting graduates holding a non-nursing degree. The College of Graduate Nursing at WesternU also provides an MSN degree for candidates with an associate in nursing degree.

Learners can choose from graduate-level certificates to prepare for careers as emergency nurses, family nurses, or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners.

The campus stimulation lab at WesternU prepares students for clinical experiences, and additional support includes free small group tutoring and large group reviews to aid exam preparation.

Program: Master of Science in Nursing; Doctorate in Nursing
Campus: Pomona, California
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $1,193 per credit
Admission Requirements: Varies by program. Direct entry MSN program requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college, minimum 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, and the completion of all prerequisites with a “C” grade or higher.
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 89.71% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $126,504 for doctorate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition: Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition: In-state $23,556, Out-of-state $23,556
Retention Rate: Not provided
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 3,813
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 0%
Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Applying to Private Nursing Schools in California

In order to enroll in a private nursing school in California, prospective undergraduate students must possess either a high school diploma or a GED certificate. It’s important to note that the minimum GPA requirements can vary among different nursing programs.

Certain schools may require applicants to provide ACT or SAT scores, while others prefer TEAS scores. Additionally, prospective students might be asked to submit recommendation letters and craft personal essays detailing their educational and career aspirations. The requirements for graduate programs in private nursing schools in California differ based on the type of program. For admission to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs, candidates are generally required to hold an undergraduate degree. While most graduate programs look for applicants with a bachelor’s degree, RN-to-MSN or ADN-to-MSN bridge programs specifically admit individuals with an associate degree.

It is imperative for all prospective graduate students to possess RN licensure. Some schools may mandate work experience, while others are open to recent graduates.

Paying for Private Nursing Programs in California

The pursuit of any college degree necessitates a financial commitment. While concerns may arise about covering nursing school expenses, various factors influence the overall cost and the actual amount a student will spend.

Unlike public universities, private nursing schools in California do not offer lower tuition for in-state residents. Instead, all students are subject to the same tuition, typically higher than that of public schools. Other factors affecting overall costs include living arrangements and whether students plan to work while attending school.

Financial aid options are available to alleviate education costs, including nursing scholarships and grants offered by many private schools based on need or merit. Federal financial aid, comprising loans and grants, can also be applied for. Additionally, private scholarship and grant programs contribute to cost reduction.

For those employed, employers may provide tuition assistance programs, and private student loans from banks could be an alternative funding source.

Career Opportunities with a Degree from a Private Nursing School

Private nursing schools in California equip students to deliver patient care across diverse settings. The rankings encompass schools offering nursing degrees at various levels, from associate to doctoral degrees.

Regardless of the degree level attained, graduates have opportunities to practice nursing in California.

What can you do with an ADN or BSN Degree?

Achieving an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) qualifies individuals to work as Registered Nurses (RNs) in California. The state offers abundant opportunities, with California nurses earning the highest salaries in the nation, boasting a mean wage of $124,000, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2021. Employment possibilities for RNs span hospitals, physicians’ practices, home healthcare services, skilled nursing facilities, and outpatient care centers.

What can can you do with MSN or DNP Degree?

Attaining a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing prepares individuals for advanced practice nursing roles in California. An MSN is the minimum requirement for Nurse Practitioners (NPs), who also top the list for overall earnings in the country. The BLS indicates a mean wage of $151,830 for NPs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Private Nursing Schools in California

How long does it take to become a registered nurse in California?

The duration to become an RN in California varies based on the educational pathway chosen by each individual. Completion of an associate degree can lead to graduation in two years, while those pursuing a bachelor’s degree typically graduate in four years on a full-time schedule, or sooner in an accelerated program. However, part-time enrollment may extend the time to graduate and obtain licensure.

Are nurses in demand in California?

According to data from ProjectionsCentral a higher demand for nurses in California from 2020 to 2030 compared to the national rate. The projections indicate a 10.8% increase in demand for nurses in the Golden State, surpassing the national rate of 9%.

Is attending a private nursing school worth it?

While some students find that community colleges or public universities offer equivalent education quality at more affordable tuition rates, private nursing schools may provide competitive tuition pricing and substantial scholarships. Students may opt for a private nursing school due to specific professional or hospital connections, potentially leading to earlier program acceptance.

What are the requirements to become a nurse in California?

The California Board of Registered Nursing licenses nurses in the state. To qualify, completion of an accredited nursing education program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, submission of an application, and undergoing a fingerprint background check are necessary steps. Applicants can also apply for an interim permit to work under supervision while awaiting test scores.