The Top Nursing Schools in California

Embarking on a nursing career in California opens up many exciting job opportunities. With its vast healthcare system, California is a great place to become a nurse.
Whether you’re just starting or want to advance your career, the nursing schools in California can help you achieve your professional goals.
Nursing programs in California provide a wide range of options, from basic nursing education to advanced degrees.
Whether you’re interested in a RN to BSN program, nurse practitioner programs, or even a DNP program, California offers top programs to help you become a nurse and grow in the profession.

This guide will help you understand the essential details about nursing schools in California, nursing licensure requirements in California, nursing salaries, and California nursing jobs. It will also provide helpful information about how to get started with your nursing career and choose the right nursing school for your needs.

Top Nursing Schools in California

When you think about pursuing a nursing career, choosing the right nursing school is crucial. In California, there are many nursing schools that offer excellent programs. Whether you are looking for BSN programs or want to become a nurse practitioner, the options are abundant. If you are in Los Angeles, there are top nursing schools in Los Angeles with great reputations. Likewise, if you’re in or near San Francisco, there are excellent nursing programs in San Francisco to consider.

To make your choice easier, we provide rankings and information about the best nursing programs in California. These rankings are based on factors like program quality, affordability, and the success of graduates in passing exams and finding jobs.

The Top Nursing Schools in California

1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Nursing
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Website: https://nursing.ucla.edu
The UCLA School of Nursing offers a range of programs, including Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). UCLA’s BSN program prepares students for a successful nursing career through rigorous coursework and extensive clinical rotations. The MSN and DNP programs offer specializations in areas such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nurse Anesthesia, equipping students for leadership roles in healthcare.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), UCLA ensures that students receive a world-class education. The school also provides numerous opportunities for research and innovation in healthcare.

Campus: Los Angeles, CA
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $16,000 per year (undergraduate, in-state)
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-4 years
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: BSN, MSN, DNP
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia, Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

2. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Nursing
Location: San Francisco, CA
Website: https://nursing.ucsf.edu
UCSF’s School of Nursing is renowned for its leadership in nursing research and education. The school offers MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. programs. UCSF’s MSN program provides advanced practice nurse training in areas such as Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Family Nurse Practitioner.

UCSF is highly respected for its academic rigor and research contributions, and it is accredited by the CCNE, ensuring that students are prepared for leadership in diverse healthcare settings.

Campus: San Francisco, CA
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $14,000 per year (graduate, in-state)
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-4 years
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: MSN, DNP, Ph.D.
Programs: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

3. University of Southern California (USC) Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and Nursing
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Website: https://nursing.usc.edu
USC offers a variety of nursing programs, including DNP, MSN, and RN-to-MSN. The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program is one of its most popular offerings, providing students with the skills needed to provide primary care to patients across the lifespan. USC also offers a specialized program in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Anesthesia.

USC’s nursing programs are highly flexible, allowing for online courses, and are accredited by the CCNE. The school also offers a robust clinical placement program, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience.

Campus: Los Angeles, CA
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,900 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-4 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: DNP, MSN
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia

4. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) School of Nursing
Location: Long Beach, CA
Website: https://www.csulb.edu/college-of-health-human-services/nursing
CSULB offers one of the most comprehensive nursing programs in California. The BSN program provides students with a strong foundation in nursing, while the MSN program allows students to specialize as Nurse Practitioners or Nurse Educators.

The nursing program at CSULB is known for its excellent clinical partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare providers, offering real-world experience. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring quality education.

Campus: Long Beach, CA
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $500 per credit hour (undergraduate, in-state)
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years (for BSN)
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: BSN, MSN
Programs: Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner

5. San Diego State University School of Nursing
Location: San Diego, CA
Website: https://nursing.sdsu.edu
San Diego State University offers both BSN and MSN programs, with specializations in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). The MSN program prepares students to become leaders in the nursing profession, with advanced coursework and clinical rotations in a variety of healthcare settings. SDSU’s nursing programs are CCNE accredited.

SDSU is known for its strong ties to the San Diego healthcare community, which provides students with numerous clinical rotation opportunities.

Campus: San Diego, CA
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $750 per credit hour (in-state)
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years (BSN), 2-4 years (MSN)
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: BSN, MSN
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner

6. University of California, Irvine (UCI) Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing
Location: Irvine, CA
Website: https://nursing.uci.edu
UC Irvine offers both undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, including the BSN, MSN, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The BSN program is known for its rigorous academic standards and exceptional clinical placements. The MSN program offers several advanced practice specialties, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.

UCI’s programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for the demands of the healthcare industry.

Campus: Irvine, CA
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $14,000 per year (graduate, in-state)
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-4 years
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: BSN, MSN, DNP
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

7. California State University, Sacramento (CSU Sacramento) School of Nursing
Location: Sacramento, CA
Website: https://www.csus.edu/college/health-human-services/nursing
CSU Sacramento offers an accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with specializations in Nurse Educator and Nurse Practitioner tracks. The school’s clinical partnerships and strong ties to the Sacramento healthcare community provide students with extensive hands-on experience.

CSU Sacramento is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and offers an excellent student-to-faculty ratio, which enhances the overall learning experience.

Campus: Sacramento, CA
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $500 per credit hour (in-state)
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years (BSN), 2-4 years (MSN)
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: BSN, MSN
Programs: Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner

8. Azusa Pacific University School of Nursing
Location: Azusa, CA
Website: https://www.apu.edu/nursing
Azusa Pacific University (APU) offers a range of nursing programs, including the BSN, MSN, and DNP. The BSN program prepares students for licensure and provides them with the skills necessary to excel in diverse clinical settings. The MSN program offers tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Leadership.

APU’s programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring high-quality nursing education that prepares students for successful careers in healthcare.

Campus: Azusa, CA
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,000 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-4 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: BSN, MSN, DNP
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nurse Leadership

9. Sonoma State University School of Nursing
Location: Rohnert Park, CA
Website: https://nursing.sonoma.edu
Sonoma State University offers a highly respected Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to prepare students for nursing practice in a variety of healthcare settings. The program includes clinical experiences and a strong focus on patient-centered care. Sonoma State also offers an RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses looking to complete their degree.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Sonoma State ensures that students are well-prepared to enter the workforce as competent and compassionate nurses.

Campus: Rohnert Park, CA
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $19,000 per year (out-of-state)
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years (BSN)
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: BSN
Programs: RN-to-BSN

10. Loyola Marymount University (LMU) School of Nursing
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Website: https://bellarmine.lmu.edu/nursing
Loyola Marymount University offers a comprehensive BSN program designed to provide students with the clinical and academic skills necessary for a successful nursing career. The MSN program offers a variety of specializations, including Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator.

LMU’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring students receive a high-quality education that meets national standards.

Campus: Los Angeles, CA
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,500 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-4 years
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: BSN, MSN
Programs: Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner

How to Choose a Nursing Program in California

California offers a wide variety of nursing programs, so it’s important to choose one that fits your goals. Here are a few things to think about:

• Program Type: You can choose from online nursing schools or traditional in-person programs. If you are a working professional, there are best nursing programs for working professionals in California that offer flexible schedules or online options.
• Tuition Costs: Nursing school can be expensive, so you should consider how much tuition costs and what kind of financial aid is available. California students can apply for state-specific financial aid programs like the Cal Grant, which doesn’t require repayment.
• NCLEX Pass Rates: The NCLEX pass rates show how well students from a specific nursing school are performing on the licensing exam. A high pass rate usually indicates a good program.
• Accreditation: Make sure the nursing school you choose is accredited, meaning it meets high standards of education set by official nursing organizations. This will help ensure your degree is recognized across the country.

The Advantages of Pursuing a Nursing Career in California

Becoming a nurse in California offers many benefits. The state has a large healthcare system, and nurses are in high demand. According to the California Board of Registered Nursing, there are over 330,000 registered nurses (RNs) in California, with an additional 14,000 nurse practitioners (NPs). Even though there are already many nurses in California, the need for more healthcare professionals continues to grow.

One advantage of working as a nurse in California is the nursing salary. RNs in California make higher wages than the national average. In cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, RNs can make over $120,000 a year, which is much higher than the average RN salary in other states. It’s important to note that Cal Grant applicants should not possess a bachelor’s degree.

California is also a good place for nursing career opportunities, with many paths available for advancement. For example, nurses can go on to become nurse practitioners or even take part in DNP programs to reach higher positions in healthcare.

Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in California

California boasts an average registered nursing salary that surpasses the national average, making it an attractive destination for nursing professionals. However, it’s essential to consider the higher cost of living in the state, especially in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. RNs in these cities earn an impressive average of over $120,000, significantly exceeding the national median of $75,330, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Data also reveals that practitioners in the 75th percentile earn well above $150,000 annually. Many RNs pursue advanced degrees, with California NPs earning an average of $145,970, compared to the national average of $114,510, according to the BLS.

For aspiring nurses, the projected employment growth in California is promising, with a 16.7% increase expected between 2018 and 2028.

Top-Paying Metropolitan Areas for Nurses in California

When seeking programs to maximize earning potential, students may consider cities with the highest salaries for RNs. The following table highlights the top-paying metropolitan areas in California:

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in California

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Average Salary for RNs
San Francisco — Oakland — Hayward	$149,200
San Jose — Sunnyvale — Santa Clara	$146,870
Vallejo — Fairfield	$142,140
Sacramento — Roseville — Arden-Arcade	$134,350
Salinas	$132,160

Source: BLS 

These areas offer great job opportunities and high-paying positions for nurses.

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in California

To become an RN in California, follow these basic steps:

1. Complete a Nursing Program: You can start with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN gives you more career opportunities and is often required for advanced roles like nurse practitioners or managers.
2. Pass the NCLEX Exam: After completing your nursing education, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed.
3. Apply for California Licensure: After passing the NCLEX, you need to apply for California nursing licensure with the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). The application fee varies depending on whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state graduate.
4. Start Your Nursing Career: Once licensed, you can start working as a nurse in California. If you want to continue your education, there are many programs available to help you advance in your career, such as RN to BSN programs or MSN programs.

RN Requirements in California

To become a registered nurse (RN) in California, you need to:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program, such as an ADN or BSN.
• Pass the NCLEX exam.
• Apply for a nursing license with the California Board of Registered Nursing.

For nurses who already have an ADN, you can continue your education by enrolling in an RN to BSN program to earn your Bachelor’s degree. You can also pursue an MSN for more advanced roles, such as becoming a nurse practitioner or a nurse educator.

APRN Requirements in California

To become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in California, you need to complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Once you finish your education, you must pass additional licensing requirements and complete supervised clinical hours.

APRNs include roles like nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives. These advanced roles provide more responsibility, higher pay, and greater job satisfaction. Best nurse practitioner programs in California prepare students for these specialized positions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in California

Is California a Good State for Nurses?
Yes, California is an excellent state for nurses because of high salaries, great career opportunities, and a growing demand for healthcare professionals.

Is it Difficult to Find a Nursing Job in California?
While California faces some competition for nursing jobs, especially in popular cities, there is a growing demand for nurses, and California nursing jobs are available across the state.

Is Nursing in Demand in California?
Yes, there is a high demand for nurses in California, especially for nurse practitioners and RNs with advanced degrees. The state’s healthcare needs are expected to increase, creating more opportunities for nursing professionals.

How Much Does a California Nursing License Cost?
The cost to apply for a California nursing license varies. For new graduates, the RN examination application fee is $300. For out-of-state applicants, the fee is $350. Additional fees may apply for fingerprinting and transcript copies.