California Nursing Schools and Programs

Researching then applying to accredited nursing schools in California can be a time consuming task. For those just getting started in Nursing, we suggest that you focus on your near term education goals and the California licensing requirements. The first question to ask yourself is: Do I want to begin my career in the state of California as a Nursing Assistant, Vocational Nurse, or a Registered Nurse? See our nursing education chart below for some insight into how long it takes to graduate from the most popular CNA, LVN, and RN nursing programs in California.

How long is nursing school in California? California education estimates and average wages by nursing program: Nursing Assistant, Vocational Nurse, Registered Nurse, and Nurse Practitioner.

California Registered Nurse programs generally lead to an Associate Degree in Nursing or Bachelor Degree in Nursing which typically last 2 to 4 years.

Finding the best Nurse Practitioner school in California before you become a Registered Nurse, for example, may bog down the school selection and application process. Furthermore, many four year undergraduate colleges routinely accept transfer credits for prerequisites often called pre-nursing courses.

While earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN, ASN) or Bachelor Degree in Nursing (BDN, BSN) is an important milestone for nurses, many California nursing school students gain meaningful work experience and an income upon completion of a shorter Certified Nursing Assistant or Licensed Vocational Nursing program in the state of California.

To help students search for the best nursing school in California, we have outlined some key questions to ask. Below on this page you will find the following:

  1. How do I become a nurse in California?
  2. Is California a nursing compact state?
  3. How long is nursing school in California?
  4. How much does nursing school in California cost?
  5. Is it hard to get into a California nursing school?
  6. List of nursing schools in California.

How do I become a nurse in California?

If you want to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in the state of California, you will need to complete a Vocational Nurse training program. Vocational Nursing programs generally last 1 to 1.5 years. Upon completion of your California vocational nursing program, you will have to pass the nationwide NCLEX-PN exam. After you pass the NCLEX-PN exam, you will apply for a Vocational Nurse license from the California Board of Nursing.

If you want to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of California, you will need to complete a Registered Nurse training program. Registered Nurse programs generally last 2 to 4 years. Upon completion of your California registered nursing program, you will have to pass the nationwide NCLEX-RN exam. After you pass the NCLEX-RN exam, you will apply for a Registered Nurse license from the California Board of Nursing.

Is California a nursing compact state?

No, California is not part of the nursing license compact. States which joined the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact (eNLC) allow the Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) and Registered Nurse (RN) to practice in other participating states using one multi-state nursing license. This means that a California Licensed Vocational Nurse or a California Registered Nurse must apply for a license by endorsement when moving to another state.

How long is nursing school in California?

The amount of time you spend in a California nursing school will vary based upon the career path you choose. You can become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in as little as 6 to 12 weeks. Become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in 1 to 1.5 years, a California Registered Nurse (RN) in 2 to 4 years, or stay in nursing school longer to become a Nurse Practitioner in 6 to 8 years.

Above on this page we created a tabular image which summarizes how long nursing school is in California. That image includes the number of nurses employed in the state of California, along with the average wages earned at each education level.

Notice that in the state of California, far greater numbers are employed as a Registered Nurse (RN) compared to a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). Notice also that a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in California earns far more in wages compared to a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

Use the nursing program acronyms CNA, LVN, ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD to help identify which California nursing schools offer the length of program you desire.

How much does nursing school in California cost?

Tuition for a nursing school in California will cost between $1,000 to $3,000 per year for state residents seeking a two year Associate degree, an ADN or ASN, for example. The larger public four year colleges and universities in California cost more between $6,000 to $8,000 per year for state residents seeking their Bachelor Degree in Nursing, a BDN or BSN.

To help reduce the cost of nursing school in California, a student can generally take their pre-nursing courses at a smaller two year college. Then, transfer those credits into the larger four year college or university of your choice. Each college has their own method of awarding transfer credits for pre-nursing coursework. You will need to plan ahead and question the receiving school before you start your first pre-nursing class.

Is it hard to get into a California nursing school?

We list the quoted acceptance rate provided by each California nursing school. A college acceptance rate is calculated by dividing the number of accepted students by the number of total applicants. Reviewing the list of nursing schools in California provided below, we can see the acceptance rates range from about 50% to 100% or Open. SAT and ACT scores are displayed on each individual nursing school page.

If you are having trouble getting accepted into a California nursing school due to a below average GPA, SAT, or ACT score, here are two strategies which might help: 1) take your pre-nursing courses at your local community college then reapply later as a transfer student with an above average GPA, and, 2) get your Nursing Assistant or Vocational Nurse license to help you gain experience and stand out from other college applicants.

List Of Nursing Schools In California

Below is our complete list of accredited nursing schools in California. In general, these schools offer campus based CNA, LVN, ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, and more nursing programs approved by the California Board Of Nursing.

Click the name of any California nursing school below to view the cost to attend, SAT and ACT scores, college or university characteristics, student body profile, satellite map of the surrounding area, and to view any additional nursing program information we have available in our database.

Azusa Pacific University

901 E. Alosta Ave, Azusa, CA 91702
626-969-3434

Azusa Pacific University is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in Azusa, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Azusa, California campus for Azusa Pacific University is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 7,169. In-state tuition and fees were $42,330 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN-to-MSN, DNP, PhD

  • Tuition Cost $42,330
  • Room and Board $9,222
  • Acceptance Rate 87%
  • ACT Score 21-28

Biola University

13800 Biola Ave, La Mirada, CA 90639
562-903-6000

Biola University is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in La Mirada, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The La Mirada, California campus for Biola University is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 5,387. In-state tuition and fees were $44,382 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN

  • Tuition Cost $44,382
  • Room and Board $10,522
  • Acceptance Rate 57%
  • ACT Score 23-30

California State University, Bakersfield

9001 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield, CA 93311
661-654-3036

California State University, Bakersfield is a Public institution with a campus in Bakersfield, California. The institution was established in 1965 and is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Bakersfield, California campus for California State University, Bakersfield is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 9,613. In-state tuition and fees were $7,637 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN

  • Tuition Cost $7,637
  • Room and Board $14,230
  • Acceptance Rate 87%

California State University, Chico

400 West First Street, Chico, CA 95929
530-898-6116

California State University, Chico is a Public institution with a campus in Chico, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Chico, California campus for California State University, Chico is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 14,183. In-state tuition and fees were $7,972 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, MSN

  • Tuition Cost $7,972
  • Room and Board $15,212
  • Acceptance Rate 95%

California State University, Dominguez Hills

1000 E. Victoria Street, Carson, CA 90747
310-243-3300

California State University, Dominguez Hills is a Public institution with a campus in Carson, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Carson, California campus for California State University, Dominguez Hills is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 16,426. In-state tuition and fees were $7,060 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: RN-to-BSN, MSN, Accelerated MSN, Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $7,060
  • Room and Board $16,035
  • Acceptance Rate 89%

California State University, Fresno

5241 N. Maple Ave, Fresno, CA 93740
559-278-4240

California State University, Fresno is a Public institution with a campus in Fresno, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Fresno, California campus for California State University, Fresno is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 23,999. In-state tuition and fees were $6,663 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $6,663
  • Room and Board $11,080
  • Acceptance Rate 95%

California State University, Fullerton

800 N. State College Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92831
657-278-2011

California State University, Fullerton is a Public institution with a campus in Fullerton, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Fullerton, California campus for California State University, Fullerton is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 40,386. In-state tuition and fees were $7,007 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, RN-to-MSN, Certified Nurse Midwife, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $7,007
  • Room and Board $16,702
  • Acceptance Rate 67%

California State University, Hayward

25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard, Hayward, CA 94542
510-885-3000

California State University, Hayward is a Public institution with a campus in Hayward, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Hayward, California campus for California State University, Hayward is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 13,673. In-state tuition and fees were $6,995 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN

  • Tuition Cost $6,995
  • Room and Board $15,402
  • Acceptance Rate 96%

California State University, Long Beach

1250 Bellflower Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90840
562-985-4111

California State University, Long Beach is a Public institution with a campus in Long Beach, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Long Beach, California campus for California State University, Long Beach is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 38,973. In-state tuition and fees were $6,884 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Accelerated MSN, Post-MSN, DNP, PhD

  • Tuition Cost $6,884
  • Room and Board $14,932
  • Acceptance Rate 40%

California State University, Los Angeles

5151 State University Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90032
323-343-3000

California State University, Los Angeles is a Public institution with a campus in Los Angeles, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Los Angeles, California campus for California State University, Los Angeles is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 26,460. In-state tuition and fees were $6,805 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Accelerated MSN, RN-to-MSN, DNP, PhD

  • Tuition Cost $6,805
  • Room and Board $17,998
  • Acceptance Rate 87%

California State University, Northridge

18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330
818-677-1200

California State University, Northridge is a Public institution with a campus in Northridge, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Northridge, California campus for California State University, Northridge is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 37,579. In-state tuition and fees were $7,069 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: RN-to-BSN, Accelerated BSN

  • Tuition Cost $7,069
  • Room and Board $11,848
  • Acceptance Rate 91%

California State University, Sacramento

6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819
916-278-6011

California State University, Sacramento is a Public institution with a campus in Sacramento, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Sacramento, California campus for California State University, Sacramento is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 31,818. In-state tuition and fees were $7,484 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $7,484
  • Room and Board $16,278
  • Acceptance Rate 93%

California State University, San Bernardino

5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA 92407
909-537-5000

California State University, San Bernardino is a Public institution with a campus in San Bernardino, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Bernardino, California campus for California State University, San Bernardino is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 19,803. In-state tuition and fees were $7,486 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Nurse Educator

  • Tuition Cost $7,486
  • Room and Board $13,779
  • Acceptance Rate 91%

California State University, Stanislaus

One University Circle, Turlock, CA 95382
209-667-3122

California State University, Stanislaus is a Public institution with a campus in Turlock, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Turlock, California campus for California State University, Stanislaus is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 10,154. In-state tuition and fees were $7,734 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, LPN-to-BSN, RN-to-BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, Nurse Educator

  • Tuition Cost $7,734
  • Room and Board $11,382
  • Acceptance Rate 97%

Cerritos Community College

11110 Alondra Boulevard, Norwalk, CA 90650
562-860-2451

Cerritos Community College is a Public institution with a campus in Norwalk, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Norwalk, California campus for Cerritos Community College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 19,469. In-state tuition and fees were $1,364 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,364
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Chaffey College

5885 Haven Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91737
909-987-1737

Chaffey College is a Public institution with a campus in Rancho Cucamonga, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Rancho Cucamonga, California campus for Chaffey College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 19,238. In-state tuition and fees were $1,184 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: LPN, ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,184
  • Acceptance Rate Open

College of Marin

835 College Avenue, Kentfield, CA 94904
415-457-8811

College of Marin is a Public institution with a campus in Kentfield, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Kentfield, California campus for College of Marin is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 4,283. In-state tuition and fees were $1,494 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,494
  • Acceptance Rate Open

College of the Canyons

26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355
661-259-7800

College of the Canyons is a Public institution with a campus in Santa Clarita, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Santa Clarita, California campus for College of the Canyons is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 18,075. In-state tuition and fees were $1,162 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,162
  • Acceptance Rate Open

College of the Desert

43-500 Monterey Avenue, Palm Desert, CA 92260
760-346-8041

College of the Desert is a Public institution with a campus in Palm Desert, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Palm Desert, California campus for College of the Desert is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 10,382. In-state tuition and fees were $1,326 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: LPN, ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,326
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Cypress College

9200 Valleyview Street, Cypress, CA 90630
714-484-7000

Cypress College is a Public institution with a campus in Cypress, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Cypress, California campus for Cypress College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 13,523. In-state tuition and fees were $1,146 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,146
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Dominican University of California

50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901
415-457-4440

Dominican University of California is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in San Rafael, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Rafael, California campus for Dominican University of California is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 1,877. In-state tuition and fees were $49,426 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN

  • Tuition Cost $49,426
  • Room and Board $15,489
  • Acceptance Rate 93%
  • ACT Score 23-25

El Camino Community College

16007 Crenshaw Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90506
310-900-1600

El Camino Community College is a Public institution with a campus in Torrance, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Torrance, California campus for El Camino Community College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 19,944. In-state tuition and fees were $1,144 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,144
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Evergreen Community College

3095 Yerba Buena Road, San Jose, CA 95135
408-274-7900

Evergreen Community College is a Public institution with a campus in San Jose, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Jose, California campus for Evergreen Community College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 7,952. In-state tuition and fees were $1,366 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,366
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Golden West College

15744 Golden West Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
714-892-7711

Golden West College is a Public institution with a campus in Huntington Beach, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Huntington Beach, California campus for Golden West College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 10,053. In-state tuition and fees were $1,190 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,190
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Grossmont College

8800 Grossmont College Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020
619-644-7000

Grossmont College is a Public institution with a campus in El Cajon, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The El Cajon, California campus for Grossmont College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 12,862. In-state tuition and fees were $1,332 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, LVN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,332
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Holy Names University

3500 Mountain Blvd, Oakland, CA 94619
510-436-1000

Holy Names University is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in Oakland, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Oakland, California campus for Holy Names University is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 959. In-state tuition and fees were $42,115 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $42,115
  • Room and Board $14,274
  • Acceptance Rate 100%

Humboldt State University

1 Harpst Street, Arcata, CA 95521
707-826-3011

Humboldt State University is a Public institution with a campus in Arcata, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Arcata, California campus for Humboldt State University is located in a Town setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 6,025. In-state tuition and fees were $7,864 for the most recent reporting period.

  • Tuition Cost $7,864
  • Room and Board $12,540
  • Acceptance Rate 98%

Long Beach City College

4901 East Carson Street, Long Beach, CA 90808
562-938-4111

Long Beach City College is a Public institution with a campus in Long Beach, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Long Beach, California campus for Long Beach City College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 22,402. In-state tuition and fees were $1,556 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,556
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Los Angeles Harbor College

1111 Figueroa Place, Wilmington, CA 90744
310-233-4000

Los Angeles Harbor College is a Public institution with a campus in Wilmington, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Wilmington, California campus for Los Angeles Harbor College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 7,384. In-state tuition and fees were $1,238 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,238
  • Acceptance Rate Open

MiraCosta College

One Barnard Drive, Oceanside, CA 92056
760-757-2121

MiraCosta College is a Public institution with a campus in Oceanside, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Oceanside, California campus for MiraCosta College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 10,860. In-state tuition and fees were $1,152 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: CNA, LVN, ASN, LVN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,152
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Monterey Peninsula College

980 Fremont Street, Monterey, CA 93940
831-646-4000

Monterey Peninsula College is a Public institution with a campus in Monterey, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Monterey, California campus for Monterey Peninsula College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 6,514. In-state tuition and fees were $1,188 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,188
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Moorpark College

7075 Campus Road, Moorpark, CA 93021
805-378-1400

Moorpark College is a Public institution with a campus in Moorpark, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Moorpark, California campus for Moorpark College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 12,484. In-state tuition and fees were $1,398 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,398
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Mount Saint Marys College

10 Chester Place, Los Angeles, CA 90007
213-477-2500

Mount Saint Marys College is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in Los Angeles, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Los Angeles, California campus for Mount Saint Marys College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 2,440. In-state tuition and fees were $46,740 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN

  • Tuition Cost $46,740
  • Room and Board $13,217
  • Acceptance Rate 76%

National University

11255 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037
855-355-6288

National University is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in La Jolla, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The La Jolla, California campus for National University is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 18,631. In-state tuition and fees were $13,320 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, LVN-to-BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, DNAP

  • Tuition Cost $13,320
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Ohlone College

43600 Mission Boulevard, Fremont, CA 94539
510-659-6000

Ohlone College is a Public institution with a campus in Fremont, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Fremont, California campus for Ohlone College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 8,358. In-state tuition and fees were $1,202 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,202
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Pacific Union College

One Angwin Avenue, Angwin, CA 94508
707-965-6313

Pacific Union College is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in Angwin, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Angwin, California campus for Pacific Union College is located in a Rural setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 870. In-state tuition and fees were $33,678 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, BSN, RN-to-BSN

  • Tuition Cost $33,678
  • Room and Board $9,273
  • Acceptance Rate 48%
  • ACT Score 18-23

Palomar College

1140 West Mission Road, San Marcos, CA 92069
760-744-1150

Palomar College is a Public institution with a campus in San Marcos, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Marcos, California campus for Palomar College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 17,655. In-state tuition and fees were $1,348 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,348
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Pierce College

6201 Winnetka Avenue, Woodland Hills, CA 91371

Pierce College is a institution with a campus in Woodland Hills, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing.

Point Loma Nazarene University

3900 Lomaland Drive, San Diego, CA 92106
619-849-2200

Point Loma Nazarene University is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in San Diego, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Diego, California campus for Point Loma Nazarene University is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 4,319. In-state tuition and fees were $41,100 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN

  • Tuition Cost $41,100
  • Room and Board $11,800
  • Acceptance Rate 82%

Riverside Community College

4800 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92506
951-222-8000

Riverside Community College is a Public institution with a campus in Riverside, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Riverside, California campus for Riverside Community College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 19,147. In-state tuition and fees were $1,420 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,420
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Saddleback College

28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, CA 92692
949-582-4500

Saddleback College is a Public institution with a campus in Mission Viejo, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Mission Viejo, California campus for Saddleback College is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 16,660. In-state tuition and fees were $1,150 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,150
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Samuel Merritt College

370 Hawthorne Ave, Oakland, CA 94609
510-869-6511

Samuel Merritt College is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in Oakland, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Oakland, California campus for Samuel Merritt College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 1,911.

Nursing Programs: BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN-to-MSN, DNP, DNAP

San Bernardino Valley College

701 South Mount Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92410
909-384-4400

San Bernardino Valley College is a Public institution with a campus in San Bernardino, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Bernardino, California campus for San Bernardino Valley College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 10,767. In-state tuition and fees were $744 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $744
  • Acceptance Rate Open

San Diego City College

1313 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101
619-388-3400

San Diego City College is a Public institution with a campus in San Diego, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Diego, California campus for San Diego City College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 12,144. In-state tuition and fees were $1,144 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,144
  • Acceptance Rate Open

San Diego State University

5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182
619-594-5200

San Diego State University is a Public institution with a campus in San Diego, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Diego, California campus for San Diego State University is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 37,402. In-state tuition and fees were $8,174 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Certified Nurse Midwife, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $8,174
  • Room and Board $19,714
  • Acceptance Rate 39%

San Francisco State University

1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132
415-338-1111

San Francisco State University is a Public institution with a campus in San Francisco, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Francisco, California campus for San Francisco State University is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 25,282. In-state tuition and fees were $7,524 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: LPN, BSN, RN-to-BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $7,524
  • Room and Board $17,955
  • Acceptance Rate 94%

San Joaquin Delta College

5151 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95207
209-954-5151

San Joaquin Delta College is a Public institution with a campus in Stockton, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Stockton, California campus for San Joaquin Delta College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 16,168. In-state tuition and fees were $1,288 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,288
  • Acceptance Rate Open

San Jose State University

One Washington Square, San Jose, CA 95192
408-924-1000

San Jose State University is a Public institution with a campus in San Jose, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Jose, California campus for San Jose State University is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 35,751. In-state tuition and fees were $7,899 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $7,899
  • Room and Board $18,568
  • Acceptance Rate 77%

Santa Ana College

1530 West 17th Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706
714-564-6000

Santa Ana College is a Public institution with a campus in Santa Ana, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Santa Ana, California campus for Santa Ana College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 23,852. In-state tuition and fees were $1,180 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,180
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Santa Barbara City College

721 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
805-965-0581

Santa Barbara City College is a Public institution with a campus in Santa Barbara, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Santa Barbara, California campus for Santa Barbara City College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 12,675. In-state tuition and fees were $1,234 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,234
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Santa Monica College

1900 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-434-4000

Santa Monica College is a Public institution with a campus in Santa Monica, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Santa Monica, California campus for Santa Monica College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 22,375. In-state tuition and fees were $1,150 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: ASN

  • Tuition Cost $1,150
  • Acceptance Rate Open

Sonoma State University

1801 East Cotati Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928
707-664-2880

Sonoma State University is a Public institution with a campus in Rohnert Park, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Rohnert Park, California campus for Sonoma State University is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 6,637. In-state tuition and fees were $8,060 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, RN-to-MSN, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $8,060
  • Room and Board $14,926
  • Acceptance Rate 94%

Southwestern College

8100 Gigantic St, San Diego, CA 92154
619-482-6550

Southwestern College is a Public institution with a campus in San Diego, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Diego, California campus for Southwestern College is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 16,530. In-state tuition and fees were $1,342 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: LPN, ASN, LPN-to-RN

  • Tuition Cost $1,342
  • Acceptance Rate Open

University of California, Los Angeles

1147 Murphy Hall, 405 Hilgard Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095
310-825-4321

University of California, Los Angeles is a Public institution with a campus in Los Angeles, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Los Angeles, California campus for University of California, Los Angeles is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 46,430. In-state tuition and fees were $13,401 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, Post-Doctoral

  • Tuition Cost $13,401
  • Room and Board $17,231
  • Acceptance Rate 9%

University of San Diego

5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, CA 92110
619-260-4600

University of San Diego is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in San Diego, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Diego, California campus for University of San Diego is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 8,815. In-state tuition and fees were $54,554 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, RN-to-MSN, DNP, PhD

  • Tuition Cost $54,554
  • Room and Board $17,010
  • Acceptance Rate 53%

University of San Francisco

2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
415-422-5555

University of San Francisco is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in San Francisco, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The San Francisco, California campus for University of San Francisco is located in a City setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 9,688. In-state tuition and fees were $55,532 for the most recent reporting period.

Nursing Programs: BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner

  • Tuition Cost $55,532
  • Room and Board $16,550
  • Acceptance Rate 71%
  • ACT Score 27-31

Western University of Health Sciences

309 E. Second St, Pomona, CA 91766
909-623-6116

Western University of Health Sciences is a Private not-for-profit institution with a campus in Pomona, California. The institution is approved to offer nursing programs by the California Board of Nursing. The Pomona, California campus for Western University of Health Sciences is located in a Suburb setting. Total enrollment for all degrees including nursing programs is 3,724.

Nursing Programs: MSN, RN-to-MSN, DNP

The nursing program acronyms CNA, LVN, ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, etcetera used in our list of California nursing schools may differ from the actual title published by the college or university.

Nursing schools in California and other states, for example, may follow their own traditional degree naming convention, or, attempt to follow a newer naming convention trending nationwide.

Nursing Schools

Last updated: August 1, 2024

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